Synth that can also sequence module

The Lounge Other Gear
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Hey there, I’m kind of at my wits end trying to figure out “the right” hardware setup for my ideal use case (I feel like many will relate…)

I’d like to sequence two synths at the same time. With parallel, but different sequences. I.e. one synth plays bass, other plays lead, etc. Either seq, or arp at times.

Ideally to save on space one would be keyed, and so I could play both a keyed synth and module from the same keybed. However, if this doesn’t exist, I’d be willing to use two modules. “Worst case scenario” would be a keyboard, sequencer, and two modules, just because that is 4 devices and a lot cables/desk space usage.

Does anything like this exist? I know the Prophet Rev 2 appears to have 2 sequencing “lanes” but I’m wary and the manual is not explicit. The Leviasynth appears to have 3 sequencer “tracks” but I need to read the manual more to understand.

Maybe the Digitone, and therefore the Digitone Keys fits my description best?

Counting on you folks to unearth some hidden knowledge for me here. Thanks.

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Maybe I’m missing the point, but keyboard+sequencer instantly suggests Arturia KeyStep Pro to me. I’ve never used one, but it sounds like it might perhaps be part of your solution ?

EDIT: Actually, that plus a Micromonsta 2 (bi-timbral) would do the entire job for you I think. Only hitch is they’re batch manufactured, and not often re-sold, so you might have to wait.

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Hey thanks I think my OP was unclear but my “ideal” is that the multi-track sequencer could be part of an actual synth as opposed to a dedicated sequencer.

Like I would love this just to cut down on the amount of devices on my desk. So I’m wondering if there is something similar to KSP functionality, but as part of a synth, if that makes sense.

Since posting I did some reading and it looks like the Leviasynth can do it.

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On Digitone, you can’t use the arpeggiator on Midi Tracks. But on Tonverk, you can.

You could use Tonverk as Sequencer, Effects Box, Wavetable Synth and Multisample Player.

For Sequencer, FX and Synth with Keyboard, I guess MPC Key 37 or MPC Key 61 is the way to go.

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The rev2 sequencer is limited in steps. It’s 16, or 64. And each Patch has just one “pattern”. So if you want to use the same sound but have the unit sequence multiple patterns, you have to have multiple patches which all sound the same, but have different sequences.

It’s better to think of it as a “parameter sequencer” first, a tool for rhythmic sound design, rather than a note sequncers. It does also do notes.

I don’t think it’ll support controlling an external synth. I mean, it might, but it wont be confy.

IMO you should use an Elektron ((A4, Digitone, Syntakt) for this. Plus a controller keyboard. They’re overpowered for what you describe, but all are killer.

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Thanks for this info.
Yeah controller/sequencer + 2 modules is the clear, easy, and maybe only solution.

Just wanted to ask because I was hoping to pull it off with only 2 “devices” total.

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Analog Keys + a monosynth. Limited polyphony but a v.small setup. You can probably even mix the external module sound into the AK. (I have the mkIi, and you def can mix an ext signal in there; not sure about the AK).

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That’s annoying about the DN arp because it would check all my boxes otherwise. I wonder if they will ever address that in an update. To a complete layman like myself, it seems easy?

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I wouldn’t get my hopes up. Midi arp has been requested repeatedly since the DN1 was released in 2018 and it still hasn’t been implemented…

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Well, it’ll definitely never come to DN Keys since that model is obsolete.
For the DNII it’s possible, but there’s no DNII Keys (I’d love if there were since DNII is my favourite piece of gear).

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I can still dream… but in the meantime, DNK runs through OT, OT midi arp does the business. I currently have three other synths I’m controlling with OT midi tracks. It fuckin rules.

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This.
In addition to the 4 sequencers, the CV out.
The first thing I did with my AK was sequence the Moog Minitaur with CV.

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The JDXA might do this, and it has its own sequencing lanes. But if it’s anything like my JDXI experience it’s pretty janky

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A groovebox plus a synth with keys would work. Or as mentioned above a groovebox with keys (MPC Key xx) and a synth module.

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I am currently committed to Tonverk and Teo-5. in the sort of set up you are looking for I think. Id really recommend it as an idea. Tonverk sequences TEO-5 mostly because im not a keys player but I do also have a Keystep 37 in the chain for noodling and (half heartedly) trying to play things! If id thought more id have bought a Keystep Pro for its live recording and step editing of my own playing. Keystep Pro would cover your playing needs for the two synths and the whole lot is small and portable (if you need that).

Its a nice setup because you have Wavetables and all the other sound creation options from TV with more tracks than you could ever need for drums, synths, and other samples, a world of FX, as well as the additional synth where you can multi sample a patch or sample one shots from it in a jiffy if you need more than one sound from it in one arrangement.

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Hey yeah this sounds like a really good setup.
The Tonverk can also handle the live recording/step editing part, can it not? I just have a “dumb” MIDI controller right now so if I could avoid having to buy a KSP it would be nice.
My understanding is that the TV is pretty good for recording your MIDI/playing?

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Yes you can live record on the keyboard on TV, and the step edit function is also very useful if your synth is a poly.

Or buy a keyboard synth to go with it and send notes from that to TV when required.

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A Korg Kronos can pull this off on its own and even together with other synths. Actually, most multitimbral workstation synths can do this, usually with their multi-mode or even just with sequencer.

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Moog muse.

Has a very good sequencer for an analog poly synth. 2 fully indepenent sequencers on it, each up to 64 steps, with pattern chaining which can all be saved and loaded to different presets. Sequence A can drive the synth and sequence B can drive external synth. You can step edit or record sequences live.

Otherwise a digitone 2 or tonverk plus any synth you like is an amazing option as well.

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