Polyend Play —  VS  — Polyend Play+

Summary

The Polyend Play and Polyend Play+ are two fantastic samplers designed to spark your musical creativity. While they share some similarities, they have distinct features that cater to different needs. This blog post will guide you through their differences and help you decide which one might be the right fit for you.

Introduction

Hey there, music enthusiasts! If you’re diving into the world of samplers, you’ve probably come across the Polyend Play and the Polyend Play+. These two devices are powerhouses in their own right, offering different features that can take your music-making to the next level. But which one should you choose? Let’s explore these grooveboxes and see how they stack up against each other.

Feature Comparisons

Design and Build

The Polyend Play and Polyend Play+ are both modern grooveboxes, but they have different approaches to their design. The Polyend Play, released in 2022, features a compact design with 16 velocity-sensitive pads that are perfect for quick jamming and beat-making. The Play+ takes it up a notch with an 8x8 velocity-sensitive pad grid, offering more room for creative expression and live performance.

Polyphony and Sample Rate

Polyphony refers to the number of sounds a device can produce simultaneously. The Polyend Play boasts 64-voice polyphony, allowing for rich and complex compositions with multiple layers. On the other hand, the Play+ offers 8-voice polyphony, which, while less than the Play, is still sufficient for many music styles and allows for focused and detailed sound design. Both devices support a sample rate of 44.1kHz, but the Play+ adds 16-bit depth for richer sound quality.

Sequencer and Effects

Sequencing is a vital part of any groovebox, and both the Play and Play+ come equipped with powerful sequencers. The Polyend Play features a flexible 64-step sequencer and eight polyphonic MIDI tracks, providing plenty of room for creative arrangements. The Play+, however, steps up with a 16-track pattern-based sequencer that offers more control and flexibility in live performances.

When it comes to effects, the Polyend Play offers multiple effects to enhance your tracks, while the Play+ delivers a comprehensive suite with Reverb, Delay, Overdrive, EQ, and Master FX. This expanded effects section in the Play+ allows for more dynamic sound shaping and creative possibilities.

Connectivity and Software Integration

Both samplers offer robust connectivity options. The Polyend Play includes MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, while the Play+ features Stereo In, Stereo Out, MIDI In/Out/Thru, and USB-C, providing more versatile connections for modern setups. Additionally, the Play+ introduces drag-and-drop sample management via USB, making it easier to manage and transfer your sounds directly from your computer.

Display and Interface

The Polyend Play sports an LCD display, which is functional and straightforward. In contrast, the Play+ features a high-resolution color display that enhances the user experience with vivid visuals and easier navigation through complex projects.

Price

Price is always a consideration when choosing gear. The Polyend Play is priced at $1100, reflecting its powerful features and flexibility. The Play+ is more affordable at $799, offering a great balance of features and performance for its price.

Pros and Cons

Polyend Play

Pros:

• High polyphony with 64 voices
• Flexible 64-step sequencer
• Multiple effects for sound enhancement
• Extensive MIDI integration
• Large library of ready-to-use sample kits

Cons:

• Higher price point
• No color display
• Limited software integration

Polyend Play+

Pros:

• Affordable pricing
• High-res color display
• Comprehensive effects suite
• Modern connectivity options
• Enhanced pad grid with 8x8 configuration

Cons:

• Lower polyphony with 8 voices
• More limited sample playback capacity
• Newer model, potentially less community support initially

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Polyend Play and Play+ depends largely on your needs and budget. The Polyend Play is ideal for those who require high polyphony and extensive MIDI capabilities, making it perfect for studio producers who want to craft detailed compositions. If you are a live performer or an electronic producer seeking a more affordable option with enhanced visual feedback and modern connectivity, the Polyend Play+ could be your go-to choice.

Both samplers are impressive in their own right and can significantly enhance your music-making process. Regardless of which one you choose, you’ll be equipped with powerful tools to unleash your creativity. Happy music-making!