I think that when you predominantly use an Mpc Sp etc you really have to approach the new machine you’re learning like learning a totally new language and the worst thing you can do is put the expectations from previous machines on the new machine you’re learning I just follow the way of that machine and get into the world 🌎 of that machine once you understand the machine for its uniqueness everything starts to come together when using that new machine with the gear you know inside out…..love your videos…..it’s interesting to see how you’ve come full circle ⭕️ I remember the MK2 videos and I remember when grabbed the MPC ONE 🫡🇨🇦👊🏿
I agree with the language analogy. You have to dedicate yourself to learning it and be prepared to take baby steps until you get the hang of it. I think it's also important that you want to learn the language. For me I'm just not there yet. Thank you for the comment. Much appreciated.
I agree. Just think years ago the concept of DAW didn't exist. I remember splicing tape to piece together samples. I also remember thinking wow what a machine when they brought the first Ampex 4 track tape machine into the studio. Progress.
Excellent perspective and honest, frankly I'm tired of seeing folks in this youtube music gear space jumping from device to device just because something shiny and new comes up they start forgetting the power and usability of any of these samplers in this day and age. I actually started on the MPC One and still adore and use it constantly, it's power and features, outside a laptop DAW, are unrivaled. I recently got the sp404mk2 for that portability and sequencing immediacy that the MPC lacks a bit. They both have complemented each other in my workflow immensely, like an electric and acoustic guitar, same family of product but completely different executions provide different musical ideas.
That's what I really respect about some beat makers. People like you are able to "speak both languages" and translate between the two devices. I want to feel motivated enough to learn the MPC language while maintaining my intimacy with the MK2. Maybe one day, but for now I will maintain the SP 404 MKII as my foundation. Thanks for the comment and the perspective.
Sounds like you might like one of the older MPC’s. The new gen are basically DAW’s themselves. The downside to the older models is the lack of PC connectivity. The MPC 1000 is the sweet spot for me in that regard. The MPC Studio Black is just a controller but you never have to look at a computer screen if you don’t want to.
Yeah. I've played with older MPCs that my friends had and if they had the same computer compatibility like the 404 I would probably enjoy it more. I bet those MPC 1000s are a pretty penny.
To me they feel like completely different things. The SP404 MK2 in my hands feels like an instrument. I don’t know squat about music theory, but I’m slowly learning; even with limited music theory the 404 doesn’t make me feel handicapped like other instruments do because I’m basically just doing things that sound good to me. I originally picked up the MPC One, and would end up just jumping on Ableton on the laptop. That’s the DAW I’m learning, and the MPC One just felt like another DAW I’d have to learn that is no more portable than my laptop.
It's funny how much they are compared to each other. I agree, the MKII is an instrument while the MPC is a work station. They serve different functions yet are discussed in a lot of the same circles.
Coming from MPC live 2 I gotta tell you it’s really thesame thing, both workflows are kind of fd up in their own way imho, even the mpc if you use the plugins a lot you have to re-sample like the 404 bc u run out of ram, the MPC workflow took me a solid 1 year of use before it was flowing for me. I think learning either is like learning a DAW, tbh neither workflow is fast and more slow & methodical. Only thing that blows for me is lack of per pad high pass so I can scoop lows and mix faster on the 404 not sure if you have a tip for that?
That per pad effect is something alot of people have been asking for. My only solution is to resample to the way you want it. If you're only using one effect as you mix, you can change the effect chain to isolate BUS 2 and put that effect on that single pad.
I bought the sp404 because this youtuber named freebeats showed how he uses it to "sketch" song ideas down. Then I realized hey I can do the same approach where I do specific things in sp404 instead of using all functions in one sitting I can chop em down as a workflow.
I own both, the SP 404 MK2 is a serious machine, but workflow wise, I feel handicapped working on the SP404mk2 compared to the MPC. Most people love the effects of the SP and use it as a effects unit.
That's what I see a lot. People (to include myself) love the effects. You certainly have to do more and put in some work on the MK2 as opposed to the MPC One, but I love it still the same.
I’m very much doing the same kind of thing you are, but I can’t sell my MPC one yet. It’s the SD card reader I use to move and name my SP files with my iPad attached to it. No PC with a card slot here.
That's interesting. The MPC One's ability to manage files is a huge plus. It also does a good job reading different formating schemes. Never thought of using it for file naming.
Coming from Ableton Live with the Push 2 I had the same experience with the MPC Live 2. I bought it for tactile standalone and mobility and there wasn't a Push 3 out yet at the time. But man, was it a bitch to adapt to! But then again, I'm pretty sure that I would have had the same difficult experience with the SP404 MK2. And probably even worse because I've yet to see a review of this device where it's praised for its intuitivity.
It really comes down to what you enjoy using. I have the opposite experience, meaning that I feel like I need for force myself to use the SP-404 MKII. I'm convinced it's not for me. The lesson learned here, I think, is that you really need to "feel" for yourself what brings you joy. Just because someone on TH-cam tells you it's an awesome device, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll agree even though you highly respect that person on TH-cam. I'm pointing fingers at myself here, just to be clear. 😊
Btw, I really agree with the importance of portability. While my favorite device is the Syntakt, the one thing I don't like about it is that it can't be powered by batteries or USB. And that clearly is one of the edges of the SP over the MPC as a sampler.
Its the balance between doing what you want while expanding your pallet and learning new things. Sometimes you want to improve on your basics and others you want to venture out and try something new.
Hey Dude. I like that your keeping true to yourself and not forcing the content you make. You are absolutely 100% on the money about how great the portability of the SP is. I'm a guitar player that got into synths and now found my way to samplers. I love that I can just take the SP to work or on a long trip or anywhere really and just make music. Your evolution of patterns video is one of the best SP-404 MK2 videos out there. believe me I've watched a lot. You can tell you liked working on the SP. I don't think you would do an hour-long video on something you don't like. I always have my eye on the MPC but are we ever happy? It's like having a great girl but always chasing other ones. It's fun but ultimately unproductive. The SP is such a deep machine as it is I think I'll take the time to learn it well before straying all over the place. I'm sure I'll get a lot of great tips on how to use the SP here on your channel too so keep up the great work.
Thank you. I know that the 404 has a ton of potential between audio inputs and external HD for manipulating sound. It has even had me considering picking up an instrument...lol. As far as other devices or gear, I have been looking into it. I know the 404 has MIDI in and out and that's something I want to explore with an external synth or something like that. Time (and money) will tell.
I use my SP to sample on the go and when I am in the mood for freestyle beats/performance. The Mpc one when I want that thump. Each machine has it sound. I love both. SP has that grit, dusty, warm old records, beat tape mix tape vibe, a sound where hip hop comes from, on Radio Shake equipment... that raw sound that hip hop heads love! MPC has that thump boom bap and more functional for commercial beats. However, they are tools and can be used together, depending what you going for!!! Enjoy making beats!!!
I think the difference in more refined beats VS the raw sound is what makes the two stand out. I think you can accomplish both with either, but I would agree that the MPC is a more polished sound.
I gave my MPC One to my nephew to tackle. I never could get into it. My first sampler was the SP404sx and I purchased the MK2 as well. These machine's were made for a beat producer like me. 👊🏾
You can always buy another one down the line; if you want to give it a second chance! Fortunately for us, the newer MPC’s are not classic machines, so they’ll be around on the resale market for a minute! I’m going to get a MPC One Plus….just to play around with it! I’m waiting for this Russian company that sells skins* to restock the *Skin* for the MPC One…..I hate that red color way, not sure why they didn’t just go retro colors or black! I also have the Roland MK2 that’s what directed me to your videos…..good work my brother and keep the videos rolling salute!
I think that as time passes, I'll work my way to new gear. The concept and the power of the MPC One is great. I just don't think it fits me just yet. Thank you for the comment. Hope you enjoy that One Plus.
I do agree it's a taste thing man! I'm not denying that the MPC One is more capable in many ways and has more control and depth in comparison to the SP404MK2. But at the end of the day the same thing happened with me. I just didn't like using the MPC One because it felt like a bad DAW haha. I feel like if you're avoiding a computer DAW, the MPC is good because it's DAW-like but not quite. I tried Ableton when I had the MPC and loved it then got a Push 2 and got rid of the MPC, because in order to use my MPC I had to be plugged into an interface to use with my speakers. I realized I was slowing myself down for no reason. Got the SP404 MK2 soon after to have something portable. It just inspires me and I get into way more creative and weird territory on my SX and MK2 and it happens almost instantaneously. I use my SPs a LOT and use my Push 2 and Ableton as the main hub. It's what works for me. Adding an MPC would just be another step and it did nothing but slow me down. Didn't add any value. I use my SPs to record instruments and create sequences and sound design into crazy territory, then it all goes into Ableton for full song building. But in that process I use the resampling AND sequencer of the SP. I also play the SPs like a synth that has samples as the notes and record those performances as clips in Ableton to develop loops and songs.
That's interesting how you process your instruments by a hub and spoke concept. Your home base to do studio work and the MK2 for creative work. I think that's what the MPC is. It's a workstation for music production. The 404 is an instrument for creativity.
I was just debating some dude on another channel about Mashine MK3 vs MPC, I told him the same thing you said about the new MPC's workflow is really like an iPad with a few knobs. The workflow is nothing like the old hardware workflow MPCs with the new touchscreen menu diving. As someone who likes a hybrid workflow I chose Maschine because it gives me a real hardware feel no menu diving everything is laid out on buttons and knobs. I work most inside Studio One but can do everything drum related or chop samples on the hardware and not have to look at the computer. If I chose MK3 interface I can sample directly into Maschine and plug a pair of headphones in it. The arranger and performance strip which let's you do note repeat and pitch down snare roll in real time kills the MPC without me mentioning VST3 support and sounds it comes with.
The Maschine was another option I was looking at since I was familiar with the software. I did like how you had the option to use just the midi interface for everything and wondered if the workstation had the same options. Good to know.
Hmm I feel the exact way about the SP404 MK2. After all the time I did waiting for it. Like 3 months after release. Still not comfortable with the work flow. I like the batteries thing, but I hate charging them rechargeable batteries and bringing extras and the charger itself. I could make decent patterns, but a whole beat itself 🤔. It's hard to retain muscle memory if not used in a few weeks with all the shortcuts, modes, and colors. Won't get rid of it though. Another battle is time and I don't feel like I gave it it's fair share.
Some of the process with the workflow and button mashing is part of the appeal for me. I like the kinetic feel of sequencing buttons to get a result. Doing the same thing much faster on a DAW doesn't give me the same satisfaction.
@@spitlogic yes so true. You video got me thinking why do I have both instruments. In comparison they are two different animals. A lot like apples an oranges. One can do something the other can't. Ie. The MPC one has no preamp built in sp has and fx to boot. Wave an midi files can be shaped between the two. The sp has limited chromatic features the mpc is loaded. All in all I'm ok with my sp portability and ok with my mpc in the studio. Sometimes even a nice mix using both. I think I'll be keeping both in my rig. Again you video makes you think it through all over again. It all comes down to you and how you use it and if you find it inspiring. All the best JR
Hey brother!! Thank you. Strange thing is I went to your page and saw I was unsubscribed from your channel. Weird how that happens. Good to hear from you.
cool video good points stay with your own workflow i have a mpc live i love it but i use the mc101 great machine amazing sound i pair up with og sp404 great combo but there both dope by them selves i love using the op-1 to
i have both, they are both cool, serve different workflows and needs. Mpc was first .. MPC does more but its also more deep... Sp-404mkii feels more like a sampling drum machine, some of the fx are ace. On some recent songs i used both .. The sp-404 for guitar amp, vocoder and vocal pitch correction going into the looper page of the MPC one.
I think that's excellent. The way you've described how you use it seems like the 404 is more of an additional effects or foundation tool for the beats while the refinement of the music is done with the MPC One. In a perfect world, I want to try and use them as two parts of a whole beat making experience. Maybe that expectation is part of why I gave up on it. I don't know, but I do plan on revisiting it sometime. It's just a matter of when.
@@spitlogic today i used the ripcord & battery bank to take the sp-404 round my house creating samples/foley/sound fx for today's hardware jam entry (yt live stream's all the entries on a monday evening uk time) SP404 is great for that and the resampling is really easy/fast.. will do more with the SP-404 as i grow and learn it more.
I use the SP404 & Logic, I haven't found a "balance" in using both. At times I feel like creating ideas w/ SP is so much easier, but I never pass the "draft" stage. On the other end, in Logic, there is so much, that I could easily get lost in chopping samples, tweaking synths...A little "workaround" I found was to export SP stems in logic, but in many cases I lose the "SP Vibe". Its a strange dilemma...but great video, always enjoying coming back 👍
I use Logic for mixing and mastering my music. I've dabbled a little in the plug in for the app, but nothing compares to the ease of creativity you feel from using the 404. I agree that a lot of what i end up with is just a draft. I think that makes me appreciate the good tracks even more.
@@spitlogic I'm in the same boat with you on this. I've had the SP for 3 weeks and it's been such a positive experience. I've totally embraced the workflow. I route my SP into a Tascam Model 16 so I have a lot of flexibility for sending tracks to outboard gear or finishing the song without the computer. As a longtime Logic user since the Emagic days...I relate strongly to not being able to be creative infront of any screen...MPC, iPad, or full on computer. The SP404mk2 is truly a unique capture and production device.
im a beginner and i've had my mpc live 2 for a year now. i have the sp404 mk 2 also and it's a well designed piece of equipment. but the workflow of the mpc live 2 is light years ahead of the sp404. it's like comparing a calculator to an abacus! lol i do enjoy using both together. it's easier to get better drums through the sp404...but you can get similar drums in the live 2 with a little more tweaking.
Yes. I've seen and heard some really good music come from the MPC One. I've seen the same from the SP 404 MK2. I would imagine that the MPC One takes less time to build something (especially if you're familiar with it). The difference is vast and I would put the MPC One as one of the most advanced workstations out there. For me, the simplicity and reliance of buttons is what attracts me to the MK2.
@@spitlogic i do love the portability of the SP404. I just got it about 3 months ago and i didn't expect how great the quality is. i really need to find more time with it to fully learn the workflow. Also, the MPC Live mini is rumored. if they keep the same touchscreen with the size of the sp404...that could be interesting!
I use the mpc one and mpc live for the church band, making gospel albums, gaming, movies/[short videos], country, and r&b. I can chop and screw samples really easy that come off real instruments. Some musicians don't like their brain to click and think in the AKAI way. Some people just don't take to learning new interfaces. But that MPC One and MPC Live are probably the quickest drum samplers I have ever used. I have used them all. I can make a whole song in like 10 minutes with piano keys, some real guitar layers, and real saxophones. I can program an orchestration with it too for movies and Foley artists stuff. Back in 1998-1999, Cakewalk had expansion packs and plugins to chop and slice waveforms. I still use it til this day on a (windows) PC. I can dump the expansion pack files right into the MPC. Cakewalk was my real deep dive daw. I have all the sounds of Yamaha, Roland, Korg, Akai, Kawaii and everything under the sun, saved on 4TiB disks. 20 years of sounds and plugins. Cakewalk is now free. Its crazy. I also use protools, garage band, logic, abbleton, bitwig, steinberg, studio1 and all the ones in between because I have to synchronize with whatever some musician uses. I think Logic is one of the worst programs I have ever used for making sounds and mixing and mastering, but every musician is using it. Logic cripples me. It does not have SwapLR, or polarity, so I can't do my own Mid Side matrix setups. It does not have proper effects that we use in Gaming and Pro Level Mastering. It runs like a 1991 DAW. LOL. I am just amazed at how different brains click. I am trying to teach someone to use the MPC One after church tomorrow. Let's see if it sticks. Good Video.
Thank you. Your perspective was very insightful and I think that's what makes music making so fascinating. You have a utility need for using the MPC as well as a creative outlet. I don't think the 404 has much of a utility requirement for something on the scale you use it for. At the same time I was far from inspired when using the MPC. It just didn't get the creative juices flowing.
Great video. I use both MPC and SP404 in standalone. SP was used for FX and loops and plan to grow into it over time to produce. Im still learning the SP workflow and enjoy pairing the 2 along with other gear like the J6. I used to feel pressure to use the SP but quickly got over it. Love them both.
I have mpc live2 currently. Been with MPC since the 1000. That being said I use sp404 daily while mpc is collecting dust. My flow is sample heavy. I’m DAWless except for vocals in logic which is rare so basically DAWless. I run everything into model12. I use the subout on the 12 to the in’s on the 404. Then I just play records and when I hear something I use the mark feature to skip back then chop. Then I just keep that going with the keyboards. All free jams using the mark feature and stacking my work. I love the flow of how I’m making music now. Very natural
Yes!! Something about how the workflow is on the MK2 just feels natural. Someone else mentioned the MPC 1000. I think that device is similar to the MK2 in how organic it feels.
Just don't make you're opinion from old videos about this machine, it gone so fare out , only old videos won't tell full story, this machine is ment to dig deep& or not, as you like it gives good results in bothe ways(but deep will give you yore sound)plus it gives you unic artifacts for sonic manipulations
Thanks for the video! You touched on a number of great points including how you evaluated your options and the concept of current you prefers device X, future you may prefer something else. I have the SP404mk2 as well, and triggering it from Logic is another powerful option, with plugins or outboard gear.
Yes. I use Logic and feel like there is a lot to explore with that interaction. The app as a plug in has a lot of possibilities. I may try them out in the future.
@@spitlogic Force has more pads and I can play freely across several octaves, also clip based architecture is more visual and helps to build the structure of the song. Finally, arranger mode - I think no need to explain... There are cons for sure - size and weight! MPC One is much lighter and smaller than Force. I think MPC One is cool but I can't keep them both as they basically do the same things and One will collect dust as Force offers more.
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I think that when you predominantly use an Mpc Sp etc you really have to approach the new machine you’re learning like learning a totally new language and the worst thing you can do is put the expectations from previous machines on the new machine you’re learning I just follow the way of that machine and get into the world 🌎 of that machine once you understand the machine for its uniqueness everything starts to come together when using that new machine with the gear you know inside out…..love your videos…..it’s interesting to see how you’ve come full circle ⭕️ I remember the MK2 videos and I remember when grabbed the MPC ONE 🫡🇨🇦👊🏿
I agree with the language analogy. You have to dedicate yourself to learning it and be prepared to take baby steps until you get the hang of it. I think it's also important that you want to learn the language. For me I'm just not there yet. Thank you for the comment. Much appreciated.
I agree. Just think years ago the concept of DAW didn't exist. I remember splicing tape to piece together samples. I also remember thinking wow what a machine when they brought the first Ampex 4 track tape machine into the studio. Progress.
It took me 8 months to love my MPC one lmao. I loved it even more when I started using a drum machine with it
What drum machine do you use with your MPC One? What made you attempt that?
Excellent perspective and honest, frankly I'm tired of seeing folks in this youtube music gear space jumping from device to device just because something shiny and new comes up they start forgetting the power and usability of any of these samplers in this day and age.
I actually started on the MPC One and still adore and use it constantly, it's power and features, outside a laptop DAW, are unrivaled.
I recently got the sp404mk2 for that portability and sequencing immediacy that the MPC lacks a bit. They both have complemented each other in my workflow immensely, like an electric and acoustic guitar, same family of product but completely different executions provide different musical ideas.
That's what I really respect about some beat makers. People like you are able to "speak both languages" and translate between the two devices. I want to feel motivated enough to learn the MPC language while maintaining my intimacy with the MK2. Maybe one day, but for now I will maintain the SP 404 MKII as my foundation.
Thanks for the comment and the perspective.
Sounds like you might like one of the older MPC’s. The new gen are basically DAW’s themselves. The downside to the older models is the lack of PC connectivity. The MPC 1000 is the sweet spot for me in that regard. The MPC Studio Black is just a controller but you never have to look at a computer screen if you don’t want to.
Yeah. I've played with older MPCs that my friends had and if they had the same computer compatibility like the 404 I would probably enjoy it more. I bet those MPC 1000s are a pretty penny.
To me they feel like completely different things. The SP404 MK2 in my hands feels like an instrument. I don’t know squat about music theory, but I’m slowly learning; even with limited music theory the 404 doesn’t make me feel handicapped like other instruments do because I’m basically just doing things that sound good to me. I originally picked up the MPC One, and would end up just jumping on Ableton on the laptop. That’s the DAW I’m learning, and the MPC One just felt like another DAW I’d have to learn that is no more portable than my laptop.
It's funny how much they are compared to each other. I agree, the MKII is an instrument while the MPC is a work station. They serve different functions yet are discussed in a lot of the same circles.
Coming from MPC live 2 I gotta tell you it’s really thesame thing, both workflows are kind of fd up in their own way imho, even the mpc if you use the plugins a lot you have to re-sample like the 404 bc u run out of ram, the MPC workflow took me a solid 1 year of use before it was flowing for me. I think learning either is like learning a DAW, tbh neither workflow is fast and more slow & methodical. Only thing that blows for me is lack of per pad high pass so I can scoop lows and mix faster on the 404 not sure if you have a tip for that?
That per pad effect is something alot of people have been asking for. My only solution is to resample to the way you want it. If you're only using one effect as you mix, you can change the effect chain to isolate BUS 2 and put that effect on that single pad.
I bought the sp404 because this youtuber named freebeats showed how he uses it to "sketch" song ideas down. Then I realized hey I can do the same approach where I do specific things in sp404 instead of using all functions in one sitting I can chop em down as a workflow.
I have a LOT of unfinished concepts on my MKII. It's mainly due to my addiction to the 404, but also some of its limitations.
i went through the same emotions , now I'm returning back to Maschine software. what an amazing video with relative clarification .
Thank you. I'm certainly trying new things out and moving toward something, time will tell what works.
Sell both and get an MPC Live 2. It’s portable and the screen isn’t that of an old game boy or do whatever you want.
I've seen some demos of the live 2 but if it comes to portability, I have to side with the 404 MK2. It is portable and compact.
Strictly MPCs and keyboards…..
I can respect that.
I own both, the SP 404 MK2 is a serious machine, but workflow wise, I feel handicapped working on the SP404mk2 compared to the MPC. Most people love the effects of the SP and use it as a effects unit.
That's what I see a lot. People (to include myself) love the effects. You certainly have to do more and put in some work on the MK2 as opposed to the MPC One, but I love it still the same.
I’m very much doing the same kind of thing you are, but I can’t sell my MPC one yet. It’s the SD card reader I use to move and name my SP files with my iPad attached to it. No PC with a card slot here.
That's interesting. The MPC One's ability to manage files is a huge plus. It also does a good job reading different formating schemes. Never thought of using it for file naming.
Coming from Ableton Live with the Push 2 I had the same experience with the MPC Live 2. I bought it for tactile standalone and mobility and there wasn't a Push 3 out yet at the time. But man, was it a bitch to adapt to! But then again, I'm pretty sure that I would have had the same difficult experience with the SP404 MK2. And probably even worse because I've yet to see a review of this device where it's praised for its intuitivity.
The MK2 is work in that regard. Something about the additional work is very rewarding when you put a bear together.
It really comes down to what you enjoy using. I have the opposite experience, meaning that I feel like I need for force myself to use the SP-404 MKII. I'm convinced it's not for me. The lesson learned here, I think, is that you really need to "feel" for yourself what brings you joy. Just because someone on TH-cam tells you it's an awesome device, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll agree even though you highly respect that person on TH-cam. I'm pointing fingers at myself here, just to be clear. 😊
Btw, I really agree with the importance of portability. While my favorite device is the Syntakt, the one thing I don't like about it is that it can't be powered by batteries or USB. And that clearly is one of the edges of the SP over the MPC as a sampler.
Its the balance between doing what you want while expanding your pallet and learning new things. Sometimes you want to improve on your basics and others you want to venture out and try something new.
Hey Dude. I like that your keeping true to yourself and not forcing the content you make. You are absolutely 100% on the money about how great the portability of the SP is. I'm a guitar player that got into synths and now found my way to samplers. I love that I can just take the SP to work or on a long trip or anywhere really and just make music. Your evolution of patterns video is one of the best SP-404 MK2 videos out there. believe me I've watched a lot. You can tell you liked working on the SP. I don't think you would do an hour-long video on something you don't like. I always have my eye on the MPC but are we ever happy? It's like having a great girl but always chasing other ones. It's fun but ultimately unproductive. The SP is such a deep machine as it is I think I'll take the time to learn it well before straying all over the place. I'm sure I'll get a lot of great tips on how to use the SP here on your channel too so keep up the great work.
Thank you. I know that the 404 has a ton of potential between audio inputs and external HD for manipulating sound. It has even had me considering picking up an instrument...lol. As far as other devices or gear, I have been looking into it. I know the 404 has MIDI in and out and that's something I want to explore with an external synth or something like that. Time (and money) will tell.
Just use koala. Just a good as the 404.
Maybe in functionality, but Koala is an app right? No buttons. I like the kinetic feel of the MK2.
i can understand that. But the easy of use and portability is a game changer@@spitlogic
i made a same desition.
One that i think was the right one.
nobody takes their MPC products outside.... Just get you a cheap MPC Touch and a used laptop and screen and your golden....under 400 bucks....holla !
Haha. In a lot of ways you can say that's what the MPC One does. It's a computer and midi controller rolled up in one.
I use my SP to sample on the go and when I am in the mood for freestyle beats/performance. The Mpc one when I want that thump. Each machine has it sound. I love both. SP has that grit, dusty, warm old records, beat tape mix tape vibe, a sound where hip hop comes from, on Radio Shake equipment... that raw sound that hip hop heads love! MPC has that thump boom bap and more functional for commercial beats. However, they are tools and can be used together, depending what you going for!!! Enjoy making beats!!!
I think the difference in more refined beats VS the raw sound is what makes the two stand out. I think you can accomplish both with either, but I would agree that the MPC is a more polished sound.
I gave my MPC One to my nephew to tackle. I never could get into it. My first sampler was the SP404sx and I purchased the MK2 as well. These machine's were made for a beat producer like me. 👊🏾
I feel the same. I wish i would have started with beat machines earlier. Better late than never.
Nice vid. I stop myself from buyin new gear for that reason all the time. Am i really gonna have time to learn this gear . Prolly not.
Yeah. It's not easy finding the balance between learning something new and improving on what you know.
You can always buy another one down the line; if you want to give it a second chance! Fortunately for us, the newer MPC’s are not classic machines, so they’ll be around on the resale market for a minute!
I’m going to get a MPC One Plus….just to play around with it! I’m waiting for this Russian company that sells skins* to restock the *Skin* for the MPC One…..I hate that red color way, not sure why they didn’t just go retro colors or black!
I also have the Roland MK2 that’s what directed me to your videos…..good work my brother and keep the videos rolling salute!
I think that as time passes, I'll work my way to new gear. The concept and the power of the MPC One is great. I just don't think it fits me just yet. Thank you for the comment. Hope you enjoy that One Plus.
I do agree it's a taste thing man!
I'm not denying that the MPC One is more capable in many ways and has more control and depth in comparison to the SP404MK2. But at the end of the day the same thing happened with me. I just didn't like using the MPC One because it felt like a bad DAW haha. I feel like if you're avoiding a computer DAW, the MPC is good because it's DAW-like but not quite. I tried Ableton when I had the MPC and loved it then got a Push 2 and got rid of the MPC, because in order to use my MPC I had to be plugged into an interface to use with my speakers. I realized I was slowing myself down for no reason.
Got the SP404 MK2 soon after to have something portable. It just inspires me and I get into way more creative and weird territory on my SX and MK2 and it happens almost instantaneously. I use my SPs a LOT and use my Push 2 and Ableton as the main hub. It's what works for me. Adding an MPC would just be another step and it did nothing but slow me down. Didn't add any value.
I use my SPs to record instruments and create sequences and sound design into crazy territory, then it all goes into Ableton for full song building. But in that process I use the resampling AND sequencer of the SP. I also play the SPs like a synth that has samples as the notes and record those performances as clips in Ableton to develop loops and songs.
That's interesting how you process your instruments by a hub and spoke concept. Your home base to do studio work and the MK2 for creative work. I think that's what the MPC is. It's a workstation for music production. The 404 is an instrument for creativity.
I was just debating some dude on another channel about Mashine MK3 vs MPC, I told him the same thing you said about the new MPC's workflow is really like an iPad with a few knobs. The workflow is nothing like the old hardware workflow MPCs with the new touchscreen menu diving. As someone who likes a hybrid workflow I chose Maschine because it gives me a real hardware feel no menu diving everything is laid out on buttons and knobs. I work most inside Studio One but can do everything drum related or chop samples on the hardware and not have to look at the computer. If I chose MK3 interface I can sample directly into Maschine and plug a pair of headphones in it. The arranger and performance strip which let's you do note repeat and pitch down snare roll in real time kills the MPC without me mentioning VST3 support and sounds it comes with.
The Maschine was another option I was looking at since I was familiar with the software. I did like how you had the option to use just the midi interface for everything and wondered if the workstation had the same options. Good to know.
Hmm I feel the exact way about the SP404 MK2. After all the time I did waiting for it. Like 3 months after release. Still not comfortable with the work flow. I like the batteries thing, but I hate charging them rechargeable batteries and bringing extras and the charger itself. I could make decent patterns, but a whole beat itself 🤔. It's hard to retain muscle memory if not used in a few weeks with all the shortcuts, modes, and colors. Won't get rid of it though. Another battle is time and I don't feel like I gave it it's fair share.
Some of the process with the workflow and button mashing is part of the appeal for me. I like the kinetic feel of sequencing buttons to get a result. Doing the same thing much faster on a DAW doesn't give me the same satisfaction.
Mistakes are made.
Some mistakes, we have the opportunity to reverse. Even when we don't we can still learn from them.
@@spitlogic yes so true. You video got me thinking why do I have both instruments. In comparison they are two different animals. A lot like apples an oranges. One can do something the other can't. Ie. The MPC one has no preamp built in sp has and fx to boot. Wave an midi files can be shaped between the two. The sp has limited chromatic features the mpc is loaded. All in all I'm ok with my sp portability and ok with my mpc in the studio. Sometimes even a nice mix using both.
I think I'll be keeping both in my rig. Again you video makes you think it through all over again. It all comes down to you and how you use it and if you find it inspiring.
All the best JR
What’s up sir!!! Congrats on 1k bro! I see you still clean cut much respect on all you do!
Hey brother!! Thank you. Strange thing is I went to your page and saw I was unsubscribed from your channel. Weird how that happens. Good to hear from you.
Looks like you just don't need all the potential of MPC One and SP404 is enough for you...
So far. I know at some point I'll want to use more gear as I expand my music, but for now it is all I need.
cool video good points stay with your own workflow i have a mpc live i love it but i use the mc101 great machine amazing sound i pair up with og sp404 great combo but there both dope by them selves i love using the op-1 to
That OP 1 is something I've seen a lot of. Very portable and seems like a solid device.
i have both, they are both cool, serve different workflows and needs.
Mpc was first .. MPC does more but its also more deep...
Sp-404mkii feels more like a sampling drum machine, some of the fx are ace.
On some recent songs i used both ..
The sp-404 for guitar amp, vocoder and vocal pitch correction going into the looper page of the MPC one.
I think that's excellent. The way you've described how you use it seems like the 404 is more of an additional effects or foundation tool for the beats while the refinement of the music is done with the MPC One. In a perfect world, I want to try and use them as two parts of a whole beat making experience. Maybe that expectation is part of why I gave up on it. I don't know, but I do plan on revisiting it sometime. It's just a matter of when.
@@spitlogic today i used the ripcord & battery bank to take the sp-404 round my house creating samples/foley/sound fx for today's hardware jam entry (yt live stream's all the entries on a monday evening uk time) SP404 is great for that and the resampling is really easy/fast.. will do more with the SP-404 as i grow and learn it more.
I use the SP404 & Logic, I haven't found a "balance" in using both. At times I feel like creating ideas w/ SP is so much easier, but I never pass the "draft" stage. On the other end, in Logic, there is so much, that I could easily get lost in chopping samples, tweaking synths...A little "workaround" I found was to export SP stems in logic, but in many cases I lose the "SP Vibe". Its a strange dilemma...but great video, always enjoying coming back 👍
I use Logic for mixing and mastering my music. I've dabbled a little in the plug in for the app, but nothing compares to the ease of creativity you feel from using the 404. I agree that a lot of what i end up with is just a draft. I think that makes me appreciate the good tracks even more.
@@spitlogic I'm in the same boat with you on this. I've had the SP for 3 weeks and it's been such a positive experience. I've totally embraced the workflow. I route my SP into a Tascam Model 16 so I have a lot of flexibility for sending tracks to outboard gear or finishing the song without the computer. As a longtime Logic user since the Emagic days...I relate strongly to not being able to be creative infront of any screen...MPC, iPad, or full on computer. The SP404mk2 is truly a unique capture and production device.
SP Gang! I have a MPC ONE but I find myself using my other gear.
I assume you still use it enough to keep it. I think the MPC One (at this time) is better for someone who can appreciate it more.
@@spitlogic MPC ONE is good for chopping and I like some of the effects
Mpc+Fantom x8 is my sweet spot coming from studio one.
I'll have to look that up.
im a beginner and i've had my mpc live 2 for a year now. i have the sp404 mk 2 also and it's a well designed piece of equipment. but the workflow of the mpc live 2 is light years ahead of the sp404. it's like comparing a calculator to an abacus! lol i do enjoy using both together. it's easier to get better drums through the sp404...but you can get similar drums in the live 2 with a little more tweaking.
Yes. I've seen and heard some really good music come from the MPC One. I've seen the same from the SP 404 MK2. I would imagine that the MPC One takes less time to build something (especially if you're familiar with it). The difference is vast and I would put the MPC One as one of the most advanced workstations out there. For me, the simplicity and reliance of buttons is what attracts me to the MK2.
@@spitlogic i do love the portability of the SP404. I just got it about 3 months ago and i didn't expect how great the quality is. i really need to find more time with it to fully learn the workflow. Also, the MPC Live mini is rumored. if they keep the same touchscreen with the size of the sp404...that could be interesting!
Thank you for the video 🙏 loved it may Yahweh bless you 🙏
Thank you my friend. God bless you too.
@@spitlogic thank you
I use the mpc one and mpc live for the church band, making gospel albums, gaming, movies/[short videos], country, and r&b. I can chop and screw samples really easy that come off real instruments. Some musicians don't like their brain to click and think in the AKAI way. Some people just don't take to learning new interfaces. But that MPC One and MPC Live are probably the quickest drum samplers I have ever used. I have used them all. I can make a whole song in like 10 minutes with piano keys, some real guitar layers, and real saxophones. I can program an orchestration with it too for movies and Foley artists stuff. Back in 1998-1999, Cakewalk had expansion packs and plugins to chop and slice waveforms. I still use it til this day on a (windows) PC. I can dump the expansion pack files right into the MPC. Cakewalk was my real deep dive daw. I have all the sounds of Yamaha, Roland, Korg, Akai, Kawaii and everything under the sun, saved on 4TiB disks. 20 years of sounds and plugins. Cakewalk is now free. Its crazy. I also use protools, garage band, logic, abbleton, bitwig, steinberg, studio1 and all the ones in between because I have to synchronize with whatever some musician uses.
I think Logic is one of the worst programs I have ever used for making sounds and mixing and mastering, but every musician is using it. Logic cripples me. It does not have SwapLR, or polarity, so I can't do my own Mid Side matrix setups. It does not have proper effects that we use in Gaming and Pro Level Mastering. It runs like a 1991 DAW. LOL.
I am just amazed at how different brains click. I am trying to teach someone to use the MPC One after church tomorrow. Let's see if it sticks.
Good Video.
Thank you. Your perspective was very insightful and I think that's what makes music making so fascinating. You have a utility need for using the MPC as well as a creative outlet. I don't think the 404 has much of a utility requirement for something on the scale you use it for. At the same time I was far from inspired when using the MPC. It just didn't get the creative juices flowing.
Great video. I use both MPC and SP404 in standalone. SP was used for FX and loops and plan to grow into it over time to produce. Im still learning the SP workflow and enjoy pairing the 2 along with other gear like the J6. I used to feel pressure to use the SP but quickly got over it. Love them both.
Being able to find that balance I think is rare. I know it's where most of us are striving to become.
It comes down to what you like to play with the most haha
I agree. In that regard it's been the 404 MK2 all day.
Crack is a hell of a drug!
How do you know that?
I sold bundles of that shit! @@spitlogic
I have mpc live2 currently. Been with MPC since the 1000. That being said I use sp404 daily while mpc is collecting dust. My flow is sample heavy. I’m DAWless except for vocals in logic which is rare so basically DAWless. I run everything into model12. I use the subout on the 12 to the in’s on the 404. Then I just play records and when I hear something I use the mark feature to skip back then chop. Then I just keep that going with the keyboards. All free jams using the mark feature and stacking my work. I love the flow of how I’m making music now. Very natural
Yes!! Something about how the workflow is on the MK2 just feels natural. Someone else mentioned the MPC 1000. I think that device is similar to the MK2 in how organic it feels.
MC707 all the way for real producers
I had to look that up. It looks like the total package. I'll have to do some investigating now!!
Just don't make you're opinion from old videos about this machine, it gone so fare out , only old videos won't tell full story, this machine is ment to dig deep& or not, as you like it gives good results in bothe ways(but deep will give you yore sound)plus it gives you unic artifacts for sonic manipulations
Oooff...very limited for recording live albums with this device. I actually overflowed this machine at a church album setup.
Thanks for the video! You touched on a number of great points including how you evaluated your options and the concept of current you prefers device X, future you may prefer something else. I have the SP404mk2 as well, and triggering it from Logic is another powerful option, with plugins or outboard gear.
Yes. I use Logic and feel like there is a lot to explore with that interaction. The app as a plug in has a lot of possibilities. I may try them out in the future.
I sold my MPC One just recently after getting Akai Force. One is still cool portable MPC.
Do you like the Force more? What made you switch?
@@spitlogic Force has more pads and I can play freely across several octaves, also clip based architecture is more visual and helps to build the structure of the song. Finally, arranger mode - I think no need to explain... There are cons for sure - size and weight! MPC One is much lighter and smaller than Force. I think MPC One is cool but I can't keep them both as they basically do the same things and One will collect dust as Force offers more.
Understood. Hmm. This may be something to consider. Thanks for the suggestion. @@myreviewdotcom