Battle of the Samplers: Elektron Digitakt vs. Korg Volca Sample 2

Summary: The Elektron Digitakt and the Korg Volca Sample 2 are two popular samplers with distinct features. This comparison will help you decide which one suits your musical needs.

Introduction

Are you ready to dive into the world of samplers? Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting, samplers can open up a new universe of sound possibilities. Today, we’re comparing two popular models: the Elektron Digitakt and the Korg Volca Sample 2. Both of these devices have their unique strengths, and we’re here to help you figure out which one fits your style best.

Meet the Elektron Digitakt

The Elektron Digitakt is a powerful drum machine and sampler. It was released in 2017 and has since become a favorite for many musicians. With its compact design and deep sequencing features, it’s perfect for creating complex rhythms and beats.

Features of the Elektron Digitakt

• Polyphony and Sound Quality: The Digitakt offers 8-voice polyphony, which means you can play up to eight different sounds at the same time. It also has a high sample rate of 48kHz, giving you crisp and clear audio quality.

• Storage and Interface: It comes with internal storage and uses buttons for control. The OLED display provides a clear view of your settings and samples, making it easy to navigate through its features.

• Effects and Connectivity: The Digitakt includes reverb and delay effects, adding depth to your sound. Plus, it has extensive connectivity options with MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, and audio out, making it easy to integrate into your existing setup.

• Software Integration: With Elektron Transfer, you can easily manage your samples and sequences. This makes it a breeze to transfer sounds between your computer and the sampler.

• Build and Price: It’s a desktop unit, solidly built, and priced at $700. While it’s on the pricier side, many users find its features justify the cost.

Meet the Korg Volca Sample 2

The Korg Volca Sample 2, launched in 2020, is a portable sampler that builds on the success of its predecessor. It’s compact and easy to carry around, making it ideal for musicians on the go.

Features of the Korg Volca Sample 2

• Polyphony and Sound Quality: The Volca Sample 2 boasts 16-voice polyphony, allowing for more complex sound layering compared to the Digitakt. Its sample rate is slightly lower at 44.1kHz, but it still delivers good sound quality for most applications.

• Storage and Interface: Like the Digitakt, it uses buttons instead of pads and has internal memory for storing samples. However, it features LED indicators instead of a screen, which some users might find less intuitive.

• Effects and Connectivity: This sampler also includes reverb and delay effects. Its connectivity is more limited, with MIDI In and audio out, but no USB or MIDI Thru.

• Software Integration: Unlike the Digitakt, the Volca Sample 2 doesn’t offer software integration. This means you can’t directly transfer samples from your computer, which may be a drawback for some users.

• Build and Price: It’s a portable unit, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. At $200, it’s much more affordable than the Digitakt, making it a great choice for beginners or those on a budget.

Pros and Cons

Elektron Digitakt

Pros:

• High-quality audio with a 48kHz sample rate.
• Extensive connectivity options make it versatile.
• Deep sequencing capabilities.
• OLED display for easy navigation.
• Integration with Elektron Transfer for easy sample management.

Cons:

• Higher price point at $700.
• Only 8-voice polyphony, limiting sound layering.
• Desktop build, less portable than the Volca Sample 2.

Korg Volca Sample 2

Pros:

• Affordable price at $200.
• 16-voice polyphony allows for complex layering.
• Portable and easy to carry around.
• Simple setup and user-friendly for beginners.

Cons:

• Lower sample rate at 44.1kHz.
• Limited connectivity options.
• No software integration for sample management.
• LED indicators can be less intuitive than a screen.

Final Verdict

Both the Elektron Digitakt and the Korg Volca Sample 2 offer unique features that cater to different needs. The Elektron Digitakt is best for those who need high-quality audio, extensive connectivity, and deep sequencing capabilities. However, it comes at a higher price and is less portable.

On the other hand, the Korg Volca Sample 2 is an excellent choice for beginners or musicians who need a portable and affordable sampler. It offers more polyphony and is easy to take on the go, though at the cost of some advanced features.

Choose the Digitakt if you want a powerful, feature-rich sampler for serious music production. Opt for the Volca Sample 2 if you’re looking for an affordable, portable option that’s great for live performances and quick setups. Whatever you choose, both samplers are sure to expand your musical creativity.