AIO3 – Step Sequencer and Step Presets for Traktor JAM
The AIO3 mapping for Maschine Jam and Traktor Pro includes a fully functional Traktor step sequencer with per-slot step presets, shuffle controls, and an integrated slot mixer. In this guide, you will learn exactly how the Traktor step sequencer works across all four sample slots. You will also find out how to use step presets, shuffle modes, and slot mixing during a live performance. Moreover, all controls are accessible directly from the Maschine Jam hardware. First, however, let’s start with the basics.
AIO3 Traktor Step Sequencer Overview
The Traktor step sequencer in AIO3 runs directly on the Maschine Jam pad grid. Each of the four sample slots has its own independent sequencer, so you can run up to four simultaneous rhythmic patterns at once. In particular, each pattern has its own preset, shuffle type, and step count. In addition, the grid uses clear color-coding per slot, which means you can navigate it easily even in a dark performance environment. As a result, the workflow stays fast and intuitive no matter the lighting conditions.
Play / Stop — Select Slot
The play/stop sequencer button also works as the slot selector. When you press it, the sequencer starts or stops for the currently selected sample slot. To switch between slots, simply press the corresponding slot select button. Furthermore, the active slot always stays highlighted on the grid, so you always know where you are. Because of this dual function, you can switch focus between slots and control playback without ever leaving the sequencer view.
Sequencer Loop
The sequencer loop button sits in the top right area of the grid. When you enable it, the Traktor step sequencer repeats the current pattern continuously in sync with Traktor’s master clock. If you disable loop mode, however, the sequence stops after the current cycle completes. This is therefore useful for one-shot pattern drops, especially during transitions between tracks.
Step Presets — Per Sample Slot
Each of the four sample slots has its own set of step presets, shown as a small button cluster next to the main pad grid. Specifically, the layout is as follows:
- Step presets for sample slot 1 — top left controller
- Step presets for sample slot 2 — top right controller
- Step presets for sample slot 3 — bottom left controller
- Step presets for sample slot 4 — bottom right controller
With step presets, you can instantly recall saved sequencer patterns for each slot independently. As a result, you can keep a different pattern ready for each slot and switch between them in real time — without reprogramming the grid. Furthermore, the presets work per slot, so changing the preset on slot 1 never affects slots 2, 3, or 4. This means all four slots remain fully independent at all times.
Number of Steps
The number of steps control appears in the lower section of the grid, marked in red. It sets how many steps the Traktor step sequencer runs through before looping. For example, reducing the step count creates shorter, more repetitive patterns. On the other hand, increasing it produces longer, evolving sequences. In both cases, this control works independently for each sample slot, so you can combine different lengths across slots simultaneously.
Shuffle Modes
AIO3 gives you four distinct shuffle modes, and each one affects the timing feel of the sequence differently. In total, there are two back-swing modes and two forward-push modes to choose from:
| Shuffle Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Shuffle (long attack back) | Delays the attack with a long swing back — deep, lazy groove |
| Shuffle (short attack back) | Shorter delay on the attack swing back — tighter groove |
| Shuffle (short attack) | Pushes the attack forward slightly — punchy, forward feel |
| Shuffle (long attack) | Strong forward push on the attack — aggressive swing |
You select shuffle modes from the bottom row of buttons below the main pad grid. Moreover, you can switch shuffle types on the fly while the sequencer runs. This therefore allows for real-time groove adjustments during a mix, without stopping or reprogramming anything.
Up / Down — Change Sample in Selected Slot
The up/down buttons scroll through the samples in the currently selected slot. Consequently, you can change which sample the Traktor step sequencer triggers without stopping playback. This is especially useful when you want to swap between different loops, one-shots, or sound effects while the pattern keeps running. In other words, the sequencer continues playing while you browse samples in the background.
Slot Mixer — Level, Mute, Filter, FX
The slot mixer sits in the bottom right area of the grid and gives you per-slot mixing controls directly from the Maschine Jam. Specifically, it includes the following parameters:
- Level — sets the volume of the selected sample slot
- Mute — silences the slot without stopping the sequencer
- Filter — applies a filter to the slot output in real time
- FX — sends the slot through Traktor’s effect chain
Thanks to the slot mixer, you can handle all mix adjustments across all four sequencer slots in one place. As a result, you never need to switch to a separate mixer view during a live performance.
AIO3 Traktor Step Sequencer — Controls at a Glance
| Control | Function |
|---|---|
| Step sequencer grid | Program and edit steps per slot |
| Play/stop (select slot) | Start/stop sequencer + switch active slot |
| Sequencer loop | Loop the current pattern continuously |
| Step presets (slots 1–4) | Save and recall patterns per slot |
| Number of steps | Set sequence length |
| Shuffle (4 modes) | Control timing groove and swing |
| Up/Down | Change sample in selected slot |
| Slot mixer | Level, mute, filter, FX per slot |
Ready to use the AIO3 Traktor step sequencer in your live set? Get the full AIO3 mapping and take complete control of Traktor Pro from your Maschine Jam.
Published by Bruno Gum | PROMOTEUS — Maschine Jam mappings for Traktor Pro