1010music Blackbox —  VS  — Polyend Tracker

A Quick Look at the 1010music Blackbox and the Polyend Tracker

If you’re a music enthusiast looking to dive into the world of samplers, you’ve probably come across the 1010music Blackbox and the Polyend Tracker. Both are fantastic devices, each with their own unique strengths. But how do you decide which one is right for you? Let’s break it down!

Introduction

Imagine you’re in a candy store, but instead of candy, it’s filled with shiny new music gadgets. That’s what it feels like when choosing between the 1010music Blackbox and the Polyend Tracker. These two samplers are like musical superheroes, each with their own powers and abilities. In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes each one special, helping you decide which sampler is your perfect musical sidekick.

Meet the Heroes: 1010music Blackbox and Polyend Tracker

1010music Blackbox

The 1010music Blackbox is a compact and versatile standalone sampler. Launched in 2019 by 1010music, this device is known for its intuitive workflow. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with a polyphony of 128 voices, allowing you to create complex musical layers. It operates at a sample rate of 44.1kHz and stores your creations on a MicroSD card. While it doesn’t feature traditional pads, it uses buttons and encoders to give you precise control over your music. Plus, it comes with multiple effects to enhance your sound. With MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, connectivity is a breeze. The LCD display makes navigation simple, though it doesn’t integrate with any software. The Blackbox is priced at $850, offering a compact and efficient music-making experience.

Polyend Tracker

The Polyend Tracker, released in 2020, takes a different approach. This tracker-style sampler is unique, offering a different way to sequence your music. With a polyphony of 64 voices, it might seem like it has less power than the Blackbox, but it makes up for it with its innovative sequencing capabilities. Like the Blackbox, it operates at 44.1kHz and uses a MicroSD card for storage. The Tracker also uses buttons for input and features multiple effects to color your sound. Its MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out ensure you can connect with other devices easily. Its LCD display and standalone build make it a robust tool for music creation. At a price of $1200, it offers a unique and engaging way to craft your tunes.

Feature Face-Off

Sound and Polyphony

When it comes to sound, both samplers operate at the same sample rate of 44.1kHz. However, the 1010music Blackbox stands out with a polyphony of 128 voices, allowing for more complex and layered compositions. The Polyend Tracker, with 64 voices, offers less polyphony but compensates with its distinctive sequencing style, which can lead to creative outcomes that might not be possible with a traditional sampler.

Storage and Workflow

Both devices use a MicroSD card for storage, making it easy to manage and transfer your samples. The Blackbox is praised for its intuitive workflow, allowing users to dive straight into music creation without feeling overwhelmed. The Polyend Tracker, on the other hand, offers a unique tracker-style sequencing approach. This can be both exciting and challenging, especially for those new to tracker-style music production.

Controls and User Experience

Neither sampler features traditional pads. The Blackbox uses buttons and encoders, providing a straightforward and hands-on experience. The Polyend Tracker also relies on buttons, but its tracker-style interface requires a different mindset and approach. For some, this might be a thrilling adventure; for others, it could be a steep learning curve.

Effects and Connectivity

Both samplers come equipped with multiple effects, allowing you to shape and mold your sounds to fit your vision. Connectivity is similar as well, with MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out available on both devices. This ensures you can easily integrate them into your existing setup without any hassle.

Pros and Cons

1010music Blackbox

Pros:

• High polyphony of 128 voices
• Intuitive and user-friendly workflow
• Compact and portable design
• Multiple effects for sound shaping

Cons:

• No traditional pads for input
• No software integration
• Higher learning curve for beginners

Polyend Tracker

Pros:

• Unique tracker-style sequencing
• Engaging and innovative approach
• Multiple effects available
• Robust standalone build

Cons:

• Lower polyphony compared to Blackbox
• Tracker-style sequencing may be challenging for some
• Higher price point

Who Are These Samplers For?

1010music Blackbox

The 1010music Blackbox is perfect for musicians who value a straightforward and intuitive workflow. If you’re someone who loves creating layered compositions and wants a compact device that can easily fit into any setup, the Blackbox is your go-to choice. It’s also great for those who prefer a no-fuss approach to music-making.

Polyend Tracker

The Polyend Tracker is for the adventurous musician who craves something different. If you’re excited by the idea of a unique sequencing method and don’t mind spending some time learning a new system, the Tracker can be incredibly rewarding. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy experimenting with innovative music production techniques.

Final Verdict

Choosing between the 1010music Blackbox and the Polyend Tracker ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and musical goals. Both are powerful tools capable of bringing your musical ideas to life. The Blackbox offers a more traditional and straightforward approach, while the Tracker provides an innovative and engaging experience.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a compact and intuitive sampler with high polyphony, go for the Blackbox. If you’re seeking a unique and creative sequencing experience, the Tracker is your best bet. Whichever you choose, both samplers are sure to inspire your musical journey.