You have slides, octave up/down, notes, and timing controls. The slides are probably the most unique part of the sequencer on paper.
You have patterns and variations you can switch between and tracks that let you string patterns together.
The part that I think (IMO) makes it special is the horrible way you have to enter notes. You have to do it while the sequencer is stopped. You enter in a string of notes with/without slides etc (like silent step mode), then press play to see if you like it. Then you have to stop again to make edits. You can step through the notes manually while making edits though.
I think this leads to things you wouldnât maybe do while itâs running.
Itâs probably the slides in most peoples eyes.
I do think that having to stop and think about what youâre entering makes a difference too though.
Thank you. The slide function is available on many other synths though, isnât it? (Pardon my ignorance: do slides roughly equal portamento/glide/legato?)
Because, from your description, the 303 sequencer doesnât seem very different from the Bass Station 2 sequencer.
Yes, basically. Itâs really kind of a little package with how it all works together. Compared to many modern sequencers, it really isnât anything crazy. Some people just love the workflow/sound combo. Probably because it plays and sounds like many classic tunes they know.
Iâm no super fan. I like it for what it is. There are plenty here who could tell you why they love it so very much though Iâm sure.
Gotta do random notes, slides, and accents. Trying to âmakeâ something is zero fun, but discovering something cool on itâŚway more fun. Trust me. Thatâs how DJ Pierre did it.
I believe the accent is kind of unique also as if it is done in succession the capacitors in the accent circuit dont fully discharge between notes and build up. Not sure if this is really a sequencer feature or a feature of the synth but its usually pretty dang nice sounding with a few in a row.
Ive seen some clones with âaccentâ out. But why dont they just have a cv out for the envelope. Would be cool to sequence my modular with the slides, env and accents. Like a poor/rich mans devilfish. haha.
By far the best 303 replica / clone, iâve built few of them and they just sound Fantastic.
Also a really great project to understand under the hood mecanism of an analog synth.