Sonicware Lofi-12 XT vs. Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: Which Lo-Fi Sampler is Right for You?

Summary: Wondering which lo-fi sampler to choose? Dive into our detailed comparison of the Sonicware Lofi-12 XT and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 to find out which one suits your music-making needs.

Introduction

Hey there, music gear enthusiasts! If you’re into making music with a retro feel, you’ve probably heard of Sonicware’s amazing samplers. Today, we’re diving deep into two popular models: the Sonicware Lofi-12 XT and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12. These samplers are great for creating those crunchy, nostalgic sounds that we all love. But which one is right for you? Let’s find out!

Feature Comparisons

Year of Release and Build

The Sonicware Lofi-12 XT is the newer of the two, released in 2023. It’s a portable groovebox with a focus on lo-fi sound design. On the other hand, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 came out in 2022 and is known for its compact design and vintage sampler inspiration. Both are made by Sonicware and are built to be portable, perfect for on-the-go music making.

Polyphony and Pads

Both samplers offer 10-note polyphony, meaning you can layer up to 10 sounds at once. However, when it comes to pads, there’s a difference. The Lofi-12 XT has 8 velocity-sensitive pads, giving you control over how hard or soft you play each note. Meanwhile, the Liven Lofi-12 has a larger 4x4 pad matrix with 16 pads, allowing for more dynamic performances.

Sample Rate and Storage

The Lofi-12 XT offers more flexibility in sample rates: 12kHz, 24kHz, and 48kHz. This means you can choose the quality of your samples based on your needs. The Liven Lofi-12, however, only offers 12kHz and 24kHz. Both samplers use an SD card for storage, making it easy to save and load your samples.

Sequencer and Effects

Both samplers feature a built-in sequencer. The Lofi-12 XT has a basic sequencer, while the Liven Lofi-12 comes with a more detailed 64-step sequencer, making it great for building complex tracks. In terms of effects, the Lofi-12 XT offers more options, including Reverb, Delay, Bit Crusher, Chorus, and EQ. The Liven Lofi-12 also has Delay, Reverb, Bit Crusher, and EQ, but lacks the Chorus effect.

I/O and Screen

The Lofi-12 XT comes with a modern OLED screen, providing a clear and easy-to-read display. It has Line In/Out, Headphone, MIDI In/Out, and USB-C ports. The Liven Lofi-12, on the other hand, features an LED display and similar I/O options, but with a standard USB port instead of USB-C.

Price and Description

The Lofi-12 XT is priced at $289, while the Liven Lofi-12 is a bit more budget-friendly at $239. Both samplers are designed for lo-fi enthusiasts who enjoy creating music with a retro, dusty texture. The Lofi-12 XT is described as a powerful groovebox with multi-engine sampling modes, real-time time stretch, and stereo sampling. The Liven Lofi-12 is known for its hands-on sequencer and 12-bit sampling.

Pros and Cons

Sonicware Lofi-12 XT

Pros:

• Offers multiple sample rates (12kHz, 24kHz, 48kHz)
• More effects options, including Chorus
• OLED screen for easy navigation
• Velocity-sensitive pads for expressive playing
• Stereo sampling

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Fewer pads than the Liven Lofi-12

Sonicware Liven Lofi-12

Pros:

• More affordable
• Larger pad matrix (16 pads)
• 64-step sequencer for detailed track building
• Classic lo-fi sound with 12-bit sampling

Cons:

• Limited sample rate options
• Fewer effects
• LED display, which may not be as clear as OLED

Final Verdict

Both the Sonicware Lofi-12 XT and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 are excellent choices for anyone interested in lo-fi music production. If you’re looking for more flexibility with sample rates, a wider range of effects, and a modern OLED screen, the Sonicware Lofi-12 XT is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re on a budget and prefer a larger pad matrix and a 64-step sequencer, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 is a fantastic option.

Whichever you choose, you’ll be able to create amazing, nostalgic music that captures the essence of lo-fi sound. Happy music-making!