Elektron Model:Samples —  VS  — Korg Volca Sample

Korg Volca Sample vs. Elektron Model:Samples: A Comprehensive Comparison

Summary:
This article compares the Korg Volca Sample and the Elektron Model:Samples, two popular samplers for music enthusiasts. We will explore their features, pros, and cons to help you decide which one might be the perfect fit for your musical journey.

Introduction

Are you a budding music producer or just someone who loves to create beats and grooves? If so, samplers are excellent tools to add to your arsenal. Today, we will dive into two exciting samplers: the Korg Volca Sample and the Elektron Model:Samples. These machines are small, fun, and perfect for making music on the go. Let’s see how they stack up against each other!

Feature Comparison

Design and Build

The Korg Volca Sample is a portable sampler, making it easy to carry around wherever you go. It’s a small, hands-on drum machine that doesn’t have pads but uses buttons to play sounds. This compact design makes it super easy to throw in your backpack and take to your next jam session.

In contrast, the Elektron Model:Samples is a bit larger and designed for desktop use. It’s also highly portable but offers a more substantial feel with its big buttons for a more tactile experience. This design might appeal to those who like a more robust piece of equipment that sits firmly on their workspace.

Sounds and Storage

When it comes to sound, the Korg Volca Sample lets you play, tweak, and sequence up to 100 custom sounds. It has an internal memory that can store these sounds, but you can only load new samples using a special iOS app, which might be a bit limiting for some users.

The Elektron Model:Samples, on the other hand, offers six sound tracks and allows you to use the included sounds or add your own. It has a larger storage capacity and uses Elektron Transfer software to load samples, making it easier for users to manage their sound libraries.

Effects and Sequencing

Both devices are equipped with sequencers, allowing you to build your beats and grooves. The Korg Volca Sample comes with reverb and delay effects, which are great for adding depth and texture to your music. It also includes a powerful analog isolator and song mode for more creative control.

The Elektron Model:Samples, however, takes it a step further with distortion, filter effects, and a global delay and reverb send. These effects provide more options for shaping your sound and can be a deciding factor for those who love to experiment with different audio textures.

Connectivity and Integration

In terms of connectivity, the Korg Volca Sample has MIDI In and Audio Out ports, making it easy to connect to other devices. However, it lacks modern connectivity options like USB, which are available in the updated Volca Sample 2.

The Elektron Model:Samples offers more comprehensive connectivity with 1/4 inch headphone output, 2x balanced 1/4 inch main outputs, a 3.5mm TRS jack for MIDI in/out, and a USB mini 2.0 port. It also supports software integration with Elektron Transfer, allowing for a smoother workflow when managing samples.

Display and User Interface

The Korg Volca Sample uses LED indicators for its display, which might be sufficient for basic operations but can be limited for more detailed visual feedback.

In contrast, the Elektron Model:Samples features a 128 x 64 pixel LCD screen, providing a clearer and more informative interface. This screen makes it easier to navigate through different menus and settings, which can enhance the overall user experience.

Pros and Cons

Korg Volca Sample

Pros:

• Highly portable and lightweight
• Affordable price point at $149
• Fun and easy sequencer
• Offers reverb and delay effects

Cons:

• Limited connectivity options
• Requires a special iOS app for loading samples
• LED indicators may not provide sufficient feedback

Elektron Model:Samples

Pros:

• Comprehensive connectivity options
• Large LCD screen for easy navigation
• Includes distortion, filter effects, and global delay/reverb
• Supports software integration with Elektron Transfer

Cons:

• Higher price at $349
• Slightly less portable due to its desktop build
• Only 6 tracks of polyphony compared to Volca’s 16

Conclusion

In summary, both the Korg Volca Sample and Elektron Model:Samples offer unique features that cater to different needs. The Volca Sample is excellent for those who want an affordable, portable sampler with a straightforward workflow. Meanwhile, the Model:Samples provides more advanced features and connectivity, making it suitable for users who want a more versatile and integrated music-making experience.

Final Verdict

If you’re just starting out or need a simple, portable solution, the Korg Volca Sample is a great choice. It’s budget-friendly and lets you create music quickly and easily. However, if you’re looking for a more robust tool with better connectivity and effects, the Elektron Model:Samples is worth the investment. It offers more depth for those looking to expand their musical capabilities.

Whichever you choose, both samplers provide exciting opportunities to explore your creativity and take your music production to new heights!