software sequencer advice please.

[the synthman]

Hi. I'm looking at dipping my toe in the water, so to speak and try my hand at computer based software sequncers. I currently do my sequncer using my Ensoniq SD1. I want to slim down my set up as it's starting to take up to much bedroom space!. So I'm looking at using my laptop for my sequencing needs. Im looking for a software sequncer that at least as good and as easy to use as the 24 track sequncer in my SD1.I'm looking for, ideally a pattern based sequncer with a minimum of 16 tracks (audio recording not important) must be as easy to use as the Ensoniq have an easy leaning curve. Prefer free download or at least a trial version I don't want to pay a small fortune on something if I decide it's not for me!. I don't want a full blown DAW with all the bells and whistles just a basic turn on and go midi sequncer. Can someone recommend something I can try out.

Thanks

[meatballfulton]

Windows or Mac?

Primarily step sequencing or real-time?

Input from the laptop keys or from a MIDI keyboard?

P.S. Nothing is as easy to use as the Ensoniq sequencers.

[the synthman]

Good questions.lol

Windows 7.
Realtime pattern (looped) based recording. ie.Ensoniq style!
Hp pavilion laptop.
Input from SD1 midied to laptop through a midi man midi sport 2x2 midi interface.

I know it's probably not going to be easy to find one that that ticks all the boxes ie. Does all the Ensoniq stuff.

[meatballfulton]

One more question for clarification.

If you will still be using the SD1 as your keyboard but not as your sequencer yet you are "slimming down" your setup, what are you getting rid of and what instruments will the sequencer be driving?

[the synthman]

Going (possibly) SD1. Keeping (to be sequenced from the laptop). Alesis Fusion, Studiologic Sledge. Korg Triton rack. Roland R-70. I'm only toying with the laptop idea at the moment. I may even change my mind yet

[meatballfulton]

Most standalone sequencer software out today is for step sequencing, not real time entry. Most software that alows real time MIDI sequencing are DAWs. So what you really want isn't readily available.

However, with any DAW that sequences MIDI you can just ignore the audio functionality completely. That's how I use Cubase, just as a MIDI sequencer.

You might want to start by looking at Tracktion. Currently at version T6, the earlier T4 version is now 100% free.

Another free DAW is PreSonus Studio One. They just moved from V2 to V3 and the free version is "coming soon" but you can download the V3 demo to get an idea.