Korg Volca Sample —  VS  — Korg Volca Sample 2

Korg Volca Sample vs. Korg Volca Sample 2: A Battle of the Beat Makers

Summary: This blog post dives into the world of compact samplers by comparing the beloved Korg Volca Sample with its updated sibling, the Korg Volca Sample 2. We’ll explore the features, pros and cons, and ultimately help you decide which one is perfect for your music-making needs.

Introduction

Imagine having a mini music studio right in your backpack! That’s what samplers can do, and Korg has been a big name in this field for years. Today, we’re talking about two cool samplers: the Korg Volca Sample and its newer version, the Korg Volca Sample 2. If you love creating beats and music, these tiny machines can be your best friends. But which one should you pick? Let’s find out!

Meet the Samplers

The Korg Volca Sample

Released in 2014, the Korg Volca Sample is like a little music box filled with sounds! It’s compact and portable, so you can take it anywhere. It has a 16-voice polyphony, which means it can play 16 sounds at the same time. That’s like having a small band in your pocket! With effects like reverb and delay, you can make your music sound even cooler. The Volca Sample is perfect for live performances, thanks to its step sequencer and easy-to-use buttons. It costs around $180.

The Korg Volca Sample 2

Fast forward to 2020, and Korg introduced the Korg Volca Sample 2. This updated version has all the features of the original Volca Sample but with a few improvements. It still offers 16-voice polyphony and the same sample rate of 44.1kHz. The Volca Sample 2 also includes reverb and delay effects. It’s designed to be portable and user-friendly, making it a great option for musicians on the go. This newer model is priced at about $200.

Feature Comparison

Sound and Polyphony

Both samplers have a 16-voice polyphony, meaning they can play 16 sounds at once. This is great for creating rich, layered music. The sample rate for each is 44.1kHz, which is the standard CD-quality sound. So, whether you choose the Volca Sample or the Volca Sample 2, you’re getting the same high-quality audio.

Storage and Sequencer

Each of these devices uses internal memory for storage. This means you don’t need to worry about plugging in extra memory cards or devices. Both samplers come with a built-in sequencer, allowing you to create and arrange patterns easily. This feature is perfect for live performances or quick music sketching.

Effects and Interface

Effects can make your music sound amazing! Both the Volca Sample and Volca Sample 2 include reverb and delay, which are classic effects used in many songs. As for the interface, neither sampler has pads; instead, they use buttons. This might take some getting used to, but once you do, you’ll be able to control your music with ease. They both use LED indicators, which help you keep track of what’s happening with your sounds.

Connectivity and Software

When it comes to connecting to other devices, both samplers have MIDI In and Audio Out ports. This lets you hook them up to other music gear. However, neither sampler offers software integration, which means you can’t directly connect them to your computer software for additional features. This could be a downside if you’re looking for that capability.

Build and Price

Both samplers are designed to be portable. You can easily carry them in a backpack or bag, making them ideal for musicians who like to create on the go. The original Volca Sample is a bit cheaper at $180, while the Volca Sample 2 costs around $200. The price difference might not be huge, but it’s something to consider if you’re on a budget.

Pros and Cons

Korg Volca Sample

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Compact and portable design
• Easy-to-use sequencer
• High-quality sound with 16-voice polyphony

Cons:

• No software integration
• Uses buttons instead of pads
• Limited to internal memory storage

Korg Volca Sample 2

Pros:

• Updated features and improved sounds
• Portable and user-friendly
• Includes reverb and delay effects
• Easy connectivity with MIDI In and Audio Out

Cons:

• Slightly higher price compared to the original
• No software integration
• Still uses buttons instead of pads

Final Verdict

If you’re new to music sampling and want an affordable, portable option, the Korg Volca Sample is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to use and great for beginners who want to explore music creation.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something with a few more features and don’t mind spending a bit more, the Korg Volca Sample 2 is the way to go. It offers improved sounds and is perfect for musicians who want an upgraded experience.

In the end, both samplers are excellent tools for making music. Whether you’re performing live or creating tracks at home, these devices can help you unleash your creativity. Choose the one that fits your needs and start making music today!