Roland SP-404A — VS — Roland SP-404MKII
Roland SP-404A
The SP-404A is a fun music machine made for live shows. You can use it to play cool sounds, beats, and effects. It works really well with another music tool called the Roland TR-8, but you can also use it by itself. It has 12 big buttons you can press to play sounds, plus lots of awesome effects to change how your music feels. It even comes with a card full of great sounds to get you started. Whether you're a DJ, a musician, or just love making beats, the SP-404A helps you create music in a fun and easy way.
Roland SP-404MKII
The SP-404MKII is a music-making machine that helps you create beats fast and have fun doing it. You can play sounds with cool pads, mix in effects, and use a big library of awesome sounds. It has a bright screen to help you see everything easily, and it's great for making music anywhere you go. DJs and beatmakers love it because it's super fun, powerful, and easy to use!
| Spec | Roland SP-404A | Roland SP-404MKII |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Roland | Roland |
| Year Released | 2017 | 2021 |
| Polyphony | 128 | 128 |
| Sample Rate | 44.1kHz | 44.1kHz |
| Storage | SD card | SD card |
| Pads | 12 velocity-sensitive pads | 16 velocity-sensitive pads |
| Sequencer | No | Yes |
| Effects | Vintage effects, Reverb, Delay | Vintage effects, Reverb, Delay |
| I/O | MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio In/Out | MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio In/Out |
| Screen | OLED display | OLED display |
| Software Integration | Roland Software | Roland Software |
| Build | Portable | Portable |
| Price | $600 | $650 |
| More about | Details | Details |
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Buy Now On AmazonRoland SP-404A vs. Roland SP-404MKII: Which Sampler Should You Choose?
Roland has been a big name in music gear for a long time. Their SP-404 series is especially popular with music makers. Today, we are comparing two of their samplers: the Roland SP-404A and the Roland SP-404MKII. Both are portable, powerful, and packed with features, but which one is right for you? Let’s dive in!
Introduction
If you love making music, you know how important the right gear is. Samplers let you capture sounds and play them back in creative ways. Roland’s SP-404 series is a favorite among music producers, DJs, and hobbyists. In this blog post, we will compare the Roland SP-404A and the Roland SP-404MKII. Both are great choices, but they have some differences that might make one better for you than the other.
Features Comparison
Pads and Playability
When it comes to pads, both samplers offer velocity-sensitive options, which means they respond to how hard you hit them. This is great for expressive playing. The Roland SP-404A has 12 pads, while the Roland SP-404MKII steps it up with 16 pads. More pads mean more sounds at your fingertips without switching banks.
Sequencing Capabilities
One of the biggest differences is the sequencer. The SP-404A does not have a built-in sequencer, which means you play and record sounds in real-time. This is perfect for live performance but might be limiting if you want to create complex patterns. The SP-404MKII, on the other hand, includes a sequencer, allowing you to build intricate loops and beats directly on the device.
Effects and Sound Quality
Both samplers offer a range of cool vintage effects, reverb, and delay. These effects can add depth and character to your sounds. With the same sample rate of 44.1kHz, both devices deliver high-quality audio. Whether you choose the SP-404A or the SP-404MKII, your music will sound great.
Display and Interface
Both samplers feature an OLED display. This type of screen is bright and clear, making it easier to see what you are doing, even in dim lighting. The interface on both models is straightforward, which helps you focus on making music rather than fumbling with controls.
Storage and Connectivity
Storage is another area where these samplers shine. Both use an SD card for storage, meaning you can store a lot of samples and switch them out easily. They also have similar connectivity options, including MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out. This makes it simple to connect with other gear or a computer for expanded possibilities.
Pros and Cons
Roland SP-404A
Pros:
- Affordable at $600, making it a great entry point.
- Portable and easy to carry around.
- Simple interface with vintage effects for classic sounds.
Cons:
- Lacks a sequencer, limiting pattern creation.
- Fewer pads compared to the MKII.
Roland SP-404MKII
Pros:
- Includes a sequencer for complex pattern creation.
- More pads for a greater range of sounds.
- Modern update with enhanced sampling and effects.
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive at $650.
- Features may be more than needed for simple live performances.
Summary
Both the Roland SP-404A and the Roland SP-404MKII are excellent samplers with unique strengths. The SP-404A is perfect for those who want a straightforward, portable device with solid effects and great sound. The SP-404MKII offers more features, like a sequencer and additional pads, ideal for those looking to explore more complex music creation.
Final Verdict
If you are new to sampling or want something simple and portable, the Roland SP-404A might be the perfect fit. It’s affordable and easy to use, making it great for beginners or live performers who don’t need a sequencer.
For more advanced users or those interested in creating detailed patterns, the Roland SP-404MKII is likely the better choice. With its additional pads and built-in sequencer, it offers more possibilities for creative expression.
No matter which you choose, both samplers are quality devices that can help you make amazing music. Check out the Roland SP-404A and the Roland SP-404MKII to see which one suits your needs best!