Roland Verselab MV-1 vs. EMU SP-1200 (Reissued in 2021): A Head-to-Head Comparison

Summary: The Roland Verselab MV-1 and the EMU SP-1200 (reissued in 2021) are two very different samplers from different eras, both reimagined for today’s music producers. While the Roland Verselab MV-1 is a modern, all-in-one groovebox designed for convenience and versatility, the EMU SP-1200 is a nostalgic nod to the past with its classic lo-fi charm. This article will help you decide which one might be the best fit for you.

Introduction

Welcome to the world of samplers! If you’re exploring music production, samplers are essential tools that let you capture sounds and turn them into something new and exciting. In this post, we’re diving into two unique samplers: the Roland Verselab MV-1 and the EMU SP-1200 (Reissued in 2021). These two gadgets might seem similar because they’re both samplers, but they have some pretty big differences. Let’s explore these differences and see which one might be your new music-making buddy!

Roland Verselab MV-1: The Modern Groovebox

Features and Capabilities

The Roland Verselab MV-1 is like a futuristic spaceship for music-making. Released in 2021, it brings modern technology into a compact groovebox. With polyphony of 128 voices, you can create complex and layered tracks without breaking a sweat. It captures sounds at a sample rate of 44.1kHz, which is the same quality as CDs, ensuring your music sounds crisp and clear.

One of the coolest things about the MV-1 is its storage. It uses SD cards, which means you can have tons of space to save your sounds and projects. Although it doesn’t have pads, it does have a sequencer that helps you arrange your music into patterns and songs.

The MV-1 also comes with a bunch of effects like EQ, Reverb, and Delay, allowing you to shape your sounds in various ways. It’s got a handy LCD display, making it easy to see what you’re doing. Plus, it integrates smoothly with Roland Software, so you can work seamlessly between hardware and software.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Versatile and Modern: With 128 polyphony and a high sample rate, it’s perfect for complex productions.
• Expandability: SD card storage means you can easily expand your library of sounds.
• User-Friendly Interface: The LCD display and Roland Software integration make it accessible to beginners.

Cons:

• No Pads: Some users might miss having tactile pads for triggering samples.
• Price: At $500, it’s more affordable than some, but still a considerable investment.

EMU SP-1200 (Reissued in 2021): The Classic Reborn

Features and Capabilities

The EMU SP-1200 is like a time machine that takes you back to the early days of hip-hop and electronic music. Originally released in the 1980s, the 2021 reissue retains much of its classic charm with a few modern tweaks. With a polyphony of 12 voices, it might not handle as many simultaneous sounds as the MV-1, but that’s part of its vintage appeal.

Its sample rate is 26.04kHz, which gives it that lo-fi sound that many producers love. Unlike the MV-1, it doesn’t have external storage; instead, it relies on internal memory, which is quite limited by today’s standards. However, this limitation is what gives the SP-1200 its distinctive sound.

The SP-1200 doesn’t have a screen, which might seem odd, but it’s all about tactile, hands-on control. It doesn’t integrate with software, but it does have a unique set of lo-fi effects that add character to your music.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Vintage Sound: Its lo-fi sample rate is perfect for producers seeking that classic sound.
• Hands-On Experience: The lack of a screen encourages a more intuitive, tactile approach to music-making.
• Iconic Design: It’s a piece of music history, reimagined for modern producers.

Cons:

• Limited Polyphony and Storage: Only 12 voices and no external storage can be restrictive.
• Pricey: At $1500, it’s a significant investment for a reissue of a classic machine.

Feature Comparison

When it comes to features, the Roland Verselab MV-1 and the EMU SP-1200 cater to different needs. The MV-1 is all about modern convenience, with its high polyphony and SD card storage. This makes it suitable for creating rich, layered compositions without worrying about running out of space.

The EMU SP-1200, on the other hand, offers a nostalgic experience. Its limited polyphony and internal memory might seem like downsides, but they contribute to its unique sound. The SP-1200’s lo-fi effects and lack of a screen challenge users to rely on their ears and creativity, rather than visual cues.

Pros and Cons Summary

Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of each device:

Roland Verselab MV-1

• Pros: Versatile, high polyphony, expandable storage, user-friendly.
• Cons: No pads, relatively expensive.

EMU SP-1200

• Pros: Vintage sound, tactile experience, iconic design.
• Cons: Limited polyphony, no external storage, high price.

The Final Verdict: Which One is Right for You?

If you love modern technology and want a sampler that’s versatile and easy to use, the Roland Verselab MV-1 is a great choice. It’s perfect for producers who want to create complex projects without any hassle. Its integration with Roland Software makes it a great option for those who enjoy working with both hardware and software.

On the other hand, if you’re a fan of classic sounds and enjoy a hands-on approach, the EMU SP-1200 (Reissued in 2021) might be the perfect fit. It’s ideal for producers who want to capture the lo-fi magic of the past and aren’t afraid to embrace its limitations.

In the end, both samplers offer unique experiences. Whether you choose the modern convenience of the MV-1 or the nostalgic charm of the SP-1200, you’re sure to have a blast making music with these incredible tools.