Notewerks has updated StepStrum, its real-time MIDI strumming and performance sequencer, to version 1.2.
StepStrum transforms chords played on a MIDI keyboard into tempo-synced strums, picked patterns, and rhythmic performances for guitar libraries, synthesizers, samplers, and other virtual instruments.
Version 1.2 introduces variable pattern lengths, independent time divisions for each pattern, expanded timing options, and a new bank-wide Rate control. Together, these improvements provide greater flexibility for creating rhythmic variations, evolving sequences, and arrangements that combine patterns operating at different musical speeds.
New in StepStrum 1.2:
- Variable Pattern Lengths (Pro): Set individual patterns to any length from 4 to 16 steps, including odd-numbered lengths for unconventional rhythmic cycles and evolving polyrhythmic effects.
- Per-Pattern Time Division: Each of the eight pattern slots can now have its own timing division, allowing different patterns within the same bank to operate at different rhythmic speeds.
- Expanded Time Divisions: New 1/2, 1/1, and 2/1 divisions extend StepStrum beyond traditional strumming rhythms into slower musical phrases, sustained notes, and evolving textures.
- Bank-Wide Rate Multiplier: A new ½×, 1×, and 2× Rate control adjusts the playback speed of the entire bank without changing individual pattern divisions.
- Improved Timing Flexibility: Pattern lengths and timing divisions can be adjusted independently, providing more control over rhythmic phrasing and pattern development.
Variable Pattern Lengths
StepStrum Pro 1.2 allows each pattern to use between 4 and 16 steps, replacing the previous fixed 16-step playback length.
Shorter patterns make it easier to create compact rhythmic figures, repeating basslines, and musical phrases that do not require a full 16-step sequence. Odd-numbered lengths such as 5, 7, or 11 steps can produce shifting rhythmic relationships when played against a conventional musical meter.
Each of the eight pattern slots can have its own length, allowing users to move between different rhythmic structures during a performance.
StepStrum Lite retains its 16-step playback format.
Independent Pattern Timing
Previously, StepStrum used a single global Time Division setting shared by all patterns. Version 1.2 moves Time Division into the individual pattern settings, allowing each slot to use its own rhythmic resolution.
For example, one pattern can perform eighth-note strums, another can play sixteenth-note picking figures, and a third can trigger notes at much slower intervals.
Switching between pattern slots also switches their associated timing divisions, making it possible to build banks containing contrasting rhythmic parts without manually adjusting the timing controls.
Expanded Time Divisions and Rate Control
StepStrum 1.2 adds three longer time divisions: 1/2, 1/1, and 2/1. These extend the available timing range beyond the existing quarter-note, eighth-note, triplet, and sixteenth-note divisions.
The longer divisions are particularly useful for sparse bass patterns, sustained musical gestures, ambient textures, and slower-moving sequences.
A new bank-wide Rate multiplier provides an additional layer of timing control. Users can select ½×, 1×, or 2× to slow down or accelerate all patterns proportionally while preserving their individual Time Division settings.
Combining independent pattern divisions with the Rate multiplier allows a single bank to accommodate a wider range of musical tempos and performance styles.
Availability
StepStrum 1.2 is a free update for existing users. StepStrum Lite is available free of charge, while StepStrum Pro is priced at $39 USD.
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