General purpose pad controller with 16-step sequencer.
Arturia’s BeatStep is a portable pad controller that offers full functionality and performance capability. BeatStep can quickly integrate with software including Ableton Live, BFD, EZdrummer and more. You can also use BeatStep as a 16-step analog sequencer for creating all kinds of musical phrases to be sent to analog synthesizers, MIDI drum machines, MIDI keyboard devices, or computer programs. Its vast connectivity allows you to connect the BeatStep to a computer or iPAD using USB, a drum module using MIDI or an analog synthesizer equipped with CV/GATE. BeatStep is truly flexible and opens up new avenues of hands-on creative control for the contemporary musician.
Step Sequencer
In SEQ mode, your pads become enables for each step in your sequence. The 16 encoders will adjust pitch for the associated step. 16 memories allow for instant recall of your favorite patterns while the pad scale modes, seq playback modes and time division functions allow for real-time performance changes.
Add to all this, MIDI, USB and CV/GATE connectivity and you have a sequencer that can be used with all types of gear, including Analog synths , software instruments, and MIDI hardware.
Percussion Controller
With 16 velocity and pressure sensitive pads, the BeatStep is the perfect compact percussion instrument.
The ultra sensitive pads allow for great dynamic performances. The 16 encoders can be assigned to adjust parameters that allow further real-time control over your drum sounds.
General purpose control surface
The BeatStep pads can be configured to be MIDI CC buttons or assigned to send Program and Bank Change messages as well as note messages. With the 16 encoders, 16 pads/buttons and 16 preset memories, you can come up with multiple ways to use the BeatStep in any live or studio environnement. You can trigger clips in Ableton Live or use the encoders to adjust effects settings in your favorite DJ app.
The transport buttons can be MMC controls or MIDI CC to start and stop your DAW. It can be the MIDI Clock master or slave to external clock.
**Using an iPad with the Camera Connection kit (not included), you can turn the BeatStep into one of the most flexible iPad app controllers as well.
Features
- Portable pad controller with 16 velocity and pressure sensitive pads
- 16-step analog sequencer for synths, drum machines, computer programs and more
- 16 assignable encoders to control effects and software parameters
- 16 MIDI controller presets and 16 sequence presets
- Standalone MIDI or CV operation when powered via standard USB power adaptor
- USB Class compliant (no drivers)
- Internal and External clocking