VAEMI has introduced the VAEMI Analog Sequencer, an inexpensive 8-stage standalone analog step sequencer.
Features:
- The sequencer operates with a 12V–15V power adapter and features 8V CV and 5V Gate outputs. It is fully compatible with all modular and standalone systems.
- Each step includes an individual CV knob and a Gate On/Off switch. These switches allow you to manually select which steps will send gate signals. CV and Gate outputs are grouped on the top panel as “CV Out” and “Gate Out.”
- Two distinct gate outputs are provided: Short Gate Out & Long Gate Out.
- Step numbers are printed above each knob and are indicated by green LEDs that light up in sequence. Additionally, a blue LED shows the status of the Long Gate signal.
- The device includes a built-in oscillator that determines the tempo of the sequence. The tempo can be adjusted via the front panel knob. For external synchronization, a Clock Input is available. When a clock signal is connected, the internal oscillator is automatically bypassed and the sequencer follows the external clock.
- A red Reset button and a Reset Input jack are provided. Reset In operates with a minimum 5V gate signal. When a signal is received, the sequencer resets to step 1 and remains there for the duration of the gate signal. This allows multiple sequencers to be synchronized or enables creative pattern variations.
- A green Hold button and a Hold In input are included. When active, the sequencer stays on the current step.
Pricing and Availability:
The VAEMI Analog Sequencer is available to order with a full kit price of $120 (normally $150) and an assembled price of $176 (normally $220).
Definitely the knob size is a good choice. Would this sequencer have other advantages compared to the Korg SQ-1 ?
Korg SQ-64 had a blowout sale like two weeks ago.
Hello,
Thank you for your comment. Since I don’t own a Korg SQ-1, I haven’t had the chance to examine it in detail. For example, I couldn’t find information online about the maximum clock input rate, so I would need to investigate further.
From what I’ve researched, the SQ-1 likely uses a 32u4 microcontroller, but in any case, it is clearly a microcontroller-based design. These ICs are programmable and generate analog CV/Gate outputs, essentially making it a digitally-controlled sequencer. I haven’t seen the schematic clearly, but they likely use voltage scaling (DACs or attenuators) to produce usable CV levels. This gives the SQ-1 functional options such as forward, backward, random patterns, and scaling modes like 1V/oct or Hz/V.
Because it uses digital inputs, there is a very small propagation delay, usually in the microsecond range. This is negligible for most sequencing applications but could matter in very high-speed scenarios.
For the Vaemi Analog Sequencer, our approach is based on the CD4017. Compared to the SQ-1, it responds faster to clock inputs, with minimal delay. Using GPIO pins on a microcontroller like the 32u4 can introduce some timing jitter at very high clock rates, whereas the Vaemi sequencer can handle oscillator inputs cleanly, making it useful for additive waveform shaping at each stage.
These are some of the main differences. I’d be happy to answer any further questions you have
(There might be mistakes in my English, please don’t misunderstand me )
Best regards,
Efe
Great! You can’t have enough sequencers.