Korg Volca Sample —  VS  — Synthstrom Deluge

Korg Volca Sample vs. Synthstrom Deluge: A Sampler Showdown

Summary: Thinking about diving into the world of samplers? Meet two exciting options: the Korg Volca Sample and the Synthstrom Deluge. Both are great tools for making music, but they have different strengths. Let’s explore what makes each one special and find out which might be best for you!

Introduction

Welcome to the wonderful world of music samplers! These nifty devices can help you create amazing sounds, rhythms, and beats. If you’re interested in making music, you might have heard of the Korg Volca Sample and the Synthstrom Deluge. They are both popular choices, but they have different features and capabilities. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at each one to help you decide which sampler is right for you.

Korg Volca Sample: A Compact Powerhouse

The Korg Volca Sample, introduced in 2014, is a compact and affordable sampler designed for live performances and music creation. With a price tag of around $180, it’s an attractive option for beginners and musicians on a budget.

Key Features

The Volca Sample boasts a 16-voice polyphony, allowing you to play up to 16 sounds at once. It uses a 44.1kHz sample rate, which is standard for high-quality audio. Unlike traditional samplers that use pads, the Volca Sample relies on buttons to trigger sounds. It comes equipped with a step sequencer, making it easy to create beats and loops.

For effects, you’ll find reverb and delay, which can add depth and ambiance to your sounds. Although it lacks a traditional screen, it uses LED indicators to display information. The device is portable, making it easy to carry around for live gigs or jam sessions.

On the downside, the Korg Volca Sample doesn’t offer software integration, which means you can’t directly connect it to your computer for editing or managing samples. It also has limited storage with its internal memory, so you’ll need to be selective about the samples you load.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Portable and easy to carry
• Simple to use with a step sequencer
• Built-in effects like reverb and delay

Cons:

• Limited storage capacity
• No software integration for easy sample management
• Lacks a traditional screen for detailed editing

Synthstrom Deluge: A Feature-Rich Beast

The Synthstrom Deluge, released in 2017, is a powerful sampler, synth, and sequencer all in one. It’s priced at around $2000, reflecting its extensive features and capabilities.

Key Features

With a massive 128-voice polyphony, the Deluge allows for complex and layered compositions. Like the Volca Sample, it offers a 44.1kHz sample rate for high-quality sound. Instead of pads, it uses a combination of buttons and a keyboard to trigger notes and samples.

One of the standout features of the Deluge is its sequencer, which is highly versatile and can handle intricate compositions. It also comes with multiple effects, giving you a wide range of sound-shaping tools to experiment with. The Deluge has a clear LCD display, making it easier to navigate your projects.

For connectivity, the Deluge offers MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, allowing for greater flexibility in setup. It uses a MicroSD card for storage, which means you can easily expand your sample library.

However, the Deluge is much more expensive than the Volca Sample, which might be a barrier for some musicians. Additionally, it doesn’t offer software integration, meaning you can’t directly connect it to a computer for advanced editing.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extensive polyphony and sound capabilities
• Versatile sequencer and multiple effects
• Expandable storage with MicroSD card
• More connectivity options

Cons:

• Higher price point
• No software integration
• More complex, potentially overwhelming for beginners

Feature Comparison

Polyphony and Sound Quality

The Korg Volca Sample offers 16 voices of polyphony, which is sufficient for basic compositions and live performances. In contrast, the Synthstrom Deluge provides a whopping 128 voices, making it ideal for more complex and layered tracks. Both devices offer a 44.1kHz sample rate, ensuring high-quality sound.

Storage and Sample Management

When it comes to storage, the Volca Sample relies on its internal memory. This means you’ll need to be selective with the samples you load. The Deluge, however, uses a MicroSD card for storage, allowing you to expand your sample library as needed. This is a significant advantage for those who require a vast array of samples.

Interface and Usability

The Volca Sample uses buttons to trigger sounds, which might feel more limited compared to devices with pads. However, its step sequencer is straightforward and user-friendly. The Deluge combines buttons with a keyboard, offering more flexibility in how you interact with it. Its LCD display also makes navigation easier, especially for more complex projects.

Effects and Sequencing

Both samplers offer effects, but the Deluge provides a wider selection. The Volca Sample includes reverb and delay, which can enhance your sounds. The Deluge, however, has multiple effects that allow for greater experimentation and creativity.

In terms of sequencing, both devices feature sequencers, but the Deluge’s is far more advanced. This makes it suitable for intricate compositions and detailed arrangements.

Connectivity

The Volca Sample has limited connectivity options, with MIDI In and Audio Out. The Deluge offers more flexibility, with MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out. This makes it easier to integrate into various setups and connect with other gear.

Conclusion

Both the Korg Volca Sample and the Synthstrom Deluge are fantastic tools for music creation, but they cater to different needs and budgets.

The Korg Volca Sample is best suited for beginners and those looking for a portable, budget-friendly option. Its simple interface and essential features make it a great starting point for live performances and basic compositions.

On the other hand, the Synthstrom Deluge is ideal for experienced musicians seeking a feature-rich sampler that can handle complex projects. Its extensive polyphony, advanced sequencer, and multiple effects make it a powerful tool for serious music production.

Final Verdict

If you’re just starting and want something affordable and easy to use, the Korg Volca Sample is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for musicians who perform live and need a portable device.

For those who are ready to invest in a more advanced tool with extensive features, the Synthstrom Deluge is the way to go. It’s suitable for experienced producers who want a standalone solution for creating intricate music pieces.

Whether you’re just starting your musical journey or looking to expand your toolkit, there’s a sampler out there for you!