Accurate stands for solid, no frills but still polished (the effortless-looking kind, not the flashy kind). Down to earth, honest and always enjoyable 😊
Man, I absolutely love the MK2. Time just disappears whenever I turn it on. Hook up a bassguitar, mic, ipad, whatever. It's a new adventure every single time. 100% worth it! Thanks for the awesome vids!
Perfect description, Acc. I’ve been working on it after finally taking the green light to get it, and having used the MPC One exclusively for over a year. I LOVE it. It’s a messier, but much more liberating, way to make music. It’s been so much fun to work on and allows you to get ideas and sketches out quickly. And the live effects and grit are still second to none, even when considering the One’s XY and Flavor Pro effects. Just a blast to work on. Thank you for sharing, brother! Great vid as always!
Got mine 2 days ago and loving it! So far is the perfect merging of (old) MPC and SP functionality - great for making sample based beats. Oh and thanks for the tip for turning off the 'operation complete' message!
I agree just got an SP 404 MK2 and so much fun to use. Yes, my other samplers like Elektron Octatrack do more and have more features but are more work to use. The SP 404 MK2 was made for live jamming first and sampling second.
Mines coming later today or tomorrow. Been keeping up with the firmware updates and I'm pretty happy to see stuff like pad mutes. That's a massive plus for me. Rather than having a bunch of patterns with different mute states, i only need one
Good stuff! I remember enjoying your videos during the pandemic, though afterwards you flew off my radar. Not anymore! Subscribed. Thanks for your dedication and solid, trustworthy content.
Loved you on Simon the Magpie's podcast! I'm still waiting on my SP-404, having pre-ordered it when it was announced and looking forward to it showing up!
Finally my MK2 may be on the way! In the meantime I read the manual many times, but your vids are great helping put all that theory into best suggested practice. Though have to slow them to .75 to follow everything! really great though - pack more into 10 minutes than others that seem like hours. Many thanks.
I waited as long as I could, but had to go with the blackbox instead. Still deciding on the MPC vs Maschine for the studio, so I'm glad you are doing the comparisons. Still on the fence, and only choosing one... Thanks for videos!
Oh, I’ve been eyeing the blackbox too - seems really cool for what it is. Yeah, I get a lot of questions about the Akai/ NI products and I’ll do my best to compare them from my perspective :) Thanks for watching
@@AccurateBeats My pull towards the Maschine is largely due to your videos. I would ask if you could choose only one, which would it be, but I think I already know the answer to that...
@@VIRALBEATS360 that IS the question!!! I think that the Mpc vs. Maschine debate is becoming like the Coke/ Pepsi, Mac/ PC, iPhone/ Android, Xbox/ PlayStation debate. I’m at a point now where I’m fluid enough on both of the two devices that it’s almost impossible to pick one over the other. I would say that I like the MPC One over the Live II but the MPC/ Maschine thing kinda needs it’s own dedicated video. I’m afraid I can’t come up with a better answer than that!
Not sure if this is good timing or great timing, but my MK2 is on its way and I have considered stepping back from the MPC One. I love the MPC and I know it can do everything, but I feel like it’s overwhelming. I just want to have fun making music and hopefully one day get to the point I need a DAW or a DAW in the box. I guess I will see how it goes. Thanks for posting these thoughts 4 months in. They are valuable.
Hey, I am currently in the same position. I have an MPC One and i am contemplating getting a sp 404 mk2. Was it worth it getting and sp 404mk2 when already having an mpc one?
@@delicatedirector3694 I have a MPC One and just got a 404 mk2. They are different workflows. You can do a lot of the same things, but the MPC One is definitely a much more full fledged song making device. I mainly make grimy boom bap hip hop beats and both devices do that well. But when I am at work or somewhere out like a Drs appt, I can just throw the 404 mk2 in my bag and mess around with a beat when I have a second and I'm sitting still. It's really great that you can get 2.5 hrs of use out of 6 AA batteries. That's plenty of time to lay down a beat and have some fun. I definitely would recommend picking one up to a MPC One owner. I'm going to keep my MPC One, but the 404 mk2 is just another new "music toy" I can get some fun out of. Hope that helps.
@@GODInTheWax444 yeah I have had it for a while now and I have to say the sp404mk2 is SOOO annoying to work with, everything is clunky. Also alot of my drums don't work cause they are too high sample rate and the only programs that I can find don't allow you to just drop multiple files in to decrease it, so you have to manually click and wait on every sample. I'd say for anyone reading this, the sp404mk2 looks cool but in reality its just an mpc set to hardcore difficulty
What I'd like for you to cover in the future comparison that you mentioned is the ease of use and quality of the SP-404Mk2 effects for performance versus Maschine's effects and using them for a performance. Though I'm already expecting Maschine to come out on top, SP-404 doesn't even seem to compete with MC-707, probably also MC-101, as well as possibly JD-Xi despite the JD not even being a sampler, but these all are designed with effects controls for performances.
Dang it Accurate, I've already been casually looking at the SP-404 MKII because it seems like such a fun and inspirational piece of gear, but I'm trying to show some restraint. And now I want one even more. Gee, thanks! :D
@@mrSnatchYoGirl it happens quite often, but I found there's a setting called trig span, turn it up will solve this problem, it didn't come with a proper value out of factory.
One thing that I find always slows me down with the mk2 is I'll have a pattern playing, have an idea to add, record it, but then I have to stop the pattern in order to get out of record mode. is there a shortcut/shift-function i need to know about that let's me seamless move in and out of record mode?
Thanks for the great video. I'm seriously considering this unit as a sampler and sequencer. I have a few synths. Will this unit allow me to sample my synths and create songs? Thanks
Wish I could give one of these a go! Would love a comparison video at least between this and the MK3. If you ever have time to get around to it, I’ve always been confused on how to get third party VST’s and drum kits into the MK3 and haven’t seen any recent or good videos on it. Fantastic video as always accurate!!
this is an old comment but i’d like to say i traded in my maschine mk3 for a 404mkii and i am very, very happy. it’s freeing being able to use it without the computer. sampling and chopping are 1000x more intuitive.
That pretty much sums up my feelings towards the Sp 404 MK II. The only thing I am wishing for is a really simple step sequencer for the occasions I decide to do a little techno/house jam in my living room (old man’s party). But I know that a step sequencer probably doesn’t fit the intended workflow…
like there is no step sequencer on a traditional instrument, this instrument forces your ear to be the sequencer, without a play button it forces musicianship on all levels.
The launchpad pro mk3 may be worth considering. It has an excellent 4 track sequencer borrowed from the circuit and 2 midi outs. The bass guitar style chromatic mode is also great for playing bass and leads. I’m actually trying to decide whether to go with the SP404 or MC101 for my drum machine/sampling needs.
I know this is an old comment but Roland listened to demand and added a simple step sequencer to the MKII. They go over it at 1:45 in this video: th-cam.com/video/d4mzvKf8tAc/w-d-xo.html
Got a few questions for the comparison video. Which device has the easiest start to finish process for getting an external instrument into some sort of loop/clip where you can edit it and process it. Which device has the simplest sample editing, automation, sound modulation? Hows is the editing of patterns/samples/loops after recording and does it feel intuitive?
I’m glad you mentioned the double triggering issue cause I was going through the same exact thing. I’ve had my Mk2 over 4months as well and been finger drumming on it so much that the bottom 4 pads is already wearing off. But I say all of that to say that my Mk2 no longer double triggers. I think the pads just needed to be broken in.
@@LUCKYMONKEY230 I don't have much gears or experience as other folks but what I noticed is double triggering has high chance when full level on using MPC. Its one in maybe 50 hits but when i adjusted the sensitivity and curve it reduced by a big margin. Or you can go the DIY route and open it add tape if it's not sensitive enough, clean the sheet or replace it. Last month I bought Launchpad X and consistency was terrible between the 64 pads with varying actuation force I returned it immediately. I'm now convinced that depending on luck of the device patch and QC. But the most consistent one I have is Maschine Mk3.
I'm interested in how the Roland SP-404 MKII compares in your personal experience to the MPC Live 2 when it comes to on-the-go beat making. Sure, the MPC Live 2 is a hell of a lot more clunky but it has built-in speakers. This means you can dop on a couch and just start beat-making without having anything attached, which I'have found liberating. Also, it does a lot more than just sampling, so you can stick to just the MPC Live 2 device for a whole lot longer when on the go without wanting to hook it up to a DAW. What's your experience? Has the Roland SP-404 MKII become your go-to portable device or do you still use the MPC Live 2 on the go?
I lowkey wanna know if it's really worth the extra money (aka it still has the 404 analog sound like the 404 MK1) and if the modern MPC and AKAI products still have "better" tube sounds coming out of it. The SP404 makes me think of making beats completely dawless out and about, so I also wanna know what it's like carrying around and making tracks on the go
There’s no “analog” sound on the 404 it’s just a digital sampler that spits out what you put in, same with the mpcs. I’ve had a 404 and own a mpc 2500 and I can tell you that the most important thing is a good sampling source.
You have had yours for 4 months now. As of today, I've been waiting for four months. I preordered it four months ago, and my retailer really has no idea of when I can expect to receive it.
Very nice. Just to add: there is n app called Koala Sampler for the iPad. It takes the sp404 as an inspiration, but expands upon it while staying dead simple. A lot of people do beat battle videos, pitting the sp against koala and it holds up.
You could make those sounds with a single cycle waveform. You can shape any sound. It’s not impressive or useful unless you never looped a single cycle waveform
The SP is for me the best sampler I ever owned until now. I use it get some special editing on my existing samples. Loved the "couldn't help it" jam interruption! :-)
I’m interested to know, you talk a lot about the “personality” and uniqueness in the SP that for you inspired you to use it more and create more on it - my question is, do you use the resample feature or the pattern sequencer primarily? I know a lot of people have said (with pre-MKII 404s) that the resample feature is what sets it apart from other samplers completely and makes it unique. What are your thoughts?
Hi thanks the video, really considering getting one, can I ask a quick question as been unable to find an answer through Google, do you have any idea if it maps straight on to the TR-8 in the same way that the sp404A does (ie. Straight out of the box like..) many thanks
I have the original sp-404sx and would love to get the mk2 but I have so many other things I still have to buy. Hopefully the mk1 will be good enough to get the job done.
I don’t think anything personally. I never get good answers. I think the sp is just niche device. People like the aesthetics. Also back in the day mpc had 0 effects and low sample time. The sp made sense. In 2024 you won’t find a good answer. They will say the sp 404 effects but it can’t side chain filter drive sounds bad vinyl sim is a gimmick. I think it’s just an echo chamber. Just listen to the music on 1 device vs the other no comparison
I’m hopefully finally getting it next week. You kinda said everything I hoped. I’m fully aware of what it is, owning an og sp404, a 202, so even if it had half of the upgrades it got, I’d be thrilled. I also love getting out of the studio to just make some beats in the garden, on the couch or on the go, and while I love my op-1 in alot of ways, it’s very flawed and limited in other ways too. This looks to be my perfect device when I don’t want to go full studio/maschine. The only thing that could top it for me is a portable battery powered Maschine, man I love that workflow. But there is something unique about the sp’s. Their flaws actually give them character, some of the effects are so bad their actually awesome, the compressor on the og404 is ridiculous and one of a kind. If you want clean music, maybe not, but if you like some character and rough edges in your beats, sp’s got you. It still has that hardware appeal an character, not just another pc with pads.
I started on the og 404 went to the 303, then the 505, sold em all and got a 202 now. Sometimes i missed the others but this new 404 seems perfect. I'm keeping the 202 but putting in my order this month.
I just picked one up and one question I have is seeing the length of a sample. It says it counts it on four bars but I'd like to see a time value as I'm having trouble lining up different loops without chopping them. The BPM is rubbish
Want one. Wish they could add an auto anti-pop function, smoothing out attacks of harsh sample cuts. Letting you use the built in function to fine trim if needed.
getting back into music after a year, taking my time this go around .. might grab the mk2. just wanna churn out some tapes while chiefing my gas 🤷🏾♂️ wherever music takes me is where it takes me.
Is there a shift function or something that would allow me to raise and lower volumes of a pad in a live setting without having to choose the pad and causing it to retrigger? I was also thinking about incorporating a midi controller with an encoder, assigned to a designated pad to bring in melodies. Raising and lowering the volume on the fly. I haven't found anything on that. Any info in that would be awesome.
im 8 months in I bought my SP 404 Mk2 over getting a MPC One ( I own 1 mpc already the MPC Studio Black) I have no regrets a few of my homies use 404s and I was interested already I didn't find it hard or confusing like I see a lot of people saying in other reviews but yeah I love it I use it everyday I bought a mic couple months ago so I now I can record verses to my own beats my mpc been low key collecting dust and one main thing you said that is so true is that you can hop on the SP404 and hours will just go by as your locked in and focused on the music and ahwat your creating I personally don't like using Daws i only use the mpc daw when im using my mpc cuz I have no choice lol
Appreciate the update! I ordered mine in Oct. 2021, and still haven't seen it.... ☹️ but I live in Canada, so we're always lower on the gear delivery list ( no. 1 - US, 2 - UK, 3 - Australia or Japan, 4 - maybe Can. ....).... But I hopefully this'll change soon... 🤞🏾🤞🏾 Question for ya: do you think Roland will ever consider a mode that would show the waveform of a pad sample *instead* of the BPM? That's probably useful info while chopping, but who needs to see it when you're recording patterns? Do you ever find the numbers distracting?
i have a question please. i am considering selling my 1010music blackbox to get the 404MK2..just to have something different. Cant the 404 play 2 pads at once? for example a synth sound,,,i want to play like 2 or 3 pads at one times to create a Chord..Am i able to do that on the 404? or if i want to play a Drum Loop...Can i hit 2 pads at the same time and play 2 different loops at the same time?
The answer here is “yes”. Pads can be setup to trigger simultaneously and put in different mute groups to cut each other off or to not cut each other off. The polyphony setting in the sp404mkii is pretty deep. Sometimes you need to think a bit about how to set them up but it’s 100% possible. 😀
@@AccurateBeats I appreciate this so much yes I did order one and it should be in the mail tomorrow I can't wait if I have any more questions can I post here?
Great review! I know I'm a little late, but is there a midi keyboard that you would recommend pairing with the SP404 MK2? I have this idea in mind of a cool portable setup that can go anywhere.
For the big comparison I would really like to know how these compare in being intuitive. Like what the learning curves look like. And my second question would be how there capabilities compare in regards to music production without a DAW. (myself and most others will use a DAW but I think the question helps to understand how far the capabilities of the devices go). Also I have been following you for a long time and I am glad you are well and wosh you the best
Yep, still waiting for mine since November 2021...... called guitar center today about the Roland SP404MKII and was told it should hopefully ship by thr end of February or the first week of March. Let's see what happens. In the mean time I'll keep watching videos to learn how to use it. I'm actually looking forward to turning my current beats I have been making with my Roland Fantom G7 Into lofi beats for my other channel.
good vid thanks, Ive been having the double hits n the pads too but they are starting to settle in now. Im curious about why you'd compare this to the maschine or MPC etc tho as they are very different beasts...
I'm definitely looking forward to the comparison. What do you think of the FX on the SP-404 MKII? Are they easy to use and sound good? I'm also curious about running audio from my MPC Live to an SP-404 to use the SP as an external FX Processor?
The FX sound amazing, especially all the sims and lofi stuff. The performance oriented effects are fun too and the super filter will give you some room shaking bass. In addition to using it by itself, I run my S2400 into it as an end of the chain sort of deal. Even if I apply effects from other sources it all goes through it at the end.
im a synth geek and dont know who this reviewer is...but i like him. Some dudes try to be too fancy, too polished. this guy is believable.
He’s great
that´s (very) accurate my dude
Accurate stands for solid, no frills but still polished (the effortless-looking kind, not the flashy kind). Down to earth, honest and always enjoyable 😊
It's the TH-cam producer curse. They all sound same. I love me some Accurate Beats. so human, just himself. Love you, Accurate!
This thread of comments is just lovely!
Thank you guys :)
Looking good my man
Man, I absolutely love the MK2. Time just disappears whenever I turn it on. Hook up a bassguitar, mic, ipad, whatever. It's a new adventure every single time. 100% worth it! Thanks for the awesome vids!
Tried Koala?
@@knoe8079 Koala is insanely amazing!!! I still want a 404 MK2 though.
Hello, how is it compared to an Akai MPC?
Perfect description, Acc. I’ve been working on it after finally taking the green light to get it, and having used the MPC One exclusively for over a year. I LOVE it. It’s a messier, but much more liberating, way to make music. It’s been so much fun to work on and allows you to get ideas and sketches out quickly. And the live effects and grit are still second to none, even when considering the One’s XY and Flavor Pro effects. Just a blast to work on. Thank you for sharing, brother! Great vid as always!
Got mine 2 days ago and loving it! So far is the perfect merging of (old) MPC and SP functionality - great for making sample based beats. Oh and thanks for the tip for turning off the 'operation complete' message!
@def creator was meaning more about things like mute groups and sample chopping not seq features
Hello, how is it compared to an Akai MPC?
Looking forward to the big comparison.
I agree just got an SP 404 MK2 and so much fun to use. Yes, my other samplers like Elektron Octatrack do more and have more features but are more work to use. The SP 404 MK2 was made for live jamming first and sampling second.
How’s the sync between elektron devices and the SP404mk2? Do they play nicely together, patterns launching together perfectly in sync and such?
Mines coming later today or tomorrow. Been keeping up with the firmware updates and I'm pretty happy to see stuff like pad mutes. That's a massive plus for me. Rather than having a bunch of patterns with different mute states, i only need one
Good stuff! I remember enjoying your videos during the pandemic, though afterwards you flew off my radar. Not anymore! Subscribed. Thanks for your dedication and solid, trustworthy content.
I have The 404 sx It is one of my favorite still. I am wondering 💭 how this would change flow.
I ordered my SP-404 MK2 in November and I'm still waiting for it to be delivered. Watching your video is making crave it so badly 🤣
U got mine two days ago
Loved you on Simon the Magpie's podcast! I'm still waiting on my SP-404, having pre-ordered it when it was announced and looking forward to it showing up!
I had no idea about that pop up time setting. Absolute life changer! That was driving me crazy 😄
Thanks again for that straight talk, just what I needed to be cleared up on this device.
You the man dude always great videos!
Finally my MK2 may be on the way! In the meantime I read the manual many times, but your vids are great helping put all that theory into best suggested practice. Though have to slow them to .75 to follow everything! really great though - pack more into 10 minutes than others that seem like hours. Many thanks.
I am getting it. Just the Amount of built in memory and sample polyphony for the price is awesome to me.
For those still waiting and want to scratch that sampler itch until it arrives, Koala Sampler will keep you company.
Nice job sir.
man I cannot wait to get mine 😤
I waited as long as I could, but had to go with the blackbox instead. Still deciding on the MPC vs Maschine for the studio, so I'm glad you are doing the comparisons. Still on the fence, and only choosing one...
Thanks for videos!
Oh, I’ve been eyeing the blackbox too - seems really cool for what it is.
Yeah, I get a lot of questions about the Akai/ NI products and I’ll do my best to compare them from my perspective :)
Thanks for watching
BB is a nice piece of equipment. Really simple and fun to use and it's great to combine with other gear as well.
@@twotonez1141 Yeah, I have got BIG plans for this little unit. Can't wait to pair it with the Fantom.
@@AccurateBeats My pull towards the Maschine is largely due to your videos. I would ask if you could choose only one, which would it be, but I think I already know the answer to that...
@@VIRALBEATS360 that IS the question!!!
I think that the Mpc vs. Maschine debate is becoming like the Coke/ Pepsi, Mac/ PC, iPhone/ Android, Xbox/ PlayStation debate.
I’m at a point now where I’m fluid enough on both of the two devices that it’s almost impossible to pick one over the other.
I would say that I like the MPC One over the Live II but the MPC/ Maschine thing kinda needs it’s own dedicated video.
I’m afraid I can’t come up with a better answer than that!
Accurate beats videos always improve any and every day I may be having
Thanks for the info, very useful. Im trying to get one too
I love the idea of immediacy that the 404 appears to have. I can't wait to apply your teachings.
Not sure if this is good timing or great timing, but my MK2 is on its way and I have considered stepping back from the MPC One. I love the MPC and I know it can do everything, but I feel like it’s overwhelming. I just want to have fun making music and hopefully one day get to the point I need a DAW or a DAW in the box. I guess I will see how it goes. Thanks for posting these thoughts 4 months in. They are valuable.
Hey, I am currently in the same position. I have an MPC One and i am contemplating getting a sp 404 mk2. Was it worth it getting and sp 404mk2 when already having an mpc one?
@@delicatedirector3694 I have a MPC One and just got a 404 mk2. They are different workflows. You can do a lot of the same things, but the MPC One is definitely a much more full fledged song making device. I mainly make grimy boom bap hip hop beats and both devices do that well. But when I am at work or somewhere out like a Drs appt, I can just throw the 404 mk2 in my bag and mess around with a beat when I have a second and I'm sitting still. It's really great that you can get 2.5 hrs of use out of 6 AA batteries. That's plenty of time to lay down a beat and have some fun. I definitely would recommend picking one up to a MPC One owner. I'm going to keep my MPC One, but the 404 mk2 is just another new "music toy" I can get some fun out of. Hope that helps.
@@GODInTheWax444 yeah I have had it for a while now and I have to say the sp404mk2 is SOOO annoying to work with, everything is clunky. Also alot of my drums don't work cause they are too high sample rate and the only programs that I can find don't allow you to just drop multiple files in to decrease it, so you have to manually click and wait on every sample. I'd say for anyone reading this, the sp404mk2 looks cool but in reality its just an mpc set to hardcore difficulty
What I'd like for you to cover in the future comparison that you mentioned is the ease of use and quality of the SP-404Mk2 effects for performance versus Maschine's effects and using them for a performance. Though I'm already expecting Maschine to come out on top, SP-404 doesn't even seem to compete with MC-707, probably also MC-101, as well as possibly JD-Xi despite the JD not even being a sampler, but these all are designed with effects controls for performances.
imo the 404 wins, because it was designed for performance
Dang it Accurate, I've already been casually looking at the SP-404 MKII because it seems like such a fun and inspirational piece of gear, but I'm trying to show some restraint. And now I want one even more. Gee, thanks! :D
Thanks for all your videos 👊🏾 from 🇺🇸 ….. the way it looks , I may not get mines till December. I’ll wait 💆🏽♂️
Loving the review, it#s in my hands in two days and can#t wait :)
The double trigger pad issue bothers me a lot, even in this video, you can definitely hear the hihat is double triggered :(
How often you get into this issue?
@@mrSnatchYoGirl it happens quite often, but I found there's a setting called trig span, turn it up will solve this problem, it didn't come with a proper value out of factory.
The 404 mk2 has become my go to. Then maschine mk3. Then studio 1 pro. Bada boom, bada bing 💰
One thing that I find always slows me down with the mk2 is I'll have a pattern playing, have an idea to add, record it, but then I have to stop the pattern in order to get out of record mode. is there a shortcut/shift-function i need to know about that let's me seamless move in and out of record mode?
Hi. Please tell me this Gear has in memory library of sounds and samples Kicks snares base line etc. ? Or i must do it by myself?
so bad we cant have it in europe, in thomann it will be available in 17 weeks! it was first in sales and now is 4 behind PO-33 K.O.
Thanks for the great video. I'm seriously considering this unit as a sampler and sequencer. I have a few synths. Will this unit allow me to sample my synths and create songs? Thanks
It’s sequencer leaves much to be desired
How about a comparison between the Maschine, MPC, & Roland SP?
Just copped one at my local music shop! Really digging it, just gotta get use to the workflow!
Wish I could give one of these a go! Would love a comparison video at least between this and the MK3. If you ever have time to get around to it, I’ve always been confused on how to get third party VST’s and drum kits into the MK3 and haven’t seen any recent or good videos on it. Fantastic video as always accurate!!
There is no MK3...
@@boimesa8190 Maschine MK3.
this is an old comment but i’d like to say i traded in my maschine mk3 for a 404mkii and i am very, very happy. it’s freeing being able to use it without the computer. sampling and chopping are 1000x more intuitive.
Have to say, m glad I cancelled mine and got a Live II Retro instead.
Maybe someday in the future.
Love the videos, champ!
And now I’m back here…
The first weekend after buying one. 😂
It can’t touch the live but it does enough to keep and use it.
That pretty much sums up my feelings towards the Sp 404 MK II. The only thing I am wishing for is a really simple step sequencer for the occasions I decide to do a little techno/house jam in my living room (old man’s party). But I know that a step sequencer probably doesn’t fit the intended workflow…
like there is no step sequencer on a traditional instrument, this instrument forces your ear to be the sequencer, without a play button it forces musicianship on all levels.
Sounds like you might want to check out a novation circuit.
The launchpad pro mk3 may be worth considering. It has an excellent 4 track sequencer borrowed from the circuit and 2 midi outs. The bass guitar style chromatic mode is also great for playing bass and leads. I’m actually trying to decide whether to go with the SP404 or MC101 for my drum machine/sampling needs.
I know this is an old comment but Roland listened to demand and added a simple step sequencer to the MKII. They go over it at 1:45 in this video: th-cam.com/video/d4mzvKf8tAc/w-d-xo.html
Got a few questions for the comparison video.
Which device has the easiest start to finish process for getting an external instrument into some sort of loop/clip where you can edit it and process it.
Which device has the simplest sample editing, automation, sound modulation?
Hows is the editing of patterns/samples/loops after recording and does it feel intuitive?
So, 2 years later, How do you feel about the machine? Do you still use it? Does it still inspire? Have you sold it?
I’m glad you mentioned the double triggering issue cause I was going through the same exact thing. I’ve had my Mk2 over 4months as well and been finger drumming on it so much that the bottom 4 pads is already wearing off. But I say all of that to say that my Mk2 no longer double triggers. I think the pads just needed to be broken in.
Back in the day when I got my first AKAI mpc2000XL I always got double triggering problems, but out of nowhere they just went away one day.
@@ShaunNater see, even with that same issue with the 2000xl proves that pads on beat machines just need to be broken-in to get the best out of them.
I think its a practice of finger drumming.. Nothing to do with the machine, more the player. It happened to me too.
@@LUCKYMONKEY230 I don't have much gears or experience as other folks but what I noticed is double triggering has high chance when full level on using MPC. Its one in maybe 50 hits but when i adjusted the sensitivity and curve it reduced by a big margin. Or you can go the DIY route and open it add tape if it's not sensitive enough, clean the sheet or replace it.
Last month I bought Launchpad X and consistency was terrible between the 64 pads with varying actuation force I returned it immediately. I'm now convinced that depending on luck of the device patch and QC. But the most consistent one I have is Maschine Mk3.
I hope my unit arrives soon. Thanks for sharing! Your videos are great
How do you swing your drums on the sp404 I still can get the swing work when I Quantize my drums?
I'm interested in how the Roland SP-404 MKII compares in your personal experience to the MPC Live 2 when it comes to on-the-go beat making. Sure, the MPC Live 2 is a hell of a lot more clunky but it has built-in speakers. This means you can dop on a couch and just start beat-making without having anything attached, which I'have found liberating. Also, it does a lot more than just sampling, so you can stick to just the MPC Live 2 device for a whole lot longer when on the go without wanting to hook it up to a DAW.
What's your experience? Has the Roland SP-404 MKII become your go-to portable device or do you still use the MPC Live 2 on the go?
Can I run audio from my Dj mixer through this machine and apply effects on top of it just like we do with Dj mixers?
Cool video bro! 🙌👊😁
Looking forward to the comparison video
preordered in oct, still waitin ;(
shame on Roland.
Same. Sweetwater. =\
@@OttoCruz787 Just got the word from perfect circuit that it’ll get to me march 9 😎
This was the best I've seen, I'd still prefer if they showed more samples how to use the device more.
how can u get one??
It really is such a great little box. You are right that it is in a league of its own with SPs.
How this get along with a guitar? Im about to buy it for making some tracks with my guitar.
I need something to sample some movie quotes from onstage for my live band, using an SD card. Is this a good option?
I lowkey wanna know if it's really worth the extra money (aka it still has the 404 analog sound like the 404 MK1) and if the modern MPC and AKAI products still have "better" tube sounds coming out of it. The SP404 makes me think of making beats completely dawless out and about, so I also wanna know what it's like carrying around and making tracks on the go
There’s no “analog” sound on the 404 it’s just a digital sampler that spits out what you put in, same with the mpcs. I’ve had a 404 and own a mpc 2500 and I can tell you that the most important thing is a good sampling source.
@@beartrona6621 yes i was also wondering what an analog sampler meant lol ^^
Is there a video that shows how to setup the SP404 out the box?
"Mute Pad" functionality, have they added this yet? (ie: You could mute the kicks, snares, etc. for intros or change ups)
Bought one…don’t have clue how use it teaching myself -wish me luck
I’ve been having a lot of fun with the MK2!
Maximum respect.
How can you compare this with an iPad with beatmaker3?
You have had yours for 4 months now. As of today, I've been waiting for four months. I preordered it four months ago, and my retailer really has no idea of when I can expect to receive it.
Same 😭
Very nice. Just to add: there is n app called Koala Sampler for the iPad. It takes the sp404 as an inspiration, but expands upon it while staying dead simple.
A lot of people do beat battle videos, pitting the sp against koala and it holds up.
Koala is amazing! I just have a hard time loving touch screens. I’ll try to get over that
2 years later and it's wild this now has a functional tone generator
You could make those sounds with a single cycle waveform. You can shape any sound. It’s not impressive or useful unless you never looped a single cycle waveform
Should finally have mine Friday. Super dope upgrade from the SX.
Four months later its not even out to buy yet in UK. Will stick with my mpc one
You do a great job breaking it down. thanks.
great vid bro
The SP is for me the best sampler I ever owned until now. I use it get some special editing on my existing samples.
Loved the "couldn't help it" jam interruption! :-)
I’m interested to know, you talk a lot about the “personality” and uniqueness in the SP that for you inspired you to use it more and create more on it - my question is, do you use the resample feature or the pattern sequencer primarily? I know a lot of people have said (with pre-MKII 404s) that the resample feature is what sets it apart from other samplers completely and makes it unique. What are your thoughts?
man, you're really making me want a 404. even though i have an old 606 laying around that needs a few buttons repaired... lol.
Hi thanks the video, really considering getting one, can I ask a quick question as been unable to find an answer through Google, do you have any idea if it maps straight on to the TR-8 in the same way that the sp404A does (ie. Straight out of the box like..) many thanks
I have the original sp-404sx and would love to get the mk2 but I have so many other things I still have to buy. Hopefully the mk1 will be good enough to get the job done.
Why do people use this gear next to a MPC?? What does it supply more than a MPC??
I don’t think anything personally. I never get good answers. I think the sp is just niche device. People like the aesthetics. Also back in the day mpc had 0 effects and low sample time. The sp made sense. In 2024 you won’t find a good answer. They will say the sp 404 effects but it can’t side chain filter drive sounds bad vinyl sim is a gimmick. I think it’s just an echo chamber. Just listen to the music on 1 device vs the other no comparison
KINDLY highlight and compare MC-707 and SP-404 MKII effects please
In your upcoming video I would like to see how it compares to looping. Btw a simple step sequencer would improve it a lot!
The only thing I'm missing is a 'flatten pad' button. That would be a huge time saver for resampling!
I’m hopefully finally getting it next week. You kinda said everything I hoped. I’m fully aware of what it is, owning an og sp404, a 202, so even if it had half of the upgrades it got, I’d be thrilled. I also love getting out of the studio to just make some beats in the garden, on the couch or on the go, and while I love my op-1 in alot of ways, it’s very flawed and limited in other ways too. This looks to be my perfect device when I don’t want to go full studio/maschine. The only thing that could top it for me is a portable battery powered Maschine, man I love that workflow. But there is something unique about the sp’s. Their flaws actually give them character, some of the effects are so bad their actually awesome, the compressor on the og404 is ridiculous and one of a kind. If you want clean music, maybe not, but if you like some character and rough edges in your beats, sp’s got you. It still has that hardware appeal an character, not just another pc with pads.
I started on the og 404 went to the 303, then the 505, sold em all and got a 202 now. Sometimes i missed the others but this new 404 seems perfect. I'm keeping the 202 but putting in my order this month.
I just picked one up and one question I have is seeing the length of a sample. It says it counts it on four bars but I'd like to see a time value as I'm having trouble lining up different loops without chopping them. The BPM is rubbish
Can this new SP404 take Wav samples directly from DAW rather than just sampling drums? Thanks in advance! Great video!
Awesome 👌 thanks for sharing
4 months later and still waiting. Yup this guy 👍🏻
Should I get this for my DJ set I need sound effects does this has sound effects
@accuratebeats do you think SP will enhance workflow even when i already have Digitakt, MC707 and Maschine+..
Want one. Wish they could add an auto anti-pop function, smoothing out attacks of harsh sample cuts. Letting you use the built in function to fine trim if needed.
It doesn't have a 0-crossing finder?
@@DigDugger-hg1xb Not sure, but I see everyone smoothing the attack manually a lot.
getting back into music after a year, taking my time this go around .. might grab the mk2. just wanna churn out some tapes while chiefing my gas 🤷🏾♂️
wherever music takes me is where it takes me.
How are all your guys getting them? I still havent got mine ffs
Thanks man, very helphul.
Is there a shift function or something that would allow me to raise and lower volumes of a pad in a live setting without having to choose the pad and causing it to retrigger?
I was also thinking about incorporating a midi controller with an encoder, assigned to a designated pad to bring in melodies. Raising and lowering the volume on the fly. I haven't found anything on that. Any info in that would be awesome.
im 8 months in I bought my SP 404 Mk2 over getting a MPC One ( I own 1 mpc already the MPC Studio Black) I have no regrets a few of my homies use 404s and I was interested already I didn't find it hard or confusing like I see a lot of people saying in other reviews but yeah I love it I use it everyday I bought a mic couple months ago so I now I can record verses to my own beats my mpc been low key collecting dust and one main thing you said that is so true is that you can hop on the SP404 and hours will just go by as your locked in and focused on the music and ahwat your creating I personally don't like using Daws i only use the mpc daw when im using my mpc cuz I have no choice lol
Appreciate the update! I ordered mine in Oct. 2021, and still haven't seen it.... ☹️ but I live in Canada, so we're always lower on the gear delivery list ( no. 1 - US, 2 - UK, 3 - Australia or Japan, 4 - maybe Can. ....).... But I hopefully this'll change soon... 🤞🏾🤞🏾
Question for ya: do you think Roland will ever consider a mode that would show the waveform of a pad sample *instead* of the BPM? That's probably useful info while chopping, but who needs to see it when you're recording patterns? Do you ever find the numbers distracting?
In Europe you can't get them anywhere too. I'm starting to think the only people who actually got their units were TH-camrs.
i have a question please. i am considering selling my 1010music blackbox to get the 404MK2..just to have something different. Cant the 404 play 2 pads at once? for example a synth sound,,,i want to play like 2 or 3 pads at one times to create a Chord..Am i able to do that on the 404? or if i want to play a Drum Loop...Can i hit 2 pads at the same time and play 2 different loops at the same time?
The answer here is “yes”. Pads can be setup to trigger simultaneously and put in different mute groups to cut each other off or to not cut each other off. The polyphony setting in the sp404mkii is pretty deep. Sometimes you need to think a bit about how to set them up but it’s 100% possible.
😀
@@AccurateBeats I appreciate this so much yes I did order one and it should be in the mail tomorrow I can't wait if I have any more questions can I post here?
Is it better or similar or good companion of the Octatrack Mk 2?
Looks amazing, so you can play bass notes chromatically with a connected keyboard?
Great review! I know I'm a little late, but is there a midi keyboard that you would recommend pairing with the SP404 MK2? I have this idea in mind of a cool portable setup that can go anywhere.
For the big comparison I would really like to know how these compare in being intuitive. Like what the learning curves look like. And my second question would be how there capabilities compare in regards to music production without a DAW. (myself and most others will use a DAW but I think the question helps to understand how far the capabilities of the devices go).
Also I have been following you for a long time and I am glad you are well and wosh you the best
It sounds like you like this better than Model : Samples.. ?
Yep, still waiting for mine since November 2021...... called guitar center today about the Roland SP404MKII and was told it should hopefully ship by thr end of February or the first week of March. Let's see what happens. In the mean time I'll keep watching videos to learn how to use it. I'm actually looking forward to turning my current beats I have been making with my Roland Fantom G7 Into lofi beats for my other channel.
Ooo I hope so. I reached out a week ago and they said provably late March, around the 19th
@Animated Evan update, they shipped it!!!!!!!! I can't even believe it my self. Looking forward to trying it put and learning how to use it.
So it took like 4 months to get it? I just ordered mine, and I’m not sure I can wait that long 🤣
good vid thanks, Ive been having the double hits n the pads too but they are starting to settle in now. Im curious about why you'd compare this to the maschine or MPC etc tho as they are very different beasts...
I'm definitely looking forward to the comparison. What do you think of the FX on the SP-404 MKII? Are they easy to use and sound good? I'm also curious about running audio from my MPC Live to an SP-404 to use the SP as an external FX Processor?
The FX sound amazing, especially all the sims and lofi stuff. The performance oriented effects are fun too and the super filter will give you some room shaking bass. In addition to using it by itself, I run my S2400 into it as an end of the chain sort of deal. Even if I apply effects from other sources it all goes through it at the end.