OXI Instruments OXI One MKII: Grooves Unleashed – Dynamic Sequencing in Focus

The OXI One MKII is introduced as a sequencer that goes beyond simple step programming, aiming to inject life into patterns through the concept of groove. The video opens by contrasting a rigid, unprocessed sequence with one enhanced by groove, immediately highlighting the dramatic difference subtle timing and velocity changes can make. Groove, as presented here, is less about dramatic transformation and more about nuanced shifts that elevate a track’s feel from mechanical to musical.

OXI Instruments positions the OXI One MKII as a tool designed to bridge the gap between static patterns and dynamic, performance-ready sequences. The manufacturer emphasizes that groove is not just a feature but a workflow philosophy, enabling users to move from predictable, grid-locked beats to sequences that genuinely move the listener. This sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the groove engine’s capabilities.

The core of the OXI One MKII’s groove system is its dedicated groove menu, accessible directly from the hardware interface. Users can select from 14 preset groove templates and load up to eight more, with the option to import additional grooves via SD card. Each template can be customized using several key parameters: accent (for velocity variation), time (for microtiming shifts), groove length (decoupling groove cycle from pattern length), random (to introduce controlled unpredictability), and offset (to shift the groove pattern in time).

Accent allows for both positive and negative velocity changes, giving sequences a dynamic push or pull. Time adjustments introduce subtle or pronounced timing shifts, again with positive or negative values for creative flexibility. Groove length can be set independently from the note pattern, enabling polyrhythmic interplay and evolving rhythmic textures. The random parameter adds a layer of unpredictability, modulating the amount of groove applied while preserving the underlying template’s character.

Offset acts as a phase shifter for the groove pattern, letting users nudge the groove left or right in time. The video demonstrates how combining these parameters—especially over steady rhythms like four-on-the-floor kicks—opens up a wide palette of rhythmic possibilities. The hands-on workflow is clearly prioritized, with all adjustments made in real time on the device.

A standout feature of the OXI One MKII is its ability to assign independent groove templates to each of its eight tracks in multitrack mode. The video illustrates how this per-track groove architecture allows for intricate layering, with each instrument or sequence part carrying its own rhythmic identity. Switching between tracks is straightforward, and each track maintains its own groove page, complete with unique accent, time, and offset settings.

This multitrack groove system is not just about variety—it’s about deep creative control. The presenter shows how different groove templates and parameter settings can be applied to kick, hi-hat, and melodic tracks, resulting in a composite groove that is both complex and cohesive. The workflow is designed to encourage experimentation, as users can quickly audition and tweak grooves across tracks without menu-diving or losing their place.

OXI Instruments’ approach here is unapologetically modular: groove is not a global effect but a per-track tool, supporting hybrid setups and layered arrangements. This flexibility is especially powerful in DAWless rigs or live performance contexts, where rhythmic variation and independence are key to engaging, evolving music.

The video moves from technical explanation to practical demonstration, showing how groove transforms both rhythmic and melodic patterns. Contrary to the common assumption that groove is only for drums, the OXI One MKII proves its value on melodic sequences and arpeggios as well. The presenter plays back identical patterns with and without groove, making the expressive difference immediately clear.

Offset is highlighted as a particularly useful tool for melodic tracks, allowing users to make patterns “sing” by shifting note placement in subtle ways. The arpeggiator receives its own groove menu, enabling the same level of velocity and timing manipulation as the main sequencer. This integration ensures that even fast-moving arpeggios can benefit from nuanced groove shaping.

Attention is also given to velocity management: setting the default velocity to 64 is recommended to maximize the dynamic range of groove accenting. This practical tip ensures that users can fully exploit both positive and negative velocity shifts, resulting in grooves that are both punchy and expressive.