Yamaha SEQTRAK Orange

I am a big fan of hardware grooveboxes and in the past I was acquiring many devices to find out what will work out the best for me.
Recently I was testing TE Ep133 and it wasn't intuitive enough to use. This device was quickly sold.

It is quite another story with Seqtrak. The device's workflow is very straight forward. I love the fact patterns can be changed by simple knob twisting. There are plenty of sounds on board. The device is packed with FX. Deep level configurations of FX and sound design is possible via a companion app (works well on iOS, a bit worse on android).

There is already a first firmware update that adds Elektron style temporary project save & recall (wow!).

The only drawbacks I have noticed so far is the fact there are no real faders but only touch strips. And their configuration is a bit surprising. In one mode they can be set to a fixed value, in another mode they reset as soon as the finger is lifted. Hopefully it will be improved in a firmware update.
Another drawback is build quality that is "ok-ish". Plastic is quite thin, light leaks from numerous LEDs quite noticeable and if you ask "Does it bend?", the answer is "Very much".

Regardless, I must say I love this device and am very happy to purchase it on Thomann (first purchase) who delivered it in light speed.

I would call it the "new OP-Z." It's amazing, but it comes with several flaws.

The sound engines are rich and full, while the effects are decent. The reverbs are usable, but you'll likely want to replace them with software-based options or some pedals eventually. The filters are functional, but they sound cheap. On the other hand, the modulators are impressive.

The DX simulator is spot on, although the sample engine is quite simple and limited. The built-in batteries can last for hours, but the built-in speaker sounds like a cheap Chinese radio.

The biggest issue is the button located below the record button in the synth section, which is quite common. You have to press it firmly, and this can sometimes result in double presses.

In summary, it feels like a limited and peculiar mix of the K.O.2 and the OP-Z.