Creating sequences

While the sequencer isn’t the most intuitive or versatile around, you can nonetheless obtain some good results! Here’s how…

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Press Shift + Store to load the default sequence, (or alternatively, choose an existing sequence to edit). Hit the Seq Edit A button to start editing the sequence that’s hardwired to SEM A. Use the cursors to enter the total number of steps (16 max).

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Choose the sequence trigger mode, so internal, external MIDI clock or keyboard start (Shift+Run). Here we’re using the internal clock. Hit Run, then set the sequence speed by turning the ‘clock’ dial to the desired tempo. Now it’s time to start adding some notes to our sequence.

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As yet, you can’t input notes into the sequencer via the keyboard or MIDI so you have to use the 16 dials. The best way to start is to set all the dials fully left (counterclockwise) so they are all starting from the same pitch.

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Next, with the sequencer running, turn any of the 16 dials until you have a decent-sounding melody or bassline. It’s a bit of a haphazard way to work but it’s all about randomly turning the dials and embracing the happy accidents!

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Add rests and ratchets (multiple clock divisions, per-step) by pressing rest/the desired ratchet buttons. These allow fills/ flams (great for drums) to be added with ease. Erase rests/ratchets by scrolling steps using the Fwd/Back buttons and hitting the respective button to turn the rest/ratchet off.

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To copy sequence A to B, hold SEM A’s Seq Edit button until SEM B’s Seq Edit flashes. Hit SEM B’s Seq Edit button to copy. Or play over Sequence A using SEM B, use Sample/Hold, or transpose your sequence via the keyboard.