Factor8 releases the Constellations Sequencer, a FREE Euclidean-algorithm-based polyrhythmic sequencer

Developer Factor8 has released the Constellations Sequencer, a free Euclidean-algorithm-based polyrhythmic sequencer.

The Euclidean algorithm is commonly used in various audio devices, such as synths, DAWs, and sequencers, to generate rhythmic patterns.

It does so by distributing a particular number of hits across a particular number of steps.

These patterns can be popular/common percussion rhythms, evolving rhythmic synth patterns, or complex polyrhythmic combinations of all elements.

Constellations offers up to 32 channels, each with independent rhythmic and harmonic behaviour.

So, you can polyrhythm till your brain can’t take it anymore, or you can stack layers of rhythmic content however you see fit.

Constellations is available in AU and VST3 formats for macOS, Windows, and Linux.

The polyrhythmic aspect of Constellations becomes even greater because each track is dual-layered with A and B patterns.  Constellations can draw elements from each layer, depending on your settings, creating greater contrast between channels.

The interface looks fairly busy, and there is quite a bit going on, but it’s pretty straightforward.

Below the transport bar, you have two main pages: Tracks and Harmony.

Tracks is where you can see all active channels and what they are doing.

There are two views within the Tracks page: Multi and Single.

The Multi-view displays all active channels as described above, and provides an overview. The Single view focuses on a single track and displays additional information for that track.

At the bottom of that page, you’ll find the Details panel with various controls applicable to the currently selected channel.

The Details panel has multiple tabs, including Rhythm, Velocity, Duration, Notes, Polyphony, Chance, and Repeat.

The Polyphony and Contour tabs are two of the most transformative because you turn a static one-note-per-step groove into a chordal rhythm with more variation.

When you add the harmony engine to the mix, you’ve got a playground for harmonic rhythmic exploration that can be as calculated or left to chance as you like.

Constellations will need a little time to get into and figure out when, where, and how you’ll get the best out of it.

But, it’s certainly got enough to stay busy with!