Sequential Circuits' First Product, The Model 600 Sequencer and Complex Wave Generator

Brochure scan in via Brian Kehew.

This is a scan of a product flyer for the the Sequential Circuits Model 600 Sequencer and Complex Wave Generator.  It is first image of the  unit shared on the internet that I am aware of (click here for a search).  It was Sequential Circuits first product. Approximately only four units were made a couple of years prior to the Model 800.

An interesting side note is the aesthetics of the unit.  See if you can spot what's missing before you read on.  Sequential Circuits (along with Oberheim) started out creating products to work with existing synthesizers at the time.  So what's missing?  The trademark knobs and section outlines.  It wasn't until the Model 700 programmer in 1977 that we begin to see what was to become Sequential Circuits trademark look.   Another interesting side note is that the model numbers for Sequential Circuits first three products where not actually sequential, the Model 600 (1974), the Model 800 (1975), and the Model 700 (1977).  They broke out of the "Model" line for the name with the Prophet-5 (which was the Model 1000) in 1978, but came back once with the Model 64 Sequencer for the Commodore 64 in 1983.  One final thing I thought was kind of neat was that the final bullet point in the brochure called out how the Model 600 made for an excellent teaching aid for electronic music.  Indeed.

The following is the description from the scan (note the reference to the unit as a teaching aid):

"MODEL 600 SEQUENCER and COMPLEX WAVE GENERATOR

As A Sequencer -

- Three rows of 16 controls, each row with its own output.
- Built-in sequential control for up to 48 note sequences by turning only one knob.
- Voltage controlled clock can be set internally and/or controlled externally.
Patch one output row back to the VCO input, and the length of each note can be precisely controlled.
- Can sequence slower than one pulse every 30 seconds through and beyond the entire audio range.
- Any one level can be skipped by simply throwing its corresponding switch; hence, any combination of levels can be set.
- Direction switch for forward or backwards direction.
- Handy three-way mixers at the output for easy patch changes.
- LED (light emitting diode) visual display.
- Switch trigger output compatible with Moog synthesizers, including the Mini-Moog.
By flipping one switch, gate and trigger outputs can be obtained for other synthesizers, suck as the ARP 2600.

As A Complex Waveform Generator -

- The quality of the Model 600 makes it possible to be used as a complex waveform generator, with up to 48 segments constructing the composite waveform. Below is an oscilloscope plot of a 48 segment sine wave at 300 hertz, with the lower wave-form the output after being run through a low-pass filter.
- One can easily see the possibility for complete waveform control. With an internal adjustment, the external input can be adjusted to the standard 1 volt/octave; hence, the sequencer can actually be played as an oscillator by any keyboard.
- This capability makes the Model 600 an excellent teaching aid for electronic music, as well as a quality waveform generator for the perfectionist synthesizer performer."

SEQUENTIAL CIRCUITS SCI MODEL 64 SEQUENCER Interface Cartridge für COMMODORE 64

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this eBay listing

This one was spotted and sent in via
M Me.

From the listing (Google translated):

"The case shows virtually no signs of wear.
As far as I can tell, nothing appears to be damaged.
This is an absolute rarity!

Please note - Unfortunately, I cannot technically test the device, as I don't own a Commodore 64.

For this reason, I must sell the SEQUENTIAL CIRCUITS Model 64 as 'untested' or 'unreviewed'! This sale is non-returnable!

There is some information about this device online - for example - https://www.muzines.co.uk/articles/sci-model-64-sequencer/7891"

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Sequential Circuits MAX 620 W/Commodore 64 and Extras

via this auction

"You are looking at a "combo" auction for a Sequential Circuits MAX Model 620 and a Commodore SX-64. We purchased the keyboard, computer and extras from one customer who used the whole system, and it would be a shame to split them up.

The Sequential Circuits MAX 620:

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1983 SEQUENTIAL CIRCUITS MODEL 64 SEQUENCER PROPHET 600 PRINT AD

via this auction

The $195.00 Sequencer

"1983 SEQUENTIAL CIRCUITS MODEL 64 SEQUENCER PROPHET 600 SYNTHESIZER PRINT AD"

Sequential Circuits Model 64 sequencer

via this auction

"This is a used Sequential Circuits Model 64 sequencer, that was used with the Commodore 64 computers."

Sequential Circuits Model 64 Commodore MIDI interface

via this auction

"Rare, hard to find Model 64 Sequencer cartridge for Commodore 64/128 computer systems by Sequential Circuits, Inc. This MIDI interface has a basic sequencer built into ROM, which can be bypassed after the software has loaded."

Update via Aud1073cH in the comments: "I believe this was the flagship controller that went with the Sequential MAX. The printing on the MAX said 'MIDI voice expander computer peripheral'"

Sequential Circuits Six-Trak with Commodore 64 Sequencer

via this auction
SN 001213
"Included with this Six-Trak is the now outdated Sequential Circuits model 64 sequencer cartridge that plugged into a Commodore 64 computer, and the associated software on 5.25 inch floppy disks. Because of the age of this software, and the obsolete format, there is no guarantee the disks and cartridge still work. The 2 MIDI cables are good.

In the yellow 3-ring notebook are:

Six-Trak Model 610 Operation Manual
Six-Trak Expansion Software Operation Manual
Maestro Music Voice Programs for the Six-Trak (parameter settings)
Adrien Nash Professional Programs for the Six-Trak (parameter settings)
Parameter settings for original 100 factory voices."

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Roland Announces JX-08 and JD-08 Sound Modules

video upload by RolandChannel

"The compact-yet-powerful JD-08 Boutique updates the iconic JD-800 synthesizer for your modern workflow. Known for its extensive hands-on controls and an unapologetically electronic sound palette, the JD-800 helped define the sounds of the ‘90s and beyond. The JD-08 faithfully recreates the vintage instrument using the 108 original waveforms and advanced modeling techniques to deliver the signature JD sound design workflow. Plus, modern upgrades, including expanded polyphony and a two-part polyphonic sequencer, give you deeper music creation and editing freedom.

The compact JD-08 fits just about anywhere, and with updated USB-C audio/MIDI and full-sized MIDI jacks, you can play and synchronize with almost any piece of gear. There’s also an external clock input to sync to vintage analog instruments or modern Eurorack systems.

Add the legendary JD-800 experience to your modern studio with the JD-08 Boutique model.

More Details:
• Four-part tone structure, multi-phase time variant envelopes, and palette sliders
• Includes the original 64 presets plus 21 new presets
• Detailed recreation of the JD-800’s unique two-stage multi-effects section
• Editable distortion, phaser, spectrum, enhancer, delay, chorus, and reverb
• 64-step, two-part polyphonic sequencer with random pattern generator
• Onboard arpeggiator  
• Two-part multitimbral with expanded polyphony
• EXT CLOCK IN to drive the internal sequencer and arpeggiator

In this video:
0:00 – Intro
1:19 – Sound Demos
2:51 – Real-Time Control
3:47 – Sequencing
6:46 – Triggering"

Roland Boutique JX-08 Synthesizer: Overview and Demo

video upload by RolandChannel

"The JX-08 Boutique reacquaints you with the unique voice of the classic JX-8P synthesizer, with some major upgrades. A staple of the ‘80s, the JX-8P was famous for its warm pads, shimmery chorus, and crystalline tones. Now, you can add this iconic synth experience to your modern studio with the JX-08 Boutique model.

The JX-08 offers a range of powerful new effects, expanded presets, and a polyphonic sequencer. Explore over 100 new patches for a more contemporary sound or use the hands-on editing functions, included on the unit and ported over from the original companion PG-800 programmer, for the ultimate JX experience.

The compact JX-08 fits just about anywhere, and with updated USB-C audio/MIDI and full-sized MIDI jacks, you can play and synchronize with almost any piece of gear. There’s also an external clock input, so you can sync to vintage analog instruments or modern Eurorack systems.

More Details:
• 32 original presets, plus 111 new presets
• 17 new effect types including JUNO-106 chorus, LO-FI Comp, and Pitch Shifter
• 64-step, two-part polyphonic sequencer with random pattern generator
• Onboard arpeggiator
• Two-part multitimbral for playing multiple patches with dual and split capabilities
• Expanded polyphony compared to the original hardware
• EXT CLOCK IN to drive the internal sequencer and arpeggiator

In this video:
0:00 – Intro
1:44 – Sound Demos
2:46 – Real-Time Control
3:32 – Sequencing
5:17 – Triggering"

And the press release:

"The Roland Boutique lineup expands with new modules based on the vintage JX-8P and JD-800 synthesizers

Los Angeles, CA, November 9, 2021 — Roland announces the JX-08 and JD-08 Sound Modules, the latest additions to the award-winning Roland Boutique lineup of compact electronic instruments. The JX-08 offers a scaled-down recreation of the JX-8P, one of the last analog synthesizers produced by Roland in the 1980s and a highly sought-after piece for vintage synth fans. The JD-08 is a compact reproduction of Roland’s JD-800 synthesizer, an influential digital instrument from the early 1990s loved for its complex, gleaming sound and comprehensive hands-on control.

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New OODA Sequencer for iOS

OODA Sequencer Testdrive video upload by Perplex On

"First little run with #oodasequencer going into a couple of #decentsampler instances and #purepiano. Served with particles. Enjoy. 😊"

OODA - Portable MIDI Sequencer by Ryan Robinson

video upload by e y l v y

OODA - NEW - Portable MIDI Step Sequencer - With Wormholes - Featuring SynthMaster 1 & 2 - For iOS
video upload by The Sound Test Room

And a few tutorials by the developer followed by full details:

Launch Party! Take 50% off OODA and ZOA for 72 hours.

OODA is a fresh take on the classic MIDI step sequencer with interactive and semi-generative enhancements.

What makes OODA unique is that you can connect arbitrary steps together using conditional “wormholes” to add structured (or random) variation to your sequences. Another unique feature is that OODA’s underlying model is decoupled from its voices. This allows you to interact with your sequences and create melodic variations in real time without affecting your groove.

OODA’s open-ended sequence grid can be easily configured for almost any use case. Anything from simple melodies and bass parts to semi-generative chords and arpeggios, OODA can do it all with a little creativity!

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Rare Sequential Circuits Model 700 Programmer

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"This is a very rare Sequential Circuits Model 700 Programmer designed to work in tandem with synths like Arp 2600s, Minimoogs (with CV) and other analog synths that didn't have the ability to store patches to have some of that capability. It includes a lot of great on board features. This particular unit still has the box and was barely used making it very close to new for such a vintage piece from the late 70s! Here's more info: RARE SEQUENTIAL CIRCUITS 700 SYNTHESIZER MEMORY / PROGRAMMER This vintage analog synth programmer was designed and developed by Dave Smith, founder of Sequential Circuits back in the later part of the 1970's. This particular unit was used on a Mini-Moog to assist in live performances and offered extremely swift and accurate recalls of analog synthesizer parameters. Overall, I'd say that this unit ranks a 7 out of 10 due to some of the lettering has worn off the front panel, there's a few light scratches, and there is a small amount tape residue on the top of the real panel [see photos]. Unfortunately I was unable to test it but was working fine and trouble-free when it put in storage - a bedroom closet - about 10 or so years ago so I can not say if it's working or not [However, When last used, it offered smooth, easy and trouble-free operation]. The unit powers up and the red LED display is strong & bright and the unit steps through the bank & program numbers like it's supposed to. It has the original, knobs, pots, switches and lighted push-buttons - All in working condition with a nice, rugged feel. Serial number is which I believe indicates that this unit was one of the first ever produced of the 700 series. I have recently been told that only 25 of these units were made so here's your chance to own a piece of Sequential Circuits early history. Below is a brief description and info I found on-line

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Sequential Circuits Commodore 64/128 Sequencer

via this auction

"Rare, hard to find Model 64 Sequencer cartridge for Commodore 64/128 computer systems by Sequential Circuits, Inc. This MIDI interface has a basic sequencer built into ROM, which can be bypassed after the software has loaded."

COMMODORE SX-64 dual SIDs, 4 pot controller, Prophet-64 and Messiah

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
Published on Jul 20, 2015

"This SX-64 is forsale on ebay. The music you hear was generated by this SX-64 in real time recorded directly from the stereo output." Update: Be sure to listen in stereo!  There are different things happening on each channel on this one.

via this auction

Note this is Redmartian's system. He also has a Roland TR-808 and Early OSC Minimoog Model D listed.

"VINTAGE COMPUTER ANALOGUE SYNTHESIZER COMMODORE SX-64 SID PROPHET MIDI CONTROLLER

This listing is for a modified Commodore SX-64 Executive Portable Computer
It has the following modifications:
JiffyDOS (a switch on the back allows you enable CBM DOS or JiffyDOS v6.01)
SID2SID (This allows two MOS Technology SID chips to be installed version 6581)
Ray Carlsen's reset circuit
A 3.5mm stereo (SID1 and SID2) audio jack next to the JiffyDOS switch.

What it included in this listing:
Commodore SX-64 with the modifications listed above
A prophet-64 catridge (Sequencer, TB303 clone, Drum machine and Mono synth)
A Messiah cartridge with midi (Sequencer, TB303 clone, drum machine, mono synth and wave player)
Commodore SX-64 manual
Commodore 1351 mouse
A small project box with a Sequential PROPHET nameplate and 4 pots mounted for use with Prophet-64 and Messiah
The little Prophet 4 pot controller box works in conjunction with the keyboard to let you
select various functions and then tweak sounds in real time. They can be used mainly with
the TB303 clone (bassline) and the mono synth and the drum machine.
It has one epoxy repair where the keyboard cable connects. The repair is solid."

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Dr.T's Music Software RARE MODEL T MIDI INTERFACE SN 3774

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"RARE and very hard to find
Dr.T's Music Software
MODEL T MIDI INTERFACE,

K.C.S. KEYBOARD CONTROLLED SEQUENCER, & ALGORITHMIC COMPOSER


However, you must have a Commodore 64 and a 1541 disk drive to run this software..
not too much specific info on the internet ,but I managed to find some .


............ Jan Hammer used it for Miami Vice soundtrack ideas.
From
Emile Tobenfeld a.k.a Doctor T

The Commodore 64 KCS was the first sequencer that offered event editing and open-ended composition structuring.
This program evolved for many years, and eventually became Omega II, for the Atari, a sequencing packing with interactive editing, performance, and algorithmic composition features that are (to the best of my knowledge) unmatched in currently available sequencers.

DR. T’S ALGORITHMIC COMPOSER

This precursor to KARMA, and Stylus RMX’s Chaos Generator, ran on the Commodore 64. Jan Hammer used it for Miami Vice soundtrack ideas.
Description: Computer-aided composition software
Hardware Requirements: Commodore 64 or 128 computer,disc drive,parallel video monitor, Commodore-64-compatible MIDI interface.-(Dr.T's Model T)
Features: Three programs,Phrase:Selectable MIDI Channel, transmits MIDI clock.
Series:Save only first events generated,transmits MIDI clock,stop,start,receive mode,andlocal control status.SAC:Receives MIDI clock,transmits individual voices on any four channels.
All files compatible with Dr.T's KCS C64 and KCS C128."

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Details on the Upcoming anAmoNo X Synthesizer From Gotharman

You've seen the videos, we now have full details on the upcoming anAmoNo X synth in directly from Gotharman. You'll find the full details on a new anAmoNo X site here, and captured below for the archives. Take a look at the specs. This is going to be one powerful synth, complete with swappable filters and more.

"Modular synthesizer with memory, swappable analog filters, sampler and granular effects.

Please notice: anAmoNo X does NOT work with the expansion box series. Instead it has replacable analog filters.

The most flexible Gotharman synthesizer ever!

I was really happy with the flexibility of my Eurorack system, but since I spend most of my time running Gotharman's, and do not have very much time for playing music, I was not really happy with the lack of preset storage on this. I always ended up spending a huge lot of time tweaking knobs and rearranging cables, and not really getting any tracks composed (inportant or not :-)). This actually became a bigger and bigger annoyance to me, and in my Christmas holidays 2015, I decided to do something about it.

At first I started to design a module with 32 audio inputs, 32 CV inputs, 32 audio outputs, 32 CV outputs, 64 knobs, a display and memory. The idea was to connect everything of all my eurorack modules to this (hmmm...actually I am not sure if this module would have had enough connections...), connect the modules via an internal cross-bay, and adjust all the CV and audio levels on the 64 knobs. It did though, pretty soon, become clear to me, that this module would be huge and really expensive to produce. On top of that, not all parameters are CV controllable on all modules, so it would require quite a bit of soldering to get this connected to everything.

So I took a few days of brainstorming with myself, and came up with a new idea: The most important sound shaping thing (to my opinion), is the filter. So if I just could scramble things a bit down, and make a box with oscillators, VCA's, modulation sources, and maybe some effect modules, and just made the filters replacable, it would theoretically give almost the same possibilities as my eurorack system, but with added patch storage. And if I one day got tired of its sound, I would just have to replace one or both of its filters, and then I would get new sounds, without having to design or purchase a completely new synth. The design of anAmoNo X began...

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Elektron Introduces Model:Samples - New Six Track Sample Based Groovebox

Introducing Model:Samples Published on Jan 22, 2019

Update: additional posts/demos incoming here.

Details are in. Priced at 449.00 USD. No audio in. Shout out to Atomic Shadow and Soviet Space Child for sending this my way as well.

Model:Samples Experience

Published on Jan 22, 2019 MrDataline

Model:Samples StrangeStrains Experience

Published on Jan 22, 2019 StrangeStrains MurderVan

View this post on Instagram

A new foray into simplicity, portability and for the first time for Elektron - one knob per function. Samples used are merely a few single cycle waveforms and a bassdrum twisted into several different sounds. This thing can go deep. . . . . #elektron #modelsamples #sampler #groovebox #drummachine #synth #idm #electronicmusic #braindance

A post shared by Ess M. (@ess_mtsn) on Jan 22, 2019 at 3:48am PST

"Meet the six track groovebox that offers massive sound in a compact size. You get pretty much all of the Elektron superpowers in a sleek, lightweight, and accessible package. Loads of useful presets and loads of space for your own sounds. The controls are right there at your fingertips. A truly plug-and-play bundle of joy!

Available in February 2019.
449.00 USD

Six track sample based groovebox

Packed with great sounds
The sound engine uses high-quality digital samples. There are 300 preset sounds supplied by Splice, ranging from the familiar kicks, snares, and hi-hats to exotic, never-before-heard ones. With a few tweaks, you can easily personalize any sample until it sounds just the way you want it. Transfer your own samples into it, or use any of the expertly crafted custom sound packs.

Dedicated knobs
As an Elektron first, this machine offers a complete set of tactile controls, with one function per knob. They’re all right there on the front panel; just grab a knob and twist it. Unleash your music spontaneously using the six tough, velocity-sensitive pads. Record your every move live, or punch in your creation one step at a time using the superb Elektron sequencer.

Ready to go
At under one kilogram, you’re getting the benefits of a light and convenient machine that will surprise you with its snarling sonic power.

Key Features
Control All lets you twist your sounds to oblivion. Then use Reload to take you back to where you started

Use Parameter Locks to automate parameters. Each step can have a totally different sound

Load six samples at once – just like a kit. Great when you have made a Pattern with Parameter Locks, LFOs etc…

Load six new samples to instantly experiment and come up with unique and unexpected results

Write basslines and melodies using Chromatic Mode

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1983 'The $195.00 Sequencer' Sequential Circuits Ad

via Retro Synth Ads where you'll find the full write-up.

"Sequential Circuits Inc. Model 64 Sequencer 'The $195.00 Sequencer' full page black & white advertisement from page 13 in the November 1983 issue of Keyboard Magazine."

Sequential Circuits Six - Trak

YouTube via 1dayhkr | June 27, 2010 | 9:53

"For Sale -
This for demonstration only, for the purpose of showing that this synthesizer is in great working condition. Shows the following: laying down of tracs, basic use of panel components and sounds."


via this auction

"1984 - 1985 Vintage Sequential Circuits SIX TRAK synthesizer Model: Prophet 610 in the original box... This 4 octave keyboard comes equipped with midi in and out and when linked to a drum tack machine, combines the multi-timbred ensemble with a programmable rhythm section. Each sequencer (A or B holding six separate traks) allows for an 800 note memory allocation per sequence, and this memory storage can be increased to 4000 notes when combined with a model 64 sequencer. Of course, with midi, the playing field is wide open to many possibilities that go beyond the two I have mentioned. The back panel also includes audio out which can also be used for a head phone jack or a speaker output, and a footswitch controller jack is also present. The foot switch is not provided, but is an inexpensive purchase that can be obtained through any music store. This fun machine also includes a pitch and modulation wheel, polyphonic and unison mode functionality, programmable track speed and volume, track erase, memory – full warning, legato function, voice stacking, a flexible arpeggiator and 100 ready –to-play factory programs."

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Sequential Circuits Model 64 Sequencer SN 0289

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"Still in original box WITH owner's manual! Requires a commodore 64 for operation. This was one of the world's first MIDI sequencers and from the same company that brought us the Prophet 5 keyboard! Add it to your collection or display it in your recording studio! This is MIDI history that you can own! Look what they did with it at the NAMM show! go to engadget.com and look for MIDI spans 30 years at NAMM with Commodore 64 and Animoog..."

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1984 Sequential Circuits "Your Personal Orchestra" Ad

via Retro Synth Ads where you'll find the full write-up.

"Sequential Circuits Inc. Model 610 Six-Trak, Model 400 Drumtraks and Model 64 sequencer "Your Personal Orchestra" 2-page full colour advertisement from pages 50 and 51 in the February 1984 issue of Keyboard Magazine."

G8TOR : A Sequencer with Serious Bite

"2GETHERAUDIO RELEASES G8TOR, A SEQUENCER SYNTH WITH LIVE ACTION PAD EFFECTS - FOR MUSIC TRACKS NEEDING SOME SERIOUS ANIMATED BITE.

Boston, MA USA (January 8, 2019) - 2getheraudio has released a unique software synthesizer built around three step sequencers add DJ-style pad triggered effects for manipulating the sequences while they're playing. The virtual instrument is called G8TOR and is available for purchase today under 2getheraudio's Pay-What-You-Want business model.

"I'm really excited to bring another Adam Petruszko (http://www.knobz.net) designed virtual instrument to market", stated Jennifer Hruska, CEO of 2getheraudio. "His audio expertise and studio creativity come together to create such unique and utterly musical virtual instruments. G8TOR is no exception. If you like fat VA synths, step sequencers, arpeggiators and playable pad effects, G8TOR is a must have in your plugin arsenal."

Like the name suggests, G8TOR starts its sound production with a fat and edgy sounding synthesizer. A supersaw oscillator, noise source and 2 virtual analog oscillators get the ball rolling followed by a resonant filter with envelope, modwheel and sequencer control. Further refinement includes mono mode with glide and built-in distortion, chorus, stereo delay and convolution reverb effects. The result is a synth capable of super fat basses, filtery pads, blistering leads and just about anything in between.

Then comes the sequencer magic. G8TOR includes three programmable sequencers – an 8-step note sequencer, an 8-step filter sequencer and an powerful arpeggiator with per-step stutter, duration, velocity and filter control in addition to the standard arpeggiator controls. Suddenly, a single note from the G8TOR synth turns into an action sequence, driving bass line, or animated percussion track.

To add even more variety (and avoid the static effect many step sequencers can impart), G8TOR includes eight tempo-sync'd pad effects. Simply start the sequence and trigger the pads for endless sonic variation. The pad effects include bit crusher, low/hi pass filter, flanger/phaser, fractal delay, panner, wah wah, stutter, and cut echo. The pads are MIDI controllable with per-pad trigger options that include one-shot, toggle, hold, mono aftertouch and poly aftertouch. A MIDI learn function helps you quickly assign each pad to an external MIDI controller.

G8TOR supports 64-bit VST, AU, AAX capable DAWs and includes a Standalone app for use without a DAW. It is Mac and Windows compatible. G8TOR is released under 2getheraudio's Pay-What-You-Want business model so nearly all musicians, regardless of their ability to pay, have access to this software. A free trial is available at https://www.2getheraudio.com/instruments/g8tor."