SoftStep

SoftStep is a Windows based modular MIDI step sequencer patterned somewhat after the modular analog step sequencers.The big ones, with lots of knobs and blinky lights.

But SoftStep goes far beyond its step sequencer roots, to give you algorithmic composing tools of all kinds, including fractal, chaos, probability, and numerical based algorithms of virtually unlimited flexibility.

The composing elements in SoftStep are Modules, which are math and logic functions that you treat as physical boxes with knobs and sliders, that you can create, destroy, move around, connect and reconnect.

To create a MIDI composition with SoftStep you create the modules and connect them together to produce a MIDI data stream that will in turn drive any MIDI synthesizer, or Windows MIDI sound card.

You can begin with a simple sequence, and then repeat, modify or combine and recombine it with other sequences. You can modify any compositional element of your piece in real time and immediately hear the effects of your changes.

Not only do you hear the changes instantly, you also see them. SoftStep modules are visually dynamic, with values changing, lights blinking, indicators flashing.

This visual dynamic is what sets SoftStep apart from other modular algorithmic programs, that let you make the connections but otherwise give minimal visual feedback. With SoftStep, even large, complex patches are easy to follow because nearly every module gives an animated visual indication of its processes.

You can make a Standard MIDI file at any or all stages of composition. The file can either be used directly or imported into a composition program for further modification.

Limitations:

￭ You can try SoftStep free for 30 days