I just picked up a Nord lead 2x and I need something to sequence it. My Rytm and A4 are not the best for sequencing external gear. I have a machinedrum, but that is packed away at the minute. What are my options for small but decent sequencers? I don’t really want to pick up a digi box or an octatrack just for sequencing as it seems like overkill.
Question is, what and how do you want to sequence? Only the Nord? Shall it be step or linear? How many units or timbres shall be controlled at the end of the day? Shall songs be recorded and stored?
Small and compact I would call:
- Beatstep Pro
- Keystep Pro
- Pyramid
- very small is the Korg SQ-1
But if you have an iOS device (maybe there is something on Android as well), you can get a simple USB to Midi Interface like iConnect MIO 2 (~ 80 EUR) or the MIO 1 in/1out (~ 30 EUR) and use your phone or pad running a sequencer app 
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it depends, since it’s unclear how complex your sequences are going to be.
there’s quite a lot of options from Korg SQ-1 to Squarp Pyramid and Sequentix Circlon.
I’d like to sequence the 4 parts on the Nord. Basslines, leads, chords. I plan to work with patterns a la my Elektron boxes. Song mode a bonus. Chords and scale functions desirable.
The Keystep Pro does everything you need and more. It can lay down 4 individual tracks has song mode/chord mode. Its new so has a lot of support.
Maybe a ticket aboard the NDLR train?
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OP-Z? Tiny, and the sequencer is amazing.
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If you don’t plan to extend your gear in the near future the Keystep Pro could be a good solution.
If you plan to get more gear, I would recommend the Pyramid.
Thanks for the suggestions. Is it ridiculous to buy a Digitone to primarily use it as a sequencer???
Digitone would have been my suggestion…
yamaha QY series. QY10 for the cheapie. I have a pyramid which is good for sketches and quick results but exxy
Get a digitone. The you get a great sequencer with a free kickass synth. Win.
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for chords you need a sequence with polyphonic capabilities.
then Beatstep Pro is not an option.
iw we talk about overkill options, Electribe 2 is cheaper, and easier to operate due to normal size of physical controls.
OP-Z is tiny, which is good — but its controls are certainly undersized, which is uncomfortable to work for many people.
No … and you get an excellent FM-synth as well. IMO you will soon use the DN as a second sound source, because it complements your Nord AND you will get four more voices
I have been enjoying the Novstion Launchpad Pro Mk3, it is fun to use. They also just announced the Launchkey Mk3, if a traditional keyboard is more up your alley.
Is it common for people use one of these all-powerful sequencers like the Cirklon to sequencer all their gear?
Ive been on the waiting list for 2 years. No its uncommon these days.