Synthstrom Deluge vs Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: A Sampler Showdown

Summary: Welcome to our detailed comparison of two popular samplers: the Synthstrom Deluge and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12. Both are great tools for music makers, but they have different strengths that make them suitable for different kinds of artists. Let’s dive in and see how they stack up!

Introduction

Hey there, music enthusiasts! Today, we’re exploring two fantastic samplers that have captured the hearts of many musicians: the Synthstrom Deluge and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or a budding beatmaker, choosing the right gear is crucial. Both of these devices offer unique features and capabilities. But which one is right for you? Let’s find out!

Feature Comparisons

Build and Design

The Synthstrom Deluge is a robust, standalone music workstation. It’s designed for those who want to create music without needing additional gear. With its compact design, it combines a synthesizer, sampler, sequencer, and audio looper all in one. The Deluge is known for its 128-pad interface that lets you sequence in a piano-roll style. It’s perfect for live performances and arranging music. Even though it doesn’t have traditional pads, it uses buttons and a keyboard to offer a unique music-making experience.

On the other hand, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 is a compact groovebox that’s all about those lo-fi vibes. Inspired by vintage samplers, it offers a 4x4 pad matrix with 16 pads. This makes it super hands-on and fun to use, especially for beatmakers who enjoy crafting tracks with a touch of nostalgia. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it a great choice for musicians on the go.

Sound and Sampling

The Deluge is a powerhouse when it comes to sound. It offers a versatile internal synth engine that supports subtractive, wavetable, and FM synthesis. This means you can create a wide range of sounds, from deep basses to shimmering leads. Its polyphony of 128 notes allows for complex compositions, and it streams samples directly from a MicroSD card. This means you can use as many samples as you want without worrying about running out of space.

In contrast, the Lofi-12 embraces a lo-fi aesthetic with its 12-bit sampling. It offers two sample rates: 12kHz and 24kHz. While it doesn’t have the same polyphony as the Deluge (it’s limited to 10 notes), it’s perfect for those who love that gritty, old-school sound. The Lofi-12 is all about capturing those dusty textures and retro vibes that many producers adore.

Sequencing and Effects

The Deluge features a powerful sequencer with advanced options like Euclidean sequencing, probability, and timing variations. This allows for intricate and dynamic compositions. It also offers multiple effects, including delay, reverb, and more, giving you plenty of room to shape your sound.

The Lofi-12, meanwhile, offers a 64-step sequencer that’s intuitive and fun to use. It’s perfect for building tracks quickly and easily. It comes with real-time performance effects like delay, reverb, bit crusher, and EQ, which are great for adding character to your tracks.

Connectivity and Integration

When it comes to connectivity, the Deluge shines with its extensive options. It features MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio In/Out, and even CV/gate, making it highly versatile. It also includes a built-in mic and speaker, as well as a rechargeable battery for making music anywhere.

The Lofi-12 offers Line In/Out, MIDI In/Out, Headphone, and USB connections. While it’s not as extensive as the Deluge, it provides the essentials for most music-making scenarios. However, neither device offers software integration, so you’ll be working entirely with the hardware.

Pros and Cons

Synthstrom Deluge

Pros:

• Versatile Synth Engine: Supports various synthesis methods for rich sound design.
• High Polyphony: 128 notes allow for complex compositions.
• Extensive Connectivity: MIDI, USB, CV/gate, and more.
• Standalone Operation: Built-in mic, speaker, and battery.

Cons:

• Price: At $1529, it’s a significant investment.
• Learning Curve: Its complexity might be overwhelming for beginners.

Sonicware Liven Lofi-12

Pros:

• Affordable: Priced at $239, it’s accessible for most musicians.
• Lo-fi Aesthetic: Perfect for those who love vintage, gritty sounds.
• Compact and Portable: Easy to carry and use anywhere.

Cons:

• Limited Polyphony: Only 10 notes, which might be limiting for some.
• Basic Connectivity: Lacks the extensive options of the Deluge.

Final Verdict

Both the Synthstrom Deluge and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 are excellent devices, but they cater to different needs. The Deluge is ideal for experienced producers who want a versatile, standalone workstation with advanced features. It’s perfect for those who enjoy deep sound design and complex compositions.

On the other hand, the Lofi-12 is great for beginners or budget-conscious musicians who love lo-fi, vintage sounds. Its simplicity and affordability make it a fantastic entry point into the world of sampling and beatmaking.

In conclusion, your choice depends on what you need in a sampler. If you’re looking for versatility and have the budget, go for the Deluge. If you love lo-fi and want something straightforward and affordable, the Lofi-12 is your best bet. Happy music making!