You’d be hard-pressed to build a better handheld-sized computer. Artist nbor has turned his Steam Deck gaming handheld from Valve into a compact step-sequencing powerhouse, and he shares the script and tips you need if you want to do the same.
nbor, the alias of Peter Nyboer, has a lovely description here: “Indulging in delay and basses. Lower tempo jam to maximize vibrational efficiency.”
Vibrate away!
And just check it out; that fits in the same horizontal rackspace as those Roland Boutiques.
You’ve got some scripts and tips and tricks over on Peter’s GitHub, though honestly, part of the appeal of this is that he didn’t have to do much. Other Linux-compatible tools should work well, too — hello live coding, SuperCollider, Pd, VCV Rack, etc.
https://github.com/nyboer/bitwig_and_steamdeck
(Obviously, there are cheaper solutions, but more on that later!)
The AKAI Fire controller here is powered by Richie Hawtin’s script for the task – yes, yes manufacturers, you should ship class-compliant drivers for any USB device you make:
Looks perfect for swapping between a step sequencer and Hades 2. Oh yeah, the really important question that’s not addressed here is what games are you playing on your Steam Deck? (Here’s an excellent curated selection — don’t bother with ChatGPT; RPS every time.)
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Akai FIRE is sadly discontinued but — holy crap you can get it cheap used! Uh… tempted.
Bitwig Studio is on sale now at Thomann for the best price I’ve seen (299):
It’s also available from Plugin Boutique.
See, after Absynth 6 arriving, I am really, really trying to make Half Life 3 happen. For real this time.