Part 4 - Sequencing on Korg Monologue

Creating a sequence on the Korg Monologue can be done through three primary methods: Step Recording, Real-Time Recording, and Motion Sequencing. The device features a 16-step monophonic sequencer that can also automate up to four parameters.

1. Step Recording

This method allows you to enter notes one by one into specific steps while the sequencer is stopped.

• Enter Step Mode: Press the REC button while the sequencer is stopped. The display will show “STEP REC” and “STEP 1”.
• Enter Notes: Play a key on the keyboard to record a note for the current step. The sequencer will automatically advance to the next step.
• Enter Rests and Ties:
  • Press the REST button to record a silence for the current step.
  • Hold a key and press REST to record a tie, which connects the note to the next step.
• Select Specific Steps: You can jump to any step (1–16) by pressing its corresponding button to edit that specific location.
• Finish Recording: Press the REC button again, or the process will end automatically once the set number of steps is reached.

Example of an Acid bassline

Step	Note	Octave	Accent	Slide
1	D	Low	Yes	-
2	D	Low	-	-
3	D	High	Yes	Yes
4	A	Low	-	-
5	-	(Rest)	-	-
6	C	Low	-	Yes
7	D	Low	-	-
8	-	(Rest)	-	-
9	D	Low	Yes	-
10	F	Low	-	Yes
11	G	Low	Yes	Yes
12	D	High	-	-
13	-	(Rest)	-	-
14	C	Low	-	-
15	D	Low	Yes	Yes
16	A	Low	-	-

2. Real-Time Recording

Use this method to record your live performance over an existing or empty sequence.

• Start Playback: Press the PLAY button to start the sequencer.
• Begin Recording: Press the REC button (it will light up). Any notes you play on the keyboard will be overdubbed onto the sequence.
• Delete on the Fly: During real-time recording, you can press the REST button to erase existing notes in the sequence.
• Stop Recording: Press the REC button to stop recording while keeping the sequencer running, or press PLAY to stop both.

3. Motion Sequencing

You can automate the movement of up to four knobs or switches (except the Master, Tempo, and Octave controls).

• Set Mode: Move the MOTION/SLIDE/NOTE switch to MOTION. The display will show “MOTION VIEW”.
• Record Motion: While the sequencer is playing, press REC and move the knobs or flip the switches you wish to automate.
• Overwriting/Full Memory: If you attempt to record a fifth parameter, the display will show “Motion Full.” You must then delete a previous motion in the SEQ EDIT menu to record a new one.

4. Editing and Variations

• Note Toggle: With the switch set to NOTE, press buttons 1–16 to turn recorded notes on or off (creating rests).
• Slide (Portamento): Set the switch to SLIDE and use buttons 1–16 to activate a smooth pitch transition between steps.
• Active Step: Hold SHIFT and press buttons 1–16 to skip specific steps during playback, creating irregular rhythms.
• Transposing: Press the KEY TRG/HOLD button and play a key to transpose the entire sequence in real-time.

5. Sequence Settings (SEQ EDIT Mode)

Press EDIT MODE and select SEQ EDIT to access deeper settings:

• Step Length: Change the number of steps (1–16).
• Step Resolution: Adjust the speed of each step (e.g., 1/16th notes or 1/8th notes).
• Clear Functions: Use button 7 to perform an All Clear (deletes notes and motion) or a Motion Clear (deletes only automation).
• Quick Clear: A shortcut to delete all sequence data is to hold SHIFT and press REST while in Play mode.

Important: Always press the WRITE button twice to save your sequence as part of the Program, or your work will be lost when you change programs or power off.