Korg Volca Sample 2 —  VS  — Polyend Tracker

Korg Volca Sample 2 vs. Polyend Tracker: A Sampler Showdown

Summary:
This blog post compares two popular music samplers: the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Polyend Tracker. Discover the differences in features, design, and price to see which one might be the right choice for you!

Introduction

Welcome to the exciting world of music sampling! If you’re a music enthusiast looking to create your own beats and tunes, samplers are fantastic tools to have in your arsenal. Today, we’re diving deep into two intriguing samplers: the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Polyend Tracker. Both launched in 2020, they bring unique features to the table, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, this comparison will help you decide which sampler suits your style best.

Feature Comparisons

Design and Build

When it comes to design, the Korg Volca Sample 2 is all about portability. It’s small, light, and easy to carry around, perfect for musicians on the go. This sampler uses buttons instead of pads, with LED indicators to show you what’s happening. It’s simple and straightforward, making it an excellent choice for those who want to jump right into music-making without fussing over complicated setups.

On the other hand, the Polyend Tracker is a tracker-style sampler with a more robust build. It sports an LCD display, providing a more visual and interactive experience. This sampler is larger and not as portable as the Volca Sample 2, but it offers a unique sequencing approach that appeals to users who enjoy a more traditional tracker-style interface.

Sound and Polyphony

The Korg Volca Sample 2 offers 16-note polyphony, which is quite impressive for its compact size. It can handle multiple sounds at once, allowing you to create rich and layered tracks. The sample rate is 44.1kHz, providing clear and crisp sound quality.

In contrast, the Polyend Tracker boasts a whopping 64-note polyphony, enabling even more complex and lush compositions. Like the Volca Sample 2, it also offers a sample rate of 44.1kHz, ensuring high-quality audio output. If you’re looking to create intricate soundscapes, the Polyend Tracker might be more up your alley.

Storage and Integration

Storage-wise, the Korg Volca Sample 2 relies on internal memory, which might limit the number of samples you can store. It doesn’t offer software integration, which means you might need to do some extra work if you want to transfer samples from your computer.

The Polyend Tracker, however, uses a microSD card for storage, offering much more space for your samples. It also doesn’t have software integration, but the use of a microSD card makes it easier to manage and transfer samples between devices. This could be a deciding factor if you plan to work with a large library of sounds.

Sequencer and Effects

Both samplers come with built-in sequencers, allowing you to create and arrange your music directly on the device. The Korg Volca Sample 2 includes reverb and delay effects, adding depth and atmosphere to your tracks.

Meanwhile, the Polyend Tracker offers a broader range of effects, giving you more options to experiment with your sound. Its tracker-style sequencer is unique and might appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional approach to sequencing.

Connectivity and Price

In terms of connectivity, the Korg Volca Sample 2 features MIDI In and Audio Out, which is sufficient for basic setups. It’s priced at an affordable $200, making it a budget-friendly option for beginners or those looking to expand their gear without breaking the bank.

The Polyend Tracker, however, provides more connectivity options with MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out. This flexibility comes at a higher price point of $1200, which might be a consideration for those with a tighter budget. But for those who need more connectivity options, the investment might be worth it.

Pros and Cons

Korg Volca Sample 2

Pros:

• Affordable and budget-friendly
• Portable and easy to carry
• Simple interface with LED indicators
• Good sound quality with 16-note polyphony

Cons:

• Limited storage with internal memory
• Basic connectivity options
• No software integration

Polyend Tracker

Pros:

• High polyphony with 64 notes
• Large storage capacity with microSD card
• Wide range of effects
• Multiple connectivity options

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Less portable due to larger size
• More complex interface for beginners

Final Verdict

So, which sampler is right for you? If you’re just starting out or need something portable and straightforward, the Korg Volca Sample 2 is an excellent choice. It’s affordable and easy to use, perfect for getting your feet wet in the world of sampling.

However, if you’re a more advanced user looking for a versatile and robust sampler, the Polyend Tracker might be the better option. Its extensive features and connectivity options make it ideal for those who want to dive deep into music production.

In the end, both samplers offer fantastic capabilities to fuel your creativity. Whether you choose the Volca Sample 2 or the Polyend Tracker, you’re sure to have a blast making music!