NAMM: ARTURIA BEATSTEP PRO
22 January 2015
Arturia has just launched its BeatStep Pro, its new controller and step sequencer today at the NAMM show in Anaheim, California.
At last year’s Winter NAMM the company introduced the popular BeatStep, compact controller/sequencer. Arturia have taken it up a notch with today’s introduction of the bigger brother Pro version, in what they describe as a “world-class controller and dynamic performance step sequencer”.
The Pro version features 16 touch-sensitive knobs for control of pitch, gate, velocity amounts, and timing shifts per step. In addition to two independent (colour-coded) monophonic step sequencers, each with dedicated displays that show playback position and bank length. With a number of connection options, including MIDI-, USB-, CV/Gate-, or DIN Sync-equipped gear. Also, it’s clock connections can work as a 1:1 clock with an external clock generator or via DIN Sync and comes with a Kensington lock, for protection.
Sequencer 1 and Sequencer 2 have been expanded with up to 64 steps per sequence, 16 sequences per project, and 16 projects. Each sequencer has its own 1V/Oct CV (Control Voltage) and (10V) Gate outputs for connect to equipped analogue monosynths, such as Arturia’s MiniBrute or MicroBrute, together with a separate Velo (Velocity) output for extra options when working with a modular synth system setup.
An additional Drum sequencer allows for 16 separate tracks of sequencing and 8 Drum Gates (to send gate outputs from the corresponding pads for triggering external devices). Record in realtime via the 16 pressure sensitive pads or use the 16 step buttons for a drum machine workflow.
The pads are also able to control pitch transposition as well as accessing various musical scales, such as Chromatic, Major, Minor, Dorian, Mixolydian, Harm Minor, Blues, and also a customisable user setting. Other realtime effects include Roller/Looper touch strip; Probability, Randomness, and Swing settings, along with other hands-on controls.
Switching from Project to Control Mode allows users to trigger clips in their DAWs, play drum sounds from an external module, or adjust parameters in their favourite plug-in.
PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
BeatStep Pro will be shipping in Spring 2015 and available to buy directly from Arturia online or through the company’s global network of dealers and retailers for EU€249.00 / US$299.00. No word as yet on Australian prices.
For more info, check: www.arturia.com
Excerpts from Press Release
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