SoftStep is a modular MIDI step sequencer modelled somewhat after the modular analog step sequencers (the big ones, with lots of knobs and blinky lights).

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 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.

SoftStep is available in 3 levels of functionality: SoftStep Basic, which is free; SoftStep LE and SoftStep Pro, which require purchase of upgrade licenses. Each level of SoftStep gives a wider range of algorithmic music options.

SoftStep Basic is a complete software step sequencer package. It is not time limited or crippled in any way. As long as your focus is classical step sequencing, you will find the sequencers and support modules in SoftStep Basic to be more than adequate. SoftStep Basic most completely emulates the old modular analog sequencers, but it would be impossible to build a hardware step sequencer as extensive as SoftStep Basic, no matter what the cost.

SoftStep LE is a good mix of classical step seqencing and general algorithmic music functions. You may want to upgrade to SoftStep LE if you have caught the step sequencer bug, and now want to add algorithmic components and processes, math and logic functions, test-based switching, more rhythm options, and additional MIDI control functions.

SoftStep Pro is a comprehensive algorithmic composition program, with modules for practically all the different methods of generating algorithmic music including fractal and chaos functions, image to music translation, and a rich set of tools to translate DNA/Protein data to music. SoftStep Pro is one of the most extensive algorithmic music programs available, and it is the only Windows program that offers such sophisticated algorithms in easy to use, modular plug-in format. If you want to take algorithmic composing to its limits, and you prefer the immediacy of a interactive modular program to a text based program such as C-Sound, you will find no better tool than SoftStep Pro.

Purchase Information

• $39 for LE
• $129 for Pro

If your e-mail address ends in .edu or if you can submit other proof of academic affiliation, you may purchase Algorithmic Arts software at a 50% discount.

Requirements

• Windows 95/98/2000
• Pentium or better
• Sound card or MIDI interface
• 1024x768, high-color display recommended