Revolutionizing step sequencing in Ableton Live, Berlin-based musician, sound designer and Max4Live developer, TilmanEhrhorn, presents his latest device - sq06 1.0. A four-voice MIDI generator, the sq06 1.0 gracefully transcends conventional limitations of modal sequencing, introducing novel variables to note composition and encouraging effortless manipulation and subdivision of sequence events.
Each voice of the sq06 1.0 maintains individual control of pitch and length values, enabling complex note arrangements to be generated. Furthermore, each sequence event can be assigned unique velocity values, providing ample opportunity for nuanced expression. This level of detail extends to the rhythmical layout too. All downbeats can be simultaneously generated, moved, and duplicated on the grid, offering a swift means of re-shaping your rhythmic foundations.
Taking the grid-based step sequencer to the next-level, is the sq06's standout feature of grid decoupling from Ableton's measure setting. This allows users to exploit the sequencer's clock, which is in constant sync with Ableton, to freely remix their sequences by halving or doubling grid values. This innovative capability facilitates a fresh dimension of rhythmic exploration within the digital audio workstation (DAW).
Compatible with Ableton Live version 11.3.25 and Max version 8.5.8, the sq06 1.0 demonstrates seamless integration. The row layout adapts readily to the DAW's measure settings. The sq06's clock, as well as being in permanent sync with Ableton, also aids facile navigation of note values with grid-based visual feedback, ensuring coherence between device and DAW.
Get a closer look at the sq06 1.0 in action at https://maxforlive.com/library/device/10590/sq06 or via the demonstration video on Tilman Ehrhorn’s website, where further information about this pro-level step sequencer can also be found.
TilmanEhrhorn's sq06 1.0 sets a new bar for Ableton Live sequencing, accelerates workflow, and offers limitless creative possibilities. Its well-thought-out design and usability, coupled with the ability to produce one-of-a-kind musical sequences, make sq06 1.0 a valuable addition to your music production artillery. As the sq06 1.0 runs under an AttributionNonCommercialShareAlike license, remember to respect the associated conditions when sharing your stunning sequences!
With unexplored rhythmic dimensions and robust yet flexible controls that guarantee a synergistic musical experience, the sq06 1.0 is an exciting leap in the world of Ableton step sequencers. Whether you are a pro-producer or a casual Ableton enthusiast, this device is worth exploring to take your electronic music to new realms of possibility.
Example Usage
Imagine you're crafting a groovy electronic beat with a touch of unpredictability. Today, we're diving into the sq06 1.0 by TilmanEhrhorn, a must-have for Ableton Live users craving ingenuity in their sequences.
First, drag the sq06 onto a MIDI track and load up your favorite synth as the receiving instrument. Let's start by creating a basic pattern for our first voice. Adjust the step size to '4' to stick to a quarter-note rhythm. Now, input a single pitch to craft a steady low-end pulse.
For our second voice, we'll introduce some syncopation. Set its step size to '6' and input pitches to create a bouncing counter-rhythm to our established pulse. This will add movement and complexity to our rhythm section.
Look at the third voice, and let's make it spicy. With a step size of '5,' your sequence will now enter the realm of polyrhythms, lending an off-kilter feel to the beat. Assign different velocity values to each step for dynamic variation, adding life to your pattern.
Finally, craft a melodic phrase with the fourth voice using a step size of '8.' This will lay out a melody over a full bar, providing a smooth overlay to the rhythmic interplay from the other voices.
Experiment with duplicating downbeats across voices for a unified hit at the start of your measures, adding punch to your sequence.
Remember, the sq06's grid can be halved or doubled for quick variations without altering the pitches. Play around with these functions as our beat evolves.
The beauty of the sq06 sequencer is its seamless tempo sync with Ableton Live's clock, making your rhythm adjustments feel intuitive and fluid with your project's flow.
As a next step, automate the step size or velocity parameters to evolve your sequence throughout your track, keeping your listeners engaged with the morphing patterns.
By the time you're done, you'll have crafted a dynamic, polyrhythmic sequence that breathes life into your electronic composition, all thanks to the innovative design of the sq06. Keep experimenting to uncover the full potential of this avant-garde MIDI generator.
As you dive into the intricacies of the sq06 step sequencer, one of the most effective intermediate techniques to utilize is Sequencer Layering. This unique approach will allow you to create complex polyrhythms and rich textures that can elevate your music production beyond static loops.
Let’s get started by crafting a sequence that evolves over time using sq06's four-voice layout. Start by opening sq06 in a MIDI track within your Ableton Live session.
- Begin with Voice 1 – Set a basic 7-step sequence using a simple monophonic synth sound. Assign a subtle velocity variation across the steps to add expression.
- Add rhythmic complexity with Voice 2 – Choose an 8-step sequence for a bassline. This will create a polyrhythm against the 7-step sequence. Adjust some steps to rest state to let the first sequence breathe.
- Introduce melodic variation with Voice 3 – Use a 15-step sequence to generate a spiraling melodic figure, ensuring it complements your existing bass and lead lines dynamically. Change a few pitch values for accents.
- Apply rhythmic texture with Voice 4 – Create a 12-step percussive sequence, selectively assigning different samples or synthesized percussive hits to certain steps, thus enabling a more intricate sound palette.
- Experiment with grid subdivision – Now, select different grid values for each voice for a more captivating sequence. Start with eighth notes for the lead, quarter notes for the bass, sixteenth notes for the melody, and triplets for the percussion. This will offer a rich territory for experimentation as the sequences interplay.
- Play with grid coupling – Decouple the grid from Ableton's host measure settings to shift the start point of your sequences, creating evolving patterns over time as your polyrhythms drift apart and reconvene.
After you've layered your sequences, use the duplicate and move functions for quick variations, create downbeats in all sequences for a feeling of synchronization, or use the quick halve/double grid functionality to shift the feel of your rhythms instantly.
Remember to frequently listen to the ensemble of voices together and make adjustments as necessary, whether it's note lengths, pitch values, or velocity dynamics to ensure a harmonious integration of sequences. Utilize the MIDI effects in Ableton Live for further sound manipulation, like adding a Random effect before sq06 to keep some unpredictability in your sequences.
The sq06 step sequencer can unlock a whole new palette of rhythmic possibilities when used creatively. With its precise synchronization to your DAW's clock, these layered, evolving sequences will remain firmly in time, forming the cutting edge of your rhythm production toolkit.
Further Thoughts
Imagine you're creating an unconventional rhythmic pattern that goes beyond the typical 4/4 beat. With the sq06 1.0 by TilmanEhrhorn, you can dive into a sonic exploration that takes your sequences into a new sonic territory.
To begin, let’s create a polyrhythmic texture by utilizing the variable step size of each of the four voices. Set up a 7/8 pattern on Voice 1 by adjusting the grid to 7 steps and setting the note value to eighth notes. Next, for Voice 2, choose a 5/4 time signature with a combination of eighth and sixteenth notes to provide a counter-rhythm that weaves in and out of the 7/8 pattern.
On Voice 3, emphasize the downbeat by employing the quick access feature to duplicate those downbeats, setting them an octave higher than the main pitch, adding a melodic dimension to the rhythm. The velocity values of these notes can be adjusted for a dynamic accentuation.
To further expand the sonic palette, decouple Voice 4 from the DAW’s grid and set it to operate on a triplet grid. Experiment with halving and doubling grid values to create a sequence that flows between time signatures, keeping listeners on their toes.
Integrate the sq06 seamlessly with Ableton Live by syncing it to a clip with evolving pads. As the sequence progresses, automate the sequencer's step sizes and velocities to evolve with the pads, creating a sophisticated and dynamic piece of music.
Don’t forget, you can always reference the onboard Help View for more intricate functions of sq06 if you're ever stuck or if you want to dive deeper into the device’s capabilities.
Remember to save your precious creation as a preset within the sq06, allowing for immediate recall in future projects. This approach to using the sq06 1.0 step sequencer will ensure a captivating and unique rhythmic foundation for your next track, pushing the boundaries of what is expected in electronic music compositions.