Sequent 1.2.3: Linux 64-bit; Undo; Master Sequencer; Random Pattern Generator

Sequent 1.2.3 is now available - download it here for Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux. The installers contain both the full version for registered users and the demo for evaluators.

 

Sequent 1.2.3 represents a massive update to the product; an exhaustive list of new fixes and features follows:

• Native 64-bit support for Linux VST plug-in and standalone application formats.
  
• Integrated undo and redo, with unlimited history size.
  
• Master Sequencer, to arrange effects along a time-line.
  
• Random pattern generation functions.
  
• Partial preset support for Routing configurations.
  
• Thru switch for Delay Module, which if enabled allows the dry signal to be passed through when the delay effect is turned off.
  
• Effects are now colour-coded for easy identification.
  
• Category support in preset browser.
  
• Windows VST 32-bit plug-ins and standalone applications no longer depend on additional runtime libraries. However, these libraries are still required - and installed - for the RTAS format plug-ins.
  
• libjack is now weak-linked for standalone Linux. This means JACK is not required (but still recommended) for Linux users.
  
• Windows RTAS plug-in is now installed to the correct location on 64-bit Windows operating systems.
  
• MIDI Program Changes are now multi-threaded, and so will no longer potentially stall the audio synthesis.
  
• Fix for rare issue that stopped presets from loading in Linux Renoise when LADSPA plug-in support is enabled.
  
• Fixed crash that could occur when connecting Effects in the Routing Window whilst simultaneously changing Presets via MIDI.
  
• Fix for crash (on both Windows and Linux) that could occur when 'space' is pressed when confirming the overwrite preset dialog.
  
• Presets without Patterns are now considerably smaller when saved to disc.
  
• Improved rendering speed of Router graphics.
  
• Reduced CPU usage when switching or editing patterns.
  
• Preset Browser is now maximized to fill the entire plug-in window.
  
• For Windows VST (32-bit and 64-bit), the preferences file can be placed alongside the DLL file to facilitate USB or portable installs.
  
• Additional presets.
  
• Various host compatibility fixes.
  
• PDF manual is now printer-friendly.

MIDI Step Sequencer in Pure Data

Presented here is a very basic MIDI Step Sequencer for Pure Data. It's locked to playing 16th notes, but the tempo and number of steps can be changed. The pattern can also be transposed. Finally, it comes with a decent random pattern creation system, ideal for that 'dead batteries in a 303' style sequence.

The top right window displays the pitches for the steps, selectable between -12 and +12 semitones. The center right window the velocity (where 0 means no note is played). The bottom window shows the currently playing step. Obviously, as a MIDI Sequencer, it doesn't actually produce audio on it's own: you'll need to route the MIDI to the instrument of your choice.

The patch itself is fairly simple; there's nothing in there a novice Pure Data-er familiar with basic messaging and lists couldn't grasp. Adding multiple pattern support would be a simple, yet interesting addition for the eager coder.

Here's a short audio demo of it at work: here, MIDI is output from Pure Data using the Mac IAC MIDI Driver (use MIDI Yoke on Windows) into Aspect, which is playing a nice analogue mono synth bass sound.




Download the patch for Pure Data here.

UPDATE: New version posted here.