"New and motivating chord arrangement suggestions, unfortunately paired with a subpar sound generator": Initial impression of AlphaTheta Chordcat

In the world of music production, a new contender has entered the scene. Chordcat, developed by Chordcat GmbH and released in 2023, is a compact, budget-friendly groovebox that promises to make music creation accessible for all.

The headline feature of Chordcat is the Chord Cruiser mode, a tool designed to inspire and guide users, even those with limited music theory knowledge. This mode suggests chord combinations, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking to create music without a deep understanding of music theory.

Chordcat also features a scale mode, chord function, and pre-made chord sets for creating progressions. These tools, combined with the Chord Cruiser mode, make Chordcat a versatile tool for music production.

The device can be connected to one or more devices that make sounds more inspiring than Chordcat's own, through USB and MIDI connectivity. This versatility allows users to expand their sonic palette and create a wider range of sounds.

The Chordcat manager application is available for exporting and importing sequences from the device via USB. This feature ensures that users can easily transfer their work between devices and collaborate with others.

Chordcat is out now, priced at €279/$279/£239. This affordable price point is likely to attract many users who are looking for a budget-friendly solution for music production.

However, it's important to note that the sound engine of Chordcat is somewhat underwhelming compared to other devices found at the same price point, such as Novation's Circuit. The sound engine lacks depth in editing capabilities, with limited controls for the low pass filter, amp envelope, and effects.

The interface of Chordcat also feels somewhat cheap, and the XY pad has a stepped response when adjusting sound parameters. This may be a disappointment for some users who are accustomed to more refined interfaces.

Despite these drawbacks, Chordcat's innovative Chord Cruiser feature and affordable price point make it an attractive option for many music producers. A review of Chordcat will be available in due course, so stay tuned for a more in-depth look at this exciting new music production tool.

For more information about Chordcat, visit the AlphaTheta website. The device is smaller and lighter than previous Toraiz releases and can be powered by either AA batteries or USB-C, making it a portable and convenient option for music production on the go.

Chordcat also lacks a built-in speaker, but this is not a significant issue as speakers at this price point are often weak and disappointing. However, this means that users will need to connect Chordcat to an external speaker or headphones to hear their creations.

Overall, Chordcat is a promising new addition to the world of music production. With its innovative Chord Cruiser feature, affordable price point, and compact design, it is likely to appeal to many users. Stay tuned for our review for a more in-depth look at this exciting new tool.

"New and motivating chord arrangement suggestions, unfortunately paired with a subpar sound generator": Initial impression of AlphaTheta Chordcat