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Arpeggino is a DIY Arduino instrument that generates MIDI arpeggios and sequences, and can record, overdub, loop and reconfigure recorded layers. Its project tutorial was published on Arduino Project Hub on August 13, 2020. The documented build uses an Arduino Uno Rev3, a 16×2 character LCD and a CD74HC4067 multiplexer breakout.
What Arpeggino does
Arpeggino combines an arpeggiator with sequencing and MIDI recording tools. You set musical parameters such as the root note, scale, octave, pattern permutation, number of steps, rhythm and tempo in beats per minute (BPM). It can also record sequences across any number of bars, add overdubbed layers, delete recorded layers and change layer settings after recording.
Its scale choices are the seven modes Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian and Locrian. The project description does not establish a maximum recording length, step count or BPM range, so those should not be assumed from the feature list.
Hardware in the documented build
The reference component list identifies these parts:
#1 Best Overall
- One Arduino Uno Rev3
- One 16×2 alphanumeric LCD
- One SparkFun Analog/Digital MUX Breakout based on the CD74HC4067
This is a build-it-yourself controller, not a ready-to-use commercial instrument. The component list establishes the named core parts; it does not by itself specify every wire, control, enclosure or assembly detail. Follow the project tutorial and its code documentation for build instructions and examples.
How the software is organized
The project divides its code among three components, each with a distinct responsibility:
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- Important Usage Note: The DMK 25 Pro MIDI keyboard is not like a piano keyboard. It does not produce sound on its own and needs to be connected to a mobile phone or computer's DAW software for use. ( 4 types of DAW software are provided)
- Smart Dynamic Scale Mode: You can play essential bass lines, melodies, and leads with ease thanks to the intelligent dynamic scale mode of DMK 25 Pro midi controller. The 16-scale tones enable you to switch between many musical genres
- Real-time Multi-Mode Control: DMK-25 Pro USB MIDI controller unleashes creativity with arpeggio, note repeat, & chord functions. Craft music clips anytime, anywhere. Enhance performance joy & explore endless playability
- Compatible with PC & Mobile Devices: DMK 25 PRO mini midi comes with a USB-C adapter. Before use, make sure the OTG adapter is compatible with the interface of your mobile device. If your interface is others(Micro USB, Lighting etc.), please purchase separately
- Personalized Touch Bar with Light Scale: Your composition is easier using Pitch/ Mod touch mode. Even at home, the touch bar with a light scale gives you the impression that you are on stage
- Arpeggino sketch: Handles the device’s input/output and configuration.
- Midier: A C++ MIDI engine for playing, recording and looping, as well as programming notes, arpeggios and sequences.
- Controlino: Manages buttons and potentiometers through a multiplexer, including click, double-click and long-press gestures.
The project page links the three repositories and describes them as documented with examples. This separation is useful when adapting the build: the instrument interface, MIDI behavior and physical-control handling live in different parts of the code.
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Connecting Arpeggino to a computer or MIDI device
Arpeggino sends MIDI commands over the Arduino serial connection. To receive them on a computer, the documented options are a USB connection using bridge software such as Hairless MIDI-Serial Bridge, or a MIDI-to-USB cable. The baud-rate setting in the sketch must match the connection method being used; a mismatch can prevent the receiving software or interface from interpreting the serial data correctly.
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- Create Anywhere Without Cables - Built for Mobile Music Production: This mini version wireless MIDI controller supports Bluetooth MIDI and USB MIDI, allowing you to produce beats, trigger samples, and control DAWs without being tied to cables. Ideal for musicians, DJs, and creators working in studio setups, live performances, or on-the-go sessions.
- 15H Battery for Long Sessions - Reliable for Travel & Live Use: The built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 15 hours of continuous use, with ECO mode extending standby time for multi-day sessions. Designed for creators who need consistent performance during travel, outdoor sessions, or extended studio work.
- 16 Velocity Pads with Aftertouch - Expressive Control for Beat Making: Featuring 16 RGB velocity-sensitive pads with aftertouch, this controller allows dynamic control over notes, samples, and effects. Visual feedback and responsive touch make it suitable for finger drumming, live triggering, and expressive performance.
- App Customizable Workflow - Adapt to Your DAW & Setup: Use the PC software or mobile app to customize pad mapping, MIDI commands, velocity curves, and lighting. Compatible with DAWs, synths, and loop software, allowing you to tailor your workflow for production, performance, or practice. For iPhone, iPad, or macOS, download the “KuSuite” app directly from the App Store. For Android devices or Windows PCs, simply scan the QR code printed on the product or included in the user manual to download and install the software.
- Compact Design with Expandable Control - Ideal for DJs & Beginners: Compact and portable with 3 assignable buttons and 3 pad banks (up to 48 pads), offering flexible control without complex setup. Suitable for beginners learning beat making as well as DJs needing a lightweight controller for live remixing.
The exact computer setup depends on the bridge or interface chosen. The project description establishes these connection approaches but does not specify current compatibility for particular operating systems or software versions.
Quick Recap
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- Beat Maker Essential - 13" pad controller for music production with 8 RGB-backlit responsive MPC drum pads for triggering samples, loops, virtual instruments, and more
- Hands-On Control - 8 assignable Q-Link knobs for seamless mapping to DAW parameters, software instruments, and insert effect plugins for tactile control and precise mixing
- Customized Production - 4 programmable preset slots for instant recall of mappings for DAWs, virtual instruments, effects and more; Create, edit, load and manage all your presets from the computer
- Portable Design, Robust Build - Lightweight beat maker that adopts the sturdy build of standalone MPCs; The slim-line design stows easily in a laptop bag for hands-on production capability everywhere
- Versatile Performance - The Laptop Pad Controller is perfect for musicians, producers, DJs and other music creators on the go; The sleek design fits right in alongside your studio equipment
What to consider before building
- You need to assemble and configure hardware. The documented design centers on an Arduino Uno Rev3, LCD and multiplexer breakout rather than a standalone store-bought unit.
- There is a serial-connection step. Sending MIDI to a computer requires a bridge or MIDI-to-USB connection, with the sketch baud rate configured appropriately.
- The feature set is musically configurable. Scale modes, root, octave, permutations, steps, rhythm and BPM offer multiple ways to shape generated patterns.
- Recording is layer-oriented. The project supports recording across bars, overdubbing, deleting layers and reconfiguring layers after recording.
- Performance limits are not established by the published description. No independent latency, reliability or maximum-capacity measurements are provided, so do not treat unstated limits as verified specifications.
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