Which Sampler Should You Choose: The Korg Volca Sample 2 or the Polyend Play+?

Summary: Are you trying to decide between the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Polyend Play+? Both are fantastic samplers, but they have different features and uses. This blog will help you choose the one that is right for you by comparing their features, pros, and cons.

Introduction

Making music with samplers is super fun! They let you play with cool sounds and make your own beats. Today, we’re comparing two awesome samplers: the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Polyend Play+. They both help you create music, but they do it in different ways. Which one is best for you? Let’s find out!

The Battle of the Samplers

Both the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Polyend Play+ are popular samplers. But they have unique features that make them special. Let’s dive in and see what each one has to offer!

Korg Volca Sample 2

The Korg Volca Sample 2 is a small, portable drum machine that came out in 2020. It’s great for making beats anywhere you go. It’s light and easy to carry, so you can create music on the bus, at the park, or even at home in your bedroom. It uses real sounds, called samples, and lets you build patterns with its 16-step sequencer.

• Polyphony: The Volca Sample 2 has 16 voices of polyphony. This means it can play 16 different sounds at the same time. That’s a lot of cool beats you can make!
• Sample Rate: It has a sample rate of 44.1kHz, which is pretty standard and sounds good.
• Storage: It comes with internal memory. You don’t need extra cards to store your sounds.
• Pads: This sampler doesn’t have pads. Instead, it uses buttons to play the sounds.
• Effects: You can add reverb and delay effects to your sounds, making them even cooler.
• I/O: It has MIDI In and Audio Out connections. You can connect it to other instruments or a computer.
• Screen: It uses LED indicators to show you what’s happening.
• Software Integration: It doesn’t have software integration, but you can connect it to a computer with USB for better control.
• Build: It’s very portable and easy to use.
• Price: At only $149, it’s an affordable choice for beginners.

Polyend Play+

The Polyend Play+ is a modern, standalone groovebox sampler that was released in 2023. It’s a powerhouse for electronic music producers and live performers. It’s packed with advanced features that allow for creative sequencing and performance.

• Polyphony: The Play+ has 8 voices of polyphony. While that’s less than the Volca, it still lets you layer sounds creatively.
• Sample Rate: It supports a 44.1kHz / 16-bit sample rate for high-quality sound.
• Storage: You can use a MicroSD card for storage, which means you can have tons of sounds ready to go!
• Pads: It features an 8x8 velocity-sensitive pad grid. This is great for playing beats with your fingers.
• Effects: You can use reverb, delay, overdrive, EQ, and master effects. That’s a lot of ways to change your sounds!
• I/O: It has Stereo In, Stereo Out, MIDI In/Out/Thru, and USB-C connections. It’s super versatile!
• Screen: The Play+ has a high-res color display, making it easy to see what you’re doing.
• Software Integration: It offers drag-and-drop sample management via USB, which is super handy.
• Build: It’s built as a modern groovebox, perfect for live performances.
• Price: At $799, it’s more expensive, but you get a lot of features.

Pros and Cons

Korg Volca Sample 2 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Portable: Easy to carry and use anywhere.
• Affordable: At just $149, it’s great for beginners and budget-conscious musicians.
• Fun Effects: You can add reverb and delay to your sounds.
• Simple to Use: With buttons instead of pads, it’s easy to learn.

Cons:

• No Pads: Some people might miss having pads to play with.
• Limited Storage: Internal memory can fill up quickly.
• No Software Integration: Limited in terms of connecting with computer software.

Polyend Play+ Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Advanced Features: Lots of effects and a big pad grid for creative music-making.
• High-Quality Sound: 44.1kHz / 16-bit sample rate ensures great sound.
• Versatile I/O: Many connections for different uses.
• Great for Performances: Built for live shows and studio use.

Cons:

• Expensive: At $799, it’s a bigger investment.
• Less Portable: While still portable, it’s larger and more complex than the Volca.
• Requires Learning: With more features comes a steeper learning curve.

Who Are They Best For?

The Korg Volca Sample 2 is perfect for beginners and those who want a fun, easy-to-use sampler. It’s great for making beats on the go and doesn’t cost too much. If you’re just starting out or need a portable option, the Volca is a great choice.

The Polyend Play+, on the other hand, is best for experienced musicians and producers. If you want to perform live or create detailed electronic music in the studio, the Play+ offers all the advanced features you need. It’s an investment, but it gives you a lot of tools for creativity.

Conclusion

Both the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Polyend Play+ are amazing samplers, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Volca Sample 2 is ideal for beginners and those needing a lightweight, portable solution. The Polyend Play+ is designed for pros who want a feature-rich tool for live performances and advanced music production. Choose the one that fits your needs and start making great music today!