Yamaha has introduced today the SEQTRAK, a compact, all-in-one music creation station designed for composing and performing electronic music anywhere. It’s probably the first time since the golden days of the TENORI-ON that I’ve been this excited about a new Yamaha desktop instrument. This innovative product is sure to draw comparisons with Teenage Engineering OP-1, OP-Z and OP-1 Field design aesthetic (minus the price, thankfully!), bringing more competition into the portable music workstation space.
Yamaha SEQTRAK Main Features
Sound Engines and Effects
The SEQTRAK boasts two versatile sound engines: AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) and a four-operator FM engine. The AWM2 engine, with an impressive 128-note polyphony, specializes in authentic strings and guitars, while the FM engine produces stunning synth pads, leads, FM electric pianos, and more. The SEQTRAK also includes powerful effects for a polished sound.
Sequencer and Sound Editing
The advanced Sequencer in SEQTRAK allows for intuitive and seamless composition, arrangement, and playback of musical tracks. The included SEQTRAK app provides a user-friendly interface for easy navigation and control of various parameters, such as tempo, swing, and track settings. The app also offers robust sound editing features.
Onboard Sampling
SEQTRAK’s sampler offers seven sound slots and a variety of effects, allowing you to shape and transform your samples with ease. This feature enables you to capture your own unique sound samples effortlessly, from spoken phrases to environmental sounds.
Portability
With its compact size, lightweight design, built-in speaker and microphone, as well as a rechargeable battery, you can take SEQTRAK anywhere – from the studio, to the stage, to the sofa. This portability makes it an ideal tool for musicians and producers who want to create, perform, and share their music anytime, anywhere.
Here’s the official walkthrough video:
Software Integration, Connectivity, and More
The Companion App: Extending SEQTRAK’s Capabilities
The SEQTRAK companion app, compatible with macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android, serves as an extension of the hardware, offering a visual interface for deeper sound editing and additional features. The app allows users to perform detailed sound editing that might be cumbersome directly on the hardware due to the lack of a screen on the SEQTRAK. This includes manipulating envelopes, filters, and effects to refine compositions with precision.
Visualizer Mode: Bringing Music to Life
One of the standout features of the SEQTRAK app is the Visualizer mode. This mode transforms music into a captivating visual experience, adding an entirely new dimension to music production and performance. The visualizer can create graphics that respond to the music, similar to the functionality found in Teenage Engineering’s OP-Z, providing a dynamic performance element.
Connectivity and Control
The SEQTRAK’s connectivity options, including Bluetooth MIDI, enhance its integration with the companion app. This wireless connection not only adds convenience but also mobility, allowing users to tweak and control their SEQTRAK remotely. The app’s interface is designed to be intuitive, making it easy to navigate and adjust various parameters such as tempo, swing, and track settings.
Unfortunately for modular synth fans, the SEQTRAK offers no CV/Gate support.
Performance and Sharing
The SEQTRAK app is not just about sound creation; it’s also about performance and sharing. The app includes features that enable users to take their music from the SEQTRAK to the stage and beyond. With the ability to control live performance aspects and share music directly, the app complements the SEQTRAK’s hardware to provide a complete music creation and sharing tool.
Yamaha SEQTRAK Pricing and Availability
The SEQTRAK is available for purchase at approx. €/$399. However, some sources suggest a price of $599, so it’s recommended to check with local Yamaha dealers for the most accurate pricing.
The SEQTRAK is also available in black or orange, and the first units are ready to ship. Depending on your location and the specific color you want, there might be some delay in availability.
Yamaha SEQTRAK – Our Early Thoughts
The Yamaha SEQTRAK is a promising new addition to the music technology market, offering a wealth of features (but maybe too many functions and buttons?) in a compact, portable design. Its versatile sound engines, advanced sequencer, onboard sampling, and portability make it an attractive option for musicians and producers looking for a mobile solution for music creation.
However, it’s important to note that these impressions are based on early official news and videos. As with any new product, the true test will come from hands-on use. We look forward to checking out SEQTRAK in the coming weeks, to provide a more in-depth assessment of the SEQTRAK’s performance and quality. Until then, the SEQTRAK certainly appears to be a compelling new tool in the world of music technology. To learn more about the product, please visit the official Yamaha web page.
