Battle of the Samplers: Korg Volca Sample vs. Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3

Short Summary:
The Korg Volca Sample and Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3 are two powerful yet distinct samplers that cater to different types of music enthusiasts. While the Volca Sample offers a hands-on, portable experience, the Maschine Mikro Mk3 integrates deeply with software, offering a more comprehensive music-making tool. Read on to discover which one might be the best fit for your musical journey.

Introduction

Welcome to the world of music samplers! If you’re a music enthusiast, you know how exciting it is to explore different sounds and create unique beats. Today, we’re diving into a detailed comparison between two popular samplers—the Korg Volca Sample and the Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3. Both have their own strengths and cater to different needs, but which one is right for you? Let’s find out!

Korg Volca Sample

The Korg Volca Sample, a product of 2014, is a compact and affordable drum machine. It allows you to play, tweak, and sequence up to 100 custom sounds. With its simple design and functionality, it’s perfect for those who enjoy hands-on music-making without the complexities of software integration.

Features

The Volca Sample boasts a polyphony of 16 voices and operates at a sample rate of 44.1kHz. It’s equipped with internal memory for storing your sounds, though it does not have pads; instead, it uses buttons for control. This sampler includes a built-in sequencer, which is great for creating beats on the fly. It also offers effects like reverb and delay for adding depth to your sounds.

In terms of connectivity, the Volca Sample provides MIDI In and Audio Out, making it easy to integrate into your existing setup. However, it lacks a full display, relying on LED indicators instead. Another notable feature is its portability, allowing you to make music wherever you go. While it doesn’t integrate with computer software, it can be updated with new samples using a special iOS app. This model has since been succeeded by the Volca Sample 2, which includes USB connectivity and more memory.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable pricing at $149
• Portable and easy to use
• Built-in sequencer for quick beat-making
• Reverb and delay effects

Cons:

• Limited to internal memory with no USB connectivity
• No pad interface, only buttons
• No software integration

Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3

The Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3, released in 2017, is a versatile music-making tool that offers a blend of hardware and software capabilities. It provides a more integrated experience for those who enjoy working with digital audio workstations (DAWs).

Features

The Maschine Mikro Mk3 features an impressive polyphony of 128 voices, matching the Volca Sample’s sample rate of 44.1kHz. It includes internal storage and is designed with 16 large velocity-sensitive pads, allowing for expressive playing.

Its built-in sequencer is versatile, and it comes with effects like EQ, reverb, and delay. The Maschine Mikro Mk3’s connectivity options are robust, providing MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio Out. It sports a full-color display, making it easier to navigate through its features. The sampler integrates seamlessly with the Maschine Software, providing a comprehensive music-making experience. It’s powered by USB, making it convenient for use with a computer.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High polyphony of 128 voices
• Integrates with Maschine Software and other DAWs
• 16 velocity-sensitive pads for expressive control
• Full-color display for easy navigation

Cons:

• Higher price point at $269
• Less portable compared to standalone samplers
• Requires a computer for full functionality

Comparing the Features

When it comes to polyphony, the Maschine Mikro Mk3 takes the lead with 128 voices, compared to the Volca Sample’s 16. This means the Mikro Mk3 can handle more complex arrangements and layers of sound. Both samplers share the same sample rate of 44.1kHz, ensuring high-quality audio playback.

In terms of control interface, the Maschine Mikro Mk3’s 16 velocity-sensitive pads offer a more tactile and expressive experience than the Volca Sample’s button-based interface. However, the Volca Sample’s button setup is straightforward and easy to use.

Connectivity is another area where the Maschine Mikro Mk3 excels. It offers MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio Out, while the Volca Sample only provides MIDI In and Audio Out. This makes the Mikro Mk3 more versatile for integrating with other devices and software.

The Volca Sample’s portability is a significant advantage for those who want to make music on the go. It’s lightweight and doesn’t require a computer to operate, unlike the Maschine Mikro Mk3, which relies on a computer for full functionality.

Pros and Cons Summary

Both samplers have their strengths and weaknesses. The Volca Sample is perfect for those who want a budget-friendly, portable solution with simple controls. On the other hand, the Maschine Mikro Mk3 is ideal for users who prefer a more integrated experience with a computer and value the tactile feel of pads.

Final Verdict: Which Sampler Should You Choose?

If you’re a beginner or someone who values portability and simplicity, the Korg Volca Sample is a fantastic choice. It’s affordable, easy to use, and perfect for creating beats on the fly. However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive music-making tool that integrates seamlessly with software and offers more expressive control, the Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3 is the way to go. Its higher price point is justified by its extensive features and versatility.

Whether you’re just starting your musical journey or looking to expand your creative toolkit, both samplers have something unique to offer. Choose the one that best fits your needs and start making music today!