Presonus ATOM SQ

I’m not too experienced with working in a DAW so I’m not sure how much my opinion is worth. I’ve only tried it out in S1 since whenever I install Ableton Live, I can’t get S1 to properly mount my audio driver.

The overall quality is solid, I think the pads and knobs are great. There’s a ton of functionality of course with the little screen and the user buttons. I feel like using the screen is a little clunky most of the time so I haven’t gotten too in depth with it but for me the pads, knobs, transport buttons and other shortcuts are enough.

The pads are great for drumming but using them as keys feels a little strange. You have to be a lot more aware of the velocity of the hit. It can be fun for bass lines and melodies, but a little challenging with chords. I’m sure it just takes a little more getting used to.

The only real negatives that come to mind are that “off” notes on the step sequencer are dimly lit, but bright enough to make it hard to clearly see what’s going on. Also, the “control link” setting for the modwheel seems to be missing for me, but both of these problems seem to be easy to fix.

If you want a unique compact controller, I’d say it’s well worth it.

Rating:
it’scool/10

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