Korg Volca Sample —  VS  — Sonicware Liven Lofi-12

Korg Volca Sample vs. Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: Which Sampler Should You Choose?

When it comes to choosing the right sampler for your musical adventures, things can get a bit tricky. Both the Korg Volca Sample and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 offer unique features that can make your music sound amazing. Let’s explore these two samplers and see which one might be the best fit for you.

Introduction

Sampling has become a big part of music. It allows musicians to use pieces of sound from other places to create something new. This is where samplers like the Korg Volca Sample and Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 come into play. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or a live performer, these samplers can help you make great beats and cool sound effects. But which one should you choose? Let’s dive in and find out.

Features Comparison

Sound Quality and Polyphony

The Korg Volca Sample, introduced in 2014, offers 16-voice polyphony and plays samples at a standard 44.1kHz rate. This makes it a reliable choice for musicians looking for high-quality sound. On the other hand, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12, released in 2022, offers a choice between 12kHz and 24kHz sample rates with 10-voice polyphony. This lower fidelity gives the Lofi-12 its characteristic lo-fi, vintage sound, ideal for those who love retro vibes and dusty textures.

Storage and Sample Management

The Volca Sample uses internal memory for storage, and in its original version, new samples could be loaded only through a special iOS app. This might be a bit limiting for some users. Meanwhile, the Liven Lofi-12 uses an SD card for storage, allowing for easier management and transfer of samples. This makes it more flexible for users who want to frequently update or change their sample library.

Pads and Sequencing

The Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 stands out with its 4x4 pad matrix, offering 16 pads for dynamic performance. This makes it a perfect tool for beatmakers who love hands-on control. It also features a 64-step sequencer, allowing for complex pattern creation. The Korg Volca Sample, however, uses buttons instead of pads, which might feel less intuitive for some. It does have a sequencer, though it’s not specified in length like the Lofi-12.

Effects and Creative Tools

Both samplers come equipped with effects to enhance your sound. The Volca Sample includes reverb and delay, while the Lofi-12 adds bit crushing and EQ to the mix, along with reverb and delay. The bit crusher on the Lofi-12 is particularly appealing for those who enjoy adding a gritty, lo-fi texture to their tracks.

Connectivity and Integration

The Liven Lofi-12 offers more connectivity options, with line in/out, MIDI in/out, headphone output, and USB. This makes it a versatile choice for studio setups and live performances. The Volca Sample, conversely, is more limited with just MIDI In and Audio Out, and no USB connection in its original version. This could be a drawback for those looking for seamless integration into their existing setups.

Pros and Cons

Korg Volca Sample

Pros:

• High-quality 44.1kHz sampling
• 16-voice polyphony
• Portable and easy to use
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• No pads, only buttons for control
• Limited storage and sample loading options
• Basic connectivity options

Sonicware Liven Lofi-12

Pros:

• Unique lo-fi sound with 12-bit sampling
• 4x4 pad matrix for hands-on control
• Extensive connectivity options
• Flexible storage with SD card

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Lower polyphony compared to Volca Sample
• Lo-fi sound may not suit all genres

Summary

Choosing between the Korg Volca Sample and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 depends on what you value more in a sampler. The Volca Sample offers higher sound quality and is more affordable, making it a great option for beginners and those needing a straightforward device. The Lofi-12, with its lo-fi charm and extensive features, is perfect for producers looking for a retro vibe and more hands-on control.

Final Verdict

The Korg Volca Sample is best suited for musicians who want a high-quality, affordable sampler that is easy to use and portable. It’s great for those who are just starting out or want a reliable device for live performances.

The Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 is ideal for beatmakers and producers who love the lo-fi sound and prefer a more tactile experience with its pad matrix. Its extensive connectivity options also make it a versatile choice for complex setups.

In the end, the best sampler for you depends on your personal style and needs. Whether you choose the Volca Sample or the Lofi-12, each offers unique features that can help you create amazing music.