Polyend Mess - Multi-Effect Step Sequencer

Polyend MESS (Multi-Effect Step Sequencer) is a stereo, multi-track effects sequencer that combines 125 high-quality, stackable effects with deep sequencing capabilities and full parameter modulation, housed in a hardware unit designed for experimental sound design and live performance control.

Multi-Track Effects Sequencing

Mess features four fully customisable effect tracks, each independently assignable to any of the 125 included effects. Users can route effects freely—whether reverb into delay, granular engines into spectralisers, or multiple distortion types in series—to create complex audio processing chains. Each track runs its own step sequence, with individual speed and length controls allowing for polyrhythmic or polymetric interaction. The 16-step sequencer grid enables real-time manipulation, supported by parameter locks, chance settings, and per-step modulation, all tightly synced to tempo.

Advanced Sound Sculpting

With extensive effects ranging from conventional reverbs and delays to experimental spectral transformations, Mess suits everything from guitar and synth setups to DAW-less ambient rigs. The delay section includes multi-tap, ping-pong and tape-style options, while the seven reverb types span natural spaces to abstract modulated washes. Pitch shifting and spectral engines allow for dramatic tonal warping and harmonisation, including monophonic pitch tracking for musical reshaping.

Granular and Glitch Processing

Nine granular and glitch modes enable real-time signal deconstruction. The granular engine synchronises with the sequencer, processing sound per step for rhythmic texturing or infinite ambient smears. The glitch engine slices audio into microsound particles, introducing stutters, repeats and unpredictable fragmentation, all controllable through step-based sequencing and chance controls.

Distortion, EQ and Filtering

Twelve shaping modes provide everything from warm analogue-style drive to brutal bitcrushing and sample-rate reduction. EQ and filter options include low-pass, high-pass and band-pass types, allowing for detailed tonal shaping post-distortion or in isolation. Users can sequence parameters to evolve distortion and filtering throughout a pattern, creating movement within traditionally static effects.

Looping, Slicing and Micro Repeats

Mess includes advanced micro-looper and slicer algorithms, capable of tight time-based repitching, audio arpeggiation, and even tape-stop simulation. These effects benefit from per-step control and chance functions, enabling spontaneous glitches or deliberate rhythmic transformations. Repeats and stutters can evolve organically or be programmed precisely for live manipulation.

Hardware and Workflow Design

The unit features a dedicated knob-per-function interface for intuitive control, with immediate visual feedback on the 16-step grid. Effects can run without the sequencer activated, enabling Mess to function as a traditional multi-effect unit. A stomp switch toggles effect activation, while tempo can be synced via tap or MIDI. With 200 factory presets and 1000 user slots, users can store and recall complex patches for any workflow.

Creative Performance Tool

Polyend Mess serves both experimentalists and traditional musicians. It acts as a modular pedalboard replacement, an avant-garde texture generator, and a compositional effects sequencer. With its ability to slow sequences to 1/16th note values, the unit can stretch audio into glacial shifts or lock into tight rhythmic patterns. Designed for real-time exploration, Mess is a uniquely expressive processor for modern sound designers.