I'm a new SP-404mk2 owner. I consciously decided to go with it specifically because I don't need to have it connected to a PC, and it can fit into a shoulder sling bag. I think it'd be cool to have a standalone MPC/Maschine+, but they're pricey, cumbersome, and provide functionality that I can already do with a DAW. ALL that being said, there's a use case for all these products, and for some, they're more ideal than others. But, the SP-404MK2 is plenty of beast for me, atm
hell no, these updates are insane good so i think its best to keep em coming and i think there are stills ome empty spots left to be filled when it comes to the FX :)
My short time memory says NO! to picking up the mk2 with its crazy button acrobatics. Yet still tempted by its playfulness. Knowing Roland the idea of a docking station seems totally unrealistic. But a SP555 mk2 sounds super sweet - and is the likely the machine most people want. It may happen. Bigger screen and smoother workflow more of a groovebox - a no brainier.
I personally would like to see the *Roland SP404 M3.* The SP404 series has been a slam dunk for Roland for years they would be taking a huge gamble with any new/re-branded machines to chase Akai! Roland has done this many times before one being the *Roland MV8000 & 8800* at that time they were chasing the MPC3000 and that machine fell way short of competing with the MPC’s. Roland will suffer a similar fate if they try to jump in the ring with Akai MPC’s again. I believe Roland has a gem with the SP404MK2 or mK3! They have a dedicated customer base with the SP404’s the units can remain battery powered, users love the portable and customization, it’s basically a midi controller and user interface with the USB-C - I would just like to see maybe a slightly larger screen, move the effects buttons away from the sides to accommodate a larger screen move those buttons somewhere else and lastly add WiFi/bluetooth just because lol. In closing I do like your idea as just a wishlist type thing but practically Roland would have a lot of catching up to do in the world of DAWS in a box and I believe most people would stick with Akai or Maschine for that experience!!!
Yeah. It is a dream. I think no matter what, Roland is going to have to come up with something that competes with the MPC. I think giving people an option of using the more simpler interface or something adjacent to the Koala app would be very popular.
I just received my SP and it looks like this is the first useable sp for the way I would like to use them. (in fx send pre of a dj mixer) I have 4 of the SP's and all I can say is sampling workstations are not their strength. I think the popularly of SP's is because one famous DJ used it, but he can work wonders with any machine. although I have a fair amount of Roland kit other than my HandSonic's and TR-8's all have flaws compared to Korg and Pioneer.
Wow. The first? I guess I can see that. I've never used ones from any of the competitors (except the MPC) but I think this device has a ton of potential.
Great video and i own the MKII for 5 days now and man i love this thing! It gave me a whole new creative flow and start to produce music that i wouldnt make on koala sampler alone. Before this i worked with ableton and koala with a MPD218 midi controller but the fact that the MKII is a audio interface makes it so bad ass. Now i can sample everything i want and tweak it with the FX to fit my needs.
i just got 1 also and i think its bad ass to be honest! Bought it for koala but the more i play with it the less i use koala :) It gave me a new wave of creativity and i been following this device from day 1 but alwas felt like it was missing some basic feature like a bars you can set to record etc but with the all great updates i gave in and glad i did!!
Maybe an update to the video given the new software update? Wouldn’t it make more sense to had a dedicated iPad app that will allow for a better workflow and give the stem separation to a DAW? Seems that might be optimal for a portable workflow.
I love my SP404mk2 as the Swiss Army knife it is, though like everyone, would like a few more capabilities (a few looping modes, MIDI mapping, maybe foot switch control?) It’s PC app -esp. it’s UI- could really be improved , if they wanted to take it that direction…
I anticipate they will make huge improvements on the app to match what they want to do with the workstation they will develop. My guess is that the plug in feature is the test bed for the full app.
Yeah, but they also introduced an error, found by at least three people. Try loading a sample from any SD card. The resample the sample. Crash, and reboot.
@@thecolorcomputer They will resolve it..... Roland been listening. And they watching Akai and TE putting out new gear and they gotta say on their game.
You're right. They will get a lot out of the same. My suggestion is that they'll add to. Maintain what you're doing with the MKII and give a new audience an alternative to other workstations. Either way, I'm still happy with what they've done so far and anticipate what the future will look like.
I’m digging the ideas you have for add ons and a new 555. The SP-808 would be incredible as a MKII as well. Especially how the 808 had a built-in 4-track recorder with additional EQ and FX routing. It also had a built in synth and like 100 fx. That MV 8000 line would be insane as well with a modern update; so many possibilities.
Great video man!! A new MV-8800 with sp effects, sp workflow and these modern updates would be my favorite machine ever. I love the portability of 404, but nothing better than sitting down with a huge open face machine with pads, knobs and sliders.
I see Roland as still selling multiple devices to do what a MPC does. I have a MC-101, SP404mk2 and a keystep 37 and it’s essentially the equivalent of a MPC key 37 (without side chain compression and a lot more intuitive)
The SP404MK2 would be compatible with current generation MPCs if it allowed custom midi mapping like its grandfather the MS-1. This update is key to using it with an MPC in concert side by side but, Roland is concentrating on pleasing users who want it to function like an MPC (totally missing the point of the SP404MK2). So frivolous updates will continue instead of adding the most basic one which unlocks it.
Do you think the fact they won't give it that update is due to the different companies and them not wanting to have that seamless functionality between the two? I think that would justify me wanting a competitive device that I allow to work better with the MKII over the MPC.
you can hook it up to a midi controller if you need more knobs... I like the size of the SP, i don't think i would get a 555mk2. i wish the made the screen a bit bigger and made all the knobs encoder knobs for the extra buttons... but if they keep adding updates like this. let's goooooo! MPC is a glorified ipad now...
Glorified iPad..lol. Yes. I love the different functions on the MKII. Sometimes i forget some features based on the buttons you have to mash. A second interface would help out a lot.
Thanks for your takes and insights! I'm still kinda learning the 404mk2, but I've decided to try and work on and complete tracks with it using the various rec modes etc. The feature set is absolutely awesome, even when you're just starting out... and the firmware updates have been really flow-opening. There is so much potential still!
Yes. Even with all the button combos you can get a lot done. The way they have paired it with the software is why I believe they have something in store.
Something akin to live looping would be cool. I'm coming to the 404 from a musique concrete sort of mindset and also love Frippertronics so it would be cool to have tools like that
Yes. It does work as far as midi and timing, but it’s not seamless. The amount of know how people like you posses pales in comparison to newbies like me.
2 things still missing A Ducker/Sidechain effect and some more advanced Pattern Edit With overwrite/merge patterns and paste 2 or more patterns in to a longer pattern
SP555, that sent my a shiver in my spine - I want the Loop Capture features rather in the SP404 than in a new device. Was the SP555 a success? Not sure. But thanks for sharing. Hope you become king of the day someday;)
I think like a lot of early workstations, it was a novelty among beat makers. The 555 or 606 were somewhat successful, but not enough to remain in the market.
@@spitlogic I agree. I was hoping for samples with predetermined measures. But loop capture is so useful. I am one of those using the SP to record ideas from my external Equipment (Synth, Guitar, Vocals). The nearly 20sec recording time it is good and undo/redo functions + MIDI functions. Alone would be killer for an update. Also the implementation of the UI and KeyPresses are really well thought out. But all the other changes Roland shows how much the care of the product. Some Folks having issues with stability- but I am certain Roland will fix that. The next product 5thMay2025 - SP555 MK2 - based on SP404MK2 sampling and recording features paired with the MC101 a 5Track Midi Sequencer with ZenCore. But what do I know. ;). Happy with the new version.
Would love to see a 555 MKII. Definitely would get it. Nice vid bro
With the new update I may be a little right.
Lol you basically have it now
I'm a new SP-404mk2 owner. I consciously decided to go with it specifically because I don't need to have it connected to a PC, and it can fit into a shoulder sling bag.
I think it'd be cool to have a standalone MPC/Maschine+, but they're pricey, cumbersome, and provide functionality that I can already do with a DAW.
ALL that being said, there's a use case for all these products, and for some, they're more ideal than others. But, the SP-404MK2 is plenty of beast for me, atm
I would like to lust after a 555mk2, though 😅
Same here. The workflow and probability makes it perfect for me. However, of they brought a legit competitor to the MPC. I would support.
Roland was listening to you bruh !!
I know right!!!?? 🤯🤯
They just need to fix whatever bugs on the 4.04 and the LEAVE IT ALONE!!!!!! it’s classic already 👌🏿🔥🫡🇨🇦
I may adjust my theory after the new update.
hell no, these updates are insane good so i think its best to keep em coming and i think there are stills ome empty spots left to be filled when it comes to the FX :)
My short time memory says NO! to picking up the mk2 with its crazy button acrobatics. Yet still tempted by its playfulness.
Knowing Roland the idea of a docking station seems totally unrealistic. But a SP555 mk2 sounds super sweet - and is the likely the machine most people want. It may happen. Bigger screen and smoother workflow more of a groovebox - a no brainier.
🤞🏾 fingers crossed.
I personally would like to see the *Roland SP404 M3.* The SP404 series has been a slam dunk for Roland for years they would be taking a huge gamble with any new/re-branded machines to chase Akai!
Roland has done this many times before one being the *Roland MV8000 & 8800* at that time they were chasing the MPC3000 and that machine fell way short of competing with the MPC’s. Roland will suffer a similar fate if they try to jump in the ring with Akai MPC’s again.
I believe Roland has a gem with the SP404MK2 or mK3! They have a dedicated customer base with the SP404’s the units can remain battery powered, users love the portable and customization, it’s basically a midi controller and user interface with the USB-C - I would just like to see maybe a slightly larger screen, move the effects buttons away from the sides to accommodate a larger screen move those buttons somewhere else and lastly add WiFi/bluetooth just because lol.
In closing I do like your idea as just a wishlist type thing but practically Roland would have a lot of catching up to do in the world of DAWS in a box and I believe most people would stick with Akai or Maschine for that experience!!!
Yeah. It is a dream. I think no matter what, Roland is going to have to come up with something that competes with the MPC. I think giving people an option of using the more simpler interface or something adjacent to the Koala app would be very popular.
Next gen kids will be more nostalgic for Koala Sampler than the SP404. Roland's future looks grim, IMO
I hope that's not the case. 😯
Working on screen doesnt make the same music when working on real hardware if you ask me.
@@TheChameleon2008 I agree it's a different experience- honestly I have and use both software and hardware for beats.
I just received my SP and it looks like this is the first useable sp for the way I would like to use them. (in fx send pre of a dj mixer) I have 4 of the SP's and all I can say is sampling workstations are not their strength. I think the popularly of SP's is because one famous DJ used it, but he can work wonders with any machine. although I have a fair amount of Roland kit other than my HandSonic's and TR-8's all have flaws compared to Korg and Pioneer.
Wow. The first? I guess I can see that. I've never used ones from any of the competitors (except the MPC) but I think this device has a ton of potential.
The mk2 is essentially a cassette recorder on steroids. It's amazing for soundscapes and ambient music.
It is. A lot of the new features they have on it brings it closer to a workstation, but I still see it as an instrument.
Great video and i own the MKII for 5 days now and man i love this thing! It gave me a whole new creative flow and start to produce music that i wouldnt make on koala sampler alone. Before this i worked with ableton and koala with a MPD218 midi controller but the fact that the MKII is a audio interface makes it so bad ass. Now i can sample everything i want and tweak it with the FX to fit my needs.
I look at the 404 as an instrument and a tool. It makes music and enables creation. This new update makes it even more of that.
lowkey excited for this
I just got one after all the years I never really wanted a sp sampler tell now. Hopefully it works for me
It is a combination of quality sound and an addictive process. I love it
i just got 1 also and i think its bad ass to be honest! Bought it for koala but the more i play with it the less i use koala :) It gave me a new wave of creativity and i been following this device from day 1 but alwas felt like it was missing some basic feature like a bars you can set to record etc but with the all great updates i gave in and glad i did!!
Maybe an update to the video given the new software update? Wouldn’t it make more sense to had a dedicated iPad app that will allow for a better workflow and give the stem separation to a DAW? Seems that might be optimal for a portable workflow.
That's not a bad idea. Maybe the Koala collab is their way of achieving that.
I love my SP404mk2 as the Swiss Army knife it is, though like everyone, would like a few more capabilities (a few looping modes, MIDI mapping, maybe foot switch control?) It’s PC app -esp. it’s UI- could really be improved , if they wanted to take it that direction…
I anticipate they will make huge improvements on the app to match what they want to do with the workstation they will develop. My guess is that the plug in feature is the test bed for the full app.
Well, update 4.04 is a proper beast. Added some features that you talked about in this video!
Crazy right? They even mentioned the SP555.
Yeah, but they also introduced an error, found by at least three people. Try loading a sample from any SD card. The resample the sample. Crash, and reboot.
@artisans8521 I did have a crash at one point. Hasn't happened again yet. But, hopefully, this is resolved soon
@@thecolorcomputer They will resolve it..... Roland been listening. And they watching Akai and TE putting out new gear and they gotta say on their game.
I think they don't want to compete, or they would have already. They have their own vision and I think they'll get out more of the same.
You're right. They will get a lot out of the same. My suggestion is that they'll add to. Maintain what you're doing with the MKII and give a new audience an alternative to other workstations. Either way, I'm still happy with what they've done so far and anticipate what the future will look like.
This is the kind of hype tactics I need haha
Side chain ducking is on my wishlist
If we're around long enough, i guarantee we'll have it.
Id love to see a sp 606 and 808 MKII and a MV 8800
That MV 8800 looks like a masterpiece.
1:30 seriously? Literally EVERY firmware can be updated...And I really don't get your point...You DO NOT HAVE to update or use all features...What BS.
🤨
I’m digging the ideas you have for add ons and a new 555. The SP-808 would be incredible as a MKII as well. Especially how the 808 had a built-in 4-track recorder with additional EQ and FX routing. It also had a built in synth and like 100 fx.
That MV 8000 line would be insane as well with a modern update; so many possibilities.
Damn. The track recorder would be awesome. That would be icing on the cake.
Great video man!! A new MV-8800 with sp effects, sp workflow and these modern updates would be my favorite machine ever. I love the portability of 404, but nothing better than sitting down with a huge open face machine with pads, knobs and sliders.
This must be before the update
Yes it was. Roland could have given me a heads up...lol.
Stems would be nice for the SP404MKII. That's on my wishlist.
Amen to that!! It would be. Game changer.
👍👍
🙏🏾🙏🏾
I see Roland as still selling multiple devices to do what a MPC does. I have a MC-101, SP404mk2 and a keystep 37 and it’s essentially the equivalent of a MPC key 37 (without side chain compression and a lot more intuitive)
I would be curious to know how seamless the workflow is between the three devices.
Interesting title for a feature request or personal wishlist 😅
Lol. If it gets my wish I'll be the squeaky wheel.
The SP404MK2 would be compatible with current generation MPCs if it allowed custom midi mapping like its grandfather the MS-1.
This update is key to using it with an MPC in concert side by side but, Roland is concentrating on pleasing users who want it to function like an MPC (totally missing the point of the SP404MK2).
So frivolous updates will continue instead of adding the most basic one which unlocks it.
Do you think the fact they won't give it that update is due to the different companies and them not wanting to have that seamless functionality between the two? I think that would justify me wanting a competitive device that I allow to work better with the MKII over the MPC.
The timing of this video is nuts
Bruh 🤯
Literally ALL these machines ARE computers with software in 'm...😂😂😂
Always
🤨
You might enjoy trying Zenbeats alongside the Sp404 mk2. Used as either a midi tape recorder or audio tracker..
You know I've heard a lot about zenbeats. I've seen a few videos on it too. Definitely something I will consider.
you can hook it up to a midi controller if you need more knobs... I like the size of the SP, i don't think i would get a 555mk2. i wish the made the screen a bit bigger and made all the knobs encoder knobs for the extra buttons... but if they keep adding updates like this. let's goooooo! MPC is a glorified ipad now...
Glorified iPad..lol. Yes. I love the different functions on the MKII. Sometimes i forget some features based on the buttons you have to mash. A second interface would help out a lot.
Thanks for your takes and insights! I'm still kinda learning the 404mk2, but I've decided to try and work on and complete tracks with it using the various rec modes etc. The feature set is absolutely awesome, even when you're just starting out... and the firmware updates have been really flow-opening. There is so much potential still!
Yes. Even with all the button combos you can get a lot done. The way they have paired it with the software is why I believe they have something in store.
Something akin to live looping would be cool. I'm coming to the 404 from a musique concrete sort of mindset and also love Frippertronics so it would be cool to have tools like that
The live looping is always a joy to watch. I think since the MKII is built for live performance adjustments can be made to fit that (I think).
Midi is used to connect equipment from different companies and it works very efficiently try it out
Yes. It does work as far as midi and timing, but it’s not seamless. The amount of know how people like you posses pales in comparison to newbies like me.
2 things still missing
A Ducker/Sidechain effect and some more advanced Pattern Edit
With overwrite/merge patterns and paste 2 or more patterns in to a longer pattern
I would also like to see you be able to copy and paste from one pattern onto another. Not just join two but overlay on top of them.
@@spitlogic that is wat I ment! Like fuse patterns! Yes!
Filters or eq per pad too, essential for mixing.
Endless encoders are missing too. That Catch, direct and manuel function is not good at all.
SP555, that sent my a shiver in my spine - I want the Loop Capture features rather in the SP404 than in a new device. Was the SP555 a success? Not sure.
But thanks for sharing. Hope you become king of the day someday;)
I think like a lot of early workstations, it was a novelty among beat makers. The 555 or 606 were somewhat successful, but not enough to remain in the market.
@@spitlogic thanks for sharing. I did not know this. With the 4.04 update. Loop Capture came to SP404 MK2.
You have no idea how crazy it was to see that.
@@spitlogic I agree. I was hoping for samples with predetermined measures. But loop capture is so useful. I am one of those using the SP to record ideas from my external Equipment (Synth, Guitar, Vocals).
The nearly 20sec recording time it is good and undo/redo functions + MIDI functions.
Alone would be killer for an update. Also the implementation of the UI and KeyPresses are really well thought out.
But all the other changes Roland shows how much the care of the product.
Some Folks having issues with stability- but I am certain Roland will fix that.
The next product 5thMay2025 - SP555 MK2 - based on SP404MK2 sampling and recording features paired with the MC101 a 5Track Midi Sequencer with ZenCore. But what do I know. ;). Happy with the new version.
I am ready for the SP-666 ...
✝️