Korg Volca Sample 2 vs Elektron Model:Samples: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Summary: In this post, we’ll explore two popular samplers: the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Elektron Model:Samples. We’ll compare their features, pros, and cons to help you decide which one might be the best fit for your music-making needs.

Introduction

Are you ready to make some amazing music? Sampling is a fun way to do it! By using samples, you can create beats and songs with real-world sounds. Today, we’re going to look at two cool machines that help you do just that: the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Elektron Model:Samples. Both are great tools for turning your musical ideas into reality, but they have some differences. Let’s dive in and see what makes each one special!

Features Comparison

Size and Portability

The Korg Volca Sample 2 is all about portability. It’s small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. This is perfect for musicians who like to make music on the go. You can take it to a friend’s house, a cafe, or even a park. It’s like having a mini music studio in your backpack!

On the other hand, the Elektron Model:Samples is a bit bigger. It’s designed for desktop use, which means it might not fit as easily into a small bag. But don’t worry—it’s still light enough to move around if you need to, just maybe not as easily as the Volca.

Polyphony and Sound Quality

Polyphony is a fancy word that tells us how many sounds a machine can play at once. The Korg Volca Sample 2 has 16 voices of polyphony, which means you can layer lots of sounds together to create rich, full music. Its sample rate is 44.1kHz, which is CD quality—pretty decent for a small machine.

The Elektron Model:Samples has a polyphony of 6 voices. Even though this is less than the Volca, it still allows for creative layering of sounds. Its sample rate is a bit higher at 48kHz, which means the sound quality is a notch above the Volca. If sound details are important to you, the Model:Samples might have the edge here.

Sequencing and Effects

Both samplers come with built-in sequencers. This means you can create patterns of sounds and play them back in any order you like. The Volca Sample 2 has a 16-step sequencer, which is perfect for building simple to complex rhythms.

The Elektron Model:Samples also has a sequencer, but it stands out with its extra effects. You get distortion, filter effects, and a global delay and reverb send. These effects give you more ways to shape your sound and make it unique.

Connectivity and Integration

Connectivity is how you hook up your sampler to other gear. The Korg Volca Sample 2 has MIDI In and Audio Out ports. This allows you to connect it to other MIDI devices, like keyboards, and send the sound to speakers or headphones. However, it doesn’t have deep software integration.

The Elektron Model:Samples offers a bit more in terms of connectivity. It has a 1/4 inch headphone output, two balanced 1/4 inch main outputs, and a 3.5mm TRS jack for MIDI in/out. Plus, it has a USB mini 2.0 port for connecting to a computer. It also comes with Elektron Transfer software, which makes it easier to load samples and manage your sounds.

Interface and Usability

The Korg Volca Sample 2 uses buttons instead of pads, and it has LED indicators to show you what’s happening. While it doesn’t have a screen, its straightforward design makes it pretty easy to use. You’ll be tapping out beats in no time!

The Elektron Model:Samples uses buttons too, but it also has a 128 x 64 pixel LCD screen. This screen gives you more information and helps you navigate the machine more easily. If you like having a visual guide, this could be a big plus.

Pros and Cons

Korg Volca Sample 2

Pros:

• Highly portable and easy to carry
• Affordable price at $149
• 16 voices of polyphony for rich sound layers
• Simple interface, great for beginners

Cons:

• Limited connectivity options
• No screen for visual feedback
• Lacks deep software integration

Elektron Model:Samples

Pros:

• Higher sound quality with 48kHz sample rate
• Offers a variety of effects for sound shaping
• Good connectivity with multiple outputs and USB
• Includes a screen for easy navigation

Cons:

• Less portable due to larger size
• Higher price at $349
• Only 6 voices of polyphony

Conclusion

Both the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Elektron Model:Samples are fantastic tools for making music with samples. They each have their strengths and weaknesses, so the best choice depends on what you need.

The Volca Sample 2 is perfect for those who want a simple, affordable, and portable sampler. It’s great for beginners and musicians who like to create music anywhere they go.

The Model:Samples is ideal for those who want higher sound quality and more effects. Its screen and better connectivity make it a good fit for more experienced users who want to integrate it into a larger setup.

In the end, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, both of these samplers can help you make amazing music. Choose the one that fits your style and start creating your beats today!