The Best Hardware Sequencers for Electronic Music Production
Step away from the keyboard.
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If you’re looking to create and perform music without the help of a laptop, you’re in for a treat. We’re looking at some of the best hardware sequencers to switch up your workflow.
So what’s the difference between a sequencer and a groovebox? Well, a groovebox provides multiple channels of sound generation and pattern creation capabilities in a standalone device.
Sequencers, on the other hand, offer multiple channels of MIDI and CV control and require additional modules, synthesizers, or drum machines to complete the creative cycle.
Choosing the Best Hardware Sequencers
By using a sequencer you give yourself a central hub for all creative operations in your studio setup. Not only does this make working with multiple instruments more convenient, but it also gives your music a particular feel.
From the early computer-based sequencers like Amiga or UMI on the BBC Micro to hardware units like the SND RAM-16 and the Sequentix Cirklon, artists have loved these creative tools throughout their existence in the history of recorded music.
Because they do not generate sound, it’s much harder to call one sequencer better than another. They simply provide a different creative platform that can elevate your process as a music producer or performing artist.
Hardware Sequencers:
Arturia Beatstep Pro
With its versatility and straightforward interface, it’s no wonder the Beatstep Pro is still one of the most popular sequencers. As you alter and upgrade your setup, it remains central to your workflow with 2 independent sequencers and a dedicated drum section.
From controlling MIDI to DIN Sync devices, Eurorack modules, and even plug-ins within your DAW the Beatstep Pro provides a fluid platform for generating new ideas.
- More from Arturia
Doepfer Dark Time
The Dark Time gives you that quirky, vintage analogue approach and a feel you certainly won’t get from sequencing your drum and synth patterns in a DAW.
Although you might find the interface quite alien at first, it grows on you steadily and actually provides an intuitive system for creating patterns with the room to make mistakes, which is everything you want in a sequencer.
- More from Doepfer
Erica Synths Black Sequencer
If you’re planning to do everything from within your Eurorack rig, the Erica Synths Black Sequencer is a 64-step pattern sequencer in a 42 HP module with pitch CV, mod CV, and gate outputs for each of the 4 tracks.
The 16 encoders make it more versatile, with the ability to control values manually. In addition, the Black Sequencer has per-step parameters like note value, glide, gate time, modulation, probability, repetitions, and ratcheting.
- More from Erica Synths
OXI Instruments One
The OXI One is a compact performance sequencer with extensive editing capabilities. Each of its 4 sequencers can run in mono mode, 8-voice chord mode, 8-track multitrack mode, 7-voice polyphonic, or stochastic mode.
There is a wide range of parameter controls, with features like step probability as well as an LFO and 4 modulation tracks per sequencer. What’s more, the One provides MIDI-to-CV and Bluetooth 5.0 and it can be expanded with the OXI Pipe module and the Split box.
- More from OXI Instruments
Elektron Octatrack MKII
The Octatrack is the central hub of many artists’ setups for both music production and live performance. It combines a beat-centric sampler with a powerful sequencer, giving you simultaneous playback of 8 tracks of audio and 8 MIDI tracks.
Due to the fact that it offers multiple workflows, the Octatrack is a little more involved than the others mentioned here. It also functions as a standalone instrument, which adds a great deal of value.
- More from Elektron
Also worth checking out:
More about the Best Hardware Sequencers:
- All about Sequencers
- 5 Ways To Go Dawless
- More about Eurorack Synths
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12 responses to “The Best Hardware Sequencers for Electronic Music Production”
For pure midi sequencers the cirklon is leagues ahead of the field – super solid timing and very flexible.. As a performance sampler, mixer, studio hub the octatrack is ace.
No Hapax?
Oxi is fully featured, but not that stable.
Does anyone know of there are external sequencers that can effectively be song-mode for the existing patterns in my SH-4d?
Rather than having to re-step-program each element, I was wondering if there were any external sequencers that could just be song-mode for arranging the sequences I’ve already created in my SH-4d.
Novation Circuit Tracks deserves a mention as well, 4 poly synth parts and drums. Can’t go wrong for the price!
MPC
Absolutely one of the best HW sequencers. I have the Hapax, Push, Force with 2 MPC’s.
The MPC is the most straight forward and quickest workflow as far as its sequencing abilities.
I can write / jam at least 4 tracks a day with my advanced MPC workflow.
(I wish this was the real Roger Lynn)
I use a few electronic hardware/ synths and samplers..my favourite piece of kit to use is a Roland mc-101. It’s an extremely powerful small hardware sequencer that quick to load and portable. In my opinion it’s vastly underrated.
It is obvious that Synthstrom Deluge is the best.
Funny you should mention the Amiga/Protracker, ‘cos the Tracker Mini will now do 16 MIDI tracks if used as a MIDI sequencer, though you might be limited to 2 controllers per track, that you’ll have to input in digits. The Tracker Mini is now where OctaMed was in 1991, but with much better quality, built in synths and effects, and a rather good mastering and rendering section. And a colour screen that doesn’t need a TV licence.
I have a mpc, mc707 and a couple of synths. For me I use the MC707 a lot and haven’t been able to get used to the mpc. what works for one person doesn’t necessarily work for another. you need to find what workflow works for you.
lol this list is a joke to someone who’s been seriously chasing hardware sequencers for more than a few years.
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