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Description

The Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer is a powerful tool for musicians and producers looking to add depth and complexity to their performances and compositions. This analog sequencer, designed in collaboration with Kraftwerk, combines the precision of digital control with the classic warmth of analog sound. It offers users a robust interface with three rows of 16 knobs, providing intuitive control over MIDI and CV outputs. Its versatility makes it ideal for live performances, studio work, and experimental sound creation.

The MAQ 16/3 excels in providing a seamless integration with both vintage and modern setups. It allows for real-time modulation and sequencing of parameters, giving you the creative freedom to explore new musical territories. The sequencer supports MIDI clock sync, ensuring tight timing with other gear, and can control both analog synthesizers through CV/Gate outputs and digital equipment via MIDI.

Whether you're crafting intricate sequences or seeking a reliable and flexible device to enhance your modular synth setup, the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 delivers with precision and ease of use. It stands out for its ability to bridge the gap between analog warmth and digital precision, making it a must-have for any serious music producer or performer.

Key Features:

  • Three rows of 16 knobs for intuitive control
  • Supports both MIDI and CV/Gate outputs
  • Designed in collaboration with Kraftwerk
  • Real-time modulation and sequencing capabilities
  • MIDI clock sync for tight timing
  • Ideal for live performances and studio setups

Product specs

Brand Doepfer
Model MAQ 16/3 Sequencer
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Made In Germany
Categories Eurorack Modules and Cases, Synth Modules
MIDI I/O MIDI Output
Modular Synth Format Eurorack
Synth Module Function Sequencer

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer?

The Doepfer MAQ 16/3 is designed to function as a MIDI analogue sequencer, allowing users to create and control complex sequences for synthesizers and other MIDI-enabled devices.

Does the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 work with Eurorack modular systems?

Yes, the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 is compatible with Eurorack modular systems, making it a versatile tool for integrating with other modular synth modules.

How many MIDI outputs does the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 have?

The Doepfer MAQ 16/3 features MIDI output, enabling it to send MIDI data to other devices and control them via its sequencer capabilities.

Is the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 suitable for live performance?

Yes, the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 is suitable for live performance, offering real-time control and flexibility in creating and manipulating sequences.

Can the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 control multiple synthesizers simultaneously?

The Doepfer MAQ 16/3 can control multiple synthesizers simultaneously through its MIDI output, allowing for complex and layered performances.

HarriL

HarriL

Doepfer MAQ 16/3

Video thumbnail for Doepfer MAQ 16/3 by HarriL

Doepfer MAQ 16/3

HarriL

HarriL

Video thumbnail for Ratchet Sequence with a Doepfer MAQ16/3 by Martin Peters

Ratchet Sequence with a Doepfer MAQ16/3

Martin Peters

Martin Peters

Video thumbnail for Doepfer MAQ 16/3 + Roland SC 155 by Korgator

Doepfer MAQ 16/3 + Roland SC 155

Korgator

Korgator

Video thumbnail for ARP Educational Keyboard vs Doepfer MAQ 16/3 sequencer by DJjondent

ARP Educational Keyboard vs Doepfer MAQ 16/3 sequencer

DJjondent

DJjondent

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer.

Features and functionality

  • The Doepfer MAQ 16/3 can multiply step durations using the 't' event, up to a 1/4 note, but requires pattern adjustments to maintain loop length.

    Source
  • The 'n' event can be used to multiply note on/off durations within a step, but it affects the whole row rather than individual steps, contrary to expectations.

    Source
  • The 'n' event multiplies note lengths in a range from 0 to n-1, meaning fully CW on n8 only reaches a multiplication factor of 7, not 8.

    Source
  • It's noted that the Doepfer MAQ 16/3, being an older analog model, requires manual solutions for linking multiple units, such as using multipole switching to manage connections safely.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Firmware versions affect available functions; later EPROMs are needed for all modes in the manual, and they are relatively easy to install.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the manual insufficient, often leading to trial and error for achieving desired effects with the sequencer.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's more effective in combination with external modules, such as envelope generators and VCAs, for controlling note length through the gate output.

    Source
  • The MAQ 16/3 was designed by Dieter Doepfer for Kraftwerk, hinting at its suitability for electronic and experimental music styles.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Doepfer MAQ 16/3 is seen as more versatile when paired with its dedicated controller module, offering CV selection of all modes, including a valuable one-shot mode.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Doepfer sequencers, including the MAQ 16/3, are considered great deals currently, as they are out of fashion, leading to lower used prices.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Doepfer MAQ16/3 MIDI analogue sequencer (MT Jul 93)

muzines.co.uk

The Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer is a compelling throwback for electronic music enthusiasts. Its versatile 16-step configuration, inspired by Kraftwerk, offers a tactile experience with rotary controls that digital sequencers can't match. While its ability to generate intriguing textures and real-time performance tweaks is impressive, the unit is marred by a cumbersome menu system, limited memory presets, and a dated LED display. The external power supply and high price point might deter some, but for those nostalgic for analogue sequencing with modern MIDI capabilities, it’s a unique, albeit niche, investment.

positive
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 10 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mennie_music

Can't live without!

I can't get enough! The infinity combinations always give me input for producing from basslines to drum sequences

patchpierre

Great sequencer

Kraftwerk helped to develop it, so it can't be bad...:)

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Daft Punk uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Daft Punk

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 8:07 in this video of Daft Punk performing live in L.A., they can be seen using a Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI analogue sequencer.

See how Trent Reznor uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Trent Reznor

Singer, Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Imgur

Trent Reznor's Doepfer MAQ 16/3 in his "Nothing Studios" is seen on a Doepfer rack to the center of the image.

See how Richie Hawtin uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Richie Hawtin

Music Producer

Sven Väth & Richie Hawtin

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen at 0:15 in the video

See how The Chemical Brothers uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

The Chemical Brothers

Music Producer

The Chemical Brothers

...
Verified via Kreativsound

In the Kreativsound article "Chemical Brothers – Tom Rowlands – In Studio," Tom Rowlands of The Chemical Brothers discusses using the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer to explore unique sounds in their music, moving away from the prevalent maximalist electronic style.

See how Kraftwerk uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Kraftwerk

Composer, Music Producer

Kraftwerk

...
Verified via YouTube

2 MAQ 16/3 can be seen in this video 2:37

See how Adrian Utley uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Adrian Utley

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Portishead

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer @ the 2:45 mark in the attached video.

See how Klaus Schulze uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Klaus Schulze

Guitarist, Bassist

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via Klaus-schulze

Behind the console there is a big rack with many digital synthesizers (6x Quasimidi "Rave-o-lution 309", 6x Quasimidi "Polymorph", 4x Access "Virus"), sequencer (Doepfer "MAQ 16/3"), mixer, and more (see photo). This huge rack (see photo) was on stage for the first time at the concert in the Duisburg steel works in 1997, and also in Osnabrück in 2001.

See how Ulrich Schnauss uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Ulrich Schnauss

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via YouTube

The Doepfer MAQ can be seen at the top left at 1:23 in this video with Future Music Magazine.

See how Surgeon uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Surgeon

Music Producer, DJ

Online meets Surgeon

...
Verified via Photo

Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer is pictured in the photo taken in Surgeon's studio.

http://www.xlr8r.com/gear/2014/10/in-the-studio-surgeon/

See how Max Richter uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Max Richter

Composer

...
Verified via MusicRadar

“I’ve got a Doepfer MAQ16/3 MIDI analogue sequencer, which is just a straightforward sequencer for controlling any of the synths I’ve got."

See how Peter Christopherson uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Peter Christopherson

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Coil

...
Verified via Photo

The Doepfer MAQ 16/3 Sequencer can be seen in this 1997 photo posted to Drew McDowall's Instagram.

Sleazy mentions a retro-style Doepfer sequencer in the Coil FAQ from 2001.

See how Octave One uses Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

Octave One

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post captioned "Packing up the toys 4 the ride back to ATL," Octave One is seen with the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer, indicating its use during their travels.

Album Usage

The Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Doepfer MAQ 16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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hypernova303

hypernova303

Gear IQ 134

soundbleu

soundbleu

Gear IQ 55

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