Polyend Play+ —  VS  — Polyend Tracker

Polyend Tracker vs. Polyend Play+: A Musical Showdown

Summary: Welcome to our in-depth comparison between the Polyend Tracker and the Polyend Play+. These two samplers, both from the innovative company Polyend, offer unique features for music creators. Whether you are into creating music at home, in the studio, or performing live, you’ll find something exciting in each of these devices.

Introduction

Music is magic, and creating it can be even more magical with the right tools. Enter the world of samplers! Today, we’re diving into two incredible devices from Polyend: the Polyend Tracker and the Polyend Play+. Both are designed to help you make amazing music, but they do it in different ways. Let’s explore how they stack up against each other!

Feature Comparisons

Design and Build

The Polyend Tracker is a tracker-style sampler. It has a simple layout that’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to take your music-making on the go. It doesn’t have pads but uses buttons for input, which is part of its unique style.

On the other hand, the Polyend Play+ is a modern standalone groovebox sampler. It features an 8x8 velocity-sensitive pad grid. This pad grid allows for dynamic and expressive playing, which is great for those who prefer a more tactile experience.

Sound and Polyphony

Polyphony, or the number of sounds a device can play at once, is an important factor in music production. The Polyend Tracker boasts an impressive 64-note polyphony. This means you can layer many sounds together to create rich and full tracks.

The Polyend Play+ offers an 8-note polyphony. While this is less than the Tracker, it’s still enough for many types of music, especially when you consider its focus on creative sequencing and live performance.

Sampling and Sequencing

Both devices come with a sample rate of 44.1kHz, ensuring high-quality audio. The Polyend Tracker allows you to load and record samples, even using a built-in FM radio. It has a strong sequencer to help you arrange your music.

The Polyend Play+ elevates its game with a 16-track pattern-based sequencer. It also supports stereo sample playback and per-step automation, offering more control over your music.

Effects and Connectivity

Effects are crucial for adding flavor to your music. The Polyend Tracker provides multiple effects, including filters and EQs, helping you shape your sound.

The Polyend Play+ comes with a broader range of effects like Reverb, Delay, Overdrive, and Master FX, which can be applied to individual tracks or the entire mix.

When it comes to connectivity, the Polyend Tracker includes MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out. The Polyend Play+ offers a bit more with Stereo In, Stereo Out, MIDI In/Out/Thru, and USB-C, making it slightly more flexible for modern setups.

Screen and Interface

The Polyend Tracker has an LCD display which is straightforward and gets the job done. It doesn’t integrate with software, which might be a downside for some users.

The Polyend Play+ features a high-res color display that enhances the user experience. It also supports drag-and-drop sample management via USB, making it easier to organize your sounds.

Pros and Cons

Polyend Tracker

Pros:

• High polyphony of 64 notes.
• Compact and lightweight, ideal for portable use.
• Strong sequencer with multiple effects.
• Affordable at $599.

Cons:

• No pads for input, which might not suit everyone.
• Lacks software integration.
• Simpler display compared to modern devices.

Polyend Play+

Pros:

• Modern design with an 8x8 pad grid.
• Advanced sequencing features.
• Rich effects library.
• High-res color display.

Cons:

• Lower polyphony of 8 notes.
• Higher price tag at $799.
• Might be more complex for beginners.

Final Verdict

Both the Polyend Tracker and the Polyend Play+ are excellent tools for music creation, but they cater to different needs.

The Polyend Tracker is perfect for those who want a powerful, portable solution for music-making. It’s ideal for people who enjoy the tracker-style workflow and need a device that’s easy to take from home to studio and beyond.

The Polyend Play+, with its modern features and performance capabilities, is best suited for electronic producers and live performers. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a device with deep sequencing tools and a tactile interface.

In conclusion, whether you’re a budding music producer or a seasoned performer, Polyend has something for you. Choose the device that best matches your style and start creating your musical masterpiece today!