laikenf wrote:I like my SP-404, in fact it's a vital tool in my setup. I can understand the fact that you find it kind of useless, but for the kind of music I make and the way I make it's essential because I only use the EMX on song mode. What I usually do is create patterns with voice samples I take from random films and or documentaries, etc. I've always found that quite hypnotic and it helps me create a groove; I also have the habit to connect my TD-12 V-Drums (I've always been a drummer) directly to the SP-404's L & R inputs jacks and sample drum beats so I can slice'em up with the 404 thanks to that Auto-sample feature.
I think it's a really fun sampler to work with, limited compared to the ESX, but I just see them as different instruments, like comparing a 4 string bass to a 6 string guitar; and besides it works great when combined with an EMX-1 (using the electribe as the master). You can do some craaaaaazy stuff with those two hooked up together. Another thing, go ahead and send that Roland to the KP3, now we're talking just plain insanity.
I'm working on my web page so I can post some songs to give you an example.
I'm not really saying that its a bad machine.... it does what it does.... and it is what it is and there is nothing more to it....
Fairly small bank, basic sampling features, basic sequencing features, pretty good but not great fx (although far superior to the electribes but not nearly as versatile)....
This day and age though I would highly recommend going for a NI Maschine..... although you are required to use a lap top with it, and that's what makes the sound... the box itself is very well laid out and the combination of their software and the maschine make it the sampler of the next generation. And for only a little more then the sp 404... you can get a brand new maschine on ebay for 400 bucks these days.... you can have probably the most powerful sampler out there.
