Stepwise is Fun

Hey everyone, today I spent some time playing around with the Stepwise Step Sequencer in Bitwig Studio 5.3. In this video, I’ll give you an overview of what you can do with it, how it works, what it’s not designed to replace, and how you can use it creatively.

I’ll also share some presets and ideas to inspire you when using the Stepwise Step Sequencer. Like most Bitwig devices, it’s pretty straightforward at first, but with modulation, Note FX, Note Grid, and some creative ideas, you can stretch and push it in all sorts of directions, making it adaptable to almost any situation.

In this video, I dive into Stepwise, the new step sequencer in Bitwig Studio. It’s designed as a simple yet powerful entry-level sequencer, great for creating drum patterns or melodic grooves. While it’s not a full-featured tool like Stepic, its integration with Bitwig’s modular system makes it highly customizable. I demonstrate ways to enhance its basic functionality with modulators, probability systems, and creative uses of the Note Grid, offering practical ideas for experimentation.

Key Points:

• Stepwise Overview:

  • Basic step sequencer for gates and pitches.

  • Designed to complement the drum machine and new drum modules.

  • Simplistic by design, making it accessible for newcomers.

• Extending Stepwise:

  • Added velocity modulation using Step Modulators.

  • Created grooves and shuffle effects via LFOs or Bitwig’s global groove settings.

  • Built probability systems using random modulators and mathematical thresholds.

• Advanced Ideas:

  • Split patterns into separate lanes using Note FX layers.

  • Enhanced melodies with diatonic transposers and scaling.

  • Introduced MIDI channel routing for dynamic layering and effect application.

• Creative Applications:

  • Combined Stepwise with the Note Grid to prioritize specific notes (e.g., lowest pitch).

  • Implemented toggling notes for sustained patterns using latch devices.

  • Used Stepwise alongside note clips to mix step-based rhythm with chord progressions.

• Modularity is Key:

  • The simplicity of Stepwise is balanced by Bitwig’s extensive modulation and routing capabilities.

  • Encourages users to experiment and customize workflows, resulting in unique setups.

Overall, Stepwise pairs well with Bitwig’s ecosystem, and with a little creativity, you can achieve results far beyond its basic features. Let me know what you think and download the presets I shared in the description. Enjoy experimenting!

Download & Links:

• Stepwise 16th/16 step Init

• Stepwise Split - split lanes into layers

• Stepwise Chords - use pitches from note clips

• Stepwise LowChoke - prefer low notes over higher notes

• Stepwise Waterfall - Every lane is one step shorter!