Sequencers / Trackers / Grooveboxes

Native Instruments's hybrid hardware and software beat machine promises the best of both worlds. Does it deliver?

Genoqs take a unique approach to hardware sequencing, as weve seen previosuly from their Octopus sequencer. Now theyre back with a smaller and far more affordable model: the Nemo.

Just when you think you've seen it all, Yamaha come straight at you out of left field with an instrument unlike any other. But is the Tenori-On a musical revolution in the making or a white (flashing) elephant?

Have Roland finally outgunned Akai's renowned MPC series in the battle for the hip-hop market?

Steinberg have drawn on some of the technologies they pioneered in Cubase 4 to create a new entry-level sequencing package.

The latest version of Image Line's affordable FL Studio music software adds a powerful resampling editor and processor, plus some neat plug-ins.

Akai's famed Music Production Centre goes mini...

Roland take their MC concept further with new features, flying faders and computer integration. Let's explore...

If you want a unique approach to hardware sequencing or a charming accessory for the bridge of your alien mothership, the Genoqs Octopus could be just what you're looking for...

Akai have updated the classic sampling sequencer concept last embodied in the MPC2000XL, but have they managed to preserve the magic formula that made the series a success?

The original loop-sequencing package has grown into a fully-fledged audio and MIDI recording program.

If you thought the days of hardware sequencing were past, think again — Sequentix's P3 is a tremendously flexible MIDI sequencer whose power is concealed beneath a cool retro exterior. We step to it...

Apple's loop-sequencing application has grown up, with the addition of sophisticated recording, editing and mixing facilities, a powerful waveform editor, and many of Logic's most sought-after effects.

FXpansion's software drum machine takes the 'pad sampler' concept pioneered by Akai's MPC range to new levels.

I'm having some problems with MIDI routing. I'm in the process of setting up a Yamaha RM1X sequencer, Alesis Micron and...

This unusual effects pedal combines a bank of eight band-pass filters with an analogue-style control sequencer.

Flagship sequencer apps are so packed with features that it could almost be a full-time job learning the package of your choice. If your needs are simpler, why not make it easy on yourself and investigate one of many options that are more entry-level or cut-down, yet still remarkably capable?

The latest in Roland's SP series of phrase samplers can also double as a computer and audio interface, and PC users can take advantage of a bundled Cakewalk sequencer/mixer. Is this the best SP yet? We find out...

Version 5 of Acid Pro is the first major upgrade under the Sony Media Software badge, and has taken two years to arrive. Does it keep pace with other manufacturers' loop-sequencing packages?

FL Studio has always been popular with those seeking a cost-effective, easy-to-use alternative to the 'big name' sequencers. The latest version adds a new drum sequencing tool, high-quality time-stretching and video support.

Storm, the French software studio from virtual-instrument creators Arturia, keeps on improving. We check out version 3.