Korg Volca Sample 2 —  VS  — Synthstrom Deluge

Korg Volca Sample 2 vs. Synthstrom Deluge: Which Sampler Should You Choose?

If you’re diving into the world of samplers, you might have come across the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Synthstrom Deluge. Both are popular choices, but they cater to different needs. In this post, we will compare their features, highlight the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which sampler might be the best fit for you.

Introduction

Sampling is a fantastic way for musicians to create unique sounds and rhythms. A sampler can capture snippets of audio and manipulate them to produce exciting new music. The Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Synthstrom Deluge are two devices that can help you do just that, but they offer different features at different price points. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned producer, understanding what each sampler offers is crucial in making the right choice.

Feature Comparisons

Sound and Polyphony

The sound quality of a sampler is one of the most critical aspects to consider. Both the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Synthstrom Deluge operate at a sample rate of 44.1kHz, which means they can capture and reproduce sound with high fidelity. However, they differ significantly in terms of polyphony, which is the number of sounds they can play at once.

The Korg Volca Sample 2 has a polyphony of 16. This means it can play up to 16 different sounds simultaneously, which is generally sufficient for most simple compositions. In contrast, the Synthstrom Deluge boasts a polyphony of 128, making it capable of handling complex arrangements with ease. This makes the Deluge a powerhouse for those who want to layer multiple sounds without any limitations.

Storage and Portability

When it comes to storage, the Korg Volca Sample 2 uses internal memory, which is convenient for quick access to sounds. This makes it simple and straightforward to use, especially for those who are just starting out with sampling. On the other hand, the Synthstrom Deluge uses a MicroSD card for storage. This allows for a much larger library of sounds and samples, although it might require a bit more setup and management.

In terms of portability, the Korg Volca Sample 2 is designed to be highly portable. Its compact build makes it easy to carry around and use anywhere you go. The Deluge, while still portable, is more of a standalone device that includes a sampler, synth, and sequencer all in one. This makes it slightly less portable but more versatile in functionality.

User Interface and Controls

Both samplers use buttons for controls, but they offer different interfaces. The Korg Volca Sample 2 uses LED indicators to guide the user, which is simple and effective but might not provide as much visual feedback as some might like. The Synthstrom Deluge features an LCD display, offering a more detailed view of the settings and parameters. This can be particularly useful for those who enjoy tweaking and customizing their sounds extensively.

The Korg Volca Sample 2 doesn’t have pads, relying solely on buttons for playing and sequencing sounds. The Synthstrom Deluge, while also lacking traditional pads, includes a button grid that can function as a keyboard, providing more flexibility in playing and composing music.

Effects and Integration

Effects can add depth and character to your sounds. The Korg Volca Sample 2 offers built-in reverb and delay effects, which are great for adding atmosphere to your samples. The Synthstrom Deluge, on the other hand, provides a broader range of effects, giving you more options to shape your sound.

Neither device offers direct software integration, which means they operate independently without the need for a computer. This can be seen as a pro or a con, depending on whether you prefer hands-on hardware control or seamless integration with digital audio workstations (DAWs).

Input/Output (I/O)

The I/O options determine how you can connect your sampler to other gear. The Korg Volca Sample 2 includes MIDI In and Audio Out, allowing you to connect it to other MIDI-enabled devices and output your sound to speakers or recording equipment. The Synthstrom Deluge offers more comprehensive connectivity with MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, providing greater flexibility for integrating with other hardware and software.

Pros and Cons

Korg Volca Sample 2

Pros:

• Affordable at $200
• Highly portable
• Easy to use with straightforward controls
• Built-in reverb and delay effects

Cons:

• Limited polyphony of 16
• Basic interface with LED indicators
• Limited I/O options

Synthstrom Deluge

Pros:

• High polyphony of 128
• Extensive effects options
• Comprehensive I/O including USB
• Large storage capacity with MicroSD

Cons:

• Expensive at $2000
• Less portable due to its all-in-one design
• More complex interface

Final Verdict

In summary, the Korg Volca Sample 2 is a budget-friendly option that is perfect for beginners or those who need a portable device for simple sampling tasks. Its ease of use and affordability make it an excellent choice for anyone just starting out in music production.

On the other hand, the Synthstrom Deluge is a highly versatile and powerful tool that caters to professional musicians and producers who need extensive features and are willing to invest in a more expensive device. Its high polyphony, extensive effects, and comprehensive connectivity make it ideal for complex music production tasks.

For more information, you can check out the individual sampler pages for the Korg Volca Sample 2 and the Synthstrom Deluge.

Ultimately, your choice will depend on your budget, your experience level, and the specific features you need in a sampler. Whether you choose the Volca Sample 2 or the Deluge, both devices offer unique capabilities that can help you create amazing music.