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Description
The Korg SQ-1 is a versatile and compact step sequencer that offers a modern update to the classic SQ-10. With 2 x 8 steps, this sturdy unit is a powerhouse for controlling a variety of synthesizers, including the renowned MS-20. It provides a wealth of connection jacks, allowing it to control vintage analog synths and the latest compact synths from a single unit.
The SQ-1 liberates you from the numerically-bound parameter editing that's common with DAWs. It encourages truly musical inspiration as you focus on what your fingertips are doing. Its flexible sequencer modes, including order, parallel, and CV/duty, offer creative possibilities for any musician. The step buttons, inherited from the volca, allow for excellent improvisatory possibilities, letting you "perform" the sequence itself.
The SQ-1 also supports both the Hz/V and V/Oct standards, ensuring excellent pitch stability and making it an ideal hardware sequencer for a wide range of equipment. It's not just a sequencer; it's a tool that brings your musical ideas to life.
Key Features:
- Compact step sequencer with 2 x 8 steps
- Control for MS-20, vintage analog synths, and latest compact synths
- A variety of sequencer modes for creative flexibility
- Step edit buttons, volca-inherited, for improvisatory possibilities
- Robust metal construction for durability
- Operates on 2x AA batteries or USB
- Connectors: littleBits out socket, CV-A out - gate, CV-B out - gate, In sync out 3.5 mm mini jack mono, MIDI out 3.5 mm mini jack stereo, USB
Owner's manual
Korg SQ-1 User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Step Sequencer |
| Tracks | 2 |
| Sequencer | 8-step, 8 Sequencer Modes |
| Pads | 16 x Step Buttons |
| Encoders/Pots | 16 x Step Knobs |
| MIDI I/O | USB, 1 x 1/8" TRS Type A (out) |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Other I/O | littleBits Out, Sync In/Out, CV Out A/B, Gate Out A/B |
| Power Supply | 2 x AA, USB Power |
| Height | 2.48" |
| Width | 7.60" |
| Depth | 3.31" |
| Weight | 1.41 lbs. |
FAQs
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How does the Korg SQ-1 connect to other music gear?
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The Korg SQ-1 connects to other gear via USB-MIDI, Sync In/Out, and CV/Gate outputs, making it versatile for integrating with both analog and digital setups.
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Can the Korg SQ-1 be powered by batteries?
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Yes, the Korg SQ-1 can be powered by two AA batteries, offering portability for live performances or mobile setups.
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How many steps does the Korg SQ-1 sequencer have?
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The Korg SQ-1 features a 2 x 8 step sequencer, providing flexibility in creating complex patterns and sequences.
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Is the Korg SQ-1 compatible with modular synths?
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Yes, the Korg SQ-1 is compatible with modular synths via its CV and Gate outputs, enabling control over pitch and gate signals.
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What are the main sequencing modes available on the Korg SQ-1?
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The Korg SQ-1 offers eight sequencing modes, allowing users to experiment with different step patterns and musical variations.
Videos
MAKEN0ISE
0-Coast and Korg SQ-1, Part 1: Introduction
Reviews
PROS
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Compact and sturdy design, ideal for live performances and portability.
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Wide compatibility with CV, MIDI, and USB, suitable for diverse setups.
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Offers multiple sequencing modes, including linear, zig-zag, and random.
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Allows real-time parameter tweaks, enhancing live performance flexibility.
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Voltage and quantizing settings per sequence enable varied musical expression.
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Affordable entry point into hardware sequencers, rich in features.
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Durable build, similar to Korg's robust MS-20 Mini.
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Syncs easily with a variety of devices, including Volcas and modular systems.
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Easy to set up and immediately usable without complex configurations.
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Supports creative and spontaneous music-making with intuitive design.
CONS
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Tiny tuning knobs make precise adjustments challenging.
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Lacks memory to save sequences, requiring manual reprogramming.
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Fixed velocity limits dynamic expression.
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No display for pitch feedback complicates note programming.
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Inconvenient MIDI channel restrictions when using with certain DAWs.
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Requires additional cables for CV sequencing, not included.
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Power options limited to USB or batteries, no AC adapter included.
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Default key of C can be tedious for programming in other keys.
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Some users report sequence scrambling between power cycles.
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Tempo syncing issues when using USB or external clocks.
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg SQ-1.
Features and functionality
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The SQ-1 lacks a screen, making it guesswork to select notes with its small knobs, which can be challenging for precise pitch programming.
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Glide speed is inherently linked to gate length, limiting its ability to mimic a TB-303 style glide.
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The SQ-1's analog step sequencer means each knob controls pitch directly, with no digital storage; 0V is still a valid signal, preventing true "note erasure."
Source
Use cases and applications
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SQ-1 is ideal for modular setups, offering utility sequencing for any voltage-accepting module, enhancing its versatility in modular environments.
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The SQ-1 excels in providing clock pulse flexibility, allowing users to manipulate note spacing using external inputs like a drum machine's hihat.
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Build quality
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The SQ-1 can be powered via a bulky USB-B connection or two AA batteries, which can be inconvenient for some users.
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Comparisons
Value and pricing
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The SQ-1 is known to hold its resale value well, minimizing financial loss if resold.
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Software and compatibility
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The MS-20 mini's MIDI connectivity allows for the use of other linear sequencers like the RK008 to achieve Volca-like sequencing.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 12 Reviews and 99 Ratings
134
Versatile CV/MIDI sequencing in a small package, huge bargain for the price.
Great sequencing tool, especially for the price. Two independent (though not independently clockable) or chainable CV/gate rows with pitch quantizing, CV range, slide, step jump, fwd/back/pendulum/random play mode, etc. Huge amount of depth to this little guy. The same features in a eurorack sequencer module would cost hundreds. There's some undocumented features regarding gate polarity, etc. Needs a real manual -- the poster sized multi-lingual instruction sheet folded down to the size of a matchbook and printed on tissue paper is garbage. I've noticed it has a tendency to scramble my sequences between power cycles -- after turning it back on, the notes have been shifted up or down randomly if they were in that "in-between" zone (seems like a rounding error kind of thing). I've speculated it's to do with unstable voltage from the USB power, maybe a solid 3.3v regulator on perfboard could help here. Huge amount of sequencing utility for the price, great addition to a modular system or cv/gate keyboard synths.
1539
Cool! Not sure if I'll keep it.
Pretty cool device, and well built. I can see it being really useful with a Eurorack setup. I got it to supplement the lack of a sequencer on my new Korg Prologue 8, and it works decently for that, but there are a number of things that drive me crazy about it: 1) Programming individual notes with knobs and no screen to give you feedback about which note your turning it to make it feel like I am operating it with a blindfold on. 2) Can't save sequences. 3) Defaults to key of C, which just makes it tedious to program things in other keys. Between these three things, I may just return it and try to figure something else out. But again, I can see this being a very useful tool in a modular setup.
492
It's a decent sequencer but very limited
You get what you pay with the SQ1 its limited to 16 steps , features no internal memory , and trying to punch in notes is a pretty tedious task. It almost feels like the smallest minuet bumps can throw all your notes off the path you programmed them to because the knobs are just that sensitive even when locked onto a scale , Besides all that I stated I do enjoy this sequencer because it links up to both my Pocket Operators and Korg Ms10 fairly easily and I like the decent variety of play options it has , I feel like I got my moneys worth and will definetly keep it around for random fun jam sessions but not for any serious projects / albums
41029
in a word...
FUN! A great little analog sequencer for your CV/Gate analog gear that syncs perfectly to MIDI clock via USB port and provides MIDI out to sync my non-CV/Gate hardware so I can double parts coming off the hardware sequencer. Originally created to go with the DIY MS20 desktop module that flopped, Korg musta made a lot of these because they are basically giving them away now. When I returned my keyboard ARP Odyssey RI to get the module when I heard it was coming out (see my other 2 Odyssey RI reviews) I caught a deal where a few retailers were virtually giving them away as a package with your Odyssey desktop (not a DIY like the MS20 desktop, Korg built it for you) so I went for it. At first I basically ignored this little guy. I tend to PLAY the Odyssey.... but this thing works as a sequencer for any CV synths, so eventually I slapped it into a Moog. I think I've used it with alla my synths now to create some whacked out patterns, sending control voltage to any sections of a synth that have jacks! I really enjoy this little thing. Great for anything from R2D2 noises all the way to vince clark and alan wilder type 'beyond arpegiator' type sequences. Now that I've really gotten going with it I've been enjoying flipping from the forwards-forwards mode over to the far elft up-down, zig-zag mode to fuck with my sequences while wanking filter cutoff or envelope mod around LOL. I started out using this very musically and traditionally but I've rapidly embraced it as a tool for creating burbling, disintegrating mayhem without any additional effects....
You can pretty much guess how this cool little guy is programmed just by looking at the pictures, right? So I will say no more. Very fun, especially if you just set up a pattern randomly and THEN plug it into CV jack on a synth and see what kidna noises it makes.
Are there cooler analog sequencers? You bet, but this does most of what they do and it was free. Its also very easy to program, not unlike an old ARP sequencer with the sliders.... prior to this if I wanted sloppy analog sequencing I had to settle for using my Bassbot to control another synth and the bassbot is a bear to program intelligently just like a real 303. Its also pretty limited compared to this Korg, very linear whereas the Korg will take your music and turn it into something completely new and unexpected if you let it.
565
Fundamental.
The real "swiss army" of analog music. Intuitive and totally reliable. USB based, MIDI Out (with adapter), 2 x CV-Gate outputs, Sync In-Out, native Korg MS20 (and more) total compatibility. It's a perfect example of a cheaper but reliable gear. Maybe it lacks to some function (clock input is possible via USB/MIDI only) but it's not an issue. Perfect for portability too. Price excellent and accessible to all.
41029
you wanted it for the control voltages.... I don't use mine for notation, just voltages to patch points on my Pittsburgh modular.
245
Perhaps these are better used in a DAW-less environment? That is how I use my 5 SQ1's- they are also great for live DAW-less use.
151
Versatile, good features for the price
Solid build quality and many connections. Useful for sequencing 2 synths with CV/Gate (Hertz/Octave and/or Volts/Octave) or a synth and CV parameter. It has major/minor key modes but currently locked to C for both. Tempo syncing has some weird quirks depending on if you're using USB or external clock/gate clicks. A great portable sequencer that's instantly useful or MIDI and CV gear.
41029
yeah, they've been giving these away... literally, my Odyssey module came with one
1235
small
It's a funny thing to use it for CV synths. It lacks wide abilities to use it as a MIDI step sequencer. Especially it happens in DAW. But if you have an old synth with no midi - it works.
Best deal in audio.
Incredible for interactive live sequencing of analog synths via CV or MIDI and drum machines and incredibly cheap. You can do stuff like the always evolving arpeggio in "Silent Shout" by The Knife. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uI1KXHJVO8
Artist usage
Add artist
Amir Derakh is shown using the Korg SQ-1 audio sequencer in a photo on his Facebook page.
The SQ-1 can be seen at 1:40 in the video sitting on top of the Kenton Pro 2000 MK2.
In the description: "Korg's MS20 Desktop kit driven by an SQ-1 Sequencer, through the Eventide H9."
In the credits: "Performed by Nick Batt."
The Instagram post by dystopian_vectors features Pye Corner Audio's Korg SQ-1 among his gear setup.
"@skudge_elias_landberg Got my SQ-1 today #korg #korgsq1 #analogsequencer #stepsequencer #jamsyntotek #2015"
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Korg SQ-1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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