P3 Overview:

The Sequentix P3 was designed by Colin Fraser in the UK. It's an 8 track / 16 step MIDI sequencer with controls similar to an analog sequencer. The P3 started as 8 monophonic tracks, but after many software upgrades, it now supports chords. It also allows CC modulations and all the normal stuff you'd expect.

There's a few things I *didn't* expect, but was very happy about. First: Colin has a Yahoo Newsgroup that he reads and replies to very actively. I have never seen so much interaction between the designer and the customer before. He openly asks for "wish lists" and frequently modifies the code to add new features. The current OS is about 10x more powerful than the original. The second thing I didn't expect was exactly how complex this beast would become. I am not aware of a more powerful sequencer. PERIOD. Admittedly the 8 tracks may seem a bit restricting - but the possiblities with those 8 tracks are staggering. I really recommend you check out the Sequentix Website.

P3 number 25:

I haven't started my P3 yet... but I'm very anxious to use it. My biggest problem is the case design. I need to have some rectangular holes cut in the case for the keypad and buttons, and I have no way to do them accuratlely at home. I'll probably have a panel made by Schaeffer or similar, but haven't been able to afford it. It's a shame to be held up by the complex metal work, so I may end up buiding it in a shoebox just so I can try it out. (Or I could wear some armor and cut the holes with my router!?!) I'd hate to do the holes with a nibbler.

Here's a photo of P3 - serial number 25: only a small heap of circuit boards at this point
The boards are very nicely made: Through-hole plated with silkscreen / soldermask. All connections between boards are made with ribbon cables, and all pots / knobs / jacks are PCB mounted. As a result, assembly should be fairly easy.