PreSonus ATOM SQ, hybrid MIDI Keyboard / Pad Performance and Production Controller with Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite and Studio Magic recording software bundle

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So finally in Presonus Atom vs Atom SQ what is better? As MIDI controller pads, we can say that Atom SQ is the clear winner when it comes to all-around production or when you just want one compact piece of gear that gets the most job done on your desk. On the other hand, Atom is very useful if you want to do full-fledged finger drumming and you need those pads as well as the aesthetics of a device for finger drumming. Though both the devices are products that come from the same brand – PreSonus but atom SQ seems to have more features as well as more keys which means it’s a little complicated to use but can handle more functions as well. Gregor and Joe (frontline communicators for PreSonus) have SQs -- but, do they actually use them (for anything beyond Navigation and Parameter Control) ??

PreSonus Studio One 5-centric options allow you to auto-fill steps (let’s say every 4th note), adjust pattern step size from 1-128, set pattern time division and the like. What takes this bit further is the ability to easily create variation upon variation of patterns using Editor Mode’s Variation section. It’s a simple way to easily bang out a whole bunch of drum patterns. One final thing: I do wish to see a future Atom series controller with built-in MIDI output or with USB-to-MIDI capability allowing users to use those built-in chordal/arpeggiator features with external computer-less rigs. Doing so would create the next blazingly inspired device that can introduce the PreSonus workflow inside and outside the software. Context-sensitive screen displays valuable parameter information, including CC assignments, swing, and much more Atop the touch strip are eight encoders, all of which feel chunky and robust, and have just the right amount of resistance so that they feel good under the fingers. When the unit is initially connected to Studio One or Live, these encoders will be preconfigured for common functions But they are otherwise freely assignable. Instrument – This just might be the biggest innovation of this entire device. With this mode, you are able to browse through a collection of available virtual instruments and any others that you might add to Studio One or Ableton. You can also use this mode to make melodic patterns.That means i have to press even harder despite having set the SOFT Velocity setting from SETUP to even register a note. after a 6 week wait to get my SQ and then having to hit the pads hard (even with soft velocity) and get so many skips is disappointing. Octaves on the SQ can only go down to C0 and not below. Aside from actually playing lower notes, lower octaves are often used for key switches on virtual instruments, which makes those inaccessible on the ATOM SQ.

Whilst I totally understand the frustration, I would totally disagree that Presonus aren't trying to do anything although it's been slow. There are people in Presonus who have been extremely helpful, especially the Atom people. While I certainly understand (and frankly, agree with) your frustration about the ATOM line, I'll point out that the Faderport 8 (and probably also the 16) is IMO a really solid piece of hardware and a very useful control surface.I have 14 days left to return the SQ and I am on the fence. I'm sure there are some smart people there are Presonus, but sometimes I really think they are completely clueless. Maybe there are some political / seniority issues going on there - because someone there isn't letting logic and quality prevail.

Novation by a long shot. The Atom would be cool if Moss could write a script for it, but otherwise it's a Studio One device IMO. User – With the User mode, you are able to fully customize the layout of the controller to suit your preferences. You can adapt the internal commands from Studio One to better fit your needs, making this a great option for expert users who want to get the most out of their controller. This is especially common when you are playing held arpeggios or chordal top lines, where some fingers rest on their pads after hitting while one finger bounces around to different pads. It's also especially common on "weak" fingers such as the ring or pinky. accidental 'bounces' or 'mis-triggers' that are less than 1/64 or 1/128 (time) after the previous (intended) trigger I do think they did a great job in many aspects, but need to clean this thing up so it's reliable and usable.It's taken me a couple weeks to get here, but after extensive studying I've narrowed down my choice to 3 devices for a Btiwig Pad Controller. Leaning in the direction of the Maschine or Launchpad...