Korg Intros Portable SQ-1 Step Sequencer

korg-sq-1-step-sequencer

At the 2015 NAMM Show, Korg has introduced the SQ-1 step sequencer, an updated take on the classic Korg SQ-10 step sequencer.

The Korg SQ-1 is a compact step sequencer with 2 x 8 steps. Its wealth of connection jacks allows it to be connected to the MS-20 and a variety of other synthesizers.

Both vintage analog synths and the latest compact synths can be controlled from the SQ-1.

korg-sq-1-sequencer

Specifications:

  • Sequencer Mode – ALTERNATE, ORDER, PARALLEL TURN, PARALLEL ORDER, CV/DUTY, CV/SLIDE, CV/DUTY RADOM, RANDOM
  • Step Mode – GATE ON/OFF, ACTIVE STEP, SLIDE, STEP JUMP
  • Sequence Step Resolution – quarter notes, eighth notes, sixteenth notes
  • CV OUT Pitch – Linear, Minor, Major, Chromatic
  • CV OUT Voltage – 1V, 2V, 5V (Oct) 8V (Hz/V)
  • GATE OUT Polarity: + (positive polarity), – (negative polarity)
  • SYNC IN/OUT Polarity + (rise), – (fall)
  • Connectors
    • littleBits OUT jack (mini monaural phone jack)
    • OUT (MIDI OUT) jack (mini stereo phone jack)
    • CV – A OUT – GATE jack (mini monaural phone jack, CV OUT : Output Level 1V, 2V, 5V, 8[Hz/V], GATE OUT: output level 10V)
    •  CV – BOUT – GATE jack (mini monaural phone jack, CV OUT : Output Level 1V, 2V, 5V, 8[Hz/V], GATE OUT: Output Level 10V)
    • – IN – SYNC – OUT jack (mini monaural phone jack, SYNC IN: Max Input Level 20V,
  • SYNC OUT: Output Level 5V)
  • USB jack (type B, USB MIDI)
  • Power Supply – Two AA batteries (alkaline batteries recommended), or USB power
  • Battery Life – approximately 5 hours (when using alkaline batteries)
  • Dimension (W x D x H) – 93 x 84 x 63 mm/7.60″ x 3.31″ × 2.48″
  • Weight – 641 g/1.41 lbs.
  • Included Items – Two AA batteries for checking operation, mini plug – DIN cable
  • Options – Patch cable MS-CABLE-18

Pricing and Availability

The Korg SQ-1 has a street price of about US $99. It’s available now via Amazon and other online retailers.

27 thoughts on “Korg Intros Portable SQ-1 Step Sequencer”

    1. Don’t get the beatstep. I got it and it was a BIG mistake. If I had known Korg was making this, I would have waited. The Beatstep doesn’t support the Korg CV format, has to be configured via a terribly unstable, glitchy software (which I have yet to get synchronized with this software)… it’s a hot mess.

      The SQ-1 is shipping now, I should have it in like 3 days. I can’t wait, I am REALLY happy with everything Korg is doing right now.

  3. I saw one place list it for a pre order price of $99.99. I would post the name, but I don’t know if it’s allowed for advertising purposes…tasty h2o?

    2. Yep, 99 euros, I just called a store. With a sturdy metal case and so many control options this is the bargain of the year. I want two

        1. Yeah, I think I would prefer to spend a little more and get the Beatstep Pro after comparing specs and my gear. This Korg thing looks capable, just a little too mini for my taste. If I had the Little Bits or Monotron, might feel differently..

    3. stiff competition from arturia’s new sequencer though. Eurorack is getting some serious mainstream love!!! Now I just need to be able to afford one

  7. It’s probably just wishful thinking, but if this thing has a USB in and CV out, wouldn’t it be great if you could make it send CV/Gate over USB from a DAW for sample accurate timing……..

  11. Wow! Check this out for a sequencer: Koma Elektronik Komplex Sequencer !!

    A beauty ;D

    Maybe the beatsteppro isn’t so hot after all.

  13. I want one…using something maybe the volca beats to receive midi clock to send into the sync in…and sending cv/sync out to some of the other fine gear I have? Hmmmmmmmm…THOUGHTS!!!!! Looks like another level of fun. FOR CHEAP. Korg wants ALL of your disposable income!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *