YAMAHA SEQTRAK - 30 advanced tips and 5 things to know before you buy // Review & Tutorial

[@austinbru]

So clearly inspired by predecessors OP-1 and OP-Z, but absolutely SMASHES both devices in almost every single way, especially in price.

[@draakisback]

I've been following the OP-1 for a while. As somebody who used to be classically trained in piano and self-taught with guitar / bass / bunch of other instruments, I wanted to get back into writing music and the OP-1 seemed pretty cool but I could never justify its price. When Yamaha announced this thing, I got excited because finally it felt like I could get something as an entry-level groovebox that I could just try out. The irony though is that I went out and bought a used synthstrom deluge from a friend of mine, and honestly I'm quite happy I did. I do absolutely have to thank Yamaha for putting this out, I wouldn't have thought to buy a groove box if it weren't for this thing but I don't think I'll be buying this because the deluge already does everything that this thing does and then some. I also happen to be a software engineer, and the open source nature of the deluge makes it a perfect piece of hardware in my mind. I do need to find a MIDI controller, I have been looking at the Linnstruments as something I might be interested in getting at some point, though they are quite expensive. Maybe I should just start with a simple MIDI keyboard instead of going all out.

[@opart]

OP-1 is a very different device, it is not a sequencer (but rather a 4 track with emulated tape) - it seems like Seqtrak is more comparable to OP-Z, both in price and function.

[@draakisback]

@@opart I mean sure, you're more or less right but they all attempt to fill the same niche as a portable means of composing songs. Obviously if I compare the feature set of the deluge to either the OP-1 or the seqtrak, there isn't really an contest there, but they are all grooveboxes at the end of the day.

[@opart]

@@draakisback :) right, I think we are talking about different aspects - it's like me saying ukulele and violin are different instrument, and you are replying by saying that they are string instruments that fill the same niche ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@opart]

@@draakisback in any case, if you can get your hands on OG Op-1 for like $500-600 try it out, you can always get rid of it pretty easily

[@opart]

@@draakisback what I meant is that the process/results are VERY different on OP-1 (from op-z/Seqtrak/K.O.2 etc.) It is not a sequencer (although it does have few pretty limited sequencer engines), it does not have quantizing, and the sounds are committed the track without the way to undo or turn them off and on (unless you are muting the track). In a way it's somehow much more human experience, but much more imprecise too. In fact, if you play guitar or bass or anything else, you can lay it on one of the tracks as if you are using an old school 4track machine, and have other elements/synth/pads samples on the other tracks. If you want to do something similar with other devices then you would need a daw, where you can combine the live instrument track with whatever you do on the groovebox

[@Manuality]

Great review/tut as always! I was skeptical about menu-diving and the dependence on the app; but just as a sound module this seemed like a great purchase. I now have this unit past 10 days and I can ASSURE YOU, this is as fun as it can get. The interface is VERY powerful and intuitive for everything that you would need to make music right out of the box (I made my first project within 30 minutes). I read NO manual to start. Of course, there are some shortcuts like how to start the metronome or check battery status that aren't obvious; but that much can be learnt or noted. App is a blessing, on top of the self contained box. TLDR - Anyone in two minds to get it - GET IT!!!!! Yamaha has got this right. (ONLY grip that it is flimsy for a portable device, but so are the competition TE products at a much higher price. Friend lost knobs and bent the fader on his new KO2 :p) I got a 3D printed case made for this and now I am taking this with me everywhere. Thank you for reading

[@akdm82]

Thanks. All in all, I think it is a great addition to my toolset. Especially for the money and size. Pros: 1. Yamaha sounds in a portable, battery powered "sound module" that they don't offer in any other way except their HW synths unless you buy the latest new Montage because you get the VST. 2. The app is available for phones, tablets, and computers, but you can use it without them for quick inspiration and melody/beat creation. 3. The built-in speaker and microphone are two things I wish my Roland MC-101 had. 4. The size. 5. The sheer number of actual controls 6. The price. At lest the $399 introductory price. I've heard it will be $599 later and I doubt I'd pay that much for it unless some future firmware updates add some compelling capabilities. But I'm getting mine now anyway. Cons: 1. I also wish it had velocity sensitive keys, but you can't have everything I suppose. Tat is the least favorite thing about my Roland MC-101 too. 2. I think they could have done a much better job with the keyboard beyond velocity sensitivity. Even something like the keys on the tiny little Korg Nano MIDI controllers would have been better for playing though I like the keys that are there for sequencing. Even the ones on the Roland MC-101 are better to me, though I haven't played the ones on the SeqTrak yet. Also, 7 keys for the synths? Seriously? I know you can expand it, but still. 3. Only 7 sample sounds per project? 4. Big miss on the samples not playing chromatically 5. Minor con: Even a tiny OLED screen would have been a huge help for knowing the names of presets or sample sounds. It's not like this thing only has a few sounds. It has THOUSANDS! I have to load the app to know exactly what the sound names are? 6. More patterns per track please 7. 8 more onboard projects please. 8. Longer samples please. Thanks again for the well thought out video, Loopop!

[@artephank]

What about sound editing capabilities? I was really pumped when I heard about it but then I read the manual and the sound editing capabilities (even on the app) seems pathethic at best. I wished for more power than opz but it seems it has even less (not to mention sequencer which is also quite simplistic, but might be a good thing if workflow is fun)

[@akdm82]

@@artephank I get what you’re saying and that is disappointing too. You make a good point. I hope they improve that in the app over time. I love how well the Roland MC-101 does that. As of the 1.8 firmware that device is super at sound design even if it is very menu divy. 😜I also have the Roland VerseLab MV-1 and want them to update that to have the same sound design capabilities of the MC-101 but in all three cases, the Seqtrak, the MC-101 and the MV-1, the number of sounds out of the box are pretty impressive. I think I used to spend more time trying to find or make the perfect sound but I’ve stopped that and worked more on making music with the sounds I have. I’m trying to anyway. 😜

[@MrTanukiD]

To be fair it was this that made me return mine. Shame really but the outside of the fm synth it's very difficult to get away from a GM soundbank vibe and i don't think that's the right pallette for a device like this. At least not for me.@@artephank

[@artephank]

@@akdm82 it took roland if I remember corectly like 2yrs to open up mc101. So perhaps yamaha has similar plans for future. On the paper this new yamaha grovebox seems perfect, but then those limitations will frustrate me to death like no adsr envelope edit? Only 7 samples? And only in drum mode. Using premade sounds is fun if those sounds are on the point. But rarely are. On the opz the number one feature I adore is random patch, which is instant creative booster. Also, it has not 7 but more like 20 samples per track (and additionally pitched samples track on synth tracks). Yamaha would frustrate me to death after this experience. I might get 101 one day though

[@vvlvmusic]

Having had the Seqtrak for about two weeks now, I still find some of the design choices baffling and convoluted. There is a lot of potential and fun stuff to discover, but Yamaha made it imo impossible to fully utilise Seqtrak's functions without a screen. Also that Play button the left side is driving me nuts. Worst place they could find and super unintuitive with it also turning off the device when you keep it pressed (but it's right next to the Page button that you need to keep pressed a lot of times). Still keeping it for now because I do want to enjoy this thing even if it won't let me some of the time ;)

[@sliceofsparta8985]

They gave it a screen via the app. Are there still screen-related shortcomings?

[@vvlvmusic]

@@sliceofsparta8985 I am using the app and it helps a lot, but it would be nice to access certain functions easier without the screen. Also the software feels very convoluted to navigate. Don't want to make it sound too negative, there is a lot to explore, some fun sounds and functions, but making your instrument fun and accessible is something they need to improve on.

[@VJFranzK]

Also, the Erase Button is by the Mute! what??

[@Cr4bma]

Been waiting for this one !

[@skyddsrum3350]

I was just about to comment the same thing🙌🏻

[@lars-fenin]

if i need an app to program this properly plus the unusual workflow, and those tiny buttons (side) its nothing for me.. and what were they thinking with this adapter for midi in /out..? common ! only my 5 cents

[@andesneko]

That MIDI I/O is a huge concern.

[@harrymcghie7865]

I got this just a couple of days ago, and like many people in the comments, I think it is absolutely fantastic. No screen is not a problem for me. Keeps it cheap (in the UK you can buy this new for £300!), small and saves power. It's pretty quick to learn (especially with outstanding videos like this!). The sounds are excellent and there are so many available. I really like the simple buttons as it saves space, I much prefer a grid/isomorphic key layout, so I use a midi controller anyway. Having a minimal keyboard on the unit is another big plus for me. I agree with your suggestions for the device. Top of my list would be to at least double the number of projects you can have and to record out stems rather than the whole track. That would be great. I like this thing a lot! And at £300 it feels like an absolute steal. Thanks again for making such a great video. You're a hero!

[@littleBIGsynths]

I LOVE SEQTRAK! It has its quirks, but I’m having so much fun with it! 😁👍 Anyways, extremely informative video as always! Thanks! 🙏

[@pascaljean2333]

To press the side buttons just use the ridge next to the buttons with the thumbnail, and press with the finger. Its actually a great design feature.

[@VJFranzK]

do you mean the "ridge"? interesting technique.

[@pascaljean2333]

​​@@VJFranzK Yes the ridge😅

[@andymm7658]

I think the pattern per track is brilliant, it gives you lots of combination possibilities in song mode. With other sequencers, if you only want to change a single track, you need a completely new pattern for all tracks. As far as I understand correctly, this is a unique selling point of the syntrak.

[@HelicopterRidesForCommunists]

Looking forward to the “Bad Gear” episode about this

[@skylermann]

As sick as it is - with all of the hidden functionality this may as well be a midi controller for the Yamaha seqtrak app lmao

[@ProfessorPepper17]

I own this and I enjoy playing around with it, but you’re right and now I’m sad.

[@akdm82]

Mine is on order, now I want to see if I should cancel the order or not. LOL. I've been hoping you'd do a review on this.

[@drstew1]

I bought this on one look .i have no idea how it works and it arrived this morning. Feb 21 2024.mine is the grey - orange i subbed so I’ll need to come back and follow your guide. 👍🏾

[@michael7018]

Thanks loopop. Great sketching tool. I’ve been thinking, I recently acquired a Vermona Perfourmer and I’m familiar with it but there hardly no review of that incredible analog synth. If you would review it that will definitely bring lots of value to the community that owns that synth. Personally, I’ve owned so many analog synths over the years including a Buchla Easle at one point and got to say this the best analog synth I’ve ever used.

[@thedarkglovemusic]

This by far the best review & tutorial of this machine. Thanks

[@ilikeitdark13]

I am SO torn between this and the TE ep 133. I know they are both very different, but for ease of use and live jamming, which do you guys think?

[@VJFranzK]

Do you like X0X sequencing or MPC / 404 finger drumming? there's the answer

[@Manuality]

Primarily - If you enjoy finger style drumming on pads (cos you can do them in Seqtrak too but on these buttons instead of pads) then TE. Seqtrak is way more powerful than EP133 imo though. My bandmate has EP133 which he uses to the fullest and he was bowled over by my seqtrak. But, in the end, if it is for the joy of jamming and fun, either will work.

[@rakdur]

Knowing Yamaha's way of designing their music instruments, I thought the side buttons were there for hand-held live performances. I know, it sounds crazy, but think about it. The problem with this would be the knobs being inevitably inadvertantly activated.

[@UnpopularOpinion42]

Really wish it had the multi-outs per track over USB 😢 maybe in an update 🤞

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

Roland sure did it in the RD-9, which is really tiny. AND they even included a few audio outs as well.

[@user82938]

The lack of full synth editor and lack of polyphonic sample playback are the things that make this a no for me.

[@ToreSG705]

Thanks! Very helpful! Loving the machine a lot! Having so much fun!

[@MikeFelkerVideos]

Bought one. Enjoying it but when recording from a external keyboard controller the first note gets cut off. This needs a metronome and a count in desperately. Love the sounds. Paired it with a Novaltion Launchkey Mini Mk3.

[@GiorgioBertuccelli]

I see a 4 op fm synth. I hope they have a Lately Bass program

[@MijkvanDijk]

Great tips and so much fun to watch! Well done!

[@djbowlz2128]

I was really excited for this but after all the reviews I think I may wait for a opz field. Hopefully te are working on it.

[@jarrydroland4965]

Hey loopop: I wonder if you can tell me - does the HP filter on the synth tracks work like vcf’s per note/voice or is it just an effect at the end of the chain, so I’d lose the high notes if turning down the filter…

[@daneguitarist1]

if this was the only thing on the market in its type... i think it would be cool but knowing there is an sp404mk2 or ... geeesus allllll of the other boxes.... i feel like this is a new device that has a huge learning curve when we all probably have selected our groovebox of choice already i do kind of like the look, but... i feel like this is a big hassle to learn at the moment

[@user82938]

It made me want an Electribe EMX-1.

[@andybside]

Oooh. Love the intro graphics😁

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

A popout brace thingie at the bottom to angle it for easier use would have been nice. Roland has something similar (no idea what it's called) that works with their boutiques so they are easier to use that way.

[@loopop]

You can get various stick-on legs on Amazon

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

@@loopop Or on Aliexpress (cheaper) but I get the idea.. will try that !

[@zdravkodimitrov]

@audiopilz, we are waiting

[@matthewgaines10]

Seems easier just to use something with a screen and menus. The idea of tactile immediacy is just an illusion. I preordered to play with but I’m thinking I may regret trying to use it.

[@va941]

Waiting for a pro or mkll until I get on this train 😂

[@joeyrest5856]

Nice sounds, many interesting parameters and very good that you can really produce samples. However too complex learning curve and the lack of a screen is unforgivable. It is appreciable the portability but too functions assigned to few buttons and keys.

[@straighttalk2069]

I will never understand why some companies think screens are not required, Yamaha should know better. I would never buy a useless piece of kit like the Seqtrak while laptops and plugins exist.

[@illhellmuss420]

love this machine! great video!🧡

[@grillskillz]

that midi dongle... what were they thinking?

[@MyNameJeff..]

Such a good review the GAS cloud above me vanished and I cancelled my preorder. This is a step in the right direction though.

[@yarrrno]

Is it possible to record the seqtrack's line input via usb-audio?

[@404.Errors]

Why not USB class compliant with multi track out?! Would have been perfect

[@owlmuso]

Excellent video. Very informative, thank you. I can't believe you can only store 8 projects tho, that is extremely limiting and immediately hampers its use as a live sequencer. Its just wierd

[@willybobo8846]

lack of screen and no SD card for samples is a miss. maybe they making another box?

[@VJFranzK]

samples load via USB C

[@AI-wf5tj]

I have a Q. I want to sequence other synth using Seqtraq. How do I choose which track will send sequence? In one moment in this video it was mentioned that drum track can be be used to send data but only as mono. And how do I change it to poly/synth to send complex chords? Anyone? Thanks.

[@vantadoro]

Thank you for this very useful video and your cheat list :)

[@rodolpheponthus2948]

Thank you Sir for this excellent tutorial. I'm impressed how you assimilate things each time 👍👃. This device is a beast in a beetles body. Much too powerful for the UI. Would they have put a screen and more knobs, it would have been Yamahas RS7000 mk2.. what a waste. I really think the smartphone culture, has deviated to the electronic music instruments.. small and dispensable.. This or the Roland MC101? I really like the Yamaha sound, less cheesy and in someway much more versatile than Korg or Roland. More professional.. And the FM engine, sampler, AW synth engine, with more generalist sounds is something unique in a one Groovebox.

[@fritsvanzanten3573]

Since those rubber feet one by one tend to fall off and you end up with wiggling gear, and you can't easily find a matching replacement I guess an adhesive rubber sheet with decent margins might do the trick maybe better. Or two long strips.

[@CHATO909]

does it accept program changes thru midi? I see on the manual every track has a set midi channel, so I assume it can be controlled by external sequencer, just wondering if I can use prg ch to change patches from ext sequencer.

[@alexiwiedemann]

Very nice vid as usual. This is a nice way to approach to review a product. Kudos 🎉. I hope you do something similar with the EP-133, now that the dust has settled.

[@loopop]

Thanks! Yes I just might do that ;) I haven't explored it yet but yeah if I feel there's a good enough tutorial out there no point in adding another one to the internet.

[@alexiwiedemann]

@@loopop maybe something exclusive for the patreon community, not a need for a video, just your opinion and tips.

[@ldallagl]

Can you control ANY DX parameter with MIDI CC ? (on the manual they only mention algo, feedback mod amount and few otthers but that ain't linked to real synthesis (ie: modify envelopes, coarse etc) ... If it's not possible, il's really a big shame because this machine is sweet

[@unknowncorners]

I have one but I wonder if Bluetooth is not working on some of these units or maybe it needs the latest iPhone/ipad… shows up in the app but clicking on it does nothing … ready to ship it back 🤷‍♂️

[@michaelmourek3879]

Great job - I want to create my own samples -

[@damelos4039]

Great video. Lose dongle......I'm sure the fine folks at Yamaha will send you another one at a fairly high price. LOL Thanks for the workaround suggestion.

[@JMGtII]

That first filter sweep... I thought I was watching og Iron Chef. 🔪

[@ΟτρόποςτουΕὖΖῆν]

It's the best explaning i was waiting for! Many thanks!!! Question: basically you can sequence up to 7 samples at the same time (up to 16 sec for each sample?)? For example: strum loop + flute solo + reverse shaper + percussion loop, some one shots... etc = 7 samples? Plus all this mix with drum track, 2 synth and fm track? I think it's pretty powerfull for a such small machine!

[@loopop]

yes, like I mention in the video, within the limitations of all the samples living in the single sample track (same length, one effect, etc)

[@Digiphex]

No, everything but the FM synth is a sample. So you can have 7 + 2 for synth 1 and 2 + 7 more = 16 of your own imported samples if you want.

[@playinmyblues]

Is the plug on the MIDI dongle a TRRS? If so, you should be able to test the connections with a DMM. If the connections allow for continuity, buy the plug if it is a 3.5mm or 2.5mm TRRS and make a DIY dongle. This is done a fair amount with TRS MIDI.

[@loopop]

It seems to be TRRRS

[@playinmyblues]

@@loopop is it the same thickness of a 3.5mm plug or is it smaller like the IK Multimedia TRS MIDI dongles?

[@Rafinactie]

Can't really get the answers to these questions: - Does it have Midi tracks to sequence An external synth for example? - Does it have a song mode to make live performing go flawless?

[@loopop]

- not independent MIDI tracks, you need to "spend" the drum or synth tracks - it has a mode where you can chain scenes

[@micemincer]

two more days and I get mine - I wonder If I can hook it up with ep133

[@bonwowo]

thanks for posting, i was also waiting for vid from u about it:) still i am wondering about 1 thing and maybe u could answer it - because of yamaha's vid about seqtrak app it seemed like it would be possible to load own user sounds into the drum tracks and synth engine - do u know if it is possible now or not? best regards and thanks for showing all the details so clearly here again!

[@effext1]

He mentions a few times but says it again here at 26:58 that as of right now you cannot load samples into the drum tracks.

[@bonwowo]

@@effext1 i thought maybe its just about putting sounds from device level, it looked for before like its possible from app level. im surprised if its not, because in yamaha presentations its kinda missleading that u could upload custom sounds from app level.

[@playeveryday01]

someone else who has one says you can replace the drum sounds with your own drum sounds. So idk what to believe. It seems like you can put samples in the place of a kick but if the drums are samples then why can't you use your own kicks? There might be a memory limitation so you can't sample into it but a very small file under 1MB may work?

[@OliverMooney]

I’ve heard that you can from the PC/Mac desktop app but not the phone app. I’ve not tried myself yet

[@loopop]

If you mean user samples (as opposed to sounds), then no, you currently can't load them onto the synth or drum tracks

[@renevanderkraats3811]

I don't know why, I like Yamaha equipment, but every time I see it the first thing in my mind is 'messy'. Sounds good though. Groove box wise I'd go for the KO II or a Syntakt although that last one is just so damn expensive.

[@AboutHouseMusic]

Thanks for the review. Well presented as always. This unit is, however, a hard pass for me. Looking for something that's able to knock out the MPC Live II or Maschine+. Seems like I'll be waiting for quite some time.

[@loopop]

Thanks! Yeah that's going to be hard to do in terms of features/cost

[@a2roland]

Thank You!

[@michaelmourek3879]

Wow - nice job

[@elijahlucian]

Can I get all that reface DX patches in this?

[@LoserDub]

What external would you recommend? The one your using ? Maybe a keylab?

[@loopop]

I'm hesitant to recommend just because I don't want to risk the power usage not working without testing, but theoretically any USB class compliant controller that uses up to 500ma should work

[@LoserDub]

@@loopop cool, i mean i have a 61 key arturia but that takes away the whole mobile aspect lol

[@jenslempke7501]

You can't play samples as an instrument/chromaticly?. That's a proper dealbreaker. No keyzones, no splits/layers = half of the usability gone. Even if future FW-updates MAY fix that. I first hoped it could work as a live unit to bring/play sampled vst's or hardware synths to build a minimalistic rig. That combined with its synthcapabilities would have been a killer combo. At current state, a good ipad will do a much better job.

[@loopop]

you can do it using pitch automation, just not using an external MIDI keyboard

[@jenslempke7501]

@@loopopYepp. But not good enough for live use. Still - what can you ask for at €399? A lot of goodies at that pricepoint. Is it multitimbral/ able to transmit midi to/from two keyboard at the same time? It should be since the tracks are set to different channels by default.

[@loopop]

@@jenslempke7501 yes each track gets its own midi channel and it is multitimbral

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

@@loopop And how do you set that up in Logic?

[@loopop]

@@gainofdysfunction4135 i’m not that familiar with logic, but the full MIDI spec is on Yamaha‘s website

[@eaman11]

Can I record a guitar (acoustic) with the sample tracks?

[@hrnekbezucha]

I really like the machine but the over-reliance on the app is a deal breaker for me. If only they put a screen in, instead of the speaker.

[@Manuality]

Did you end up using the machine, or going by the videos? I was also reluctant about the app and no screen thingy. Once I have it, I use the app only or deep diving, backing up projects or moving bulk of sounds. Machine is self reliant and better without a screen, music making should be more intuitive.

[@eaman11]

So what's better: this or Novation Circuit?

[@MrTanukiD]

Well i returned mine and traded it for a circuit tracks if that helps.

[@straighttalk2069]

Digitakt 😎

[@zdravkodimitrov]

They just need to release this with full size keys and a big screen to destroy all the competition. I'm definitely buying one if they do it

[@MauroMarcenaro]

Hi Where can I download the Yamaha original demo projects ? I 've delete the original demo project in Seqtrack I ve try to re-install the app, but nothing. thank

[@loopop]

I don't know if they're available for download but just backup your projects and hard reset the device (the key combo is in the manual I don't remember it...)

[@MauroMarcenaro]

@@loopop thank you very eri much, all is ok now, i m a painter but love make some sound, i think this seqtrak is very powerful

[@MauroMarcenaro]

Hi, is normal when tour on seqtrak and I press a button don t make sound at all ? Is there a way to check up all device, coz is very complicated and is not easy to understand if all is working well ?

[@dmvtrax645]

Good job. Do you think this well sell well for Yamaha?

[@loopop]

I wouldn't have invested the time in making this video if I didn't :)

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

Probably will

[@dmvtrax645]

@@gainofdysfunction4135cool. Best demo that I’ve found on this is with DJ Sappo (Steinbergs product specialist). You will actually see him make a track with it.

[@danielecorciulo8779]

will a native instruments m32 works as controller?

[@BrokenRecord_TV]

Can you use MIDI out to sequence another device?

[@loopop]

Yes

[@Tripwelleverday]

I can’t believe u didn’t do the ko133

[@loopop]

yet

[@TwinCitiesOxygen]

Can u sequence external with polyphony using the far right track?

[@loopop]

yes

[@WildernessMusic_GentleSerene]

Trying to figure out Yamaha's target market for this. For serious experienced electronic music creators or hobbyists who want pro sound, such as EDM producers?...NO. For the beginner to enter EDM music, they would be better off with a MAC laptop with Logic Pro, or PC with Ableton and controller keyboard. Portable as a toy when flying in a plane for the professional or serious hobbyist? Its competition is MC101 or Electribe2 in price; Teenage Engineering in form factor. No menu so once you use the Seqtrak every day for a few months, you may be flying around all the controls and parameters (muscle memory) but that would eliminate a portable toy for pros and hobbyists. So, I am thinking a beginner toy for them to start their journey into EDM as a non-musician??? I don't know? The only high dollar item I have bought from Yamaha are their digital pianos. I have 20 electronic instruments in my studio, most are Roland and Korg. Other than piano, I don't use Yamaha sounds in my studio, (now for the first time questioning why). Yamaha doesn't make analog synths, I don't buy flagship workstations, and they don't make digital synths with knob-per-function. I do like the sound of the new Montage from reviews on YT though..... Well...if anything this new Seqtrak has made me think! LOL🙂

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

All that is true but the best feature he is the Visualizer which needs this thing as a sort of dongle to work. Believe me I tried all sorts of things to see if I could get the visualizer to work with other gear. The sound isn't too bad once you have it in your DAW, but the lack of audio tracks makes recording it a bit of a hassle. I'm still trying to figure out how to used it as a MIDI module..

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

Hi, can I ask if the Seqtrak can be controlled via external MIDI and if so, how? The manual doesn't cover it nor do any of the many videos I have watched.

[@matthewgaines10]

Yes, it can be controlled by external MIDI. It wouldn’t have MIDI In if it couldn’t. That allows a MIDI controller to control SeqTrak (was mentioned here) or you can use it as a sound module (was mentioned in other reviews)

[@RSKNPOL]

Chapter 14 in the Manual literally covers this . Did you read it?

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

@@RSKNPOL The manual that came with mine is fairly thin - and in about 15 languages, each getting barely 14 pages, if at all.

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

@@matthewgaines10 One would think so, and no I have NOT seen the HOW TO in the many other reviews I've been watching - and God knows I am watching my eyeballs out trying to figure out the information. The MIDI In could also be for sync and sysex rather than midi note control so unless you have seen it used that way you can never be sure.

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

@@matthewgaines10 The Visualizer only works when you use the internal sequencer, which is a shame :-(

[@stephpicher]

They should ask your opinion before releasing products.

[@Judasz696]

Its ticking all the boxes!! 😂

[@wul01]

As a long time Yamaha hardware sequence user. I can’t state enough, how much of a backward step this unit is.

[@amconsole]

The SEQTRAK can do so much more than Your typical battery powered sample player sequencer, but it's a pain to remember all the button combinations. Only having 8 slots for projects is limiting as well, and I would like to be able to set the synth sequencer as default option. Other than that, if paired to the app, it's an incredibly powerful and fun groovebox. For the price it's unbeatable.

[@jean-fabricevernet8947]

It offers a lot and the possibility of using your phone as a screen is cool, but the interface is sucky otherwise. It's crying out for a velocity-sensitive two-octave Sonicware-type keyboard that can double up as sequencer steps. They tried to get clever with the interface but it's a fail, especially given the existence of TE KO2, Novation Circuits, and various Sonicware boxes.

[@gainofdysfunction4135]

the app itself is rather abstruse as well. I keep having to make a completely new save ever ytime I work on the Visualizer, rather than opening a file and working on it some more, saving it before going back to it later.

[@electrosonicnebula]

Interesting. Are the sounds any good?

[@mackadresse6095]

I do not see what this thing is needed for?

[@loopop]

Then it's not for you

[@BigBadBonzo]

Can it connect to Soundmondo?

[@loopop]

No, it's got it's own pack system (see video)

[@benpollard6335]

Nice

[@jonathanstucki4242]

I wish there would have a been a warning for the fast flickering lights! Great video otherwise.

[@planetfour]

Petition to hear full track from 10:04

[@loopop]

I'm taking the full two hour show on the road soon

[@psychomafia]

can it do chromatic samples?

[@loopop]

Yes, you just need to pitch the samples pitch parameter luck

[@electronicmusicartcollective]

WOW

[@tblv9300]

blender?

[@loopop]

SEQTRAK’s own visualizer in their app

[@commodoor6549]

Not a lot of innovation here. Feels like they painted by numbers. Yamaha has a big R&D budget, you'd think they'd come up with something a little more inspiring.

[@edtraylen8581]

I’ll stick with my Circuit Rhythm. Much easier to use!

[@samsam2235]

Is it really "YAHAMA"? Edit: OK, it's just a typo...

[@loopop]

ha thanks fixed...

[@samsam2235]

@@loopop ty for the epic video!

[@GreenKrakenRecords]

Can I load DX7 Presets?

[@loopop]

It's a 4 operator synth here so no

[@GreenKrakenRecords]

@@loopop true, so its not even as good as Korg Volca. Can you at least share/ load user presets? I mean not everyone can deal in good sounds with FM.

[@loopop]

@@GreenKrakenRecords this is very different from a Volca FM - if you say that you’ve not watched the video, same about getting more sounds

[@calebgalvan6278]

I'm not familiar with the Volca fm, but I've read Korg OpSix can load DX7 patches (though I've never personally tried it on mine.) Might be worth a look if that's what you're after

[@GreenKrakenRecords]

@@calebgalvan6278 Volca FM can load DX7 presets.

[@sodothehivesonhisleg]

MPE tho?

[@loopop]

no MPE

[@romi2910001]

If it wasn't for the gui i probably wouldn't consider it..🤔

[@relative_vie]

It’s 2024 and gear with no multi track export is just an L.

[@yebot]

Uncle pop has been doing designer drugs again

[@loopop]

glad you know quality when you see it

[@audeon_visual]

we definitely do! you're channel is an inspiration and has been a pleasure to watch all these years!@@loopop

[@SuperPussyFinger]

I’ve been hearing complaints about laughably cheap build quality, thin brittle plastic, and wobbly knobs. That makes daddy saddy. What are your thoughts?

[@loopop]

I wouldn't call the build here premium, but the knobs are fine, the plastic is OK overall. The keys don't inspire confidence and are too small to perform with IMHO. That said, they haven't broken or anything, it's just an overall feel.

[@trevormalcolm4328]

I’ve watched a lot of SEQTRAK videos in the last couple of weeks, this is the one I’ve been waiting for until before I make my decision to purchase! Many thanks.

[@ohheyitskevinc]

When I first saw this, the phrase “at the first glance this is ticking all the boxes” came to mind, but it’s actually pretty good! Cheers!

[@TZerot0]

Damn, roasted

[@Nothingspeshalwaysfresh]

lol Im sure there will be a bad gear episode soon

[@wireheadinstruments]

you've already heard the Seqtrak in today's intro tune...

[@trashcat3000]

they always tick all the boxes

[@Tripwelleverday]

I’m not feeling it at all the sounds it makes seems weak idk I’d love to see this verse ko133 lol 😂