Stepic has been selected as 'Favorite Utility' at the 2024 KVR Readers' Choice Awards. We thank everyone who voted for Stepic!
What makes Stepic for Live so special?
Stepic for Live is a comprehensive step and modulation sequencer designed as a Max for Live midi effect for use in Ableton Live. To make Stepic for Live's extensive feature set quick and intuitive to use, we equipped it with the user interface of a VST3 audio plug-in.
8 independent modulation sequencers and over 200 randomizable device values guarantee that Stepic for Live always stays fresh. The unique combination of features and an outstanding workflow let you go far beyond the ordinary.
Stepic for Live has the Full Package
In over 20 years of music production we've always had a great passion for step sequencers. We love their experimental "hands-on" character where you just tweak some knobs and within seconds get completely new and exciting results.
But there was always something missing in all the models. What one could do, the other could not. So we decided to build our own step sequencer, with all the features we always wanted - and even more :-)
Key Features
A Max for Live Midi Effect
Stepic for Live is loaded as a midi effect into Ableton Live. Therefore it operates in the same track as the instrument to be played.
Pattern System
Store your ideas in up to 16 patterns. Use pattern concatenation for building sequences far beyond 16 steps.
Scales
Always stay in key by using Stepic's scale system. Choose from one of the predefined scales or create your own.
Individual Sequence Lengths
Keep it interesting and mix things up. For each section (Pitch, Octave, Duration, etc.) a separate sequence length can be defined.
Chord Play
Stepic is polyphonic. The chord editor with its 6 octave range lets you set individual chords for each step. Use Chord-Copy to quickly and conveniently copy chords between steps.
Live & VST Parameter Mapping
Bring the 8 modulation sequencers into play and modulate any parameter within your Live project. Create unique polyrhythmic effects by assigning tracks their own sequence and note lengths.
Modulate your MIDI CC Device
Each modulation sequencer can modulate either Live & VST parameters or MIDI CC values. MIDI CC modulation is automatically sent to the device controlled by the Live MIDI track, e.g. your hardware synthesizer.
MIDI Play
Play Stepic like an instrument with your MIDI keyboard. Create dynamic variations of your sequences with the Arpeggiator, Transpose mode, and Chord-Play.
Drag & Drop MIDI Export
Export up to 16 bars of Stepic's MIDI with a single click into your DAW, including CC automations, randomization settings, and MIDI-Play.
Probability
Control the probability with which notes are played. Choose between different modes and give sequences the variation you need.
Note Repeat
Add a hypnotic touch to your sequences and explore Stepic's Note Repeat feature. Transpose Mode, Offset & Range help you hit the sweet spot.
Clipboard
Optimize and speed up your workflow. The clipboard function lets you copy sequences between sections and patterns with just two clicks.
Randomization
Create variety and unpredictable moments by utilizing the over 200 randomization functions.
Users love Stepic
“If you're looking for a new sequencer to inspire you and to take your sound to a next level, Stepic is the way to go. The possibilities are endless and only your creativity is the limit.”
“Stepic combines a unique feature set with an intuitive, streamlined UI. My favorite are the 8 modulation lanes. The ability to automate any Live or MIDI parameter lets you get creative.”
“Stepic has earned a dedicated spot in my setup. Not only does it have the essential features to my workflow usually exclusive to hardware sequencers, it has the feel of great hardware.”
Don Tyler - Mastering Engineer & Electronic Musician
“I do love MIDI tools, and Stepic is one of the very best I have come across. Creatively inspiring and wonderfully intuitive to use - getting interesting ideas flowing has never been easier.”
8 independent modulation sequencers for value modulation.
Modulation Targets: Ableton Live Parameter or MIDI CC.
Individual Sequence and Note Length for modulation sequencers.
Custom Note Length (Range: 1/99 to 99/1).
MIDI Device Manager for storing MIDI maps.
Pattern Change Modes: Free Run, Retrigger.
Pattern Change via Ableton Live's Automation feature.
Pattern Change via Stepic's Max for Live device UI.
Ableton Live preset support (save an instance of Stepic as Live preset).
System requirements
Microsoft Windows 7 or later (64 bit).
Apple macOS 10.9 Mavericks or later (Apple Silicon, Intel x64).
Ableton Live 10 or later.
Max 8 or Max for Live 8.
Hardware requirements according to the Ableton Live version in use.
Using a different host than Ableton Live? Look at Stepic.
Products or company names mentioned on this page are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Satisfaction Guarantee
30-Days Money Back
We are absolutely convinced you will love Stepic for Live. And if you need help in any way, our support is always there for you. However, if you are still not satisfied, you can request a full refund anytime within 30 days of purchase.
New OpenGL GUI Render Mode (can be enabled in Global Settings).
Fixed a problem with Instant Pattern Save Mode.
Minor UI improvements.
1.3
New MIDI Target Device Manager.
New Modulation Default Value Option: 'Off'.
New Pattern Save Mode: Instant.
Improved parameter assignment in MIDI CC Modulation Mode.
Improved representation of selected Chord and Scales Notes.
1.2.4
Pattern Change via Program Change Message (e.g. to trigger pattern changes via Live Clips).
1.2.3
Added pitch note indicators to pitch faders.
1.2.1
Trial downloads now available for Windows & macOS.
Added step number indicators in lower half of UI for better UX/navigation.
Minor quality-of-life changes.
1.1.1
New: Note On/Off Probability.
New: Note Repeat section with Transpose Mode, Range & Offset.
New: Chord Copy To/From, Chord Cycle.
New: Fader option for modulation values.
1.0.135
In addition to the continuously adjustable UI zoom, 6 predefined resolutions can be set in the Global Settings dialog (75%, 100%, 125%, 150%, 175%, 200%).
Enables keyboard & midi mapping of Hold, Mute & Pattern No. in Stepic's Max UI.
Minor cosmetic bug fixes related to font scaling.
1.0.134
Fixes a problem with Stepic's Mute/Unmute function that could occur in certain situations.
1.0.133
Now allows mapping while Live's transport is running.
The default value read when mapping a live parameter is now applied to all patterns (including empty ones).
Fixes a bug with chord note output, that could occur in combination with certing root note settings.
1.0.132
Stepic can now automatically check for available updates. The feature can be turned on & off in the Global Settings dialog.