Elektron Octatrack MKII —  VS  — Sonicware Liven Lofi-12

A Quick Overview

The Elektron Octatrack MKII and Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 are two very different samplers, each offering unique features for music enthusiasts. The Octatrack MKII is a powerful and versatile tool with professional-grade capabilities, while the Lofi-12 is a compact and affordable groovebox that specializes in lo-fi sounds. Let’s explore what makes each of these devices special and help you decide which one might be the best fit for your music creation needs.

An Engaging Introduction

Hello, music lovers! Are you ready to dive into the world of music-making with two exciting samplers? Meet the Elektron Octatrack MKII and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12. These samplers are like magical boxes that can take sounds and turn them into songs. Whether you love high-quality audio or enjoy the charming sound of old-school lo-fi music, there’s something here for everyone. So, grab your headphones and let’s get started!

Feature Comparisons

Design and Build

The Elektron Octatrack MKII is a desktop powerhouse. It’s built to withstand the rigors of studio and stage with its robust design and high-quality materials. This sampler looks and feels professional, with an OLED display that provides clear visual feedback. It’s perfect for serious musicians who need reliable equipment.

On the other hand, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 is a compact lo-fi groovebox. It’s lightweight and portable, making it great for musicians who are always on the move. Its LED display isn’t as fancy as the Octatrack’s, but it gets the job done. The Lofi-12 is designed for those who love simplicity and ease of use.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is where these two samplers start to differ significantly. The Octatrack MKII offers a 48kHz sample rate, delivering crisp and clear audio. This makes it ideal for professional music production where high-quality sound is crucial.

In contrast, the Lofi-12 offers a 12kHz/24kHz sample rate. While this might not seem high, it’s perfect for creating that vintage, dusty sound that many lo-fi enthusiasts crave. The Lofi-12 embraces its limitations to deliver unique, character-rich audio.

Polyphony and Sequencing

When it comes to polyphony, the Lofi-12 has a slight edge with 10 voices compared to the Octatrack’s 8. This means you can play more notes simultaneously on the Lofi-12, which is great for complex compositions.

Both devices feature powerful sequencers. The Octatrack has a versatile sequencer with advanced capabilities, while the Lofi-12 offers a straightforward 64-step sequencer. The Lofi-12’s sequencer is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for beginners to start building tracks.

Effects and Manipulation

The Octatrack MKII is loaded with effects like filters, delay, and reverb. These effects allow users to manipulate sounds in creative ways, making it a versatile tool for sound design and live performances.

The Lofi-12, meanwhile, includes effects like delay, reverb, bit crusher, and EQ. These effects are perfect for creating lo-fi textures and adding character to your beats. The bit crusher is especially useful for achieving that gritty, vintage sound.

Connectivity and Integration

Connectivity is another area where these samplers cater to different needs. The Octatrack MKII features extensive I/O options, including MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, and audio inputs and outputs. This makes it a great hub for integrating with other gear in a studio setup.

The Lofi-12 has more basic connectivity options, with line in/out, MIDI In/Out, a headphone jack, and USB. While it lacks the extensive integration features of the Octatrack, it’s still capable of connecting to essential gear for a live performance or small studio setup.

Pads and Controls

The Octatrack MKII doesn’t have pads. Instead, it relies on encoders and buttons for control. This might take some time to get used to, but it offers precise control over every aspect of your sound.

The Lofi-12 features a 4x4 pad matrix with 16 pads. This makes it easy to tap out beats and trigger samples. The pads are a huge plus for those who prefer a tactile approach to music-making.

Pros and Cons

Elektron Octatrack MKII

Pros:

• High-quality 48kHz sample rate
• Robust build and professional design
• Extensive effects and sound manipulation capabilities
• Comprehensive I/O for studio integration
• OLED display for clear feedback

Cons:

• Higher price point ($1799)
• No pads, which might not suit everyone
• Steeper learning curve

Sonicware Liven Lofi-12

Pros:

• Affordable price ($239)
• Compact and portable design
• 16 pads for easy beat-making
• Unique lo-fi sound character
• User-friendly 64-step sequencer

Cons:

• Lower sample rate may not suit all genres
• Limited connectivity options
• Basic LED display

Final Verdict

In summary, both the Elektron Octatrack MKII and Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 are excellent samplers, but they cater to different audiences. The Elektron Octatrack MKII is ideal for professional musicians and producers who need a high-quality, versatile tool for studio and live performances. Its extensive features and robust build justify its higher price.

On the other hand, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 is perfect for beginner and intermediate musicians who love lo-fi sounds and want a fun, affordable sampler. Its simplicity and portability make it a great choice for on-the-go music-making.

Ultimately, the right sampler for you will depend on your musical needs and budget. Whether you’re crafting polished studio tracks or creating lo-fi beats, there’s a sampler out there that’s just right for you.