Great video. You had me going back and playing with the sound generator again. One thing i'm not sure you've realised is that with the 'merge sample' part of the update, you can combine those waveforms in varying volumes and semitones, creating a multi osc sound, and also you can modulate the first sound with the wave of the second!!
How cool is that! I knew about the merge sample but am still digging into all the ways to utilize it, what you mentioned is so sick though. I’m planning to do a video series on each bit of the update and merge sample techniques will be in one of them :)
@@sunwarper I know, I was really impressed with that. It makes me think that maybe they are going to expand further on sound generation. Great news, I'll look forward to the series. I enjoy your vids m8 :)
I really hope they add a filter in sound gen, would be nice to keep that bus open to other fx. Poly and multi oscillator would be something else haha but the fact it's as detailed as it is is awesome
Yeah, I'm pretty new to this stuff. I did have an Electribe 2 years ago and that was quite fun to generate sounds on as I think it was more of a synth workstation but I didn't stick with it. Now I'm pretty much starting from scratch with the 404 mk2 as I decided working from samples probably suits me better as it gives me that option to start with something to inspire me into something as my knowledge is limited but to have this added has given me that option again. I just need to learn my way around the 404 properly so thanks for the videos. The updates are coming faster than my learning unfortunately 😂
I'm actually so hyped for this tone generator and being able to bounce stems from patterns. This gives me something useful for writing synth ideas and I didn't even have to buy anything new haha. One of the first things I did was get multiple waveforms then merge them to one sample to get "multiple oscillators." I was hyped.
It’s so sick and yeah the multi oscillator is another game changer! Definitely covering it in a later episode of this update series :) It’s nice to have such a powerful internal sound generator within the SP now
That's the best part about this update, there seems to be something for everyone. I've been using the sound gen with the live looper for some quick jams and it's been awesome not needing any external gear or pattern sequencing.
Thanks so much for this! I’ve been considering getting this, but kept holding off because of the seeming lack of sound design options. You’ve made the SP404 worth it for me. Keep up the great work - subbed!
Cheers! I find the SP's effects are amazing for sound design, but previously I'd have to sample in a sound to then treat. With this update, now it can all be done internally as well! If you decide on an SP, I have an affiliate link in the description if you want to help the channel as well :)
its weird that the envelopes dont work. Envelopes are the most essential and basic sound design tools, effects and resampling usually come as step 2 or 3...btw trying it out, changing env doesnt lead to any change in resampled length of a new sample
it's very weird! The fortunate thing is every sample pad has an envelope so once you resample sound gen, you can add an envelope... but it's a clunky process. Regarding length, the envelopes in sound generator literally do nothing atm, but you can change the length of the resample with another setting (the one that shows seconds). It doesn't change how it sounds when demoing in sound gen, but when you export the length will be whatever you set it to. I've been travelling so am away from my SP but I think it's on the 2nd menu of SG when you hold shift.
Great video! I have one question - how were you able to isolate the individual stamps from the looper? For instance, you extracted a melodic pattern in one part, and in another, the drums.
Cheers! I didn’t extract the loop fully. I muted (undid) the synth recording and then exported the drums from the live loop. I sequenced that in the pattern sequencer and then remade the synth part in the sequencer.
Oh no, sorry to hear that! Did you try system and or factory resets? I had some weird bugs that the system reset fixed, but I heard about the resample bug... that definitely needs a fix fast
@@sunwarper Yes I followed the FW update to a T, and have tried both resets. No luck, probably got a crash after about 50% percent of resampling, most particularly with long samples and effects added. Those are both key to my style of music. So I had to downgrade until roland patches it, which I am sure they will. Loving my first week with the device though. It's fairly intuitive in general operation although at times it's odd - like having to hit the REMAIN button for some things that don't make sense that way. But the effects are top tier, it's a beast for the ambient style of music, what with the chromatic mode in POLY, 16 minute long pads, and beautiful effects.
It's almost 2-3 updates all in one there's so much going on! I'll be posting a few videos to create a series, with each dedicated to specific parts of the update, hope it helps :)
Nice! The Sound Generator definitely isnt as flexible as a modular setup, but the SP's fx, sampling and other features are a sound design dream! I've got more SP sound design videos in my SP404 playlist here on the channel if you're looking for more examples of what it can do :)
@@sunwarper nope. i trust that roland uses the same clock algorythm lol but maybe ill experiment with that soon. well i have hooked both up to fl studio but i like avoiding the pc when possible.
Thanks for the video! Not wanting to sound negative, but I am actually not that hyped about the synth feature. Even without it was always easily possible to zoom into any kind of sample almost down to a single cycle, chop, and take it from there. Maybe not SCW, but surely dual cycle waveform. Try it, its fun!
Same here. I'm still trying to understand what's so great about this feature, because it doesn't look like it allows me to do anything I couldn't do before. I guess it's just easier to use? Maybe I should take the risk and update the firmware at last to see for myself... That being said, the update looks great overall and I'm very glad Roland put all the effort into that, I just wonder if they could maybe spend the energy on something that was really missing instead of another way to generate sounds. Still, better to have too many than too few, I guess ;)
@@tuesss Yes, I'm not dumping on the update at all, it is great. It is just the synth I am not very excited about. All in all still a great box, well worth the price! Do the update, it is not really a risk, isn't it?
Cheers! It’s not negative, we all have different things that get us hyped. The reason I find this so great is just the fact that it allows the SP to be fully standalone. If I don’t have any new sounds or sounds I like atm in the SP, I can quickly use the sound generator to make chords, bass, drums etc. that’s what gets me stoked about it. Combine that with the live looper and it’s a great idea station in and of itself now. I’ve always sampled sounds into the sp from my synths, but this just means I don’t have to if I’m not near them or just lazy haha
@tuesss It’s worth checking out for everything else this update adds. If you backup the sd card, there shouldn’t be any risk and you’ll have some crazy new features like the live looper, koala integration and the sound gen!
@@sunwarper It was already possible to do the same thing without sampling any synths though, either by extracting single-cycle (well, several-cycle in practice) waveforms from factory samples or even *without any samples at all* by utilising internal FX to generate noise and resonances. The latter is a great way to get very interesting sounds and I'm actually glad I bought the SP before this update because that forced me to explore the possibilities in depth and made me realise things about sound I hadn't realised before :) So sometimes limitations are useful :)
I get infrequent pops and crackles over USB Audio into Ableton Live. Just bought the unit second hand with 4.04 firmware. Tried many high quality USB-C cables to my M1 Mac and no other problems with other hardware. Almost seems like the SP-404mk2 is unable to feed the USB Audio under load. Wouldn't think that would be a problem with the SD card since it uses the internal memory for everything (and formatting SD was the first thing I did when I bought the device). I'm hoping this is a bug introduced in the 4.04 firmware since that gives the possibility of it being fixed. USB for audio, MIDI, and app connectivity is so useful rather than going through an audio interface. Another problem I have is the SP-404mkII VST crashing when being removed from a track (Ableton Live, even Audacity).
Interesting and sorry to hear you're dealing with that. So it's not just with the live looper but at any time? Have you checked the output of the c cables you're using? I know for the SP to work properly it needs to be 1500mA I believe. I have a full video detailing the USB-C for SP, maybe it'll help. ruclips.net/video/niJHoiPnZbQ/видео.html If that didn't help, have you tried system and/or factory reset? I have trouble with the VST as well, typically just use it in standalone when I need it.
@@sunwarper Yes, Roland Support has indicated there's a known issue with the VST/AU plugins. I'll continue to try some other cables (these ones can all deliver >60W), or perhaps use them in conjunction with the DC power and try some higher buffer settings. I haven't had a chance to try out the Looper functionality yet - it happens with regular sample playback - randomly perhaps every couple of minutes or so for a few seconds. I should probably route the audio outputs into an audio interface at the same time just to check it is a problem with USB Audio. Thanks for your reply.
The 4.04 update added a ton of awesome features, let's take an in depth look at it's new synth functions 🔷Want Synth and Drum Recipes for the New Sound Generator? Check Out My SP404 MK2 Cheat Sheet: www.sunwarper.com/product-page/sp404-mk2-beatmaking-live-sets-cheat-sheet
@sunwarper can the SP-404MKII sample its line outs back into it own line ins. I ask for sound design purposes like utilizing the few input fx that cant be used otherwise. Dont want to brick my unit without asking someone.
I've not tried it because the record/resample workflow works just as well for me in most cases when I want more fx on a guitar than the input amp sim and 4 bus fx. It's especially doable now that the SP has set length recording/resampling as well. I would think line out to line in might work but probably with a nasty feedback loop. I had that issue when trying to record the daw into the sp back into the daw using usb-c, though I found the workaround was to mute the armed audio track and listen through the SP headphones.
Great video. You had me going back and playing with the sound generator again. One thing i'm not sure you've realised is that with the 'merge sample' part of the update, you can combine those waveforms in varying volumes and semitones, creating a multi osc sound, and also you can modulate the first sound with the wave of the second!!
How cool is that! I knew about the merge sample but am still digging into all the ways to utilize it, what you mentioned is so sick though. I’m planning to do a video series on each bit of the update and merge sample techniques will be in one of them :)
@@sunwarper I know, I was really impressed with that. It makes me think that maybe they are going to expand further on sound generation. Great news, I'll look forward to the series. I enjoy your vids m8 :)
I really hope they add a filter in sound gen, would be nice to keep that bus open to other fx. Poly and multi oscillator would be something else haha but the fact it's as detailed as it is is awesome
Finally, someone besides myself that thinks the Sound Generator is more useful then for a bass note.
It’s so sick! Nice to have a dedicated synth engine and the noise oscillators work great for drums/transitions.
I use it for lead.
LITERALLY!!!!
Yeah, I'm pretty new to this stuff. I did have an Electribe 2 years ago and that was quite fun to generate sounds on as I think it was more of a synth workstation but I didn't stick with it. Now I'm pretty much starting from scratch with the 404 mk2 as I decided working from samples probably suits me better as it gives me that option to start with something to inspire me into something as my knowledge is limited but to have this added has given me that option again. I just need to learn my way around the 404 properly so thanks for the videos. The updates are coming faster than my learning unfortunately 😂
I'm actually so hyped for this tone generator and being able to bounce stems from patterns. This gives me something useful for writing synth ideas and I didn't even have to buy anything new haha.
One of the first things I did was get multiple waveforms then merge them to one sample to get "multiple oscillators." I was hyped.
It’s so sick and yeah the multi oscillator is another game changer! Definitely covering it in a later episode of this update series :)
It’s nice to have such a powerful internal sound generator within the SP now
Your videos are very helpful! Thanks!
Cheers! 😄
Clunky ass workflow but I love the SP, it really does breed creativity… which is probably because of that weird ass workflow.
Totally
haha definitely!
Wow thanks for sharing your ideas. Using the mk2 as a truly creative instrument. Wonderful
Cheers! It's an amazing machine for sure :)
Its the one thing Ive really been using since the update, havent used many other features yet.
That's the best part about this update, there seems to be something for everyone. I've been using the sound gen with the live looper for some quick jams and it's been awesome not needing any external gear or pattern sequencing.
Thanks so much for this! I’ve been considering getting this, but kept holding off because of the seeming lack of sound design options. You’ve made the SP404 worth it for me. Keep up the great work - subbed!
Cheers! I find the SP's effects are amazing for sound design, but previously I'd have to sample in a sound to then treat. With this update, now it can all be done internally as well!
If you decide on an SP, I have an affiliate link in the description if you want to help the channel as well :)
its weird that the envelopes dont work. Envelopes are the most essential and basic sound design tools, effects and resampling usually come as step 2 or 3...btw trying it out, changing env doesnt lead to any change in resampled length of a new sample
it's very weird! The fortunate thing is every sample pad has an envelope so once you resample sound gen, you can add an envelope... but it's a clunky process. Regarding length, the envelopes in sound generator literally do nothing atm, but you can change the length of the resample with another setting (the one that shows seconds). It doesn't change how it sounds when demoing in sound gen, but when you export the length will be whatever you set it to. I've been travelling so am away from my SP but I think it's on the 2nd menu of SG when you hold shift.
Great video bro and since you have so many 404 video ill sub to see some more of these awesome tunes on the 404 in the future!
Cheers my friend! I've got a playlist dedicated to SP404 here on RUclips, it's definitely my favorite piece of gear :)
Great video! I have one question - how were you able to isolate the individual stamps from the looper? For instance, you extracted a melodic pattern in one part, and in another, the drums.
Cheers! I didn’t extract the loop fully. I muted (undid) the synth recording and then exported the drums from the live loop. I sequenced that in the pattern sequencer and then remade the synth part in the sequencer.
Awesome!
Cheers!
Impressive, very good video. Yes, if you have a good knowledge of how to shape sounds, you can do a lot.
Cheers! There's a lot to unpack with it, but it's a nice addition to the 404 and cuts out some sampling if you need a synth on a jam
@@sunwarper personally i had to downgrade a version, as 404 constantly crashed on resample for me... Waiting for that bugfix from roland.
Oh no, sorry to hear that! Did you try system and or factory resets? I had some weird bugs that the system reset fixed, but I heard about the resample bug... that definitely needs a fix fast
@@sunwarper Yes I followed the FW update to a T, and have tried both resets. No luck, probably got a crash after about 50% percent of resampling, most particularly with long samples and effects added.
Those are both key to my style of music. So I had to downgrade until roland patches it, which I am sure they will.
Loving my first week with the device though. It's fairly intuitive in general operation although at times it's odd - like having to hit the REMAIN button for some things that don't make sense that way. But the effects are top tier, it's a beast for the ambient style of music, what with the chromatic mode in POLY, 16 minute long pads, and beautiful effects.
also didnt notice any envelope changes, wonder if they just failed to implement it properly or if my ears are bad
Yeah, seems maybe like a bug or implementation issue, we'll have to see if anything gets patched up
Thanks so much.... I'm still processing what the update means
It's almost 2-3 updates all in one there's so much going on! I'll be posting a few videos to create a series, with each dedicated to specific parts of the update, hope it helps :)
How do you get into sound generator mode ?
shift + record setting
I sold my modular and am trying to get one for sound design. 🤔
Nice! The Sound Generator definitely isnt as flexible as a modular setup, but the SP's fx, sampling and other features are a sound design dream! I've got more SP sound design videos in my SP404 playlist here on the channel if you're looking for more examples of what it can do :)
ive been too busy recording loops with my sh-4d
Nice! Do you sync them with MIDI?
@@sunwarper nope. i trust that roland uses the same clock algorythm lol but maybe ill experiment with that soon. well i have hooked both up to fl studio but i like avoiding the pc when possible.
Wait…LFO. What LFO
On the super filter by holding the enter button. It only works on the filter cutoff, but definitely adds some magic to the sound gen
Wobbles
Thanks for the video! Not wanting to sound negative, but I am actually not that hyped about the synth feature.
Even without it was always easily possible to zoom into any kind of sample almost down to a single cycle, chop, and take it from there. Maybe not SCW, but surely dual cycle waveform. Try it, its fun!
Same here. I'm still trying to understand what's so great about this feature, because it doesn't look like it allows me to do anything I couldn't do before. I guess it's just easier to use? Maybe I should take the risk and update the firmware at last to see for myself...
That being said, the update looks great overall and I'm very glad Roland put all the effort into that, I just wonder if they could maybe spend the energy on something that was really missing instead of another way to generate sounds. Still, better to have too many than too few, I guess ;)
@@tuesss Yes, I'm not dumping on the update at all, it is great. It is just the synth I am not very excited about. All in all still a great box, well worth the price!
Do the update, it is not really a risk, isn't it?
Cheers! It’s not negative, we all have different things that get us hyped. The reason I find this so great is just the fact that it allows the SP to be fully standalone. If I don’t have any new sounds or sounds I like atm in the SP, I can quickly use the sound generator to make chords, bass, drums etc. that’s what gets me stoked about it. Combine that with the live looper and it’s a great idea station in and of itself now. I’ve always sampled sounds into the sp from my synths, but this just means I don’t have to if I’m not near them or just lazy haha
@tuesss It’s worth checking out for everything else this update adds. If you backup the sd card, there shouldn’t be any risk and you’ll have some crazy new features like the live looper, koala integration and the sound gen!
@@sunwarper It was already possible to do the same thing without sampling any synths though, either by extracting single-cycle (well, several-cycle in practice) waveforms from factory samples or even *without any samples at all* by utilising internal FX to generate noise and resonances. The latter is a great way to get very interesting sounds and I'm actually glad I bought the SP before this update because that forced me to explore the possibilities in depth and made me realise things about sound I hadn't realised before :) So sometimes limitations are useful :)
I get infrequent pops and crackles over USB Audio into Ableton Live. Just bought the unit second hand with 4.04 firmware. Tried many high quality USB-C cables to my M1 Mac and no other problems with other hardware. Almost seems like the SP-404mk2 is unable to feed the USB Audio under load. Wouldn't think that would be a problem with the SD card since it uses the internal memory for everything (and formatting SD was the first thing I did when I bought the device). I'm hoping this is a bug introduced in the 4.04 firmware since that gives the possibility of it being fixed. USB for audio, MIDI, and app connectivity is so useful rather than going through an audio interface. Another problem I have is the SP-404mkII VST crashing when being removed from a track (Ableton Live, even Audacity).
Interesting and sorry to hear you're dealing with that. So it's not just with the live looper but at any time? Have you checked the output of the c cables you're using? I know for the SP to work properly it needs to be 1500mA I believe. I have a full video detailing the USB-C for SP, maybe it'll help.
ruclips.net/video/niJHoiPnZbQ/видео.html
If that didn't help, have you tried system and/or factory reset?
I have trouble with the VST as well, typically just use it in standalone when I need it.
@@sunwarper Yes, Roland Support has indicated there's a known issue with the VST/AU plugins. I'll continue to try some other cables (these ones can all deliver >60W), or perhaps use them in conjunction with the DC power and try some higher buffer settings. I haven't had a chance to try out the Looper functionality yet - it happens with regular sample playback - randomly perhaps every couple of minutes or so for a few seconds. I should probably route the audio outputs into an audio interface at the same time just to check it is a problem with USB Audio. Thanks for your reply.
The 4.04 update added a ton of awesome features, let's take an in depth look at it's new synth functions
🔷Want Synth and Drum Recipes for the New Sound Generator? Check Out My SP404 MK2 Cheat Sheet:
www.sunwarper.com/product-page/sp404-mk2-beatmaking-live-sets-cheat-sheet
@sunwarper can the SP-404MKII sample its line outs back into it own line ins. I ask for sound design purposes like utilizing the few input fx that cant be used otherwise. Dont want to brick my unit without asking someone.
I've not tried it because the record/resample workflow works just as well for me in most cases when I want more fx on a guitar than the input amp sim and 4 bus fx. It's especially doable now that the SP has set length recording/resampling as well.
I would think line out to line in might work but probably with a nasty feedback loop. I had that issue when trying to record the daw into the sp back into the daw using usb-c, though I found the workaround was to mute the armed audio track and listen through the SP headphones.
Wow this just destroyed the DJS-1000 by pioneer !!🤷🏾♂️
I'm not familiar with that one, gonna have to take a look
@@sunwarper it’s dope but the stopped updating it 🤷🏾♂️
At first u must to show how to switch to this mode
Shift + record setting 0:08