TORAIZ SQUID Multitrack Sequencer

The SQUID multitrack sequencer is part of Pioneer DJs TORAIZ series. It is a great addition to their production equipment range and has the potential to unlock unlimited creativity. Definitely, a piece to sit nicely in the centre of any studio setup. The unit has the ability to connect and sync up to sixteen instruments at one time using all the various inputs and outputs. At the touch of a button, you are able to create new styles of music through the use of exclusive sequence patterns and phrases. The SQUID is compatible with many forms of equipment such as hardware, instruments e.g. drum machines, modular synths and vintage synthesizers, or anything from your DAW.

SQUID is ideal for on-the-fly productions. It will control your workflow through the intuitive layout and controls. By having the ability to control everything in one place, your focus can be narrowed down to developing phrases. The SQUID is a great production tool which plays drums, sequences and randomized sounds, all in key. It features Groove Bend, a world-first, where you generate original rhythms, and can feel the groove in real-time. There is also endless access to polyrhythmic-looping options which instantaneously change speeds and playback direction.

Step Edit section of the controller allows you to sequence phrases together with access to awesome effects and functions such as harmoniser. The layout of the step edit is intuitive and will make many sequence users feel at home. The 16 multicoloured LED rubber pads are all independently linked to various modes such as; Trigger, Transpose, and Scale.

Scale mode allows you to program whole scales with the 16 pads much like a keyboard. The pads are even velocity sensitive for added realism and expression. You can use the Interpolation function to automatically create phrases without the need to reconfigure each step individually. Enabling the harmoniser function will allow you to also play entire chords with one pad. On the arrangement side of things, you can use speed modulation, and groove bend to add further flare to your tracks. Speed modulation allows you to add one of six waveform shapes to your sequence and adjust the speed and modulation rate.

The running direction function allows you to change the direction of playback on the 16 pads. By programming different playbacks using the variety of running direction effects such as switchback, zig-zag, or clockwise you can create detailed and whole compositions with the Toraiz SQUID.
One of the most impressive features of the Pioneer's Squid is the Time Warp function. This instantly memorises created phrases and patterns for you to call upon, save, and expand upon. Meaning all your happy accidents are never lost. This also gives the user peace of mind and removes the need to perfect sequences in order to recreate them.

On the input and output side of things, the SQUID is certainly not lacking. Coming with USB inputs, MIDI I/O, and even CV/ and Gae outputs for you to connect your beloved modular or hardware synths. Above all else, you can import and export sequence patterns to your PC or Mac for further expansion inside your DAW. This is truly a unique and powerful sequencer that will give you way more creative control.