The power of a simple sequencer for eurorack - with the Korg SQ-1

Today we are going over some reasons why a simple sequencer like the Korg SQ-1 will add a lot of value to a eurorack or modular system. We start with a quick overview of the Korg SQ-1, and then we move on with a series of patch-tips, divided in a few sections. We go over melodic sequencing, CV sequencing, and trigger sequencing.
Patreon: / monotrail
Affiliate links:
Perfect Circuit - US - bit.ly/3Yn0Gll
Sound of You - EU bit.ly/3DzdFYi
Clockface - AS - bit.ly/3YkDJ1B
Timetable:
00:00 - Intro
00:43 - Korg SQ-1 overview
03:08 - Melodic sequencer
06:30 - CV sequencer
08:39 - Trigger sequencer
11:33 - Clock
If you want to support my project:
Patreon: / monotrail
Bandcamp: monotrail.bandcamp.com
Special thanks to Legendary Patrons:
Michael Rutchik
Wayne Cowan
Steve Williams
Glnds
MANHATTAN
Yannick Willener
Let’s connect!:
Instagram: / monotrail
Facebook: / monotrailmusic
Soundcloud: / monotrailmusic
KZbin: / monotrailmusic
#eurorack #KorgSQ1 #patchtips

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Patreon: www.patreon.com/monotrail Korg SQ-1 on Perfect Circuit (US): link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/8-12626-267461-9759?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fkorg-sq-1.html Korg SQ-1 on Thomann (EU): thmn.to/thoprod/356715?partner_id=32555 * These are affiliate links.

[@kbowman0016]

damn- money is spread thin right now, although I get the need to have content for Patrons. Also, your quick breakdown of the functions was the clearest and most concise explanation I have seen. Thank you.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

No worries, and glad to hear you found it helpful!

[@Elpogostick]

Just picked one up, excited to start playing with it

[@rofilmmedia1]

Your video belongs to the (rare) really good ones on YT. Representative examples, good explanations, and rousing the viewers creativity! Thank you for that! Enjoy your day! Rolf

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey, thanks for the nice comment, really makes me happy to hear! And you're welcome, I enjoy making them. All the best!

[@Glyukah]

+++ awesome video!

[@h2o1969]

Best SQ1 video ever.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Haha, thanks for watching!

[@gr4phic3r]

wanted to write exactly the same, great video, perfect explained plus nice sounds

[@mikewinkler4799]

This channel is GREAT! I have recently been interested in module synths and have been trying to wrap my head around how everything works together. I am so glad I found this channel.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey, glad to hear you like it! Happy to help :)

[@watsfa1228]

just got an SQ1 and this is the best vid I've watched on it so far. many thanks

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thanks! And enjoy the SQ-1 :)

[@mdroberts1243]

One of the best explanations/tutorials I've seen on how to use a sequencer flexibly! Will re-watch this one!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear you liked it! All the best :)

[@mdroberts1243]

@@MonotrailTechTalk Loved it. Forwarded to friends & subscribed.

[@m_oonquake]

great format, well interspersed with live examples, supported by quality visualisations. Great work - you deserve many more subscribers!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you so much! Enthusiastic comments like these make it worth the efford!

[@delugedj]

One of the best gear videos ive seen. Super digestible and very thorough. Thanks man, you have a new sub :)

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey, glad to hear it! Thank you, and welcome aboard :)

[@channelite]

What a great demo of the SQ-1. Thanks

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank yo so much!

[@harrietHHH]

Thank you for this demo. It was nice and clear. I love to see ideas for the SQ1.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear it, thank you!

[@consequenciasinimaginaveis6901]

It's one of the best videos about gear I ever saw!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you like it!

[@slother932]

Fantastic video and demos! This new subscriber is happy.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey, glad to hear it! Welcome aboard :)

[@jeromevion4983]

Certainly the most inspiring video I've ever watch about this great little device. Congrats for your straight, simple and clear explanations! :)

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you liked it! Cheers :)

[@snellcheeks]

Wow, very nice tutorial that dives quite deep into the possibilities of the SQ-1, while still easy to follow. Thanks!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad it was helpful! Cheers :)

[@owenthesoyboy]

hot damn this is great! 7:54 took me into the warehouse vibe. I had forgotten about some of these ideas and glad to see them again, very nice!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear you got some things out of it, cheers!

[@tkexit]

Great video - just bought the SQ-1 and you gave me some interesting possibilities

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear it, enjoy the SQ-1!

Fantastic video with so many great ideas. Thank you!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

You are so welcome!

[@infinity528hz5]

Thankz for the great video, Sick good use of the SQ-1

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you!

[@Zenkman]

Your channel is really great, beautiful voice, quiet and professionally explained. It's fun to watch and you can also learn great tricks. As you know, you never stop learning in Eurorack😉 Go on!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you so much! These friendly comments really make it worth all the afford! Will do for sure, thanks for watching and all the best :)

[@paulantoni1046]

SQ1 was my gateway to modular! ALWAYS something new to explore! Love the video thnx for the upload

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you enjoyed it! And happy venure into modular! :)

[@EdEditz]

Fantastic video. I just got my SQ1 today and your explanations give me an excellent starting point to get to know this little gem. :) Thank you sir!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Very welcome! It's a great device with lots of power, enjoy!

[@saardean4481]

Wonderfully structured video. Very informative and easy to understand. Thank you

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

You're very welcome!

[@5stringaustin]

Outstanding!! I’m just getting into modular over the past 6-9 months and my SQ-1 has just been sitting by the side. This has really opened my eyes to some great possibilities with it! You’ve also done a great job of simply and clearly explaining everything! Subbed and can’t wait to watch more of your content. Thanks again! 🔥❤️🔥

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey, glad to hear it! Thanks for taking the time to let me know, these comments are really motivating! enjoy your journey!

[@kristopherdetar4346]

Excellent, clear, concise presentation. Learned more here in a few minute than some books I’m dragging through. New sub here !

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

That's great to hear, welcome aboard!

[@pbl6888]

Thanks for that excellent overview and tutorial!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad it was helpful!

[@blitzkreiscollective520]

Thanks again for sharing your techniques!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

You're welcome!

[@octochrome]

Thank you for this video, especially the part about sending clock into the SQ-1

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

You're welcome, cheers!

[@arteasoundVolterra]

Beautiful. Great explanation and thank you very much.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

You are very welcome! :)

[@philippezsiga1125]

absolutely perfect demo . thaanks a lot , i am going to add it to my korg ms 20 fs

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear it, thanks for watching!

[@averaxluminir5858]

After watching a couple of your videos, I find the sheer versatility of the sounds you're able to produce with that small rack and a few other "accessories" absolutely mind boggling

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey, thanks! Since I started this channel the modular is really growing, but like to promote the power of a compact system. Will think about ways to keep doing this in the future :) All the best!

[@MichalSada]

Thanks bro! was just thinking about buy this little device... now i can now how it really works, cool

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

You're welcome, glad to gear it helped out! Cheers!

[@butterbagboy]

Dude this is a fantastic video thanks so much

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you liked it! :)

[@pjdepaolisii]

as always, among the best of KZbin...I stop by for reviews and leave with new techniques.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you like it! That's my goal, always try to include a lot of ideas, even when talking a bout specific equipment :) All the best!

[@matthewtunnicliffe201]

I'll hopefully be getting one of these soon so this is a really helpful video. I haven't a Eurorack setup but I do have a couple of semi modular synths that I think SQ-1 will really benefit.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Awesome! Think it's a great addition to semi-modulars as well :) Enjoy!

[@LEDBOO]

Awesome video.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you enjoyed it, cheers!

[@garethjones7182]

Nice demo and diagrams. Good to hear a demo that is actually musical rather than the usual 'all the gear and no idea'

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you! Glad to hear it's apreciated, cheers!

[@raveagainstracism]

Good video and I've got a SQ1 that I've not used for a few years as I found it a bit limited. This has opened my eyes to a few different ways of working with it that I hadn't thought of.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you! And glad to hear you got some ideas from it, time to dust it off :)

[@elissitdesign]

👋🏽 same here!

[@kurisuchiinathecrocodile333]

great applications of sq1 shown, thanks

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hogdawg911]

Amazing just what I needed mate

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear it, and you're welcome!

[@hogdawg911]

@@MonotrailTechTalk cheers mate great content very professional and explained in great detail

[@snorrevonflake]

Awesome ideas here, thank you.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you liked it! Cheers!

[@frozenkrome]

Excellent video!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thanks!

[@glitch314]

I have the Behringer K-2 and bought the SQ-1 on a whim... Best decision I made so far, everytime I patch it randomly on the K-2, weird stuff happens :) I'm not a musician by any means, just love fiddling around with sound, and this is the best combo I found so far. Your video was very instructive and edited very well. I wish you included the real-life action of patching, in addition to the charts you displayed, it's much easier to understand and more exciting for people like me :) This was the best SQ-1 video I've found so far. Thank you.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

For sure a great combination! Lot's of sound and patching fun there :) and thanks for the feedback, I considered it, but also have to keep an eye out for how long it takes me to make a video, and how long it will end up to be. But for sure it's interesting to me to make some, "lets make a patch from scratch" type videos, where I patch up something, and then have the charts shown allong it. All the best!

[@JohnKremer1Guitar4SitarPerform]

Very good and clear tutorial video. Nice little sequencer for a good price. Thanks for sharing. Wishing you a blessed day. Full watch, big thumbs up and subscribed 👍👌🍀🙏💚🐬

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you! Think this is still one of the best options out there for the price, I still have it around and grab it a lot. All the best!

[@javiceres]

Excellent video !!!!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thanks!

[@javiceres]

@@MonotrailTechTalk Thanks for opening my eyes to this :)

[@void101com]

Many thanks, great video! :)

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you liked it! All the best :)

[@afreezaphorogiancossack2194]

This is a really good video. Just bought a SQ-1 a few days ago and I've been having a blast just trying it with various hardware. And while I really love it, I think I'm going to have to get a SQ-64 as soon as I can. Thank you.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear you like it! Don't know about your specific situation of course, and in general I often hate these, but I'm gonna say it: keep both! If you have some analog or semi modular gear for the price the sq-1 is a great modulation device. I keep enjoying it. The SQ-64 is also great, especially for melodic things, songwriting and performing. They cover different purposes in my setup :) Cheers!

[@jeffryarchambeau5441]

Korg is selling the SQ-64 for $129.99 on Reverb

[@returnofthenative]

Excellent! Thank you.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

You are welcome! Cheers :)

[@super-ulitka]

Good video, very useful! 👍

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear it!

[@hhagalaz3255]

I never do comments like this, but we finally have this quality sq1 video on youtube

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Well, glad you did, and glad to hear it, thanks!

[@subbasebroken-form3821]

awesome video

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you!

[@gabesudholt]

Excellent

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you! Cheers :)

[@randompuppy789]

Great video thanks.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

You're welcome! Ad thanks for watching :)

[@jonesisdying]

Superb video: clear and concise. The SQ! can be baffling at first, Korg's manuals being legendarily hard to use. But this lays it all out. Bravo.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Nice, glad you like it! :)

[@PressAnyKeyModular]

This going to cost me money again. Great video as usual!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Haha, sorry about that! But glad you like it :)

[@sebp400]

hey, I bought one because of this video and just found a new way to use it. As a simple cv controller! I change chords in my Braids clone using the SQ-1 stopped! I just use the step jump. this little thing is so versatile, but I just got a Torso yesterday.. so excited to use the cv and gate outs.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

That's nice to hear! And yes, love it as a CV controller as well :)

[@antoinevella9180]

Top Claass Super Easy To Follow Tutorial !!!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad it was helpful!

[@delmeteor717]

Just wanted to thank you. Couldn’t get two synths to run off A and B channels independently. Watching your video on the various mode settings made clear to me the parallel channels allowed the two to do so. I thought any mode setting would work. Of course once I went back to manual It stated the obvious but sometimes it takes a good live example to sink in. By the way, it works using the midi out also with the included midi A connector and a splitter cable. Thanks Again.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey, thanks for letting me know! Happy it helped out, enjoy! :)

[@unclemick-synths]

1:47 I never thought of doing that. Cool 😎👍

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you got something out of it :)

[@bigupz6818]

Thanks this is great

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you like it!

[@KWHCoaster]

Nice! You reminded me that I had this in the closet. I dug it out and used it with the Behringer MonoPoly, without relocating the BeatStep Pro, to do some sequencing via MIDI. After this demo though, I can see how the SQ-1 would be a much better companion for my Behringer Model D, Neutron, WASP and Korg MS-20 Mini. And Moog Mother 32 for that matter, even though it has a sequencer. I'll have to experiment a little

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear you got some vaule out of it! And indeed, it works great with semi modulars, and the Korg MS-20 mini for sure!

[@KWHCoaster]

@@MonotrailTechTalk I experimented with the MicroBrute tonight and although just short sequences with the SQ-1, and it didn't take long getting more interesting results using the Gate In and Mod Matrix than anything I did using the built in step sequencer.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Yes, great combo!

[@ronaldlundbohm815]

Great video I bought mine today its on B.O. I have the Roland Sh-09 I was hoping to bring this alive

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Good to hear, enjoy it! :)

[@frankm.2533]

Hi, great explanation of the SQ-1, and the patching tips are more than useful. Please, could you do a video with the Make Noise 0-ctrl in the future ? You are defininitely the best in explaining modular synth stuff and patches on YT !

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey! Glad to hear you liked it! And would love to, such an interesting device, but don't own one, and it's not within my budget, to go and get one unfortunately ;)

[@andyq9669]

Clever boy. Classy graphics too.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Haha, thank you! All the best :)

[@MarnixMohrmannPiano]

Quality content! Been looking at the SQ-1 for my MS20, might just get it now.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear you liked it! And they are a great pair, think you'd enjoy it :)

[@mattkaz9604]

Good video. People do reviews or quite 'how to' videos but not enough people share ideas on how to use gear laterally. Nice.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you, glad to hear you liked it!

[@jc3drums916]

Great video! One thing I wish the SQ-1 had is a separate sync in for row B, or at least a way to multiply/divide the clock for row B independently, so that the two rows could step at different rates.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Haha, yes that would be nice. Always a bit more features that would be cool :)

[@aaronmoreno9216]

My work around for this is to turn off gates

[@aaronmoreno9216]

This got me thinking on how to expand the capabilities of the SQ-1 and I realized that’s what modular is all about! Using voltage controlled switches, clock dividers, s&h’s, logic modules, mults and a quantizer I was able to build a fairly complex sequence based off the alternating pattern on the sq-1. the S&H’s allow you to hold cv’s dependent on the gate/trig sent to create new sequences. I also realized the clock out can be divided or multiplied in the setup menu to offer more subdivisions. Quantizers after the S&H help with staying in tune.

[@trancodingertranscodinger387]

This was helpfull

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear it! All the best :)

[@bendikbaksaasodin]

Great video. I LOVE the SQ-1, it was my first sequencer and I still use it for so many things. Actually I have just ordered a 3d printed element to make it possible to mount in my rack. May souind like crazy waste of space, but I want to try it out, as I can keep it patched before a gig and not have to put the sq-1 somewhere wierd below or on the side of the modular case.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thanks! And actually think that makes sense, it will make it feel even more a part of the setup, think that will only inspire to use and incorporate it more in patching. Hope it works out!

[@5stringaustin]

I just saw that same thing online yesterday and was considering getting it - looks like a really cool idea.

[@bendikbaksaasodin]

@@5stringaustin Got it now. Works fine. Its an intense amount of HP to spend on a sequencer for two 8 steps, but still, better than having the sq1 always being pushed around between bigger instruments and never getting the same place, and need to patch it up at gig.

[@5stringaustin]

@@bendikbaksaasodin Nice - thanks for the update! I’ll have to wait for a case update - I just picked up an SWN and Euclidean Circles so now I don’t have the space 🤣

[@WilliWerkel]

3:41 - hey, I know that melody! I believe I heard it in Mylar Melodies Video about the Metropolis, cool to hear it again :)

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Haha, really? It's dialed in on the spot, so that would be a nice coincidence. Ill check it out :)

[@WilliWerkel]

@@MonotrailTechTalk yeah, check the melody at 9:42. It's similar to yours, but pitched higher :)

[@Neurotypique]

I don't use my SQ-1 so much at home but playing live gigs I always take it with me as a quick way of dialing either a melodic line or a sample select CV sequence synced to the tempo. It's definitely a no brainer for the price if you're into stepped CV sequences, although annoying to sync with other sequencers because of the 2ppqn standard of korg. It's nothing too hard to solve by a clock multiplier/divider, a P'sNW etc.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Yes, its really nice for live improvisations! And indeed the clock takes a bit of extra efford, but its workable :)

[@Hartekist2France]

Dope!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thanks! :)

[@petercane6376]

Fantastic video. I am nearly going bonkers trying to install the Korg Sq64 updater before I can even use the dammned thing. Firmware this firmware that, updates here updates there that do not work on windows 10. I will sell the bloody thing and get something that is simple and works. I did not know the SQ1 could be used in all those configs. Pefectly enough for me at my late age. I will get an SQ1 or three!!!? Thanks so much for a well presented thoughtful explanation.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey, thanks for the comment! Sorry about the trouble with the sq64. Also notice I am staying more and more away from things that need updates in general :) Enjoy the SQ1!

[@petercane6376]

@@MonotrailTechTalk Staying away from things that need updating!!!!. Yes yes yes. Thats my boy! EXACTLY what I am doing. I would like to know how I can extend all the notes in a sequence to be at least 10 seconds long ( for ambient ideas) any advice welcome please. Thanks for your great vids.

[@ProjectHMF]

​@@petercane6376If you use a square wave lfo as the clock source you can make it go way slower

[@emmomartins5383]

man, your video is soooo good. thx much s2 I just couldnt find much info on the SQ1 slide feature on YT... I am still learning on semi mudular with a model d and a k2. cant seem to hv it slide on these two.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad I could help! Enjoy the tweeking!

[@FreeThink1984]

Based af explanation

[@frogify_music]

Btw what you were refering to as polyrythm is actually polymeter. Polyrythm is when you e.g. play triplets and straight notes at the same time. Polymeter on the other hand is when you have 2 or more sequences running to the same beat/clock but with different length in their respective repetitions.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

True! misspoke there :)

[@frogify_music]

@@MonotrailTechTalk Just wanted to clarify as I see it often being confused. Even the arturia minibrute 2s manual refers to polymeter as polyrythm...

[@martintaylor9205]

If this is what the SQ-1 can do what could the new SQ-64 do???? Great instructive vidio so thanks for tips🆒👍🌟🌟

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Indeed, looks like such a powerful device! And you're welcome!

[@stromwerk742]

thanks for the great video!! an important part that i am missing is how to sync it to an external clock. as the SQ-1 has no reset input it seems to be impossible to sync it without a step offset via CV, right? after researching for hours i found out that it responds to usb-MIDI start/stop. but i did not find out if this is a class compliant device that can be used in a DAW-less setup. @MonotrailTechTalk have you ever tried/managed to sync the SQ-1 to an external clock respecting start/stop?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hi there! I have to admit I only use it with the modular/CV and never with midi. But if that is what you mean, here are a few notes: There is a SYNC input on the Korg SQ-1, which is great, but seems to respond both to the rising AND falling edge of a square or regular modular clock signal. I often send my modular clock to a simple envelope with a fast attack, and very subtle decay, and use the envelope to sync the Korg, that works like a charm. Because it syncs to an incoming clock starting or stopping the modular clock will also start and stop the Korg, but indeed not reset. You can just use the stop and play button on the Korg to align a sequence.

[@marcuspearson6214]

mine arrived today

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Nice, enjoy it!

[@petercane6376]

I am new to all this but already hooked. Did you build that work of art yourself ( the synth ) I mean? I want to build one just like it as I like the way you have built its size and the module facias in Alluminium and not black all the time. Do you/ can you provide schematics for your modules? If I become a patron would I have access to any of them ? Please excuse all the questions but I am keen to make a start. Thanks for your excellent portrayal of the Korg SQ1sequencer. Pete

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hi there! Thank you for the enthusiasm! But I didn't build any of these modules, I bought them from differerent manufacturers :) Unfortunately im not much of a DIY builder myself, but there are for sure people who build modular synths like this themselves,. And some comunities out there that could help you get started!

[@SongMingAng]

Hi, just wondering how the melodic sequences didn't get compromised through the Tiptop stackcables as they're passive mults. Is there something I'm missing? Thanks for the great demo!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hey glad you liked it! You're right about the concept, if you use passive mults you loose signal strength. It's not much on the SQ-1 though, but it's there. It depends on how precise you want it to be, and how many octaves the signal spans. In these examples I use 1/2 octaves, and also use mults on both the CV outputs, so both singals are "out of tune" in the same way. If you use a sequence over 5 octaves, and use it next to a perfect pitch digital synth, it is more tricky :)

[@freddiefranklin1]

Hey great video! Planning my first modular synth and I think I'll pick one of these up initially as my sequencer. Quick question though - I saw on one video that if you clock using an external source, you can only go as low as 8th note division. Is this true? Seems like quite a big limitation. Or would you just use this as the master clock on everything to avoid that issue?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thanks! Think that's a good idea. It offers so much power for the money. I still use this a lot as a go to sequencer for a quick melody, gate pattern or modulation source. And the 2x 8 step mode is great! And yes, I think that's true. There's a build in divider that has limitations (check the manual to be sure). However, within a modular you have more flexibility. If you have a way to divide a master clock you can send an already divided clock to the sync input, and go as slow as you like.

[@strangeattractor4959]

Do you know if the SQ 1 can save the sequences before turn off for a next session, to used it with my microkorg xl for EBM basslines variations? To recreate again the same bass sequences?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hi there! There's no saving sequences, but if you don't touch the knobs the sequence will be the same after turning off and on ;)

[@LucianoBSQ]

I love the sq-1. My only problem is that i don't know how to set the different time divisions. Great tips!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Me to ;) Hold the play/stop button when you turn on the unit. then you can use the large sequence select knob and set it to one of the first three modes. Zizag is quarter notes, horizontal is eight notes and dual pendulum mode is sixteenth notes. Then press the power buton again, and your choice will be stored.

[@-VCO-]

@@MonotrailTechTalk What the manual doesn't mention, but is described on the F.A.Q. document from Korg, is that when you move the dial further into other options and get two LEDs lit, it means that you are setting the analog clock resolution to one step per pulse, rather than the default two steps per pulse, which makes more sense when trying to sync to an external clock source.

[@LucianoBSQ]

@@-VCO- so that is I why I didn't understand the difference between the different time signatures. I didn't know you can choose different analog clock resolutions. Thanks!

[@walrtbstudios5430]

An excellent video, crammed full of useful tips- some of which I shall steal. But you missed something- if you have midi sequencers on an iPad, the SQ-1 is a great midi to cv/gate converter. Where else are you going to find midi to cv over usb at this price point?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Very usefull feature indeed! Could have made a much longer video :) All the best!

[@DrBuffaloBalls]

I have a question: when using the random mode, can you have it play empty steps? The Korg MS-20 app can do this and it really allows you to keep the rhythm ever changing.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hi there! Yes. In random mode you can use "active step" to select steps that arn't part of teh sequence, ie to select just three steps to be part of the random options. Then you can use "Gate on/off" to select steps that are part of the sequecne, but don't send out a gate. So for example, you can have three steps "active" but only have 1/3 steps "on" and fire a gate.

[@walrtbstudios5430]

Excellent run-through of the SQ-1’s many features. Being only semi-modular, I find it very difficult to send a known tempo to hardware- the only method I have is from a Volca Beats (sync out and bpm display), but this is ever so slightly out of time with- say- AUM in iOS, which is where I apply most of my fx. Any ideas?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you! I'm not sure if I understand your question right. You want to sync the SQ-1 to an app/DAW? Then always first look at how you can set the app/DAW as your master. ie. send midi clock from DAW to Volca, from Volca sync to SQ-1. I actually think the SQ-1 should be able to recieve a clock via MIDI as well, so check that out to!

[@walrtbstudios5430]

@@MonotrailTechTalk Sorry, I’ll try to be clearer. I have (at least) four pieces of gear that do not do midi over usb- three Moogs and the Dreadbox Typhon. While AUM will send clock out to hardware, it only does so over usb, so it cannot sync to these four synths. I have had success using the SQ-1 as a midi-to-cv converter with synths such as the Make Noise 0-Coast, but I cannot find a way of using it to sync the Moogs or the Typhon to AUM’s clock, so I am stuck with the Beats which- as I have said- is ever so slightly out of time. It’s not important when applying a dotted eight-note delay to a synth, but it is crucial if you’re playing hardware along with a soft synth, or percussion, in AUM.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

I have zero experience with this, but then google around a bit for conversion cables. Because I guess those synths do have the regular din-sync midi cable inputs right? Typhon does, and moogs as well. Something like this: www.amazon.de/OTraki-Interface-Konverter-Controller-Instrument/dp/B07KYDP3GK/ref=asc_df_B07KYDP3GK/?tag=googshopde-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=204536266279&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16361913590016429035&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9061132&hvtargid=pla-651841667935&psc=1&th=1&psc=1 Then you'd need a MIDI hub, so you can connect the hub to multiple midi synths if they dont have thru ports. But that shoudl work. (Again I have no experience with this or similar cables. I don't know the limitations and so on. Read carefully!)

[@Sachyel]

Sharing is caring.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

:)

[@tomwawer5714]

Thank you for great content! I have one question - when I set 1V/octave what is the possible range for example -5V to +5V?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad you liked it! Three options: 0V>1V - 0V>2V - or 0V>5V, so all positive voltages only.

[@tomwawer5714]

@@MonotrailTechTalk thanks a lot!

[@delmeteor717]

Have you tried running midi devices on channel A and channel B with different midi settings ? A set to midi ch 1 and B set to midi ch 2.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hi there! Have to admit I only use it for the CV outputs, and not for MIDI, so have not tried that.

[@Sarahbuildsstepsequencers]

What’s the voltage level on the gate outputs, please?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hi there! These are things I have to google of course, I don't memorize these for all the stuff I have! But it's 10V for the gate outs, and 5V for the sync out :)

[@ronaldlundbohm815]

I have the arturia matrix brute with the patch bay in the rear is it possible to use this Sq1 to that patch bay?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

It's definitely possible, you can use it for 1v/oct signals to the pitch, and to modulate parameters available on the patchbay. Only thing you'd have to check in the manual is to what voltage range the matrixbrute responds. The korg sq-1 sends out only 0 to +5 volt. I think the Brute can handle up to 12 or 15, but don't know if, for example, you an open the filter or VCA with 5 volt.

[@ronaldlundbohm815]

@@MonotrailTechTalk Thank You

[@stefanoskollias]

You do a very good job! I subed.. I am looking for a sequencer for my Behringer Neutron.. I already have an Arturia keystep which is fine but I want something with more control and cv duties mostly for techno.. I would like to emulate dfam's mechanics or play paraphonic sequences... I have a dilemma between sq1 and beatstep pro.. I know that beatstep pro is realy versatile but sq1 is cheaper and seems more straight forward.. Which of two do you recommend? Thank you in advance!

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you, and glad to hear it! Hard choice. I own both and think either of them are great value and you'd enjoy any for sure. The BSP offers a lot more, esp with the 8 analog trigger outputs, and you can store and create a lot more sequences. Also you can use the velocity outputs of either the melodic parts, effectivly offering four cv sequences. But the SQ-1 is cheaper and feels more direct and hands on. If you're interested in the DFAM kind of sequencing it shines like that!

[@stefanoskollias]

@@MonotrailTechTalk Thank you for your response!

[@nin1ten1do]

this is what i waiting for a severeal years.. with damn synch In-OUT cable... shame ppl on analog was unable to handle it.. thx KORG we love you..

[@juno6]

Great video! There´s one thing I don´t know how to do by reading the manual... you can select mayor and minor scales... but how do you choose the key? say Fm... cheers.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Hi there! In combination with eurorack/hardware synths its easy, just tune the synths oscillator to the key you like to use. A scale is just difined by the intervals.

[@juno6]

@@MonotrailTechTalk it makes sense! Cheers!

[@stephencrane561]

This is an excellent introduction to the capabilities of the SQ-1; however, I’ve a slightly more complex question: How would you take the repetitive melodic output from an 8- or 16-step sequence and transpose it on-the-fly up and down a user-defined scale according to user input (e.g. the CV from a Keystep 37) or even a preprogrammed pattern from another cheap’n’simple step sequencer, such as the Behringer 182? Could you run the output through a Doepfer A-156 quantiser and trigger that from the Keystep or 182? As you’ve guessed, I’m a relative newbie to modular! Thanks...

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thanks! Just send two signals, for example the CV from the SQ-1, and the 1v/oct output of the Keystep to a mixer. Then send the mix to a quantizer, like the Doepfer A-156. (although that doesn't offer user scales)

[@stephencrane561]

@@MonotrailTechTalk Thank you so much for taking the time to respond: genuinely appreciated! When I said "user-defined scale" I should've said "user-required scale". I seldom - if ever - feel the need to design my own scales: there are enough out there already!

[@SoopSoopa]

great!! whats the OSC at 07:44?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Ha, one of my better focusing jobs I see :/ - Anyway, that looks like I use the Dixie II through the Synthrotek echo.

[@aaronmoreno9216]

The start/stop idea is so great! I wanted to add that when sequencing drums you can also mult the clock out to a 3rd voice/drum ie Channel A kick, channel B snare, clock out HH. The SQ-1 can also be setup as an LFO per Control Voltage’s yt vid. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bGnXYaBoZplmfq8

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Glad to hear you liked it :) And the LFO one is a cool tip, did't try that. Could be nice even to use more then two steps, you can create sort of a square with different high/low lengths, or more of a weird envelope shape. Thanks!

[@darrenm6196]

My friend, what a really good video! Can I access your connection examples if I subscribe to Patreon on your behalf?

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thank you! And indeed. I make pdf sheets with the patch diagrams of almost all videos, available for Patrons 4€ an d up :)

[@bennethos]

hey guys does anyone know if you can suddenly half the sequence from let's say 8 to 4 steps easily ? often done in Berlin electronic music. I guess use my fingers but that's not ideal imho. Is it possible to send a midi message to do this ? This video is extremely well prepared by the way, those schematics are gorgeous. Keep up the good work.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

Thanks! And as far as I know you cant use midi messages for complicated actions like per step note on off etc. Four fingers it is :)

[@mattcero1]

I see no memory slot so how do you store your work and sessions? Thank you.

[@MonotrailTechTalk]

You don't! This a cheap sequencer with no memory :)