It'd probably be implemented, if at all, in a way that doesn't alienate it's being "ported" to MODX which doesn't have those buttons.

While you await that... (as you may know, we focus on what you can do with the instrument as currently implemented)...
Did you know MONTAGEs (and MODXs) come with a free copy of Cubase, which includes a Step Record feature?

If you need help setting up Cubase for Step/MIDI Input, let us know.

Ahh... (I’m new here and didn’t know.)
Is there a better place to send suggestions? I’ve been a Yamaha player since I bought my first synth in 1988 and chose the YS200 rather than the Korg M1. I worked for many years in software, including UI/HMI design for machinery and I’ve been thinking about how the buttons on the Montage might be used to make the step sequencer better than the TR-REC feature of the Roland Fantom (whilst keeping in mind the MODX and how the Montage buttons are already used, and it’s being designed & marketed as a performance instrument rather than a “workstation”.)
Yamaha have done a great job of making the pattern sequencer work with the existing design of parts and scenes, don’t you think? (I have been using it to record a chord progression and then playing melodies with RH while LH controls PB, MW, ribbon and AF... love it!)

I may need some help when it comes to programming arps in the computer and bringing them into Montage, but so far I’ve been enjoying myself so much just playing the instrument that I’ve not got that far yet! I know where to come though.
Many thanks.
🙂

ideascale (yamahasynth.ideascale.com) is the place to make suggestions. However, I don't personally see an issue with floating ideas here first to get some feedback (rough draft) before going to ideascale. Allows for short-circuiting those "ideas" that already exist - or allows for some refinement before casting your line into the lake of ideas.

Welcome. All things are open for discussion, but we try to focus on how to make use of what’s currently on offer. We have a separate site for gathering concept, wishes, dreams etc. (IdeaScale). It keeps the over passionate posts where some feels a missing feature is absolutely ruining their lives, from those that focus on learning to work with what’s there in the product now. So I only mention that Step Record is available in Cubase because although it is not currently a feature in the product, many people don’t know that Step Record is available in Cubase AI. If Step Recording is part of your workflow, it is available.

I would LOVE to see a step sequencer implemented. I think it can and will happen

I just thought the same thing myself without seeing this post. Its all too obvious with those buttons there. https://yamahasynth.ideascale.com/a/dtd/use-16-buttons-for-sequencing-drums/241640-45978

The Cubase piano roll is not very good for what the poster is asking. Maybe if Cubase ever update the piano roll I would consider it. But then again many many people want physical buttons/pads when sequencing drums. Pads are the best. Why I dont know. it just is the way it is. Ive tried so many sequencers and for some reason pressing buttons is the best way over using the midi keyboard, typing pc keyboard, mouse, ipad, novation products, other midi pads.etc.

I am considering Cubase for the simple fact that I can drag all my songs and patterns right into the DAW. As well as easily capture all montage recording. so thats a plus 1 for Cubase here.

I think the UI is almost done. Just repurpose the FX Part layout, like so:

An easier way, for immediate step recording: Provide the ability to set the starting Clock time, as well as the beat. Right now it's possible to use the Pattern recorder as a super primitive step recorder by setting beats, one after another, with Key On Start.

With two simple additions to this, the ability to set any clock time division and auto stepping, this could be a step recorder, within the Pattern Recorder. Done. Head out for lunch.

I like that idea to oAndrew. Still want those 16-32 button switches for drum creation. One thing that needs to be added to all this is scale locking. Especially with sequencing