Visit my Patreon for exclusive content: ►www.patreon.com/liamkillenmusic Affiliate links! Please use these if you plan on purchasing gear from any of my videos- it would help me out a lot and it doesn't cost you anything extra: PERFECT CIRCUIT (USA) ►SP-404 MK2: bit.ly/3FLBlsf ►MPC One: bit.ly/38Lrkzl ►OP-1 Field: bit.ly/3MBnGXA ►Octatrack: bit.ly/3go6iuh THOMANN (Europe) ►SP-404 MK2: bit.ly/4aWiZnS ►MPC One: bit.ly/3LOAag3 ►OP-1 Field: bit.ly/3U0IkXO ►Octatrack: bit.ly/41WP8Yl
My goal recently has been to downsize to only the 404, a laptop, and a keyboard. I needed a looper and a sound generator..This update made it a reality. This is so dope.
The 404mk2 just made me realize that I don't really need several pieces of gear anymore. The Looper function alone is wild. I have bought at sold at least a dozen Roland/Boss Loopers. To have that functionality in the 404mk2 is really amazing. THAT alone in this update is a huge bonus for me, don't even get me started on Koala integration, It basically makes the 404mk2 a 808mk4. There is so much to unpack in this update, Roland really cares about the SP404 community, thank you Roland, thank you!
@@edenhendry23 Don't know about the 300, but I still love my old RC2- that thing is indestructible. If the gig goes wrong and you end up in a barfight, all you need to crush your opponents is an RC2 with a good lead plugged in...and when you win, it'll still be ready to loop your victory chants to infinity.
My favorite new feature! "A function has been added to set the number of measures to sample when Sampling/Resampling." Wow! I don't know why you couldn't do this before, but the SP404 mk2 will be a lot less tedious to use now.
Best new feature IMO is being able to name files in the device. Literally the reason I sold mine was I didn’t want to connect to the computer to name things. It sort of became useless to me because I was using it as an outboard sample chopper and then putting the samples into my Digitakt because I could actually manage the files there. I will be buying another one now. The other new features are also killer. I love this machine.
im excited I just updated just now about to mess around and happy 404 day everyone tomorrow is going to be lit I love my Sp 404 Mk2 my first SP all I use is this and my mpc studio black don't need anything else
anyone whos actually used both knows the obvious points that make octa a completely different league. id like it to have a couple more new FX but thats what the 404 is for
You always maintain an upbeat approach to all things musical ..in a helpful as much as graceful manner .. highlighting or if necessary critiquing gear .. thank you for your insights along with your consistently respectful manner ... cheers!
you make my day! thanks to roland for the looper and the capability of recording presets bars to make perfect loops. you can even conect a footswitch to control the looper, 🤤
i'll be super glad if in a upcoming update, the sp 404 mkii alow us launch a sample thru headphones output only. that would be super helpful to have a clue track for introduce the sp 404 in a music band envoriment.
Amazing video as usual Lian! I'm about to get my 404mk2 (in august) and can't wait to play with all it's features and your channel helped understanding into it all perfectly! Hope you release more videos about the 404mk2 demonstrating it's features in a real workflows and also loved those DJ mode sessions (the one in the park is fantastic)! Wish the best for you and Roland!
I'm missing a real song mode, like Ableton arrangement view. Then I would call the 404 a tool for song writers / composers. Pattern chains just don't feel natural.
Huge update, the fact that every update is being massive makes the MK2 the best sampler out on the market. Compact, portable, powerful, with an average price range and an active community which Roland actually listens to! I loved the time measure function when resampling or recording, just made a perfect drum loop only with resampling method, dropped the new humanize feature on the drum loop and it sounds so good! The level meter when recording is a game changer too, you can hit resample and play any pad to actually check how loud the sample is, now I can drop my drums or any samples and apply FX while gain staging inside the SP!
Hell yeah , I love every update they have released , it's made it so much better, it's a great machine for its portability and sound quality and every update has added features that made it substantially better . I didn't know they even had this new patch until just now catching this video
Real talk, thanks for the video! I'm glad Roland is sticking with their habit of being great about updates. I'd love it if they'd provide more of them for more of their products but it's still awesome to see!!
live loop functionality is a big plus for say, eurorack performers-build up a loop, have 404 play it back, cue a bunch of changes, fade the modular back in and record a new loop to layer over it
This paired with the old op1 and mpc is gold. Ive recored with my Apollo and am addicted to making 4 bar loops. Want share what im doing with them but this is gold and if you have an old sp 404 you have something in your hands!
Thank you Roland for a great update. Here's the real hot take. The Teenage Engineering KO2 is the must-have device as it's actually fun to use. (That's one opinion from someone who has owned an MPCX and currently owns an OP1 and a 404mkII). Simplicity and fun wins.
Damn dude. I'm kind of excited. I pretty much stopped using my MK2 altogether. Some of these features might make it useful while I'm saving up for a Push 3 or MPC haha.
Yeah, the thing which has struck me after a year or so of owning a 404 is the number of different workflows. It's not one single thing (well, obviously it's a sampler...) but instead encourages you to figure out how to do what you want to do. It was already a beast but now even beastier.
I didn't find someone on yt demonstrating sampling sounds with long sustain, like pads or strings, on this thing. Is it good enough in detecting aforementioned type of sounds (dedicated algorithm?) or you always have to manually set the looping points?
@@LiamKillen I came across website claiming there is an algo for catching long notes. Ensamble mode or something like that? Are you aware of that mode? Nobody seems to be aware of that. Thanks for trying to help.
Just updated mine. The new features seem super powerful. I know a lot of people wanted the looper functionality. I just hope it resolves the sync issues I've had since I got mine. I managed to get it close through some midi routing sorcery, but it was still a few ms off everything else even with delay compensation
@@LiamKillen it's only when receiving external clock. Ive seen several people on Reddit and other forums encounter the same issue with various gear. Sending clock, everything is dandy. I have my 404 routed into the inputs on the rhythm so it's possible that is causing the small issues I haven't squshed. Next time I switch my gear on I'll do some tests!
Looks like a huge update. Many many improvements that make me feel tempted to get back to my sp404mk2. Though I don't believe it can replace any of the comparing devices. And the main reason, that should be emphasized in the video too so that candidate purchasers don't get deceived, is that the sp404ml2 cannot sample in real-time. And because of this, no, you cannot compare it to mpcs and octatracks or any modern sampler. I value the effort that Roland puts into updates, but the company did not evaluate properly the competition, and created an underperforming sampler, and the flaw will never be corrected. So if you are about to buy sp404mk2 have in mind that it cannot sample without stopping the playback. Some may say it is a cheap sampler so what would you wait? Nevertheless, these are the facts, so in case you want a real time sampler to match your workflow, just stay away.
This device has one big dealbreaker: Lots of key combos that you need to memorize. And with every update it gets worse. The MPC is a much more intuitive device in that regard and I don't think the MPC is even all that intuitive.
Honestly as an Octa fan, the SP on paper is looking like a worthy challenger, the Octa is also 12+ years old and Elektron already said they can’t keep updating/upgrading on that platform, the SP will keep getting better until the MK3 drops
just wanted to say I absolutely love all your content. I am at the start of my electronic music/dawless journey and your videos on the opz have been hugely helpful to me. this video did push me over the edge of wanting to buy an sp404 mk 2! i'm in the uk and i used your thomann europe affiliate link and just changed the country. i hope it works as i want to support the channel in any way i can. thanks again!
I learned it in a weekend, been using hardware since the 90's though. The key combos are an absolute pain I agree, you really need a cheat sheet with this device. Some of the feature are backwards too, the FX routing is probably one of the worst I've ever come across. Still though, it's an interesting device for sure and its limitations make you become creative in their own little way.
Thanks for the update, but will (try to) stick with the Octa for now. I keep meaning to ask, but you probably addressed this in earlier videos: what's that synth cleaning thingie you have lying around on the desk? I've seen it used in the past but seems like a nifty alternative to compressed air (incl a brush)?
Looper is fun. But I already have a 4.05 suggestion/idea (unless this is somehow possible)? Wouldn't it be even better if the looper, after finishing recording a fixed length, automatically cuts the EXT signal so we don't have to time the EXT signal stop? I'm finding that once the recorded looper runs with the same signal coming in from EXT, it gets louder and you can tell something is odd. This is probably an issue for people like me who might be recording synth loops into the looper (and would like to use it to switch stuff around behind the scenes). :) Anyone else feeling this? Otherwise, awesome update.
I’m still wishing for full midi implementation per pad/bank. Would be amazing to be able to map pitch pan and volume per pad. Would make the 404 the single greatest tape loop/ambient machine ever.
Just got the 1010Blackbox Lovee!!!! It Disk Streaming, Song Mode ,Clip launch, Step Record,Full Fx,Unlimited Storage Via SD CV Gate 4 Audio outputs Audio in Midi In Out , USB device Thur 5.5 inch Capacity color touch screen Keyboard mode ,padmode , Timestretching on the Fly I'm so Hyped Right Now 1010 Group has Update it this and it's continually to update this with all that being said. I still love the 404Mk2 I haven't touched my Live2 in a Year and now this Blackbox might Replace it' as I am a Film and TV Composer Sync music. Roland FX are Top Notch! MK2 is a Swiss Army Knife like the 1010 as I see it.
This really is a great update and I know some live loopers that have to carry all of their gear will love if they can cut out a piece of gear, but I suspect the guitar/bass people won't do it because they want foot control, but probably some keyboardists will go with it.
Do you know of a faceplatesticker that have all the shortcuts as labels that they added over the years? Is so hard to remember all the quirky shortcuts…
Yeah the manual and YT is just the best place to go. ALSO! If you find yourself having lots of tech / music creation questions like this - hit up my Discord. I find that having a community of people helping rather than just me is more helpful in general and we'd love to have you. Here's the invite incase you're interested: discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
Good stuff and no offence taken lol. I just bought an OT and love it coming from the DT. New 404 update looks good tho! Hopefully elektron have a few more updates in their future too
Idk just recently got the SP-404 MKII and compared to the mpc one I had I’m loving the sp more especially after the updates and stems,synth,looper,fx’s,DJ mode yeah it’s getting pretty good now
404 needs an update where you can run each pad to an individual track on a mixer (like the MPC ONE allows with Tascam Model 24 consoles) so that you can track your pads to the console for better mixing. Stem exports are cool for DAWs, but this would be WAY better.
Unfortunately it will never have that - you'd have to invest in a heftier unit - maybe like the Analog Rytm MK2 if you wanted something like that - any other tech questions / inspiration though - def hit up my Discord community ! discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
@@LiamKillen Thanks for the feedback. I don't understand the deeper tech of these units. 404 already has a USB out? Just don't understand why they can't have the pads as assignable outputs? If you can import/export it shouldn't be that hard? I'd much rather use a 404 over an MPC. Seems like this function, with everything else they've done, would pretty much rule the market.
Where did you find the splitter and what other splitters are very useful? Thanks for this great video! The device feels like a combination of brand new instruments in one!
@@LiamKillen I’m referring to the tiny, white box to the right of the SP-404 in your video. It has sliders on it as well. If it is a mixer, I have never seen one so small.
@@LiamKillen I looked back through your video and don’t understand how UA-cam posted my question on this video at all. Thanks anyways and I will remain a subscriber lol 😂 Nick Hook has the tiny splitter in his video: ua-cam.com/video/rDugv8MAOR4/v-deo.htmlsi=QVkoM0JGpvqAMvz9
Do you recommend SP-404 mk2 for a beginner with no experience for mainly making beat? I have background in mix & mastering but I want to do more than just that.
If you already have experience in the box you might want to explore that some more before moving onto something like the 404 - although I have to admit - it's pretty fkn fun haha. And that's important too !
Mpc One Plus, Sp404 Mk2 or Lofi12Xt or Smpletrax as hip hop groove box? Does any of them rock out like Isla s2400? Damn looking at my own comment saying “Confusion”🫣😂
hmm maybe try the old uninstall reinstall trick - could it have something to do with not being the latest version ? Also, maybe my Discord community can help - discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
Fantastic work on expounding on the update notes. Wow... I'm still clutching onto my SP-404sx (which, let's be real... only ever aspired to be a WAV sample player with some effects) and it's amazing how definitively this update is. It really feels like Roland has taken cues from the various subcultures that use the 404, and made the MK2 super capable as a result!
I've been primarily rocking an SH-4D and an 404 MKII. The 404 has more or less updated out every problem I've had with it, now they just need to update some of the problems with the 4D (the sequencer is the primary problem with it, and a lack of song mode)
A question if someone would be so kind to answer. You can merge 4 samples onto 1 pad. Are they layered all together at the same volume, eq etc. meaning you have to do all that to each individual sample pre merging or do you have a way to edit them as you do it to make them gel together. I don't quite get this feature, I don't do much with samples but I can see how it could be a pretty powerful feature, you could have 16 mini edits right there, great for DJing
I can imagine how annoyed the engineering team was that marketing was asking to release this specifically as version 4.0.4. Like they probably had to do way more than 4 patches and it messed up their software versioning
@@LiamKillen Exactly. I have horrible eyesight. My computer setup is three 31" monitors. LOL. So, these 2" screens, they are a major turn off! I LOVE the MPC line. They nailed it with the large touch screens. It's 2024! The screen costs next to nothing. I just don't get the love of these tiny calculator screens.
@@Curious_Skeptic you don't get it. some of us like NOT depending on a screen, and using 90% ears instead of 90% eyes. the SP series is a completely different workflow... just use a DAW lol what are you even complaining about
Wow, I bought the SP-404 mk2 just a few days ago and I wished it could work as a looper, but didn't expect that to ever happen so huge thanks to Roland! I did expect a tuner and side-chain compression though, so still waiting for those. Especially side-chain compression because there is no way to do it other than exporting individual tracks and processing them outside the SP-404 that I know of. A tuner on the other hand can be easily connected via line out and there are other workarounds too (like playing a reference tone on another pad while adjusting sample's pitch) so it's not that important to have a built-in one but would be very nice.
The only thing that's really unsatisfying about the SP404Mk2 is that there's no grid for BPM, for example when i set a specific BPM and have my sample set to that, i can't just cut it where it would be 4/4 instead i have to guess or try to make it as accurate as possble, but even then if it's just 10ms of it'll be noticable in a 2min project. I just don't get why they didn't update that one? it can't be that hard to implement that feature, it's just some lines 🥲
I'm a noodler, I don't make music full time, I just like to noodle. I've played with the OG op-1, I have a roland t-8 and s-1 and some other random stuff. I really want a all in one device/groovebox that I can make music on and just have fun and take everywhere. I've been looking at all of them and I was going to reach out to you because I love your channel and ask that very question. Looking at what this machine does now. It seems to be the clear winner. Koala integration, sample drop in, tone generator??!?! I'll have to watch your other videos on how to use the darn thing. How is the learning curve?
The Octatrack and the 404 both share one thing in common: extremely unintuitive key combos to access the features. I have to have the manual open to do anything on either of them!
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Affiliate links! Please use these if you plan on purchasing gear from any of my videos- it would help me out a lot and it doesn't cost you anything extra:
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Sidechain?
0:10
14:39 @@benprangell9654
My goal recently has been to downsize to only the 404, a laptop, and a keyboard. I needed a looper and a sound generator..This update made it a reality. This is so dope.
You can do it !
The 404mk2 just made me realize that I don't really need several pieces of gear anymore. The Looper function alone is wild. I have bought at sold at least a dozen Roland/Boss Loopers. To have that functionality in the 404mk2 is really amazing. THAT alone in this update is a huge bonus for me, don't even get me started on Koala integration, It basically makes the 404mk2 a 808mk4. There is so much to unpack in this update, Roland really cares about the SP404 community, thank you Roland, thank you!
Eureka! 💡
I really couldn't have said it better.
Could this replace an rc300 looper?
@@edenhendry23 Don't know about the 300, but I still love my old RC2- that thing is indestructible. If the gig goes wrong and you end up in a barfight, all you need to crush your opponents is an RC2 with a good lead plugged in...and when you win, it'll still be ready to loop your victory chants to infinity.
My favorite new feature! "A function has been added to set the number of measures to sample when Sampling/Resampling." Wow! I don't know why you couldn't do this before, but the SP404 mk2 will be a lot less tedious to use now.
Yes!!
Yea, that was the only thing I hated about the 404 was looping samples!
The SP is turning into the MPC, while the MPC is becoming a DAW with the MPC3 update.
Evolution haha.
Best new feature IMO is being able to name files in the device. Literally the reason I sold mine was I didn’t want to connect to the computer to name things. It sort of became useless to me because I was using it as an outboard sample chopper and then putting the samples into my Digitakt because I could actually manage the files there. I will be buying another one now. The other new features are also killer. I love this machine.
Oh true that is another clutch new feature!
My 404 is a superhero in a limited arena. Somehow doing everything but not too much and nothing at all. Roland knows the way! Thank you
They do!
Comparing it with the Octatrack might be bold but that is exactly why I bought the 404 MKII.
Heh
The Koala sampler integration alone makes me want one! Holy crap they went deep with it, too!!! Bravo!!!
😏
I bought a launchpad for koala a few months ago. I think I’ll be researching a 404 now.
Really great update for our musically diverse SP404Mk2 community. Can’t wait to learn & integrate it all.
Yes!
They’re still updating this thing? Crazy. LFG ROLAND!! 💪💪💪💪
They put out a TR8-s update this past September and it came out in april of 2018
They never stop!!
😏
It's a great business model, and almost no other companies do this.
@@AllofJudea elektron
Thanks for keeping up with the videos. I hope you’re getting to feeling better and finding resolution with your health!
One day at a time 😊
im excited I just updated just now about to mess around and happy 404 day everyone tomorrow is going to be lit I love my Sp 404 Mk2 my first SP all I use is this and my mpc studio black don't need anything else
Thanks for watching!!
It's crazy that I been thinking all day yesterday about getting rid of the Octatrack for a sp 404mk2 and then this video comes out. Thanks Liam!
🍻
If I had to keep one, it would be Octatrack.
UH do you want to trade Lol, I will take it off your hands
anyone whos actually used both knows the obvious points that make octa a completely different league. id like it to have a couple more new FX but thats what the 404 is for
What an update! Also love how you see this as a techno machine. Do it! Working on an ambient jungle project with mine.
Dope! Have fun!
You always maintain an upbeat approach to all things musical ..in a helpful as much as graceful manner .. highlighting or if necessary critiquing gear .. thank you for your insights along with your consistently respectful manner ... cheers!
Cheerz!
you make my day! thanks to roland for the looper and the capability of recording presets bars to make perfect loops. you can even conect a footswitch to control the looper, 🤤
Roland rules!
i'll be super glad if in a upcoming update, the sp 404 mkii alow us launch a sample thru headphones output only. that would be super helpful to have a clue track for introduce the sp 404 in a music band envoriment.
I couldn’t really gauge how big the SP404 was until you put it next to the Octatrack. This is a pretty hefty boy while still seeming portable.
It’s def a desktop unit but the amount of functionality / space is bonkers
Amazing video as usual Lian! I'm about to get my 404mk2 (in august) and can't wait to play with all it's features and your channel helped understanding into it all perfectly!
Hope you release more videos about the 404mk2 demonstrating it's features in a real workflows and also loved those DJ mode sessions (the one in the park is fantastic)!
Wish the best for you and Roland!
Thx for watching!
I'm missing a real song mode, like Ableton arrangement view. Then I would call the 404 a tool for song writers / composers. Pattern chains just don't feel natural.
That’s one big challenge with hardware
Buy a Deluge.
@@ZetaCarinae Thanks. Not as cheap as an MPC Live.
Wow been waiting for live looper! Thanks for the update
Thanks Roland!!
Huge update, the fact that every update is being massive makes the MK2 the best sampler out on the market. Compact, portable, powerful, with an average price range and an active community which Roland actually listens to!
I loved the time measure function when resampling or recording, just made a perfect drum loop only with resampling method, dropped the new humanize feature on the drum loop and it sounds so good!
The level meter when recording is a game changer too, you can hit resample and play any pad to actually check how loud the sample is, now I can drop my drums or any samples and apply FX while gain staging inside the SP!
Thx for your take on this!
Hell yeah , I love every update they have released , it's made it so much better, it's a great machine for its portability and sound quality and every update has added features that made it substantially better .
I didn't know they even had this new patch until just now catching this video
Update and ENJOY! 😊
Real talk, thanks for the video! I'm glad Roland is sticking with their habit of being great about updates. I'd love it if they'd provide more of them for more of their products but it's still awesome to see!!
They clean up real nice with their updates
@@LiamKillen MC-101 my beloved
live loop functionality is a big plus for say, eurorack performers-build up a loop, have 404 play it back, cue a bunch of changes, fade the modular back in and record a new loop to layer over it
True!
This guy gets it
This paired with the old op1 and mpc is gold. Ive recored with my Apollo and am addicted to making 4 bar loops. Want share what im doing with them but this is gold and if you have an old sp 404 you have something in your hands!
Yeah you can do A LOT with that
Thank you Roland for a great update. Here's the real hot take. The Teenage Engineering KO2 is the must-have device as it's actually fun to use.
(That's one opinion from someone who has owned an MPCX and currently owns an OP1 and a 404mkII). Simplicity and fun wins.
Roland Rules!
Roland for life 🧡
🔥
would you say there's overlap between the new update and the digitakt?
To me they’re completely different - I mean the 404 mk2 step sequencer is cool - doesn’t compare to the Digitakt’s though.
Thank you so much for the new font change. It's so much better now. ;D
No problem!
Damn dude. I'm kind of excited. I pretty much stopped using my MK2 altogether. Some of these features might make it useful while I'm saving up for a Push 3 or MPC haha.
Hopefully this will reignite the 🔥!
Yeah, the thing which has struck me after a year or so of owning a 404 is the number of different workflows. It's not one single thing (well, obviously it's a sampler...) but instead encourages you to figure out how to do what you want to do.
It was already a beast but now even beastier.
It hits us from all angles
Ain’t no party like a Killen party 🎉
Ayoooo!
@@LiamKillen Bought one from your Perfect Circuit link because this video was the deciding factor!
I didn't find someone on yt demonstrating sampling sounds with long sustain, like pads or strings, on this thing. Is it good enough in detecting aforementioned type of sounds (dedicated algorithm?) or you always have to manually set the looping points?
You can auto chop longer samples into 4/8/16 which gives you a “cleaner chop” if that’s what you mean
@@LiamKillen I came across website claiming there is an algo for catching long notes. Ensamble mode or something like that?
Are you aware of that mode?
Nobody seems to be aware of that.
Thanks for trying to help.
Great summary on 4.04. I sure wish I could find a similar yellow skin.
You can ! Hit up Style flip !
Also, if you wanna talk gear in a community vibe, hit up my Discord: discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
Just updated mine. The new features seem super powerful. I know a lot of people wanted the looper functionality.
I just hope it resolves the sync issues I've had since I got mine. I managed to get it close through some midi routing sorcery, but it was still a few ms off everything else even with delay compensation
Oh really - I haven’t experienced that
@@LiamKillen it's only when receiving external clock. Ive seen several people on Reddit and other forums encounter the same issue with various gear.
Sending clock, everything is dandy. I have my 404 routed into the inputs on the rhythm so it's possible that is causing the small issues I haven't squshed. Next time I switch my gear on I'll do some tests!
Looks like a huge update.
Many many improvements that make me feel tempted to get back to my sp404mk2.
Though I don't believe it can replace any of the comparing devices.
And the main reason, that should be emphasized in the video too so that candidate purchasers don't get deceived, is that the sp404ml2 cannot sample in real-time.
And because of this, no, you cannot compare it to mpcs and octatracks or any modern sampler.
I value the effort that Roland puts into updates, but the company did not evaluate properly the competition, and created an underperforming sampler, and the flaw will never be corrected.
So if you are about to buy sp404mk2 have in mind that it cannot sample without stopping the playback.
Some may say it is a cheap sampler so what would you wait?
Nevertheless, these are the facts, so in case you want a real time sampler to match your workflow, just stay away.
Thx for your take on this!
Doesn't the Looper from the latest update allow sampling without stopping the playback?
@@jonnymolotov from what I see, it has to loop before it is possible to move it to a pad.
And the limit seems to be 16 seconds.
This device has one big dealbreaker: Lots of key combos that you need to memorize. And with every update it gets worse. The MPC is a much more intuitive device in that regard and I don't think the MPC is even all that intuitive.
There’s a lot of muscle memory for sure
Honestly as an Octa fan, the SP on paper is looking like a worthy challenger, the Octa is also 12+ years old and Elektron already said they can’t keep updating/upgrading on that platform, the SP will keep getting better until the MK3 drops
Exactly and they’re going hard with these updates
I love the update, but can roland give us a effect 3 and 4 shortcut and easier way to route them and assign them. god it would solve so much.
Assigning all your FX to a midi controller is just the way to go IMO
@@LiamKillen oh so you can control fx 3 and 4 via midi? That is a game changer
just wanted to say I absolutely love all your content. I am at the start of my electronic music/dawless journey and your videos on the opz have been hugely helpful to me. this video did push me over the edge of wanting to buy an sp404 mk 2! i'm in the uk and i used your thomann europe affiliate link and just changed the country. i hope it works as i want to support the channel in any way i can. thanks again!
Always glad to help and thx as always for watching
The sp-404 just seems like its just becoming more of a pain to learn for a beginner lol. Crazy value in one box, though.
The basics still haven’t changed! :-)
I learned it in a weekend, been using hardware since the 90's though. The key combos are an absolute pain I agree, you really need a cheat sheet with this device. Some of the feature are backwards too, the FX routing is probably one of the worst I've ever come across.
Still though, it's an interesting device for sure and its limitations make you become creative in their own little way.
If you use it enough you'll not even register that you're using shortcuts etc. muscle memory is your friend
Thanks for the update, but will (try to) stick with the Octa for now. I keep meaning to ask, but you probably addressed this in earlier videos: what's that synth cleaning thingie you have lying around on the desk? I've seen it used in the past but seems like a nifty alternative to compressed air (incl a brush)?
You’re good with the Octa for sure
I can't find any comparison to the Digitakt (1) for some reason (after all firmware updates). I guess this will have to do.
Thx for watching ! My Discord might be a helpful resource for you in regards to synth questions BTW - here's an invite: discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
Looper is fun. But I already have a 4.05 suggestion/idea (unless this is somehow possible)? Wouldn't it be even better if the looper, after finishing recording a fixed length, automatically cuts the EXT signal so we don't have to time the EXT signal stop? I'm finding that once the recorded looper runs with the same signal coming in from EXT, it gets louder and you can tell something is odd. This is probably an issue for people like me who might be recording synth loops into the looper (and would like to use it to switch stuff around behind the scenes). :) Anyone else feeling this? Otherwise, awesome update.
Appreciate your take on this
Very tempted to get this in addition to my Digitakt & Syntakt 🥵
😏
I’m still wishing for full midi implementation per pad/bank. Would be amazing to be able to map pitch pan and volume per pad. Would make the 404 the single greatest tape loop/ambient machine ever.
That would be amazing
that looper saved me money on purchasing a boss mk2 505
well there ya go !
Nice video! 🙌You could do a demo of the loop mode drumming! btw iPhone 6s best phone ever, im still rocking it 🤙
Old school!!
Just got the 1010Blackbox Lovee!!!! It Disk Streaming, Song Mode ,Clip launch, Step Record,Full Fx,Unlimited Storage Via SD CV Gate 4 Audio outputs Audio in Midi In Out , USB device Thur 5.5 inch Capacity color touch screen Keyboard mode ,padmode , Timestretching on the Fly I'm so Hyped Right Now 1010 Group has Update it this and it's continually to update this with all that being said. I still love the 404Mk2 I haven't touched my Live2 in a Year and now this Blackbox might Replace it' as I am a Film and TV Composer Sync music. Roland FX are Top Notch! MK2 is a Swiss Army Knife like the 1010 as I see it.
I see stimming using the black box all the time so I’m assuming it’s incredible
This really is a great update and I know some live loopers that have to carry all of their gear will love if they can cut out a piece of gear, but I suspect the guitar/bass people won't do it because they want foot control, but probably some keyboardists will go with it.
Perhaps!
I believe you can trigger it with a midi foot controller now with this update
404 and ipad is just a killer combo.
😏
Great videos! Cheers from Brazil
Thanks! You might like my Discord!
discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
Do you know of a faceplatesticker that have all the shortcuts as labels that they added over the years? Is so hard to remember all the quirky shortcuts…
Yeah the manual and YT is just the best place to go.
ALSO! If you find yourself having lots of tech / music creation questions like this - hit up my Discord. I find that having a community of people helping rather than just me is more helpful in general and we'd love to have you. Here's the invite incase you're interested: discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
How the easiest way to do or record live set up on the android phone? For making content on IG or TIKTOK? Do I need external equipment?
consider this to record quality audsio directly into your phone :-)
ua-cam.com/video/w8lOOAOvESU/v-deo.htmlsi=bi71u33vn5P6PrMc
I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on a SP-404 vs the MC-101.
I’ve never touched the 101!
Can it replace digitakt? That would make me the happiest, as Im constantly feeling the urge to buy one
I would say no
Damn. I was waiting for the sidechain compression feature to pull the trigger on this thing. Guess I'll wait for 5.0 then...
Here’s a side chain hack you might be down with: ua-cam.com/video/PkGkF8ZgbLs/v-deo.htmlsi=XUYKpLadkv8GVQFs
Ive been looking to pick up a used akai force, but this latest sp-404 update has really got me thinking.
I feel you
@@LiamKillen thx 4 the reply! Peace unto u brother.
Good stuff and no offence taken lol. I just bought an OT and love it coming from the DT. New 404 update looks good tho! Hopefully elektron have a few more updates in their future too
Oh I’m sure they will
Idk just recently got the SP-404 MKII and compared to the mpc one I had I’m loving the sp more especially after the updates and stems,synth,looper,fx’s,DJ mode yeah it’s getting pretty good now
The MPC one is a different beast. I own both, you can't compare really.
It’s feature packed baby!
404 needs an update where you can run each pad to an individual track on a mixer (like the MPC ONE allows with Tascam Model 24 consoles) so that you can track your pads to the console for better mixing. Stem exports are cool for DAWs, but this would be WAY better.
Unfortunately it will never have that - you'd have to invest in a heftier unit - maybe like the Analog Rytm MK2 if you wanted something like that - any other tech questions / inspiration though - def hit up my Discord community ! discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
@@LiamKillen Thanks for the feedback. I don't understand the deeper tech of these units. 404 already has a USB out? Just don't understand why they can't have the pads as assignable outputs? If you can import/export it shouldn't be that hard? I'd much rather use a 404 over an MPC. Seems like this function, with everything else they've done, would pretty much rule the market.
Nice vid! It would be awesome another updated dj mode video, like tips and tricks for it!
I’ll consider it!
Hope you're doing good Liam. Appreciate you.
Good days and bad days !
Where did you find the splitter and what other splitters are very useful? Thanks for this great video! The device feels like a combination of brand new instruments in one!
The splitter? I find all my audio cable / power supply related things at MyVolts!
@@LiamKillen I’m referring to the tiny, white box to the right of the SP-404 in your video. It has sliders on it as well.
If it is a mixer, I have never seen one so small.
@@LiamKillen I looked back through your video and don’t understand how UA-cam posted my question on this video at all. Thanks anyways and I will remain a subscriber lol 😂
Nick Hook has the tiny splitter in his video:
ua-cam.com/video/rDugv8MAOR4/v-deo.htmlsi=QVkoM0JGpvqAMvz9
Do you recommend SP-404 mk2 for a beginner with no experience for mainly making beat? I have background in mix & mastering but I want to do more than just that.
yes...
If you already have experience in the box you might want to explore that some more before moving onto something like the 404 - although I have to admit - it's pretty fkn fun haha. And that's important too !
😏
I'm curious: how does the SP-404 MK2 compare to the Maschine Plus?
I wouldn't be able to make that comparison ! I'm not a Maschine + user.
The transition at 11:46 is my preferred way of transitioning between songs
You and me both!
I've been wanting the looper function for years. So of course they add it a month after I buy a 2x more expensive device. 😂
😅
update 4.04 released for 4/04 day. brilliant numerical alignment.
Perfection
Mpc One Plus, Sp404 Mk2 or Lofi12Xt or Smpletrax as hip hop groove box? Does any of them rock out like Isla s2400? Damn looking at my own comment saying “Confusion”🫣😂
great video thanks Liam
My pleasure - if you want the community vibe of this video, hit up my Discord :-)
discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
My Roland cloud manager isn’t letting me download the app it’s just saying installing but nothing happens can someone help
hmm maybe try the old uninstall reinstall trick - could it have something to do with not being the latest version ?
Also, maybe my Discord community can help - discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
@@LiamKillen I’ll join rn. I tried reinstalling but nothing happens
Fantastic work on expounding on the update notes. Wow... I'm still clutching onto my SP-404sx (which, let's be real... only ever aspired to be a WAV sample player with some effects) and it's amazing how definitively this update is. It really feels like Roland has taken cues from the various subcultures that use the 404, and made the MK2 super capable as a result!
They’re always listening
What is that midi controller with all the nobs on it
Pc-12! Here’s a full review: ua-cam.com/video/vo8SFAV_Xu8/v-deo.htmlsi=PNdgt5xJCnEyxvx2
I've been primarily rocking an SH-4D and an 404 MKII. The 404 has more or less updated out every problem I've had with it, now they just need to update some of the problems with the 4D (the sequencer is the primary problem with it, and a lack of song mode)
SH4D is something I haven’t spent too much time on!
Can the 404 act as a multitrack recorder, that is, recording various parts of whole songs with (e.g.) an acoustic guitar?
Not on its own, no
@@LiamKillen Thank you. That is one of the reasons why I keep my MPC over other contenders.
A question if someone would be so kind to answer.
You can merge 4 samples onto 1 pad. Are they layered all together at the same volume, eq etc. meaning you have to do all that to each individual sample pre merging or do you have a way to edit them as you do it to make them gel together. I don't quite get this feature, I don't do much with samples but I can see how it could be a pretty powerful feature, you could have 16 mini edits right there, great for DJing
I'm pretty certain that it prints to audio, so yes, whatever the mix of the pads is, that's what's printed into the sample.
@@LiamKillen Thanks man.
Og op1 and Sp404 Mk2 is a music power house for minimalist.
hell yeah it is.
Adding the Koala sampler integration was big
Clutch move
Importing my SX projects as I watch this.
😏
Are you still own the Roland 404? Or have you sell it now?
I’ll never sell it! Unless they come out with a mk3 or something
@@LiamKillen Anyway, have you finally bought a TASCAM Model 12, like I’ve been telling you for years now? Do you think I’ve forgotten?
Have they made any improvements to receiving Midi clock?
It’s pretty good in that department!
Now, I need to check the new update 👍🏽🙂
Hell yeah ya do!
10 views in 49 seconds? .... That's actually pretty wild
😂
It’s damn near perfect
😢
do you need to do a factory reset once you have updated the firmware to 4.04?
I believe not
Your colour schemes are the bees knees😊
Thx! 😊
My virus scanner detects the app as malware. Anyone found a way around that? I'm guessing it's something to do with roland cloud DRM
Wish I could help
Nice video. Can I update to the 4.01 if I haven’t the 3.0 yet. ?
Yes you can! 😊
I can imagine how annoyed the engineering team was that marketing was asking to release this specifically as version 4.0.4. Like they probably had to do way more than 4 patches and it messed up their software versioning
lol!
Same ol complaint about 404 vs mpc one is still , the screen!!! No comparison! That alone is a big deciding factor, imho.
Yeah if you like / dislike a screen it's pretty much a determining factor !
@@LiamKillen Exactly. I have horrible eyesight. My computer setup is three 31" monitors. LOL. So, these 2" screens, they are a major turn off! I LOVE the MPC line. They nailed it with the large touch screens. It's 2024! The screen costs next to nothing. I just don't get the love of these tiny calculator screens.
@@Curious_Skeptic you don't get it. some of us like NOT depending on a screen, and using 90% ears instead of 90% eyes. the SP series is a completely different workflow... just use a DAW lol what are you even complaining about
@@gazjaz2010 Lol. I don't need to 'get it'. That why I own Mpc 61, and now a Force. They fit my needs best.
@@Curious_Skeptic thanks for proving my point ... lol carry on
Wow, I bought the SP-404 mk2 just a few days ago and I wished it could work as a looper, but didn't expect that to ever happen so huge thanks to Roland! I did expect a tuner and side-chain compression though, so still waiting for those. Especially side-chain compression because there is no way to do it other than exporting individual tracks and processing them outside the SP-404 that I know of. A tuner on the other hand can be easily connected via line out and there are other workarounds too (like playing a reference tone on another pad while adjusting sample's pitch) so it's not that important to have a built-in one but would be very nice.
Perfect timing!!
Hi Liam, on latest update 4.04 is there quantization clip launch style like in mpc one / ableton ( ie: 1 bar clip quantization ) ?
I don't believe there is. It's a feature I'd like to see though for sure.
I’m not 100% sure!
All I want to know is if the new update 4.04 allows the iPhone to record directly now rather than have the adapters to pick up the sound .
I'm really not sure on that specifically but i'm sure someone in my Discord would know: discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP
The only thing that's really unsatisfying about the SP404Mk2 is that there's no grid for BPM, for example when i set a specific BPM and have my sample set to that, i can't just cut it where it would be 4/4 instead i have to guess or try to make it as accurate as possble, but even then if it's just 10ms of it'll be noticable in a 2min project.
I just don't get why they didn't update that one? it can't be that hard to implement that feature, it's just some lines 🥲
Yeah I guess that no unit is perfect ! Thx for watching :-)
6:41 Where do you get those Roland Orange knobs?
They come with the Roland sp 404 carrying case
@@LiamKillen Ah, okay. Darn, I already bought the Analog Cases SP case.
I'm a noodler, I don't make music full time, I just like to noodle. I've played with the OG op-1, I have a roland t-8 and s-1 and some other random stuff. I really want a all in one device/groovebox that I can make music on and just have fun and take everywhere. I've been looking at all of them and I was going to reach out to you because I love your channel and ask that very question. Looking at what this machine does now. It seems to be the clear winner. Koala integration, sample drop in, tone generator??!?! I'll have to watch your other videos on how to use the darn thing. How is the learning curve?
The basics are easy but if you want to learn everything about the 404 mk2 there’s a pretty big learning curve
@@LiamKillen Given this new info, is the 404 your box of choice, given the alternatives?
The Octatrack and the 404 both share one thing in common: extremely unintuitive key combos to access the features. I have to have the manual open to do anything on either of them!
There’s def a reflex / learning curve to develop