Making Sound Machines Plinky 12 Toadstep 4-Track Sequencer + Synthesizer

Developed in collaboration with Toadstool Tech, the Plinky 12 Toadstep is a four-track MIDI and CV sequencer, groovebox and polyphonic synthesiser built for hands-on sequencing and improvisation. It combines the Plinky 12 wavetable synthesis engine with a touch-based control surface, functioning as a self-contained electronic instrument or as the sequencing hub for a larger MIDI and modular system.

Each of the four tracks can access the Plinky 12 engine multitimbrally, with independent sounds available simultaneously for basslines, melodies, percussion and more. Two tracks can instead control external CV/Gate instruments, while all four tracks can sequence external MIDI hardware—allowing internal synthesis, modular gear and MIDI instruments to be combined in a single arrangement.

Sequencing is centred around 16-step patterns, with repeats and ratcheting extending patterns beyond a conventional 16-step feel. Steps can have individual probability, velocity and gate-length settings, alongside extensive randomisation options for evolving sequences. Each track stores up to eight patterns, and pattern chaining supports longer arrangements and live performance structures.

The integrated Plinky 12 engine provides polyphonic wavetable synthesis across four independent parts. Sounds can be edited via the web-based Plinky 12 editor, stored with sequences on an SD card, and morphed through XY modulation for fluid timbral transitions. Tape Delay and Shimmer Reverb provide onboard spatial processing, while the external audio input allows other instruments to be mixed and processed through the effects.

Large touch-sensitive faders offer immediate parameter control, keeping performance focused and direct. Toadstep also uses the Plinky 12 family’s swappable panel and firmware architecture, enabling the hardware platform to be reconfigured with other Plinky 12 interfaces and firmware.

Features & Specifications

• Sequencer: 4 tracks
• Synthesis: Plinky 12 polyphonic wavetable engine
• Operation: Standalone groovebox, MIDI sequencer and CV sequencer
• Multitimbrality: Independent sounds across four tracks
• Pattern length: 16 steps per track
• Pattern storage: 8 patterns per track, with pattern chaining
• Step functions: Repeats and ratcheting
• Per-step control: Probability, velocity, gate length and randomisation
• Performance controls: Touch interface with large fader controls
• Sound morphing: XY modulation between synth sounds
• Effects: Tape Delay and Shimmer Reverb
• Sound editing: Web-based Plinky 12 editor
• Storage: SD card storage for sounds and sequences
• Audio input: External audio mixing and effects processing
• External CV sequencing: Up to 2 tracks
• CV inputs: 2
• CV outputs: 2
• Clock: Clock input, reset input and clock output with selectable PPQN
• MIDI: TRS MIDI input and 2 × TRS MIDI outputs
• USB: Class-compliant audio output, MIDI input/output, serial and WebUSB
• Panel system: Swappable panel and firmware architecture
• Power: USB-C, 5 V / 500 mA
• Dimensions: 305 × 305 × 12 mm (12 × 12 × 0.47 in)

Video: https://youtu.be/Cn_PYCsgsI0

Product Specs

• Item Number: 43677
• Make: Making Sound Machines
• Model: Plinky 12 Toadstep
• Condition: Brand New
• Finish: Blue
• Categories: keyboards-and-synths ⇒ sequencers
• Made In: Germany
• MPN: MSM-P12-TS