Roland SP-404SX vs Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler: Which One Should You Choose?

Summary:
The Roland SP-404SX is a widely-used, portable sampler perfect for DJs and performers, while the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler offers a unique, experimental experience with its whimsical medieval theme.

Introduction

Hey there, music gear fans! If you’re into making beats, sampling sounds, or just exploring new musical gadgets, you’ve probably heard of the Roland SP-404SX and the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler. These two samplers are both exciting in their own ways, but they cater to different needs and styles. Today, we’re going to dive into what makes each of these samplers special, compare their features, and help you decide which one might be the best fit for your musical adventures!

Features Comparison

Sound Quality and Polyphony

When it comes to sound quality, the Roland SP-404SX is designed to impress with its 44.1kHz sample rate and 16-bit audio. This means you can expect clear and high-quality sounds, whether you’re recording or playing back. It supports a whopping 128 voices of polyphony, allowing you to layer sounds without losing quality. On the other hand, the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler keeps its polyphony and sample rate under wraps, making it a bit of a mystery. Given its playful nature, it might not focus on high-end sound quality, but rather on unique and engaging sound experiences.

Storage and Connectivity

The Roland SP-404SX uses Compact Flash cards for storage, which might sound a bit old-school, but it provides reliable and expandable storage options. It even comes with a 1GB card and can support up to 32GB, giving you plenty of space for your sound libraries. Its connectivity includes MIDI In/Out and Audio In/Out, making it easy to integrate into various setups.

In contrast, the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler keeps its storage options a mystery as well, but it likely has USB or a companion app for connectivity. This aligns with Teenage Engineering’s tendency to create products that seamlessly integrate with digital setups.

Pads, Sequencer, and Effects

The Roland SP-404SX is equipped with 12 velocity-sensitive pads, perfect for triggering sounds and creating beats. While it lacks a built-in sequencer, it makes up for it with vintage effects, reverb, and delay, allowing you to get creative with your music. The special pad for fast repeats adds another layer of performance capability.

In contrast, the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler offers a unique setup with keys and knobs instead of traditional pads. It does include a sequencer, which can be a significant advantage for those who want to arrange their sounds directly on the device. The inclusion of effects suggests that it can create some intriguing and experimental sounds, fitting its medieval theme.

Design and Build

The Roland SP-404SX is known for its portable and robust design, making it a favorite for musicians on the go. It’s compact yet powerful, allowing you to take it anywhere and start creating music.

The Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler, labeled as a boutique novelty sampler, suggests a more niche appeal. Its design likely embraces a medieval aesthetic, which can be both fun and inspiring for experimental sound design.

Pros and Cons

Roland SP-404SX

Pros:

• High-quality sound with 44.1kHz sample rate
• 128 polyphony for rich layering
• Portable and durable design
• Extensive effects options
• User-friendly and intuitive

Cons:

• Lacks a built-in sequencer
• Relies on older Compact Flash storage

Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler

Pros:

• Quirky and unique design
• Includes a sequencer
• Likely to integrate well with modern digital setups
• Perfect for experimental sound design

Cons:

• Limited information on sound quality and storage
• Niche appeal may not suit everyone
• Higher price point at an estimated $499

Conclusion

Both the Roland SP-404SX and the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler bring something special to the table. The SP-404SX is a solid choice for DJs, performers, and anyone who wants a reliable and high-quality sampler for making music on the go. Its ease of use and robust features make it a favorite in the music community.

On the other hand, the EP-1320 Medieval Sampler is perfect for those who love to experiment with sound and appreciate a unique, playful design. If you’re looking for something unconventional and are willing to embrace its whimsical theme, this sampler might be the perfect addition to your setup.

In the end, your choice will depend on what you’re looking for in a sampler. Are you after a proven performer like the SP-404SX or an intriguing and experimental tool like the EP-1320? The decision is yours, and either way, you’re sure to have a blast creating music!