Korg Volca Sample 2 — VS — Sonicware Liven Lofi-12
Korg Volca Sample 2
The Korg Volca Sample 2 is a small but powerful drum machine that lets you make music with real sounds, called samples. It's easy to carry, fun to use, and perfect for creating beats anywhere. This updated version gives you more memory to hold longer sounds, better connection with your computer using USB, and a fresh set of sounds to play with. You can build patterns with the 16-step sequencer, add effects like reverb, and even connect headphones or play through the built-in speaker. It's a great tool for beatmakers who want hands-on fun without a big setup.
Sonicware Liven Lofi-12
The Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 is a dedicated lo-fi sampling groovebox inspired by vintage samplers. It features 12-bit sampling, real-time performance effects, and a hands-on sequencer that makes building tracks intuitive and fun. It's ideal for beatmakers who love dusty textures and retro vibes.
| Spec | Korg Volca Sample 2 | Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Korg | Sonicware |
| Year Released | 2020 | 2022 |
| Polyphony | 16 | 10 |
| Sample Rate | 44.1kHz | 12kHz / 24kHz |
| Storage | Internal memory | SD card |
| Pads | No pads, uses buttons | 4x4 pad matrix (16 pads) |
| Sequencer | Yes | Yes, 64-step |
| Effects | Reverb, Delay | Delay, Reverb, Bit Crusher, EQ |
| I/O | MIDI In, Audio Out | Line In/Out, MIDI In/Out, Headphone, USB |
| Screen | LED indicators | LED display |
| Software Integration | No | None |
| Build | Portable | Compact lo-fi groovebox |
| Price | $149 | $239 |
| More about | Details | Details |
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Buy Now On AmazonQuick Summary
The Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 are both compact samplers aimed at music producers who love making beats on the go. The Volca Sample 2 is known for its portability and ease of use, while the Liven Lofi-12 stands out for its retro sampling and robust features.
Introduction
In the world of music production, samplers are like magic boxes that let you take sounds and turn them into musical masterpieces. Today, we’re diving into two incredible samplers: the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12. These gadgets are perfect for beatmakers who love creating music on the go, but they have their own unique flavors and features. Let’s explore what makes each of them special and which one might be the best fit for your musical journey!
Feature Comparisons
Polyphony and Sound Quality
Korg Volca Sample 2: This sampler boasts a polyphony of 16, meaning it can play 16 sounds at the same time. It has a sample rate of 44.1kHz, which is the standard CD quality for clear and crisp sounds.
Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: The Lofi-12 offers a polyphony of 10, which is slightly less than the Volca. However, its charm lies in its sample rates of 12kHz and 24kHz, giving it a vintage, lo-fi vibe that many music producers love.
Storage and Pads
Korg Volca Sample 2: It comes with internal memory, which is great for holding your sounds without needing extra equipment. However, it doesn’t have pads and uses buttons for triggering sounds.
Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: This device uses an SD card, giving you more flexibility to manage and expand your sound library. Plus, it features a 4x4 pad matrix with 16 pads, making it easier to play and sequence your beats.
Sequencer and Effects
Korg Volca Sample 2: The Volca has a 16-step sequencer, which is perfect for creating simple but effective patterns. It also offers reverb and delay effects to give your music some extra flair.
Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: The Liven features a more advanced 64-step sequencer, allowing for more complex and longer patterns. It also includes a variety of effects like delay, reverb, bit crusher, and EQ for more sound-shaping options.
Inputs and Outputs (I/O)
Korg Volca Sample 2: It has MIDI In and Audio Out ports, making it easy to connect with other gear. You can also use headphones or the built-in speaker for listening.
Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: This sampler offers more extensive connectivity with Line In/Out, MIDI In/Out, Headphone, and USB ports, providing more options for integrating into your setup.
Build and Screen
Korg Volca Sample 2: Known for its portable build, it’s easy to carry and use anywhere. The LED indicators provide basic visual feedback.
Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: This compact groovebox is designed for lo-fi enthusiasts. Its LED display offers clear visual information, enhancing the user experience.
Price
Korg Volca Sample 2: At $149, it’s a budget-friendly option for those looking to start sampling without breaking the bank.
Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: Priced at $239, it’s a bit more expensive but offers more features and flexibility for serious lo-fi beatmakers.
Pros and Cons
Korg Volca Sample 2
Pros
- Affordable price
- High polyphony count
- Portable and easy to use
- Good sound quality with standard sample rate
Cons
- Limited connectivity options
- No pads for triggering samples
- Basic sequencer compared to others
Sonicware Liven Lofi-12
Pros
- Extensive connectivity options
- 4x4 pad matrix for hands-on control
- Flexible storage with SD card
- Advanced sequencer and multiple effects
Cons
- Higher price point
- Lower polyphony compared to Volca
- Lo-fi sound might not suit everyone
Final Verdict
Both the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 are excellent choices, but they cater to different needs and preferences.
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Korg Volca Sample 2 is perfect for beginners or musicians who want a portable, easy-to-use sampler to create music anywhere. Its affordability and straightforward design make it accessible for everyone.
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Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 is ideal for producers who love the lo-fi aesthetic and want more control and features. Its robust connectivity, advanced sequencer, and variety of effects make it a powerful tool for more experienced users.
Whether you’re just starting your music-making journey or looking to expand your setup, both samplers have something unique to offer. Happy beat-making!