AlphaTheta CHORDCAT
Product information "AlphaTheta CHORDCAT"
Chord-Cruiser mode: Create unique chord sequences with ease
Chordcat can suggest up to 110,000 chord combinations*1 that you can use to create your own chord sequences. When the groovebox is in Chord-Cruiser mode, a special algorithm selects several musically compatible chords from its database and suggests them. You can listen to these chords and assign favourites to the keyboard, which automatically triggers the next suggestion. This intuitive workflow makes it easy to create your own tracks. Chordcat also includes 18 preset chord sequences, the so-called chordsets, 13 of which are inspired by various music genres such as house and future bass, while the remaining 5 cover basic chord templates like major and minor. You can use these presets as they are or as starting points for your own ideas. The Chord-Cruiser mode gives you the freedom to create completely unique chord sequences.
*1 Total number of chord combinations in the database.
Versatile arrangement functions and intuitive instrument control
With three powerful effects - arpeggiator, delay and ducker – the music gains a unique character. The effects are controlled intuitively via the XY pad.
- Arpeggiator: Generates melodies from chords.
- Delay: Adds depth to sounds and thus gives the music a sense of space.
- Ducker: Adds dynamics and accents and creates a feeling of movement in tracks.
Running Direction function
This pushes the boundaries of any composition, as Running Direction allows you to change the play direction of 4x4 step-sequence patterns with a single button press. Four options are available to discover new phrases and rhythms: right, down, clockwise and counter-clockwise. This function unlocks new ideas and lets you create innovative chord sequences or explore rhythms from different genres.
Sound presets and sound-shaping tools
Switching between 145 sound presets and 16 drum kits from a wide range of genres spawns new creative ideas. The low-pass filter and amp envelope let you alter the sound presets as you wish. These parameters can be automated per pattern so that sounds can evolve dynamically over the course of a track. This makes it possible to go beyond static presets and create expressive, high-energy phrases that bring the music to life.
Key and scale settings
Chordcat lets you play with creative freedom and ensures you never hit a wrong note. When you set a key and scale in Chordcat, only the notes that belong to the selected key and scale are mapped to the keyboard. For example, if you set the key to E and the scale to minor blues, the notes of the E minor blues scale will be arranged on the keyboard so you can improvise however you like, safe in the knowledge that every note you play will fit harmonically into the melody. The compatibility of chords suggested in Chord-Play or Chord-Cruiser mode with the chosen key and scale is indicated by LED lights. This helps both beginners
Key features of Chordcat: A groovebox that inspires and makes creative visions come true
Chordcat offers an intuitive and flexible workspace for music production, including:
- 8 tracks: Play up to 8 different instruments or sounds simultaneously, e.g. drums, bass and synthesiser, with independent control for each track. In addition to track volume, pan can also be adjusted.
- 16 patterns: Create and save up to 16 unique phrases per track – perfect for dynamic song arrangements. The pattern-chain function lets you play patterns in a specific order to create seamless transitions.
- 128 steps (8 bars): Sounds can be placed precisely within a configuration of 16 steps
Versatile connectivity expands creative horizons
Thanks to its MIDI OUT/THRU, MIDI IN and USB Type-C ports, Chordcat can be easily connected to external synthesizers and DAW software on a PC/Mac. With the two modes Chord-Play and Chord-Cruiser, connected devices can be controlled effortlessly and used for performance.
Improved DAW integration with Chordcat Manager and Ableton Live Lite licence
The dedicated Chordcat Manager software*2 allows seamless import and export of sequence patterns between Chordcat and a PC/Mac. Patterns created on the hardware can be exported to a DAW to edit sounds. Conversely, it is also possible to import patterns from a DAW into Chordcat to play with arrangements. A free licence for the music production software Ableton Live Lite is also available after registering Chordcat*3. Using Chordcat with Ableton Live Lite opens a seamless workflow that takes you from idea sketch to full music production.
*2 The Chordcat Manager also allows complete projects to be backed up on a PC/Mac.
*3 The Ableton Live Lite licence is available for free when you register a Chordcat in your AlphaTheta account.
Flat design for optimal portability
Thanks to the flat design without knobs or protruding parts, Chordcat fits easily into a small bag. The compact and lightweight construction means the groovebox can be taken anywhere, so you can make music almost anywhere inspiration strikes, whether in the studio, at home or on the go.
Battery or USB power for creative freedom anywhere
Chordcat runs on six AA batteries, so you can make music anytime, anywhere. The groovebox also works with USB Type-C power (for example when connected to a PC/Mac), which is ideal for longer sessions. With Chordcat you can capture and develop your ideas immediately without missing a beat.
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 247 x 33 x 111 mm
- Weight: 0,4 kg
- 8-Spur-Groovebox
