Much more than just a USB pad controller, the BeatStep is ready to serve as a master sequencer for your MIDI- or CV-equipped hardware. It features 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, making it ideal for finger drumming and expressive performance. You can assign the 16 encoders to any parameters you choose and store up to 16 custom setups. A built-in step sequencer allows you to program 16 different sequences with 16 steps each, enabling the BeatStep to control your MIDI or CV gear as a standalone solution.
The chameleon controller and sequencer that delivers nearly endless creative possibilities. With its compact format, BeatStep is the perfect companion for both the road and the studio. Arturia’s BeatStep offers a level of functionality and performance never before seen in a portable pad controller.
BeatStep is highly versatile, capable of triggering clips in applications like Ableton Live, playing drums with BFD or EZDrummer, or tweaking synth parameters — all at the same time. It also functions as a powerful 16-step analog sequencer, making it ideal for creating dynamic musical phrases for analog synthesizers, MIDI drum machines, keyboards, and DAWs.
Advanced connectivity allows BeatStep to interface seamlessly with a computer or iPad® via USB, drum modules via MIDI, or analog synthesizers through CV/Gate connections.
In SEQ mode, the pads become toggles for each step in your sequence. The 16 encoders adjust pitch for their associated steps, while 16 onboard memories allow instant recall of your favorite patterns. Pad scale modes, sequence playback modes, and time division controls enable real-time performance changes.
With 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, BeatStep is a powerful compact percussion instrument. The ultra-sensitive pads deliver expressive dynamics, while the 16 encoders provide hands-on control of drum parameters in real time.
BeatStep pads can be configured to send MIDI note on/off messages, MMC commands, Program and Bank changes, or function as MIDI CC buttons. With extensive customization, BeatStep adapts easily to live performance and studio workflows.
Using an iPad and a camera connection kit, BeatStep becomes one of the most flexible iPad app controllers available.
BeatStep comes bundled with a selection of industry-standard creative software, allowing you to start making music immediately and explore new ideas straight out of the box.
| Type | Sequencer and Controller |
|---|---|
| Sequencer | 16 sequences, 16 steps each |
| Pads | 16 x velocity/pressure-sensitive backlit pads |
| Encoders / Pots | 16 assignable |
| MIDI I/O | Out (1/8" to 5-pin DIN adapter included) |
| USB | 1 x Mini-B |
| Other I/O | 1 x 1/8" CV out, 1 x 1/8" Gate out |
| Software | MIDI Control Center |
| Compatibility | Standalone, VST 2.4, VST3, RTAS, AAX, AU |
| OS Requirements - Mac | OS X 10.7 or later |
| OS Requirements - PC | Windows 7 or later |
| Power Supply | USB bus powered |
| Height | 0.6" |
| Width | 12.8" |
| Depth | 5" |
| Weight | 3 lbs. |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 430101 UPC: 3760033530734 |
