I really do appreciate your efforts to impart a smidge of knowledge about a piece of hardware that at first glance seems limited but has it's place among the pantheon of bits and bleeps!
My observations from couple if months usage. 1) CV B and Gate B output same values as A in 16 step modes so you can for instance send gate sync to another device via the Gate B. 2) you can send a note via midi to be the root note of the scale. You can also use the midi note to transpose the sequence on the fly. 3) you can actually play syncronized melodies with this one if you toggle the gates and cvs on the fly. Having a synth in drone mode (plays continuously) helps
I just bought one of these online. I didn't know I'd have to get a MIDI adapter, but that makes sense since my CTK-411 keyboard is so old. I also have some aux cables and 3.5mm stereo cables to connect my other devices. I took your advice and bought an Arturia KeyStep as well which can tie notes and has after touch feature. What would be the best way to use this for sound design? I have 3 pocket operators I already use for just getting simple ideas down. I really don't know anything about the CV gates and what not. Any idea on how I can learn this stuff? lol thanks man!
@@ghost_in_the_robot you do not need midi, the sq1 is best to control analog gear with cvs. It does only midi out with a specific adapter that comes with it - I meant you send the midi note to the receiving unit, not to the sq1.
@@PiesliceProductions thanks man. I bought it used and it didn't come with the adapter. Think i could find one on amazon? My keyboard is a CTK 411 and has 2 midi in and out ports. I also just got an Arturia KeyStep lol
@@ghost_in_the_robot You should buy an analog monosynth to fully take benefit on the sq - the keystep has you pretty much covered for the midi. Cheap ones are behringer crave (although this has built in seq) and arturia microbrute for instance
@@PiesliceProductions unfortunately i am about tapped out lol... I bought 3 pocket operators and a korg kaossilator... I don't even think i can use any of my gear together haha. I can always use software synth VSTs like the Arturia Minimoog V
About the C-major scale limitation, I am not sure if this works for all equipment, but when i use it to sequence my Dreadbox Hades using CV/gate and then set the root note with another keyboard connected to my hades by midi I can transcribe the C sequences to any other scale. Maybe that can help some people get around the C limitation.
Yeah, as I said, at least in the MicroBrute (and also in the MiniBrute, I think) the implementation chart had a MIDI 2 CV converter and then adds the voltage coming from the Pitch CV input. I don't know much about the inner workings of the Hades, but I guess it would be either an OR/AND operation where the last input to change (either CV or MIDI) defines the pitch of the oscillator(s), or a priority-based implementation, on which one of the inputs takes precedence over the other. In both cases, this trick for transposing will not work.
interesting review. but the biggest limitation is that you cannot slave it with midi clock without the extra need of a computer. the screen isn't missing I think: people buy this device basically because it is a vintage approach to sequencing. anybody who is doing modular or semi-modular doesn't want a screen at all, unless it is a 7 segment led that might show the bpm. kind regards.
Hello Ludwig Kopp. I think you have a very good point regarding the absence of a numerical display and the targeted audience. On the other hand, my experience has been to find people frustrated because the SQ-1 does not allow the workflow you find on newer sequencers (for example the BSP, or the pyramid). Thus, me stating the lack of precise on-board control on tempo and pitch. That being said, I love using the SQ-1 as a modulating sequencer for the MicroBrute, and I'll definitively by a couple more of these if I ever decide on buying more CV-controlled gear like the MS-20(mini/m). Regarding MIDI clock, it does not allow direct MIDI sync (and even if you use the USB, I think you'll loose the ability to get MIDI notes coming out of the unit to the computer), but you can use a Volca or an electribe to generate a sync signal from the MIDI clock and feed that sync into the SQ-1. It is not perfect, but it good enough for DAWless work. Thanks for watching and commenting. Best regards.
Hi You need a 5 pin MIDI cable if you want to transmit note data to the volca. If you just want to synchronize the sq1 to the volca's sequencer, you just need a 3.5mm trs cable (same as the sync between volcas).
@@Philipplus thanks Philip, - is it possible to transmit note data to 2 volcas at the same time? So there are 2 volcas , each with their own 8 step sequence on the sq-1? Does that need a specific cable?
@@jasontovey8635 there are some MIDI splitter cables that you can use. There are also some dedicated midi splitter devices, but some of those take power from the MIDI out port (and the sq1 doesn't provide that kind of power).
@@Philipplus Thanks man i will def pick one of these up. id like to hook it up to Roland boutiques. I have this bookmarked and i will go through his tutorial thanks for the reply bro I Subbed ✌
Thanks for stopping by, Petr. You do a terrific job with the Beatstep. I found the SQ-1 and the BS very similay... perhaps there is a trade-of between having 2 sequences in the SQ-1 and having the midi controller capability on the BS. Nevertheless, I hope you can find some inspiration for your setup in this series. ;) Cheers!
Hey, thanks for the tutorial. I have a korg electribe 2s, a digitone, a king korg, a volca bass and I`ve got a hold of a seq1. I have my soundcard sending clock to my digitone, which sends clock to both electribe and volca. I`m trying to sequence my king korg with the seq1, I plug the usb cable from the pc and the midi out of to seq 1 to the midi in of the king korg, but I can only have the seq1 receiving clock or sequencing the king korg, not both. Is there a way the seq 1 can receive clock via usb and sequence via midi?
Hello Gabriel! Yes, that is a design problem (korg would say feature) of the SQ-1: when it receives any clock from the USB-MIDI, it becomes a USB-MIDI to CV interface. When it was first launched this could make sense as the new wave of CV controlled synths (the Brutes from arturia, the MS-20 mini, the 0-coast) was taking of. What I always end up doing is to sync a volca to the DAW using a USB-MIDI interface and then send the sync pulse from the volca to the SQ-1. You can also use the electribe in the same way, if you wish. I hope this helps. All the best,
Thank you! I had some issues with the mic on this episode (also with the video editing, as you may notice in the opening). I believe these problems were already solved on episode 3. Thanks for stopping by and commenting. :)
Can I use the SQ 1 just by its self and could I hook it up to a speaker or do I need another device enable for it to work. I just want to use a sequencing I don't need some big expensive piece of equipment.
Hi Timothy. The SQ-1 is a sequencer, not a synth. It does not make any sound on its own. Think of it as a peculiar MIDI controller with some other kinds of output. Perhaps what you want is a small synth with a built-in sequencer, like the Volca Bass, Keys or FM. They are fun to play (I own the three of them), sound decent (the keys is a little bit noisy at times) and have a sequencer built in. The sequencer does not operate the same way as the SQ-1 but it will to the job (perhaps even better, since the sequencers of the Keys and FM are far more advanced than the SQ-1). I hope this helped. Cheers!
good video but i have to say the SQ-1 is a bit useless unless you really enjoy the same endless 16 pattern sequence adnausium. When synced to a DAW it won't put out MIDI , it's such a PITA. It starts and stops but SFA out of the midi port or over USB
i have a question, i need a device with audio click tempo sync input like sq-1 has, and midi tempo sync output. i believe this sq-1 can do this. but all the other abilities sq-1 has are useless for what i am planning to do. i want to use my zoom r8 as a loop sampler and tempo sync master with audio click track, and voicelive 3 or roland jd-xi keyboard to be slave. i want to use these 3 devices' loop capabilities in sync. but i need a converter like sq-1. do you know any other device which can satisfy my needs? thanks
Hello Hasen! That is a good question. The first thing that comes to mind is the Retrokits RK-004. It is hugely flexible and allows you to convert between different sync protocols. It also features multiple MIDI and Sync outputs, so there is no need to add additional MIDI spliters. The only downside (and I'm not experienced in this device) is that the MIDI ports are not opto-insulated, meaning that you can get ground loops. But you should check the Retrokits website and try to see some demos of the device. It may be the thing for you. I hope this helps. Cheers!
Hey, not sure if this question was asked before in some of the episode's thread but I'm struggling with syncing SQ-1 and my DAW (Logic). Here is the link with description problem - sound.stackexchange.com/questions/42296/sync-korg-sq-1-with-daw-logic and video - www.dropbox.com/s/nodlgoy4z1xeqi3/korg-sq1-logic-setup.mov?dl=0 Basically if connected to DAW via USB it reacts to clock but doesn't produce sequence sound... Is it intended or what workarounds?
So my workaround looks as follows: - connect SQ-1 to DAW via USB - sync out Volca cable to sync in SQ-1 - set bpm in Volca with the same value as in DAW - hit record in DAW - hit start in SQ-1 Probably not ideal solution but works.
Hello Dimitry. Sorry for the late reply, I trend not to have much time during the week to reply to all comments. My experience is that once the SQ-1 receives a Midi clock signal via USB (form a DAW, for example), it transforms itself on a mere USB2MIDI and USB2CV converter. From what I read, it appears to be designed that way. I think your solution is fine, but the SQ-1 and the Volca will eventually drift out of sync with the daw. I'd use a USB-MIDI converter to connect the DAW to the Volca. This way the volca will receive Clock from the DAW and convert it to sync pulses the SQ-1 can sync to. Unfortunately, still no way to auto-start the SQ-1 in this manner. Thanks for the comments. Cheers!
You're welcome. I'll put it on the video regarding MIDI (but because of all the research and experimentation I have to do to dig into the matter, the video is already one year delayed). Cheers!
Hi Mr Xavier! You're welcome. I'm just glad people find them useful. I'm still trying to get all the info for the final two episodes of this series. Have a great week! Cheers!
Hi Cluster B. I'm still working on the video about MIDI. It can receive clock from MIDI, but there have been reports of problems on that front. I'm still trying to reprouce them to see what happens. I hope this helps. Cheers!
i bought one to make my microbrute play well with my korg stuff. i can use it midi or cv but the cv is better. i use ableton to send midi clock and this thing plays nice with the other kids. i still havent figured out all the nuances but i have made a few basslines that were pretty dope.
Hi! In my experience, the SQ-1 really shines as a CV sequencer. I'll definitively have a couple more of these if I ever by more CV-controlled gear (the MS-20mini comes to mind). :) Thanks for watching and commenting! Cheers!
My volca keys doesnt seem to recieve the midi signal from the sq1 do i need to do anything to the keys like press down function and turn it on to get this to work ?
Hello Mathew. There are two things to check. First, is the Volca accepting MIDI notes (as you mentioned)? Press the FUNc button on power up and check if both LEDs 6 and 7 are ON. Check my Volca Sample Tutorial 7 for more details on it. If this is ok and there is still no response, then you must check that the SQ-1 is transmiting on the same MIDI channel(s) that the Volca is listening to. On the SQ-1, press the play/stop button while powering up, use the 16 buttons for the steps to set the main MIDI channel (It defaults to 1) then pres the power button again for restarting. On the Volca (any volca except the Sample and Beats), you need to press the Memory button on power up and select the MIDI channel using the key pads. Press the REC button to save the settings and start the Volca. I hope this helps. Cheers!
Hi! I'm glad you find this interesting. Let's wait and see how the features fit your workflow. I think the SQ-1 wouls complement the Keystep in some setups. On the other hand, if you already own a BeatStep Pro, the SQ-1 is almost useless. And for the price, the BSP pack a lot more features, despite not being able to sync properly with the Volca Range.
Hi! Thanks for watching. Well, the SQ-1 does not have a MIDI IN port, so it cannot be slave to another hardware MIDI clock. Regarding the USB-MIDI, it can receive midi clock and sync, but it has been reported that in this mode it does not output the sequence to USB-MIDI host. I'm still doing some research on this. Whatever information there is about this is a little bit scattered. This is why the two episodes on sync and MIDI are delayed, but I hope to give you a definitive answer in wither of those videos. Cheers!
Hello iamyourfuture808 You're welcome. I'm still trying to find the time to script and record the last part of this series, but I'm glad you found these useful. Cheers!
Does this do midi cc to cv? I'd like to draw automation for filter cutoff in my daw and use the sq1 to send that midi cc data to cv to analog gear like the ms20 mini or the microbrute or the behringer neutron which don't respond to midi cc but only respond to midi notes through midi
Hi thirfy tash! You can use the sequencer to send CV, and it can do MIDI note to CV, but not MIDI CC to CV. Kenton has some devices that do MIDI CC to CV conversion. They are a little bit expensive, but Kenton material is very reliable. I think the Neutron can use the ASSIGN output to extract MIDI information to CV, but maybe the MIDI to CV on ASSIGN has been postponed to a future firmware update. I hope this helps. Cheers!
Hello again. You can set the duty cycle to 100%, which will (almost) tie your notes, but for really tying notes on both CV and MIDI, you should use the BeatStep Pro (I'm actually considering buying one). Cheers!
@@Philipplus Hey bro, I just bought one of these online. I didn't know I'd have to get a MIDI adapter, but that makes sense since my CTK-411 keyboard is so old. I also have some aux cables and 3.5mm stereo cables to connect my other devices. I took your advice and bought an Arturia KeyStep as well which can tie notes and has after touch feature. What would be the best way to use this for sound design? I have 3 pocket operators I already use for just getting simple ideas down. Thanks man!
Hi Untrue Sounds. The SQ-1 can respond to MIDI clock from its USB, but it will behave like an USB-MIDI interface rather than a sequences. What I usually do is to send MIDI clock from the DAW to a MIDI interface, then to a Volca using a MIDI cable, and finally use the syn connection to sync the SQ-1 without the complications with the SQ1's MIDI implementation. It is quite convoluted, but it works. I hope this helps. Cheers!
@@UntrueSounds I sometimes to the opposite: I jam with the SQ-1 and master and record the MIDI (no need for a DAW at this stage, a simple utility like amidi_record on linux is enough). Then I put it on the DAW, adjust the tempo if needed, and commit to audio afterwards... So for me the SQ-1 works more as a compositional tool rather than a live performance instrument. I hope this tip helps ;) I whish you a great 2019! Cheers!
@@Philipplus not really hahaha 😀 i would love to compose melodies against the groove i have in the daw. But i found a way to sync: i have to buy an ipad for it (which i would love to anyway), and i could sync up sq1 to the daw
Could you explain how to not have the volca keys play when you hit play on the sq-1? (6:37) I am having that issue when connecting external gear via midi to my electribe sequencer. I want the play buttons to be independent from each other.
Well, the generic does ump a little bit, and because of the issues I had with the compressor, it is likely that the audio quality on this video is a little sub par. But I hope to have this sorted out next Sunday. As for the SQ-1, it is more limited than you would expect in some ways, but allows for more creative usage in other ways, so think well before buying one. ;) Thanks for stopping by. Have a great week!
Video was still good. Yeah it's one thing I've considered buying for a long time. If I can find a used one at a reasonable price I may just pick it up.
Considering the superiority of the Beatsteps, I'm amazed there are still so few SQ-1 on e-bay (at good prices). I always thought they would sweep the floor with SQ-1. I'm guessing it might be a brand thing, but I could be wrong.
I agree... At the time I didn't brought the BSP because I could not run the Midi Control Centre from a linux machine, and Arturia never published the sysex protocols that would allow me to program my own control app in linux. At this point, and because I mainly use MIDI for everything, I have a project to program my own midi sequencer that I could run on my eeepc or even on a raspberry pi, and use the SQ-1 as a USB to CV converter, but this is a long term vision. ;)
Hey there. I've set my SQ1 up exactly the same as you have here, Midi out to midi in of a volca but it won't stop or start the volca!! Any idea what i'm doing wrong?
Hello spooncore. Thank you for stopping by and commenting. Most likely, your volca is not setup to accept MIDI real-time messages. You should enter the Volca Global Menu (press FUNC on power up) and check if the LED's for the 6th and 7th steps are both lit (and then press REC to save the settings). I hope this helps. Cheers
Hello. That is odd...if you have a usb-MIDI interface, you can plug the MIDI out of the SQ-1 to the Midi In of the interface and use a MIDI monitor application to check if the SQ-1 is outputting MIDI clock messages and the MIDI realtime messages when you start and end the sequencer. Another test you can make is to have the SQ-1 connect to the Volca via MIDI and just turn the speed knob on the SQ-1. If the Volca is receiving Clock, the blinking on the volca's tempo knob will change accordingly . Anyway, if both lights are on and it isn't working, either the SQ-1 is not outputing MIDI correctly, or the Volca is not receiving MIDI correctly, which might e due to a defect on one of the parts. By the way, are you using the MIDI adapter that came with the SQ-1? I once mistakenly used one from Arturia and they are not interchangeable. I hope this helps. Cheers.
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh! That explains it.... I got the SQ1 second hand and the Midi adaptor is clearly not the original! I'll see if Korg supply new ones !! Thanks for the advice!
If you have/can get hold of an Electribe 2 (or the Electribe 2 Sampler) you can use its adaptor. Korg shares their standard across their new gear I hope this helps.
I was having a sync issue with mine. I was using the trigger out from my Roland TR606 drum machine and sending it to the Sync In on the SQ1. When I press play on the 606 the is a jump/skip for the first few step, then it settles down, but offset by a few stpes. Here is a video of someone having the same problem ruclips.net/video/vbvvaoV5KaM/видео.html
Hello! Sorry for the late reply, but RUclips sent you comment to the spam box. The sync of the TR606 is not the same (nor compatible) as the sync on the SQ-1. Roland uses the 24 Pulses per quarter note (PPQN) standard, whereas the SQ-1 uses the 2PPQN standard of the Volcas and Electribes (which in turn is also incompatible with the 48PPQN standard Korg used in their vintage gear). I thought you might get away using one of the TOMs to hit every half beat and sending its trigger output ti the SQ-1's Sync in, but apparently (from your video), the voltages (or the polarity) are also not compatible. I think the only course of action is to put the trigger out or the TR606 (A) through an oscilloscope and compare it with the sync signal of the SQ-1 (not connected to anything else) (B), measure the peak voltages and duty cycle of both and try to match A to B using some voltage processing. Personally, I think if you are able to have some master clock that would send triggers/sync signals in both format, that would be the perfect solution, instead of using the TR as the master sync source for the SQ-1 (but I understand your approach could open some interesting possibilities). I hope this helps. Cheers!
Hi maxxeyordie! My german is not as good as I would like it to be, but would you be a little bit more specific on the problem you are having? (perhaps you made your comment in the follow-up for a previous comment, but RUclips did not put your comment in the right place). Cheers!
I'm glad they helped... Unfortunately I had to put the MIDI and sync videos on hold, since mine is not honouring the subdivision selection. I still have to figure out if it is a problem with my particular unit, or a problem with a batch, or a feature mentioned in the manual but not implemented. I hope you have a great time with yours. Cheers!
Philip+ theres a few videos on youtube of people connecting multiple sq1's together if thats what you meant, so cool! im using this to control my moog werkstatt-01 but have yet to receive my cv expander plus im trying to learn how to use the sq1. all this stuff is my first synth setup :)
I know skinnerbox for some time they are very creative in the way they explora their gear. I have one of those add-on CV input boards for the Werkstatt-01: not the CV expander, just an expansion for Pitch and Filter CV, as well as a Gate Input. I think they are sold by a British guy on e-bay... unfortunately, I don't have the werkstatt-01 to install it in (at the time I was also going to buy one on e-bay, but the auction was canceled and since then I haven't went forth buying another one).
I really do appreciate your efforts to impart a smidge of knowledge about a piece of hardware that at first glance seems limited but has it's place among the pantheon of bits and bleeps!
Thank you! I'm always glad when people find these small tutorial useful. :)
My observations from couple if months usage.
1) CV B and Gate B output same values as A in 16 step modes so you can for instance send gate sync to another device via the Gate B.
2) you can send a note via midi to be the root note of the scale. You can also use the midi note to transpose the sequence on the fly.
3) you can actually play syncronized melodies with this one if you toggle the gates and cvs on the fly. Having a synth in drone mode (plays continuously) helps
I just bought one of these online. I didn't know I'd have to get a MIDI adapter, but that makes sense since my CTK-411 keyboard is so old. I also have some aux cables and 3.5mm stereo cables to connect my other devices. I took your advice and bought an Arturia KeyStep as well which can tie notes and has after touch feature. What would be the best way to use this for sound design? I have 3 pocket operators I already use for just getting simple ideas down. I really don't know anything about the CV gates and what not. Any idea on how I can learn this stuff? lol thanks man!
@@ghost_in_the_robot you do not need midi, the sq1 is best to control analog gear with cvs. It does only midi out with a specific adapter that comes with it - I meant you send the midi note to the receiving unit, not to the sq1.
@@PiesliceProductions thanks man. I bought it used and it didn't come with the adapter. Think i could find one on amazon? My keyboard is a CTK 411 and has 2 midi in and out ports. I also just got an Arturia KeyStep lol
@@ghost_in_the_robot You should buy an analog monosynth to fully take benefit on the sq - the keystep has you pretty much covered for the midi. Cheap ones are behringer crave (although this has built in seq) and arturia microbrute for instance
@@PiesliceProductions unfortunately i am about tapped out lol... I bought 3 pocket operators and a korg kaossilator... I don't even think i can use any of my gear together haha. I can always use software synth VSTs like the Arturia Minimoog V
Thank you, what would be your advice to synch a drum machine like Alesis SR18 with the Korg SQ1 ?
Hi... Probrably MIDI out of the SQ-1 to the MIDI in of the SR18...
@@Philipplus Thank you
Subscribed Great tutorial ✌
Great tutorial. Thank you.
Hello I am waiting for mine. I have the Roland SH09. it has cv in/out and gate in/out. My hook up should be simple. Just go in to out With Cv and Gate
About the C-major scale limitation, I am not sure if this works for all equipment, but when i use it to sequence my Dreadbox Hades using CV/gate and then set the root note with another keyboard connected to my hades by midi I can transcribe the C sequences to any other scale. Maybe that can help some people get around the C limitation.
Yeah, as I said, at least in the MicroBrute (and also in the MiniBrute, I think) the implementation chart had a MIDI 2 CV converter and then adds the voltage coming from the Pitch CV input. I don't know much about the inner workings of the Hades, but I guess it would be either an OR/AND operation where the last input to change (either CV or MIDI) defines the pitch of the oscillator(s), or a priority-based implementation, on which one of the inputs takes precedence over the other. In both cases, this trick for transposing will not work.
interesting review. but the biggest limitation is that you cannot slave it with midi clock without the extra need of a computer. the screen isn't missing I think: people buy this device basically because it is a vintage approach to sequencing. anybody who is doing modular or semi-modular doesn't want a screen at all, unless it is a 7 segment led that might show the bpm. kind regards.
Hello Ludwig Kopp.
I think you have a very good point regarding the absence of a numerical display and the targeted audience. On the other hand, my experience has been to find people frustrated because the SQ-1 does not allow the workflow you find on newer sequencers (for example the BSP, or the pyramid). Thus, me stating the lack of precise on-board control on tempo and pitch. That being said, I love using the SQ-1 as a modulating sequencer for the MicroBrute, and I'll definitively by a couple more of these if I ever decide on buying more CV-controlled gear like the MS-20(mini/m).
Regarding MIDI clock, it does not allow direct MIDI sync (and even if you use the USB, I think you'll loose the ability to get MIDI notes coming out of the unit to the computer), but you can use a Volca or an electribe to generate a sync signal from the MIDI clock and feed that sync into the SQ-1. It is not perfect, but it good enough for DAWless work.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Best regards.
Thank you for showing us❤️👊🏼
Hi - what cable do I need to connect 2 volcas to the sq-1? Thanks
Hi
You need a 5 pin MIDI cable if you want to transmit note data to the volca. If you just want to synchronize the sq1 to the volca's sequencer, you just need a 3.5mm trs cable (same as the sync between volcas).
@@Philipplus thanks Philip, - is it possible to transmit note data to 2 volcas at the same time? So there are 2 volcas , each with their own 8 step sequence on the sq-1? Does that need a specific cable?
@@jasontovey8635 there are some MIDI splitter cables that you can use. There are also some dedicated midi splitter devices, but some of those take power from the MIDI out port (and the sq1 doesn't provide that kind of power).
the sync in? you can just sync in out of another peace of gear and then its synced to the set up? wonder how you would change the clock pulse?
Hi. It uses either the 1 pulse per 16th or volca's original 1 step per 8th note, with some subdivisions you can select at startup
@@Philipplus Thanks man i will def pick one of these up. id like to hook it up to Roland boutiques. I have this bookmarked and i will go through his tutorial thanks for the reply bro I Subbed ✌
Thanks for tutorial. Interesting information about SQ1. I love Korg devices. For controling of my setup I use Arturia Beatstep BE
Thanks for stopping by, Petr. You do a terrific job with the Beatstep. I found the SQ-1 and the BS very similay... perhaps there is a trade-of between having 2 sequences in the SQ-1 and having the midi controller capability on the BS. Nevertheless, I hope you can find some inspiration for your setup in this series. ;)
Cheers!
More limitations: it lacks a RESET INPUT.
I.e.: a trigger or gate pulse resetting to step 1.
Thank you very much for this video..very helpful
Thanks for stopping by and commenting. i'm glad this was helpful. :)
Hey, thanks for the tutorial.
I have a korg electribe 2s, a digitone, a king korg, a volca bass and I`ve got a hold of a seq1.
I have my soundcard sending clock to my digitone, which sends clock to both electribe and volca.
I`m trying to sequence my king korg with the seq1, I plug the usb cable from the pc and the midi out of to seq 1 to the midi in of the king korg, but I can only have the seq1 receiving clock or sequencing the king korg, not both. Is there a way the seq 1 can receive clock via usb and sequence via midi?
Hello Gabriel!
Yes, that is a design problem (korg would say feature) of the SQ-1: when it receives any clock from the USB-MIDI, it becomes a USB-MIDI to CV interface. When it was first launched this could make sense as the new wave of CV controlled synths (the Brutes from arturia, the MS-20 mini, the 0-coast) was taking of. What I always end up doing is to sync a volca to the DAW using a USB-MIDI interface and then send the sync pulse from the volca to the SQ-1. You can also use the electribe in the same way, if you wish.
I hope this helps.
All the best,
I like you tutorial very much. Your voice recording is a bit muffled.
Thank you! I had some issues with the mic on this episode (also with the video editing, as you may notice in the opening). I believe these problems were already solved on episode 3.
Thanks for stopping by and commenting. :)
Can I use the SQ 1 just by its self and could I hook it up to a speaker or do I need another device enable for it to work. I just want to use a sequencing I don't need some big expensive piece of equipment.
Hi Timothy.
The SQ-1 is a sequencer, not a synth. It does not make any sound on its own. Think of it as a peculiar MIDI controller with some other kinds of output. Perhaps what you want is a small synth with a built-in sequencer, like the Volca Bass, Keys or FM. They are fun to play (I own the three of them), sound decent (the keys is a little bit noisy at times) and have a sequencer built in. The sequencer does not operate the same way as the SQ-1 but it will to the job (perhaps even better, since the sequencers of the Keys and FM are far more advanced than the SQ-1).
I hope this helped.
Cheers!
Yep that worked thx m8
good video but i have to say the SQ-1 is a bit useless unless you really enjoy the same endless 16 pattern sequence adnausium. When synced to a DAW it won't put out MIDI , it's such a PITA. It starts and stops but SFA out of the midi port or over USB
Thank you
i have a question,
i need a device with audio click tempo sync input like sq-1 has, and midi tempo sync output. i believe this sq-1 can do this. but all the other abilities sq-1 has are useless for what i am planning to do.
i want to use my zoom r8 as a loop sampler and tempo sync master with audio click track, and voicelive 3 or roland jd-xi keyboard to be slave. i want to use these 3 devices' loop capabilities in sync. but i need a converter like sq-1.
do you know any other device which can satisfy my needs?
thanks
Hello Hasen!
That is a good question. The first thing that comes to mind is the Retrokits RK-004. It is hugely flexible and allows you to convert between different sync protocols. It also features multiple MIDI and Sync outputs, so there is no need to add additional MIDI spliters. The only downside (and I'm not experienced in this device) is that the MIDI ports are not opto-insulated, meaning that you can get ground loops.
But you should check the Retrokits website and try to see some demos of the device. It may be the thing for you.
I hope this helps.
Cheers!
Hey, not sure if this question was asked before in some of the episode's thread but I'm struggling with syncing SQ-1 and my DAW (Logic). Here is the link with description problem - sound.stackexchange.com/questions/42296/sync-korg-sq-1-with-daw-logic and video - www.dropbox.com/s/nodlgoy4z1xeqi3/korg-sq1-logic-setup.mov?dl=0 Basically if connected to DAW via USB it reacts to clock but doesn't produce sequence sound... Is it intended or what workarounds?
So my workaround looks as follows:
- connect SQ-1 to DAW via USB
- sync out Volca cable to sync in SQ-1
- set bpm in Volca with the same value as in DAW
- hit record in DAW
- hit start in SQ-1
Probably not ideal solution but works.
Hello Dimitry.
Sorry for the late reply, I trend not to have much time during the week to reply to all comments. My experience is that once the SQ-1 receives a Midi clock signal via USB (form a DAW, for example), it transforms itself on a mere USB2MIDI and USB2CV converter. From what I read, it appears to be designed that way.
I think your solution is fine, but the SQ-1 and the Volca will eventually drift out of sync with the daw. I'd use a USB-MIDI converter to connect the DAW to the Volca. This way the volca will receive Clock from the DAW and convert it to sync pulses the SQ-1 can sync to. Unfortunately, still no way to auto-start the SQ-1 in this manner.
Thanks for the comments.
Cheers!
thank you for another suggestion!
You're welcome. I'll put it on the video regarding MIDI (but because of all the research and experimentation I have to do to dig into the matter, the video is already one year delayed).
Cheers!
thanks a lot for the tutos !
Hi Mr Xavier!
You're welcome. I'm just glad people find them useful. I'm still trying to get all the info for the final two episodes of this series.
Have a great week!
Cheers!
Can the SQ-1 receive Midi Clock signal from a DAW via USB?
Hi Cluster B.
I'm still working on the video about MIDI. It can receive clock from MIDI, but there have been reports of problems on that front. I'm still trying to reprouce them to see what happens.
I hope this helps.
Cheers!
Read the manual
i bought one to make my microbrute play well with my korg stuff. i can use it midi or cv but the cv is better.
i use ableton to send midi clock and this thing plays nice with the other kids. i still havent figured out all the nuances but i have made a few basslines that were pretty dope.
Hi!
In my experience, the SQ-1 really shines as a CV sequencer. I'll definitively have a couple more of these if I ever by more CV-controlled gear (the MS-20mini comes to mind). :)
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Cheers!
My volca keys doesnt seem to recieve the midi signal from the sq1 do i need to do anything to the keys like press down function and turn it on to get this to work ?
Hello Mathew.
There are two things to check. First, is the Volca accepting MIDI notes (as you mentioned)? Press the FUNc button on power up and check if both LEDs 6 and 7 are ON. Check my Volca Sample Tutorial 7 for more details on it.
If this is ok and there is still no response, then you must check that the SQ-1 is transmiting on the same MIDI channel(s) that the Volca is listening to. On the SQ-1, press the play/stop button while powering up, use the 16 buttons for the steps to set the main MIDI channel (It defaults to 1) then pres the power button again for restarting. On the Volca (any volca except the Sample and Beats), you need to press the Memory button on power up and select the MIDI channel using the key pads. Press the REC button to save the settings and start the Volca.
I hope this helps.
Cheers!
Are you from Portugal? I watch a lot of your videos and I can always detect some Portuguese accent 🤔
Interesting!! Looking forward to the next videos!! Still not sure if I want one. Just got a KeyStep.
Hi! I'm glad you find this interesting. Let's wait and see how the features fit your workflow. I think the SQ-1 wouls complement the Keystep in some setups. On the other hand, if you already own a BeatStep Pro, the SQ-1 is almost useless. And for the price, the BSP pack a lot more features, despite not being able to sync properly with the Volca Range.
about the TEMPO issue, it works fine as slave, with an external clock midi?
Hi!
Thanks for watching.
Well, the SQ-1 does not have a MIDI IN port, so it cannot be slave to another hardware MIDI clock. Regarding the USB-MIDI, it can receive midi clock and sync, but it has been reported that in this mode it does not output the sequence to USB-MIDI host. I'm still doing some research on this. Whatever information there is about this is a little bit scattered. This is why the two episodes on sync and MIDI are delayed, but I hope to give you a definitive answer in wither of those videos.
Cheers!
thank you very much.
thanks for the tutorial
Hello iamyourfuture808
You're welcome. I'm still trying to find the time to script and record the last part of this series, but I'm glad you found these useful.
Cheers!
Does this do midi cc to cv? I'd like to draw automation for filter cutoff in my daw and use the sq1 to send that midi cc data to cv to analog gear like the ms20 mini or the microbrute or the behringer neutron which don't respond to midi cc but only respond to midi notes through midi
Hi thirfy tash!
You can use the sequencer to send CV, and it can do MIDI note to CV, but not MIDI CC to CV. Kenton has some devices that do MIDI CC to CV conversion. They are a little bit expensive, but Kenton material is very reliable. I think the Neutron can use the ASSIGN output to extract MIDI information to CV, but maybe the MIDI to CV on ASSIGN has been postponed to a future firmware update.
I hope this helps.
Cheers!
2 AA batteries,not four.
Yes... Thanks for the correction, meekatz.
Can you tie notes with this? All the videos I've seen it's only doing 1/16th notes
Hello again.
You can set the duty cycle to 100%, which will (almost) tie your notes, but for really tying notes on both CV and MIDI, you should use the BeatStep Pro (I'm actually considering buying one).
Cheers!
@@Philipplus Hey bro, I just bought one of these online. I didn't know I'd have to get a MIDI adapter, but that makes sense since my CTK-411 keyboard is so old. I also have some aux cables and 3.5mm stereo cables to connect my other devices. I took your advice and bought an Arturia KeyStep as well which can tie notes and has after touch feature. What would be the best way to use this for sound design? I have 3 pocket operators I already use for just getting simple ideas down. Thanks man!
I'm sorry, but can someone explain to me what the mixer is? I'm really new to this and lost
Hello James.
I'm glad to help, but which mixer are you referring to? The SQ-1 is not a mixer...
Cheers.
Is there any way to sync it to a DAW? Or just by ear?
Hi Untrue Sounds.
The SQ-1 can respond to MIDI clock from its USB, but it will behave like an USB-MIDI interface rather than a sequences. What I usually do is to send MIDI clock from the DAW to a MIDI interface, then to a Volca using a MIDI cable, and finally use the syn connection to sync the SQ-1 without the complications with the SQ1's MIDI implementation. It is quite convoluted, but it works.
I hope this helps.
Cheers!
@@Philipplus thank you! Yea it helped but quite complicated. Merry Christmas 🎄
@@UntrueSounds I sometimes to the opposite: I jam with the SQ-1 and master and record the MIDI (no need for a DAW at this stage, a simple utility like amidi_record on linux is enough). Then I put it on the DAW, adjust the tempo if needed, and commit to audio afterwards... So for me the SQ-1 works more as a compositional tool rather than a live performance instrument. I hope this tip helps ;)
I whish you a great 2019!
Cheers!
@@Philipplus not really hahaha 😀 i would love to compose melodies against the groove i have in the daw. But i found a way to sync: i have to buy an ipad for it (which i would love to anyway), and i could sync up sq1 to the daw
@@UntrueSounds Nice to know :)
Could you explain how to not have the volca keys play when you hit play on the sq-1? (6:37) I am having that issue when connecting external gear via midi to my electribe sequencer. I want the play buttons to be independent from each other.
Hi!
Yes, I have at least two two methods for doing so, which I'll discuss in the MIDI tutorial. ;)
Cheers!
Philip+ which episode is this explained in?
Hi. It's been more than 2 years and I haven't found an answer yet. :(
Sweet this is one little box I would love to get. Audio cuts in and out on this though. Great intro though.
Well, the generic does ump a little bit, and because of the issues I had with the compressor, it is likely that the audio quality on this video is a little sub par. But I hope to have this sorted out next Sunday. As for the SQ-1, it is more limited than you would expect in some ways, but allows for more creative usage in other ways, so think well before buying one. ;)
Thanks for stopping by. Have a great week!
Video was still good. Yeah it's one thing I've considered buying for a long time. If I can find a used one at a reasonable price I may just pick it up.
Considering the superiority of the Beatsteps, I'm amazed there are still so few SQ-1 on e-bay (at good prices). I always thought they would sweep the floor with SQ-1. I'm guessing it might be a brand thing, but I could be wrong.
Hmmm.. Yeah not sure. The newer generation beatsteps definitely are a better machine.
I agree... At the time I didn't brought the BSP because I could not run the Midi Control Centre from a linux machine, and Arturia never published the sysex protocols that would allow me to program my own control app in linux. At this point, and because I mainly use MIDI for everything, I have a project to program my own midi sequencer that I could run on my eeepc or even on a raspberry pi, and use the SQ-1 as a USB to CV converter, but this is a long term vision. ;)
I searched "how to learn sq-1" and thjought this was gonna be a rubiks cube
Oddly enough, for my it suggests a lot of SQL tutorials... and a CPR class... :P
Reading the manual always helps
Hey there. I've set my SQ1 up exactly the same as you have here, Midi out to midi in of a volca but it won't stop or start the volca!! Any idea what i'm doing wrong?
Hello spooncore.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting. Most likely, your volca is not setup to accept MIDI real-time messages. You should enter the Volca Global Menu (press FUNC on power up) and check if the LED's for the 6th and 7th steps are both lit (and then press REC to save the settings).
I hope this helps.
Cheers
Thanks for the response! Yes both steps are lit up. I've tried it on a few different Volcas and no luck!
Hello.
That is odd...if you have a usb-MIDI interface, you can plug the MIDI out of the SQ-1 to the Midi In of the interface and use a MIDI monitor application to check if the SQ-1 is outputting MIDI clock messages and the MIDI realtime messages when you start and end the sequencer. Another test you can make is to have the SQ-1 connect to the Volca via MIDI and just turn the speed knob on the SQ-1. If the Volca is receiving Clock, the blinking on the volca's tempo knob will change accordingly . Anyway, if both lights are on and it isn't working, either the SQ-1 is not outputing MIDI correctly, or the Volca is not receiving MIDI correctly, which might e due to a defect on one of the parts.
By the way, are you using the MIDI adapter that came with the SQ-1? I once mistakenly used one from Arturia and they are not interchangeable.
I hope this helps.
Cheers.
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh! That explains it.... I got the SQ1 second hand and the Midi adaptor is clearly not the original! I'll see if Korg supply new ones
!! Thanks for the advice!
If you have/can get hold of an Electribe 2 (or the Electribe 2 Sampler) you can use its adaptor. Korg shares their standard across their new gear
I hope this helps.
Im just trying to make that Roland come alive
Hey ! does anyone know how to change the root note to korg sq1?
Bom video
Thank you! :)
Will this work with a King Korg?
Hi! Yes... you can connect the midi out to the King's midi in. I use it sometimes with the microkorg. Cheers!
I was having a sync issue with mine. I was using the trigger out from my Roland TR606 drum machine and sending it to the Sync In on the SQ1. When I press play on the 606 the is a jump/skip for the first few step, then it settles down, but offset by a few stpes.
Here is a video of someone having the same problem ruclips.net/video/vbvvaoV5KaM/видео.html
Hello!
Sorry for the late reply, but RUclips sent you comment to the spam box. The sync of the TR606 is not the same (nor compatible) as the sync on the SQ-1. Roland uses the 24 Pulses per quarter note (PPQN) standard, whereas the SQ-1 uses the 2PPQN standard of the Volcas and Electribes (which in turn is also incompatible with the 48PPQN standard Korg used in their vintage gear). I thought you might get away using one of the TOMs to hit every half beat and sending its trigger output ti the SQ-1's Sync in, but apparently (from your video), the voltages (or the polarity) are also not compatible.
I think the only course of action is to put the trigger out or the TR606 (A) through an oscilloscope and compare it with the sync signal of the SQ-1 (not connected to anything else) (B), measure the peak voltages and duty cycle of both and try to match A to B using some voltage processing. Personally, I think if you are able to have some master clock that would send triggers/sync signals in both format, that would be the perfect solution, instead of using the TR as the master sync source for the SQ-1 (but I understand your approach could open some interesting possibilities).
I hope this helps.
Cheers!
Hey! :)
Hab das problem auch :(
Hat jemand ne Lösung? Ich hab probiert das mainboard mit Backpapier abzukleben... erfolglos...
Würde mich sehr freuen
Hi maxxeyordie!
My german is not as good as I would like it to be, but would you be a little bit more specific on the problem you are having? (perhaps you made your comment in the follow-up for a previous comment, but RUclips did not put your comment in the right place).
Cheers!
only takes 2x AA batteries
two AA's not four.
It uses 2 AA batteries .. not 4
Hi Chris!
You're right. My bad. It takes 2 AA batteries, not four. I'll make an errata on the description.
Thanks for noticing it.
Cheers!
Philip+ Thankyou for the vids .. just got mine and they helped 👍
I'm glad they helped... Unfortunately I had to put the MIDI and sync videos on hold, since mine is not honouring the subdivision selection. I still have to figure out if it is a problem with my particular unit, or a problem with a batch, or a feature mentioned in the manual but not implemented.
I hope you have a great time with yours.
Cheers!
Best to get power adaptor mind,,,this baby eats batteries..
Hi Promthious B.
I never tried using the batteries on mine, but that sounds like excellent advise. Thank you for sharing.
Cheers!
just got mine in the mail, they are WAAAYYYYYYY smaller in person than they look lol
Indeed they are. It would be interesting to have a block of these controlling a medium-size CV-controlled synth setup.
Have fun with yours! :)
Cheers!
Philip+ theres a few videos on youtube of people connecting multiple sq1's together if thats what you meant, so cool! im using this to control my moog werkstatt-01 but have yet to receive my cv expander plus im trying to learn how to use the sq1. all this stuff is my first synth setup :)
Philip+ check out youtube channel "skinnerbox" he has 4 sq1's connected to each other. really cool video
I know skinnerbox for some time they are very creative in the way they explora their gear. I have one of those add-on CV input boards for the Werkstatt-01: not the CV expander, just an expansion for Pitch and Filter CV, as well as a Gate Input. I think they are sold by a British guy on e-bay... unfortunately, I don't have the werkstatt-01 to install it in (at the time I was also going to buy one on e-bay, but the auction was canceled and since then I haven't went forth buying another one).