Polyend, the company behind the recently reviewed Tracker+ (SOS Jan 2025) and Play+ (SOS Apr 2024) grooveboxes, have launched their latest creation: Step, said to be the world’s first fully programmable drum machine in a compact guitar pedal format. Designed to bring rhythm creation to musicians of all backgrounds, Step offers integration with MIDI-enabled gear and performance features in an intuitive design ideal for both live and studio use.
This fully programmable device provides over 350 preset rhythms, 200 drum kits, and the flexibility to design complex beats from scratch. Musicians can loop 16-step patterns or chain them into 16-pattern songs, all controlled via a straightforward and accessible interface.
The 4-track drum machine offers multi-layered rhythms, with customisable parameters such as swing and tempo. Users can assign up to 16 punch-in effects per song and save up to 1000 songs for playback.
Step’s robust and compact design fits conveniently on a pedalboard, making it a versatile tool for live performance or practice. Stomp switches allow for pattern changes, song transitions, and punch-in effects like delays, repeaters, and rearrangers. MIDI input/output ensures smooth synchronisation with other gear, from loopers to other Polyend grooveboxes. Step probability, velocity control, and instant humanisation add expressive dynamics or precise machine rhythms as required.
Price & Availability
The Polyend Step is shipping now at $499€499.
