DAW-Only User Considering a Hardware Sequencer – What Do You Think?

Discussion in 'Soundgear' started by Thomba, Oct 18, 2025 at 1:09 PM.

  1. Thomba

    Thomba Member

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    Hey everyone,

    I’ve been wrestling with this thought for a while and would love to hear your perspectives.

    I’m a purely software-based (and admittedly somewhat dilettante) synth user, working exclusively in Bitwig. I don’t use any external hardware and honestly don’t see that changing anytime soon — everything happens inside the DAW.

    Still, I keep finding myself fascinated by those YouTube jams where people create magic with hardware sequencers. The whole tactile, hands-on approach looks incredibly inspiring — and I keep wondering if I might be missing out on something.

    Hence I am eying towards an OXI one MK1. Used they are getting more affordable these days.

    So here’s my open question:
    Should I take the leap and get a hardware sequencer?
    Would it give me a different, more playful and intuitive way to create music — something I can’t really get from software? Or would it just end up being an expensive distraction from what I already enjoy doing in the box?

    I’d love to hear from people who’ve been in a similar position:

    • Did moving to hardware change your workflow or creativity in a meaningful way?
    • Or did you find that software sequencing (inside Bitwig or elsewhere) was ultimately just as powerful — maybe even better?
    • And if you do recommend going one way or the other — what sequencers (hardware and software) made the biggest difference for you personally?
    Really curious to hear your thoughts, experiences, and recommendations.


    Thanks for your insigths
     
    Last edited: Oct 18, 2025 at 1:51 PM
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  3. PulseWave

    PulseWave Audiosexual

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    Hello @ Thomba, i once spent a lot of time looking into step sequencers and ended up buying this software: Sample Logic - Animation Station 2 VSTi, www.samplelogic.com/products/animation-station. You'll need a Pace iLok 3 USB-A - USB: www.thomann.de/de/pace_ilok_3.htm. In my opinion, software is superior to hardware sequencers, with more options, better storage, and longer, more diverse sequences.
     
  4. Swatch

    Swatch Producer

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    I don't know a HW Sequencer, but Bitwig is made for HW Sequencer. They will work perfectly together
     
  5. ItsFine

    ItsFine Rock Star

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    +1 for software
    Hardware is a pain to use and/or too simple to replace software.

    If you want something more "tactile" AND flexible, an iPad + app can even create something impossible on hardware only:


    Another solution : a special MIDI controller into your DAW.
    Arturia KeyStep Pro , Arturia BeatStep Pro, Korg SQ-64, Novation Launchpad Pro Mk3 ...
     
  6. L-D

    L-D Ultrasonic

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    Sequencers are just that, i run Cubase alongside an SE02, JU 06A, SH01A and TR 6S going thru Boss pedals.

    Hands on hardware like this is the most creative way of working, having said that i dont use the pattern seq cos its better easier in Cubase, however i'm an experienced writer, for those that ain't, triggering seq's etc is a great fast way to learn how to improve your work.

    I know from experience that it's a doddle to get excellent results immediately, so have recently started messing about with 3 diff synth seq patterns thru Boss pedals triggered from TR6S, it's great fun but not satisfying enough for me and am only doing it to upload stuff cos there's, as you point out, an interest in it, innit.
     
  7. Synclavier

    Synclavier Audiosexual

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    I think any change in your usual way of working can be useful and can lead to results you don’t really expect. If you need a sequencer just to control software synths, that’s probably not the best idea, but it might still work for you. I actually had fun using the SQ-1 to control different soft synths. When you really get into using a sequencer, you’ll need some sound modules — and these days there are a lot of cheap options, like the Behringer stuff or the Volcas. You could borrow one from a friend or try it out in a shop.

    Another idea is to just buy something cheap and simple that won’t hit your budget — like a Korg SQ-64, SQ-1, or an Arturia Beatstep Pro. Or, if you want to go for something more serious, there’s the Squarp Pyramid, OXI One, or Cirklon. You can always return it, but you’ll need to invest some time to really understand how it works.

    So yeah, I’d say give it a try. You can always sell it if it’s not for you.

    To get the feeling of hardware without actually buying any, you can try controlling anything in Bitwig with a VCV Rack via MIDI. It’s a fun way to experiment with sequencing can give you a taste of what using real hardware swquencer feels like.
     
  8. ItsFine

    ItsFine Rock Star

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    Ipad or MIDI sequencer like controler is a nice compromise to "pure" hardware sequencer for me.
    And most serious hardware sequencers are very expansive compared to entry level MIDI seq controllers.

    I'm with @Synclavier : buy a cheap (used ?) SQ-64, SQ-1, Beat Step ... and see what it provide to your workflow
    You can buy an used iPad 6/7 for less than 100 euros, too :wink:

    Affordable and you can resell fast :mates:
     
  9. genophyte

    genophyte Producer

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    android or ipad sequencers go a long way.
    hardware forces you to think outside the box , but coming from a daw you can either expand your workflow and creativity or stifle it with hardware limitations.

    sugarbytes Dialekt for iPad is a newer sequencer thats rather nice
     
  10. tzzsmk

    tzzsmk Audiosexual

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    it's not hype,
    being able to just play hands-on without troubling yourself with computer functionality is swift experience,
    also having limited options on what you can do with hardware pushes you more into being creative with what you have instead of struggling with countless options you'd have in daw+plugins,

    do you want to play live?
    can you play some real musical instrument?

    and yea I'm in similar position in a way I randomly delete everything and go play actual drums, way more engaging and welcome change from staring into computer screen,

    I guess it really depends on what kind of experience you seek, imo whole production/songwriting is somewhat overrated compared to pure playing and jamming (but this really is matter of taste/skill)
    :chilling:
     
  11. PulseWave

    PulseWave Audiosexual

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    Real buttons, preferably with a running light sequencer, are of course nice and clear, but they're also expensive; sometimes they don't have preset storage like the Doepfer. The Oxi One, which is also available in a dark design, is quite expensive if you can handle the programming and the software menus. The Korg SQ-64 is quite modern and also has the right connections.
    Korg SQ-64 - Polyphonic step sequencer with 4 tracks - 229 €
    64 step sequencer with 3 melodic tracks with up to 8 note polyphony, and 16 monophonic rhythmic tracks
    https://www.korg.com/us/products/dj/sq_64

    https://www.thomannmusic.com/korg_sq_64.htm
    “Step Up” with the SQ-64 Polyphonic Sequencer

    Korg SQ-64: The Heart of Your Performance

    Korg SQ-64 Polyphoner Step-Sequenzer: Steuern Sie modulare Rigs, mobile Apps, Desktop-Synthesizer...
    OXI One - ALL IN ONE Sequencer and Performer
    https://oxiinstruments.com/oxi-one#overview
    OXI One Sequencer: Song/Arranger Mode Tutorial
    Doepfer Dark Time Blue/White
    16-Step Sequenzer
    https://doepfer.de/Dark_Time_e.htm
    Doepfer Dark Time Sequencing Session 1
     
    Last edited: Oct 18, 2025 at 6:33 PM
  12. Will Kweks

    Will Kweks Audiosexual

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    This all depends really, I've got synths with built in sequencers in them, but I don't use them too often. A controller that can handle the DAW/plugins for this is something that I use all the time though.

    I'm sure Bitwig has solutions for this as well, but I can only speak for Live where I get a lot shit done without touching the mouse or staring at the screen. It's nice to have it when I need it though.

    I use a Push, a Maschine, and TouchOSC for the iPad (also Prism and Drambo for sequencing and generative MIDI, but that's another topic altogether).
     
  13. PAskaperse

    PAskaperse Member

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    [​IMG]
     
    Last edited: Oct 18, 2025 at 9:34 PM
  14. shinyzen

    shinyzen Audiosexual

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    ehhhh... Software is definitely more powerful, but tactile is nice. As others have mentioned, an Ipad is something worth considering. There are so many fun, creative and powerful apps, not just sequencers and midi but sound design, synthesizers etc. With AUM running as your main hub within the iPad, and a handful of additional apps, you can really customize a workflow that integrates with bitwig that works for you.

    I do own a Push3 with Ableton as well, and its fun to use in a sequencer mode, but i probably use it as a dedicated sequencer maybe 5% of the time, im mostly using it as a midi controller.

    I would spend the money on some Analog synths or rack gear. Or if you are absolutely sold on a hardware sequencer, get something hybrid, that is both a sequencer and instrument. Something like an Elektron.
     
  15. shinyzen

    shinyzen Audiosexual

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    God i love Drambo. Ive been a user since day 1. Took me a while to really get into the flow of it, hated the UI and workflow at first, but love it now.
     
  16. Usr4321

    Usr4321 Producer

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    It will give you a different experience. How that pertains to you, only you can find out. Do keep in mind, there is no hardware sequencer that comes close to the functionality of a DAW. And hardware sequencers are all over the place in terms of functionality... so I don't know that it's all that helpful to be generic. Eg, A Hapax, SQ-64, Cirklon, and a Carbon are definately all sequencers... but they are all wildly different in functionality and workflow. So I would suggest you also pick a few specific ones to really drill into and compare, especially for feedback, before getting one (in addition to the oxi you're looking at, if nothing else than to better understand the differences).

    For most people, along with the tactile control, that is the appeal as it can focus you a bit more. But it also means adopting specific workflows that you aren't forced into with a DAW and that tasks you find simple atm can become a real pain in the ass trying to do on hardware. Otoh, that workflow might be heaven for you.

    You can also use scripting and a hardware controller to 'build your own' workflow. Have you looked at Driven By Moss for Bitwig yet? Combine that with any number of controllers and you can retain the power of a daw but also add the tactile.

    EG, I use a Novation SLmk3 and Faderfox ec-4 as controllers for Ableton.
     
  17. Thomba

    Thomba Member

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    Hey everyone,

    First of all, wow — thank you all so much for such detailed and thoughtful responses! Seriously, reading through this thread has already given me so much to think about and makes me even more excited to explore the possibilities.

    I really appreciate how many of you have approached this from different angles — software, tactile hardware, iPads, hybrid setups — it’s helping me see that there isn’t just one “right” answer, and that’s really encouraging.

    Some thoughts on what you shared:

    • @PulseWave – Your point about software like Animation Station 2 being super flexible and offering longer, more complex sequences is really compelling. It’s great to hear that software can still compete with hardware in terms of creative possibilities, especially for someone who’s already DAW-focused. The advice about storage and options is also something I hadn’t considered fully.

    • @Swatch – It’s good to hear a quick nod that Bitwig is already designed to work well with hardware sequencers. That reassures me that integration would likely be smooth if I ever decide to try one.

    • @ItsFine – I love your suggestions about iPads and controllers like KeyStep Pro, BeatStep Pro, and Launchpad. That strikes me as a “best of both worlds” approach: tactile, but without losing the flexibility I’m used to in software. Also, your reminder that hardware can be a bit of a hassle or simple in comparison is a reality check — something I need to weigh.

    • @L-D – Thanks for sharing your experience combining DAWs with real hardware synths and sequencers. I really like your point about how hands-on hardware can boost creativity, especially for learning sequencing and live pattern triggering. It sounds like an educational tool as much as a performance tool.

    • @Synclavier – I love your practical advice about starting small and affordable. Borrowing, testing in a shop, or trying a cheap model like SQ-1 or SQ-64 makes perfect sense. I especially like the tip about experimenting with VCV Rack for a taste of hardware-like interaction without committing.

    • @tzzsmk – Your take on the tactile experience and constraints sparking creativity resonates with me. The idea of stepping away from the DAW for some hands-on fun and jamming is exactly the kind of creative refresh I think I’ve been craving.

    • @shinyzen – I appreciate your suggestion about hybrid solutions and iPad setups. Combining tactile play with the flexibility of a DAW seems like a really smart middle ground. Also, your point about investing in analog synths or rack gear rather than only a sequencer is food for thought.

    • @Usr4321 – Your reminder that hardware sequencers vary wildly in workflow and function is really important. I love the idea of picking a few specific models and really testing them out, comparing how they feel, rather than assuming all sequencers are similar. And the scripting/controller idea for Bitwig is super inspiring — building a tactile workflow without losing DAW power feels like a creative challenge I’d enjoy.
    Overall, what I’m hearing is:

    • Hardware sequencers can give you new tactile inspiration, creative constraints, and a more “playful” workflow.

    • Software remains powerful, flexible, and less restrictive, which is great for long, complex sequences.

    • Hybrid setups — controllers, iPads, or cheap hardware sequencers — offer a middle ground, giving some hands-on experience without breaking the bank or losing DAW power.

    • The key seems to be starting small and experimenting: borrow, rent, or buy an affordable model before committing to something like the OXI One.
    Honestly, reading all your insights makes me feel really excited to explore this further. I think I’ll start by testing something tactile but low-risk — maybe a SQ-64 or BeatStep Pro — and see how it changes my workflow and creativity. From there, I can make a more informed decision about diving into something more expensive and feature-rich.

    Thank you again to everyone for sharing your experiences, tips, and encouragement — it’s given me a lot of clarity, excitement, and confidence to explore the tactile side of sequencing without fear of it being a “waste” or distraction.
     
  18. clone

    clone Audiosexual

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    if you have no intention of getting any hardware gear, you are buying a device just to tap notes into your DAW?

    It will be a waste of money and a distraction. If you had the ability to load samples into it, or take advantage of some analog to digital conversion in both directions (adc/dac) to get some color, that would be decent. If you can't use the device to accomplish anything without your computer, you are just buying another midi controller. A nice built like a tank akai mpc would be my pick. MPC-60 of course, then a 3k, then a 2kXL, and then 2K order of preference; which of course is also the hierarchy in prices (for good reason). You could use one of those original MPCs forever still, if you wanted. The 2K and 2Kxl have 2 groups of midi channels and i/o. The 3K and 4K have four. This means the 2Ks could actually control 32 channels of midi as A/B, and the 3K and 4K could control 64.

    I still have the original Roland MC-500 Micro Composer sequencer I started out with sitting on my desk shelf. My original Alesis MMT-8 died. People still try to sell the MC-500 so I guess some people even still buy and use them. I would take any modern DAW over one. Hell, I would most probably take a later legacy DAW over one.

    If you want some buttons and pads for your DAW, get a controller. Or get something that you can at least use for something without a computer; otherwise it is just duplication of capability. Maybe even a decent drum machine with some good sounds and durable pads.
     
    Last edited: Oct 18, 2025 at 10:47 PM
  19. Plendix

    Plendix Platinum Record

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    I'm not so sure about the dawless craze.
    Going full hardware makes everything sooo tedious. And expensive.
    You need hardware synths, hardware mixing desk, outboard fx like reverb, compressors, delays and so on. Depending on your budget and the number of tracks you wanna do simultaneously you might end up with some synchronised recording equipment (or record to a daw? ). At this point you'll learn the joy of generating timecode and have it read by your hardware (hopefully).
    Where we are at now is what we wished for when DAWs didn't exist yet.
    But to each his own.
     
  20. clone

    clone Audiosexual

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    you do not need to be into dawless or dawless modular at all to have a couple of hardware pieces. You can use a synth, sampler, or drum machine either in your daw, just connected to speakers somehow, or in your headphones. You can connect them to your computer later and dump whatever you worked on, into your computer. That is what you can't do with a pure external midi sequencer. If you get something that can contain some samples; you can work on patterns, melodies, arrangements. Modern MPC or Maschine even. If you are going to be stuck at a desk with your computer on, you might as well just get something like a Push or whatever.

    There's no reason to pay an extra couple hundred bucks to have 5pin din midi i/o ports you aren't going to use.
     
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