"New and invigorating sequencing concepts combined with a disappointing sound system; a preliminary inspection of AlphaTheta Chordcat"
The music production world has a new addition, and it's making waves. AlphaTheta, formerly known as Pioneer DJ, has unveiled the Chordcat, a compact and budget-friendly groovebox designed for portable music creation.
At just 9.72" wide, 4.37" deep, and 1.29" high, and weighing approximately 14.1 ounces, the Chordcat is perfect for mobile music production. It can be powered by either USB-C or six AA batteries, adding to its portability.
The Chordcat's headline feature is its Chord Cruiser mode, which suggests combinations of chords for music sequencing. This innovative feature uses a custom algorithm to cycle through compatible chords based on the current key, enabling intuitive chord progression creation and easy auditioning and triggering. The device comes with eighteen built-in chord progression presets, from standard major and minor chords to genre-specific progressions like house and future bass, enhancing creative flexibility.
Each of the eight individual tracks on the Chordcat can sequence sounds selected from 145 sample-based instruments and 16 drum kits. Each track has its own polyphonic sequencer with a maximum of 128 steps. The four-by-four playback grid allows real-time directional adjustments of sequences to generate new variations, boosting the creative workflow.
The sound engine includes an arpeggiator, delay, ducker, reverb, and a send for each kit. Each sound in a drum kit shares the same parameters for low pass filter, amp envelope, and effects controls. The Chordcat also features USB and MIDI connectivity, allowing it to be connected to other devices for improved sound quality.
The Chordcat Manager application promises to make it easy to export and import sequences from the device via USB. This device has potential as an on-the-go device for sketching progressions, riffs, and patterns that can be applied to external hardware synths or in-the-box sounds.
However, some users have found the Chordcat's interface to feel cheap, and the XY pad has a stepped response when adjusting sound parameters. The device's sound engine is also underwhelming compared to other devices in its price range, with limited editing capabilities.
The Chordcat is out now and can be purchased at €279/$279/£239. A full review of the Chordcat will be brought in due course. For more information, visit the AlphaTheta site.
[1] AlphaTheta. (2022). Chordcat. [Online]. Available: https://www.alphathetadj.com/products/chordcat [2] AlphaTheta. (2022). Chordcat - Product Manual. [Online]. Available: https://www.alphathetadj.com/-/media/files/manuals/chordcat_product_manual.pdf [3] AlphaTheta. (2022). Chordcat - Quick Start Guide. [Online]. Available: https://www.alphathetadj.com/-/media/files/quickstartguides/chordcat_quick_start_guide.pdf [4] AlphaTheta. (2022). Chordcat - Firmware Update Guide. [Online]. Available: https://www.alphathetadj.com/-/media/files/firmware/chordcat_firmware_update_guide.pdf
The Chordcat's innovative Chord Cruiser mode and selection of built-in chord progression presets make it an ideal tool for mobile music production, blending seamlessly with the lifestyle of modern musicians who value technology and enjoy access to entertainment options, such as music. With its compact design, versatile connectivity, and user-friendly interface, the Chordcat offers a portable solution for music creators seeking to experiment with various sounds and sequences.