Polyend Play+ —  VS  — Roland SP-404MKII

Sampler Showdown: Roland SP-404MKII vs. Polyend Play+

In the world of music production, samplers are like magic boxes that can turn any sound into music. Today, we are comparing two popular samplers: the Roland SP-404MKII and the Polyend Play+. Whether you are a DJ, a beatmaker, or just someone who loves creating music, this guide will help you decide which sampler might be best for you.

Meet the Samplers

Roland SP-404MKII

The Roland SP-404MKII is a powerful and portable music-making machine that came out in 2021. With its bright OLED display and 16 velocity-sensitive pads, it is designed for fun and easy music creation. It offers a variety of vintage effects, reverb, and delay to spice up your sounds. It also has a big library of sounds to play with, making it a favorite among DJs and beatmakers. Plus, it’s lightweight and portable, so you can take it anywhere you want to create music!

Polyend Play+

The Polyend Play+, launched in 2023, is a modern standalone groovebox sampler. It builds on the original Polyend Play with upgraded features. It has an 8x8 velocity-sensitive pad grid and supports stereo sample playback. With its 16-track pattern-based sequencer, per-step automation, and deep performance tools, it’s perfect for electronic producers and live performers who want a portable music workstation.

Feature Face-Off

Sound Quality and Polyphony

Both samplers offer a sample rate of 44.1kHz, ensuring high-quality sound. However, there is a big difference in polyphony. The Roland SP-404MKII boasts 128-note polyphony, allowing you to layer many sounds at once without cutting any off. On the other hand, the Polyend Play+ has 8-note polyphony, which is more limited but still works well for many electronic music styles.

Pads and Playability

The Roland SP-404MKII has 16 velocity-sensitive pads, making it easy to trigger sounds and create beats. The Polyend Play+ takes it up a notch with an 8x8 velocity-sensitive pad grid, providing a larger surface to play and control your music. This makes the Polyend Play+ more versatile for creating complex patterns and performances.

Sequencer and Effects

Both samplers come with sequencers, but they differ in style. The Roland SP-404MKII has a straightforward sequencer, ideal for quick beat-making. The Polyend Play+ has a more advanced 16-track pattern-based sequencer, allowing for detailed arrangements and live performances. When it comes to effects, the Roland SP-404MKII offers vintage effects, reverb, and delay. The Polyend Play+ adds more options, including overdrive, EQ, and master FX, giving you more tools to shape your sound.

Storage and Connectivity

The Roland SP-404MKII uses an SD card for storage, while the Polyend Play+ uses a MicroSD card. Both offer ample space for your samples. In terms of connectivity, the Roland SP-404MKII includes MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, making it easy to connect to other devices. The Polyend Play+ offers Stereo In, Stereo Out, MIDI In/Out/Thru, and USB-C, providing a modern and versatile setup.

Display and Build

The Roland SP-404MKII features a bright OLED display, while the Polyend Play+ has a high-res color display. Both screens help you navigate your music easily. The Roland SP-404MKII is known for its portable build, great for on-the-go music-making. The Polyend Play+ is a standalone groovebox, offering a modern design perfect for electronic producers and live performers.

Pros and Cons

Roland SP-404MKII

Pros:

• High polyphony of 128 notes
• Vintage effects for unique sound design
• Portable and easy to use
• Affordable price at $650

Cons:

• Basic sequencer compared to advanced options
• Limited effects compared to Polyend Play+

Polyend Play+

Pros:

• Large 8x8 pad grid for creative control
• Advanced 16-track pattern-based sequencer
• Wide range of effects including overdrive and EQ
• Modern design with high-res color display

Cons:

• Lower polyphony of 8 notes
• Higher price at $799

Who Should Choose Which?

The Roland SP-404MKII is perfect for DJs and beatmakers who want a fun and portable sampler with lots of sounds and effects. Its high polyphony and ease of use make it great for quick music creation on the go.

The Polyend Play+ is ideal for electronic producers and live performers who need an advanced groovebox with a large pad grid and powerful sequencer. Its modern design and wide range of effects offer deep creative possibilities for more complex music production.

In conclusion, both the Roland SP-404MKII and Polyend Play+ are excellent samplers, each with its own strengths. Consider your music style, budget, and the features that matter most to you when making your choice. Whether you’re crafting beats at home or performing live on stage, there’s a sampler here that’s perfect for your musical journey.