Native Instruments Maschine+ vs. Polyend Play: Which Sampler is Right for You?

Summary: In this blog post, we’ll take a close look at two popular samplers: the Native Instruments Maschine+ and the Polyend Play. We’ll explore their features, pros and cons, and help you decide which one might be the best fit for your music-making needs.

Introduction

In the world of music production, samplers have become essential tools for artists and producers alike. They help create beats, loops, and melodies, adding a unique flavor to your music. Today, we’re going to compare two exciting devices: the Native Instruments Maschine+ and the Polyend Play. Both are powerful tools, but they have different strengths that cater to different needs. Let’s dive in!

Feature Comparison

Build and Design

The Native Instruments Maschine+ is a standalone device, which means you don’t need a computer to use it. This makes it perfect for musicians who want to create music on the go. It’s equipped with 16 large velocity-sensitive pads that are perfect for finger drumming. The full-color display is vibrant and helps in navigating through its features easily. Built with musicians in mind, Maschine+’s design is sleek and modern.

On the other hand, the Polyend Play is a groovebox with sampling support. It is also portable, but it uses a MicroSD card for storage instead of internal storage. The device has 16 velocity-sensitive pads, similar to Maschine+, but it comes with an LCD display, which is not as colorful as Maschine+’s screen. The design is simple and effective, focusing on a modern workflow that suits current music production trends.

Sound and Effects

When it comes to sound, the Maschine+ offers a polyphony of 128, which means it can play 128 notes simultaneously. It supports a sample rate of 44.1kHz, ensuring high-quality sound. Additionally, it comes loaded with effects like EQ, Reverb, and Delay, which are essential for shaping your sound.

The Polyend Play delivers a polyphony of 64, which is less than Maschine+, but still quite sufficient for most musical projects. It also supports a 44.1kHz sample rate and offers multiple effects to enhance your tracks. While it doesn’t specify exactly which effects are included, having a variety of them allows for more creative freedom.

Connectivity and Integration

For connectivity, the Maschine+ provides MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio Out, making it versatile for studio and live performances. It integrates seamlessly with the standalone Maschine Software, which is a huge plus for users familiar with Native Instruments’ ecosystem.

Conversely, the Polyend Play offers MIDI In/Out, USB, and both Audio In/Out, giving it an edge if you need more audio input options. However, it lacks software integration, which means you might need to rely more on its standalone capabilities or external software for advanced editing.

Pricing

Price is a significant factor when choosing a sampler. The Native Instruments Maschine+ comes in at $1400, reflecting its standalone capabilities and advanced features. Meanwhile, the Polyend Play is priced at $1100, making it a more budget-friendly option while still offering powerful features.

Pros and Cons

Native Instruments Maschine+

Pros:

• Standalone functionality; no computer needed
• High polyphony of 128 notes
• Full-color display for easy navigation
• Seamless integration with Maschine Software

Cons:

• Higher price point at $1400
• No Audio In, limiting recording options directly into the device

Polyend Play

Pros:

• Affordable pricing at $1100
• Includes Audio In for more recording flexibility
• Multiple effects for creative sound design
• Portable and modern design

Cons:

• Lower polyphony of 64 notes
• No software integration, limiting advanced editing options

Who Should Choose Which?

Native Instruments Maschine+

The Maschine+ is perfect for producers who want a powerful, standalone device that doesn’t require a computer. It’s ideal for live performances and studio work due to its high polyphony and seamless software integration. If you are already using Native Instruments products, this could be a great addition to your setup.

Polyend Play

The Polyend Play is a fantastic choice for those who want a portable groovebox with sampling capabilities at a more affordable price. Its audio input options make it versatile for recording, and its modern workflow suits musicians who appreciate a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to music production.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Native Instruments Maschine+ and the Polyend Play depends largely on your specific needs and budget. Maschine+ offers a more integrated and high-powered experience, while Polyend Play provides flexibility and affordability. Both are excellent choices, each with unique features that cater to different types of music makers. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or a budding musician, there’s a sampler here that can help you unlock your musical potential.