Best Midi Sequencer Software For Mac



Notable software MIDIeditors and sequencers are listed in the following table.

  1. Free Midi Sequencer Software Download
  2. Best Midi Sequencer Software For Mac Os
SoftwarePlatformLicenseDeveloperEditing interfaceNotes
ADSR Online Midi Editor & PlayerLinux, macOS, WindowsproprietaryMidiPro.orgEvent list, microtonal notationComplete Online Midi Editor & Player. Unlimited number of tracks, which can include ADSR envelopes, low-pass filters, and LFO modulators. Supports microtonality: any synth can play 48 microtones per octave.
Anvil StudioWindowsFreemiumWillow SoftwareScore, piano roll, tablature, event listFull-featured MIDI editor & sequencer with staff, piano roll, percussion, event list, and audio editors.
ArdourFreeBSD, Linux, macOS, WindowsGNU GPLPaul Davis, and The Ardour CommunityPiano roll, event listMIDI support began with version 3.
Aria MaestosaLinux, macOS, WindowsGNU GPL 2MIDI sequencer/editor with score, keyboard, guitar, drum and controller views.
B-Step SequencermacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS (iPad), Android, Raspberry PiproprietaryMonoplugsA step sequencer to create arpeggios, chord progressions, basslines or percussions. Available as VST, Audio Units or standalone program
Band-in-a-BoxmacOS, WindowsproprietaryPG MusicAccompaniment sequencer with audio loops and more.
Steinberg CubasemacOS, Windows
(also previously for Atari ST)
proprietarySteinbergScore, piano roll, event list[1]
Deluxe Music Construction SetAmigaOS, macOSproprietaryElectronic Arts
Digital PerformermacOSproprietaryMark of the Unicorn (MOTU)
DirectMusic ProducerWindowsfreewareMicrosoftpart of DirectMusic SDK
FinalemacOS, Windowsproprietary, freeware version existsMakemusic, Inc.ScoreComposition and sequencing program, with various versions, including freeware (v. 2008 and earlier) 'NotePad' version (with very limited features)
FL StudioWindows, macOS, Android, iOSproprietaryImage-LinePiano roll, step sequencer
GarageBandmacOS, iOSproprietaryAppleImport only, saves to native format
Guitar ProLinux, macOS, WindowsproprietaryArobas Music
Indaba MusicmacOS, Windowsproprietary
JFugueLinux, macOS, Windows (Java-based)GNU LGPLProgramming library (API)
KeyKitLinux, WindowsFree for non-commercial use, source available
LilyPondFreeBSD, Linux, macOS, WindowsGNU GPL
LivemacOS, WindowsproprietaryAbletonPiano roll
Logic PromacOS
(also previously for Windows & Atari ST)
proprietaryApple/Emagic (formerly named C-LabPiano roll, step editor, event list
LMMSLinux, macOS, OpenBSD, WindowsGNU GPLPiano roll, step sequencerDAW; VST, LADSPA support. As of March 30, 2011 no MIDI aftertouch support
MAGIX SamplitudeWindowsproprietaryMAGIX
Master Tracks ProWindowsproprietaryGVOX (originally Passport Designs)Full-featured GUI MIDI sequencer with notation screen (requires supplied Anastasia TrueType or Type1 font), event editor, MCI, SMPTE sync., etc. Tested to work under Win 10 1903.
MIDI Converter StudioWindowsSharewareManiacToolsMIDI file converter, karaoke converter
MixcraftWindowsproprietaryAcousticaAudio and MIDI sequencer, support for VSTis, MIDI recording, editing, and playback
MozartWindowsproprietaryDavid WebberMusic notation software for simple tunes to full scores of up to 64 parts
MuLabWindows, macOSproprietaryMutoolsMIDI and audio full DAW. Support for customizable modular DSP graphs. For electronic music but not only.
MultitrackStudioWindows, macOS, iOSproprietaryBremmers Audio DesignMIDI and audio full DAW, simple user interface, flexible MIDI editing
MusELinuxGNU GPLPiano roll, event listOpen source midi and audio work station with support for VST, DSSI, LADSPA and LV2
MuseScoreLinux, macOS, Windows, iOS (partial)GNU GPLWerner SchweerScoreMusic notation software with full MusicXML support. Piano roll editor, unlimited parts. good stability below 300 000 notes, edit multiple files at once, user friendly GUI, portable edition.
MusinkWindowsproprietaryLee ReidMusic notation freeware with MIDI output, loop, and playback functionality
Notation ComposerWindows, with Wine supportproprietaryNotation SoftwareScore, piano rollFull featured notation software program and MIDI sequencer
NoteEditLinuxGNU GPLDefunct; last stable release September 2006
NoteWorthy ComposerWindowsproprietaryNoteworthy SoftwareCan import and export MIDI data, but only edit and display it as a musical score. Runs correctly in wine.
OverturemacOS, WindowsproprietaryGeniesoftNotation, tab, piano-roll, MIDI/step sequencing, VST/VSTi host
PodiumWindowsproprietaryZynewave
Pro ToolsmacOS, WindowsproprietaryAvidScore, piano roll, event list
QtractorLinuxGNU GPLAudio MIDI multi-track sequencer application written in C++ in the Qt framework
REAPERmacOS, WindowsproprietaryCockosScore, piano roll, event listSupports guitar tabs and MIDI2Tab conversion with TabEditor plug
ReasonmacOS, WindowsproprietaryPropellerheadPiano roll
RenoiseLinux, macOS, WindowsproprietaryTrackerDemo version available
RosegardenLinuxGNU GPLScore, piano roll, event listAudio, MIDI sequence, record. Win VST support, LADSPA, JACK
ScalaLinux, macOS, Windowsfreeware, noncommercialManuel Op de CoulSpecializes in tuning; converts ascii score file to MIDI
Seq24Linux, WindowsGNU GPLPiano RollMIDI loops sequencer
SibeliusmacOS, WindowsproprietarySibeliusScore, piano roll, tablatureLive scoring of sheet music from MIDI input
SonarWindowsproprietaryCakewalkPiano roll, event list
TineFuneLinux, WindowsproprietaryTineFune, LLCPiano roll, event listMIDI sequencer with a Web Browser GUI, no windows or menu clutter
TuxGuitarFreeBSD, Linux, macOS, Windows (Java-based)GNU LGPLTablature editor
Z-MaestroWindowsproprietary'Lite' version: limited tracks, I/O.

See also[edit]

References[edit]

Almost every software sequencers I know is rather a MIDI note-sheet editor, which forces it's users to use it Stack Exchange Network Stack Exchange network consists of 176 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow, the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers. If you want the best DAW for beginners, it’s hard to look past Apple’s GarageBand, which is free - and a no-brainer - if you have a Mac. Acoustica’s Mixcraft is probably the closest PC equivalent, though you’ll have to pay for that one.

  1. ^'MIDI Editors'. steinberg.help. Retrieved 2017-11-28.
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Comparison_of_MIDI_editors_and_sequencers&oldid=997086249'

Last Updated on December 15, 2020.

Step Sequencers are fun and also very useful plugins, butthere are also a lot to choose from, which makes it harder to decide on whichone to get.

Midi sequencer freeware

In this article I will list the 8 best commercial sequencer plugins I found that also sound great.

Let’s get started…

The 8 best Sequencer VST/AU plugins

  1. Playbeat by Audiomodern (Windows, Mac)
  2. Inertia by Sinevibes (Mac only)
  3. Consequence by Sugar Vibes (Windows, Mac)
  4. Riffer Generator by AudioModern (Windows, Mac)
  5. Switch by Sinevibes (Mac Only)
  6. Array by Sinevibes (Mac Only)
  7. Sequential by Sinevibes (Mac Only)
  8. Thesys by Sugar Bytes (Windows, Mac)

Playbeat by Audiomodern (Windows, Mac)

Free Midi Sequencer Software Download

Playbeat is a Creative Groove Randomizer plugin that generates unique beats and patterns for you.

Unlike an ordinary stepsequencer, Playbeat creates patterns using algorithmic and random proceduresfor generating notes by combining Steps, Pitch, Volume and more.

You can drag-n-drop your own sounds and generate up to fourpatterns simultaneously to get Polyrhythms.

The user interface is super intuitive and it really makesthe workflow fast and simple.

Features

  • Generate Random Grooves
  • Syncs to Host tempo
  • Infinity Mode for Each Channel
  • Number of notes generated
  • Advanced Probability Engine
  • Load or Drag -n- Drop any Sample
  • MIDI Controllable
  • …and more!

Find out more about Playbeat here.

Related: You might also be interested in a list about the best Synth VST/AU plugins available.

Inertia by Sinevibes (Mac only)

Best

Inertia is based on a sequencer that runs in precise sync with the host transport, triggering up to 32 envelope generators one after another.

It features loads of envelope types, as well as variabletiming and shape parameters.

This means that Inertia is capable of creating a plethora oflevel modulation effects; from rhythmic tremolo, pumping and gating to reallyintricate riffs, chopping and stuttering.

Best Midi Sequencer Software For Mac

When looking at the interface you’ll see that it displays audiowaveforms and aligns its sequencer graphics with it.

Since everything is color coded and even has some animationsto it, Inertia ends up being pretty easy to use.

Important note: Inertia is Mac only.

Features

  • Sequencer with up to 32 steps, variableduration, division and swing ratio
  • Multi-envelope generator offering 11 envelopetypes, variable time and lag
  • Live input audio waveform and fluid sequencergraphics visually matched to it
  • Support for multi-touch gestures and force touchon compatible trackpad devices

Find out more about Inertia here.

Are you looking for drum VST Plugins? Here’s a link about the best ones I could find.

Consequence by Sugar Vibes (Windows, Mac)

Consequence is an arpeggiator that creates a sequence of notes based on the chords that you provide.

Up to 3 instruments can be loaded up, and a vast number ofsequencing options can be used to control the way that the plugin“interprets” your input.

The chord sequencer is the centrepiece of this plugin,allowing you to choose from 16-chord “snapshots”.

The Modulation section is especially deep, offering separatepatterns for each of the synth parts, the filter and the effects.

The sample-based sound library contains all kinds ofinstruments – from analogue synths to subtle violins, each offering Octave,Pan, Level and Crush controls.

Features

  • 3 Oscillators in a 32-Step Sequencer
  • Easily creates complex sounds and rhythms
  • Hundreds of natural sound samples
  • Charming multi-effect section
  • Individual Envelope per instrument
  • Onboard 4/4 Kickdrum
  • Polyphonic Triggers per Step
  • MIDI Out

Find out more about Consequence here.

Related: Are you looking for FREE VST Plugins? Here’s a list of 225 of them!

Riffer Generator by AudioModern (Windows, Mac)

Riffer is a MIDI sequencer that generates random riffs for your sounds.

You can choose from 50+ scales, pattern complexity, steps,start and end points, set pitch, transpose, motion, measures and many more…

Riffer allows you to generate fresh ideas, sequences,melodies, riffs and musical patterns and turn them into something of your ownor let it run endlessly using the infinity mode.

Features

  • 53 scales list from Western to Eastern
  • Fully customizable steps: set Pitch, Durationand Volume
  • Start & End loop points
  • Sustain & Tie notes
  • Shuffle
  • Export MIDI Using Drag and Drop
  • Automatically generate sequences with theInfinity mode

Find out more about Riffer Generator here.

Related: Are you looking for the best Sampler VST/AU plugins? Here’s a list of them.

Switch by Sinevibes (Mac Only)

Switch is a flexible sequencer that runs in tight sync with your audio signal and controls a series of up to 32 gates with variable time and smoothness.

It’s a tool mostly designed for rhythmic audio gating thatis simple and versatile, capable of applying tremolo, gate, pumping and stutterpatterns on any kind of audio.

Switch displays a live audio waveform and aligns itssequencer graphics with it – exactly in the same way it’s done by the soundengine.

Every element in its user interface is color-coded andfeatures subtle animations, which makes the plugin easy to use.

Features

  • Sequencer with up to 32 steps, variableduration, division and swing ratio
  • Audio gate with variable duty time, lag andintensity
  • Live input waveform with fluid sequencergraphics that visually match its timing
  • Multiple utility functions for copying, loopingand shifting individual sequences or whole snapshots

Find out more about Switch here.

Array by Sinevibes (Mac Only)

Array is an effect for spectral animation.

It filters the incoming audio into eight separate bands andallows you to individually pass or mute them in a rhythmical fashion, whichessentially works as a gate in the frequency domain.

With macro controls for multiple parameters, Array is aquick and capable tool for all kinds of spectral effects like; morphed,stepped, strobed or glitched.

Array displays a live audio waveform on each filter band andallows to operate on it directly, giving you a true “what you see is what youget” workflow.

Best Midi Sequencer Software For Mac

Features

  • Sequencer with up to 32 steps, variableduration, division and swing ratio
  • Eight -24 dB/octave filters each with its ownoutput gate sequence
  • Support for multi-touch gestures and force touchon compatible trackpad devices

Find out more about Array here.

Sequential by Sinevibes (Mac Only)

Sequential is a dynamic multi-effect that allows you to trigger different processing and synthesis algorithms in a rhythmical fashion.

It features a total of 19 fine-tuned effects that filter,distort, reshape, stutter and even generate audio.

The sequencer has a vast number of timing and shapingadjustments, while the whole plugin stores 8 separate parameter snapshots thatcan be automated or switched in real time.

The interface looks clean and is very intuitive to use,which is always great!

Best Midi Sequencer Software For Mac Os

Find out more about Sequential here.

Thesys by Sugar Bytes (Windows, Mac)

And last, but not least, Thesys.

Thesys is an impressive 32-step sequencer which comes with all the essential features.

The sequences can simply be painted, but with the randomgenerator and the mutate-function you can easily generate patterns on the fly,or record the pitch straight from your MIDI keyboard.

It comes with a built-in synthesizer which saves you a lotof time and allows you to generate new ideas right from the start.

Up to 16 full patterns can be created within a singleproject. They can be sequenced within the Pattern Sequencer or triggered viathe Keyboard.

This is my top choice for all the sequencers I just listedsimply because of how powerful and versatile it is.

Features

  • Powerful 32-step MIDI Sequencer
  • Pitch Recorder
  • Choose and trigger Patterns per MIDI
  • Pattern sequencer for longer passages
  • Real-time Manipulation of the patterns perkeyboard
  • Internal Synth
  • Vast Randomizer
  • Independent Loop lengths for all 5 sequencers
  • 18 sequencer lanes
  • MIDI Out and Drag ‘n’ Drop

Find out more about Thesys here.

You’ll need a MIDI Controller

In order to be able to use these plugins properly, you willneed some sort of MIDI Controller.

While you can use your, it’s a lot faster and easier to doit with a keyboard/controller.

My recommendation here is for you to get something like the M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV MIDI Controller which you can findat Amazon at a very affordable price, plus it comes with some extra softwarelike Pro Tools First.

Conclusion

Sequencers are not only useful but also fun!

Make sure to check out the ones I listed here, especiallyThesys, since they are all pretty good plugins!

I hope this information was useful!

Have a great day!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Sequencer?

In music production, a sequencer is a hardware or software device designed to record performance data and play it back in sequence, or in a specific order of events.





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