Donner B1 is a beginner-friendly synthesizer with multiple functional upgrades to provide players with a richer and more intuitive playing experience. In this article, we will introduce in detail the function upgrades of the Donner B1 synthesizer, including 8-mode arpeggiator, GATE LENGTH, ACCENT, RATCHET, SLIDE and HOLD functions, Pad mute/unmute function, Random Note Generator & Set Sequence End Step, SONG MODE, and firmware updates and fixes.
Function Upgrade
8-mode arpeggiator:
Donner Essential B1 is equipped with an arpeggiator with 8 modes, providing players with rich improvisation possibilities. The arpeggiator can automatically play and perform complex arpeggio sequences, helping players create a variety of musical effects and enhance their performance.
GATE LENGTH, ACCENT, RATCHET, SLIDE and HOLD functions:
The performance functions of Essential B1 have been upgraded, and players can instantly trigger functions such as GATE LENGTH (gate length), ACCENT (emphasis), RATCHET (rhythm mode), SLIDE (slide), and HOLD (sustain). The addition of these functions makes live performances more flexible, and performers can adjust these parameters at any time during the performance to create a more dynamic musical performance.
Pad mute/unmute function:
Essential B1 introduces Pad mute/unmute functionality, allowing players to quickly mute or unmute steps in a sequence by holding down keys (1-16) while playing. This function allows players to easily create complex rhythm and percussion effects, combining GATE LENGTH and built-in effects to enhance the diversity of performances.
Random Note Generator & Set Sequence End Step:
In the V1.0.1 firmware update, Essential B1 adds a random note generator and the ability to set the end of a sequence step. The Random Note Generator randomly generates notes to provide players with inspiration for improvisation. The function of setting the end step of the sequence allows the performer to adjust the length of the sequence as needed, create music more flexibly, and enrich the structure and changes of the music.
SONG MODE:
The V1.1.0 firmware update introduces the SONG MODE function, which is an important upgrade feature. SONG MODE allows players to chain multiple modes together, extending the sequencer length from the original 16 steps to a maximum of 256 steps. Through SONG MODE, performers can freely switch modes to achieve longer and more complex music creation, enhancing the continuity and development of music.
Firmware updates and improvements:
The Essential B1 team continues to listen to users and has made multiple firmware updates. In the V1.1.0 firmware update, SONG MODE replaces the original method of manually switching modes with the arrow keys, improving the player’s operational convenience and user experience. These updates not only fix some issues, but also add new features to make Essential B1 even easier to use.
Some issues fixed:
The firmware update also solves some problems, such as solving Sequence Edit Glitch and Slide Issue, ensuring the stability and reliability of Essential B1. These fixes provide players with a smoother and smoother playing experience, avoiding desynchronization or other anomalies.
Features of B1
Optimized sequencer:
The Donner B1 synthesizer’s sequencer has been optimized to be easier and more intuitive to use. It has 128 sequence presets and 128 user-programmable presets, allowing you to easily edit and save your own music sequences. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced music producer, this feature can help you quickly create different styles of music.
Backlit touch-sensitive silicone keyboard:
The Donner B1 synthesizer is equipped with modern silicone buttons and color-changing backlighting, making playing a pleasure. The tactile silicone keyboard provides a comfortable feel, while the backlit design allows you to operate easily in low-light environments. This makes the Donner B1 more practical and easier to use during live performances and creative processes.
Classic deep bass with saturation and delay effects:
The Donner B1 synthesizer has the ability to tweak classic deep bass, including effects like distortion and tape delay. These features allow you to feel like a famous producer while creating music. Whether you like EDM or hip-hop, the Donner B1 has you covered.
Flexible and versatile music studios at your fingertips:
The Donner B1 can connect to your DAW via USB MIDI, allowing you to conveniently use it as a MIDI keyboard. In addition, through the MIDI IN/OUT interface, you can also connect Donner B1 to external MIDI devices and use it as a sequencer or MIDI controller. In addition, it is equipped with a 1/8″ audio input for connecting external sound sources and a 1/4″ TS mono main output for carrying the main output signal. The 1/8-inch headphone jack is perfect for monitoring during your performance. All of these audio I/O options make the Donner B1 a powerful, flexible, and versatile music studio tool.
With multiple function upgrades and optimizations, the Donner Essential B1 synthesizer provides beginners with a richer and more intuitive playing experience. The addition of 8-mode arpeggiator, GATE LENGTH, ACCENT, RATCHET, SLIDE, and HOLD functions allows players to play freely and create a variety of musical effects. The introduction of SONG MODE makes music creation more continuous and flexible. Firmware updates and problem fixes are ongoing to ensure the stability and reliability of Essential B1. The Donner B1 is a powerful yet easy-to-use synthesizer, giving beginners the ideal tool to realize their music-making dreams.