Skippy

matrix and non-matrix polyrhythmic sequencer

Skippy is a matrix and non-matrix polyrhythmic sequencer (linear and logarithmic) which offers four completely independent tracks with a very simple interface: one button per track, one function per screen, no sub-menus.

Skippy operates either on a real-time time passing calculation (non-matrix mode) or based on a fixed step duration concept like many sequencers (matrix mode). Both modes can coexist track by track. For example, a TILES sequence is a matrix function where a step has a predetermined value in the sequence, and depending on the algorithm, a gate will or will not be generated at each step. On the other hand, with a Gaussian sequence, the notion of fixed step value disappears.
Depending on the algorithm, a new time value will be assigned to each step, allowing time progression outside any matrix notion. Some functions commonly found in sequencers as matrices are calculated in real time here, based on duration. Skippy’s EUCLID function, for example, operates this way.
To retain the notion of rhythm and repetition, however, the always fixed unit in a sequence is the time it takes Skippy to complete one screen revolution. This value remains repetitive regardless of the number of steps or the chosen algorithm.

Time in Skippy can speed up or slow down, allowing the exploration of unconventional and experimental rhythm combinations. For instance, one track can be divided into 31 steps, another into 17 steps, a third into 61 steps, and a fourth into 42 steps. This will create random yet repetitive confrontations, enabling the exploration of highly complex repetitive patterns.

An external clock can be used with Skippy, but in this case, some non-matrix functions cannot be fully utilized. It's much better to use Skippy's clock output as a reference unit for the entire system.

Functions per track

BPM
Each track can have its own duration, from 10 to 600 BPM.

STEP
From 1 to 64 steps per screen rotation for each track.

BEGIN
Where the steps start.

END
Where the steps stop.

GATES
Proportional or fixed gate time duration.

PROBA
Steps are played randomly.

CHAOS
The time between steps becomes chaotic.

WAY
Rotation direction of each track.

SWING
Introduces swing into the tempo.

GAUSS
Function for progressive acceleration or deceleration of time.

EUCLID
All Euclidean combinations can be used.

TILES
Distributes steps and rests by group.

POLYR
Polyrhythmic succession of steps.

JAZZY
Pre-established patterns.

SPIN
Rotation on the circle of matrix functions.

ROLL
Doubles or triples the steps with a regular or random interval.

PAUSE
Pauses each track individually.

RESET
Resets the playhead to the beginning of the circle.

SYS
Save, load, new, clock type, clock division.

Clock

– External clock input or Reset
– Clock output
– Clock division.

https://www.kaona.fr/index.php/en/component/eshop/skippy?Itemid=0