Genuinely appreciate that you made this video! As a perfectionism, I used to struggle with completing my works. Thanks to this video now I"m able to finish my beat with perfect work flow. Looking forwards to your other videos.
@@realrock336577 yo this means a lot to me! I’m glad I can help SP creatives in any way possible. I hope to keep bringing value to everyone on my little channel and community. If there are any specific things you want to learn on the SP let me know! Thanks for being here 🙌🏾
@@ZEALEword that’s a dope method, you could also just hit the resample when in sample edit mode. It will automatically move the start point to a point before or after the pop. It works for start and end points. Crosspoint mode
I really appreciate that! I know everyone has their own take on the SP, but I wanted to share my thoughts in the hopes to bring value to the community. Thanks for being here!
@@harshmell0w432 you just put a smile on my face! I’m so glad to hear you found this helpful. This is exactly what I was hoping to with this video and future vids ahead. Thank you for sharing this and for being here! 🙌🏾
This was very helpful as i wasnt really sure how to use the new updates features. Ive always stuggled to find good bass samples so its amazing that they included the feature to create my own. Thanks so much!
Glad you found some value in this vid! The new updates are rad and finding cool ways to use them in your workflow is key. I’m working on a few different additional ways to use them. I’ll be sharing soon! Thanks for being here 🙌🏾
Yo thank you! It was def a large order putting this together, but I'm glad I could contribute something to our small corner of RUclips. Thanks for the positive vibes on this ⚡
@@CrittendenIV congrats on the new SP and welcome to the fam! Make sure to get the latest update on your SP…you’ll have to download it from Roland’s site. It’s amazing! Thanks for being here 🙌🏾
I’m super new to the sp. ao this is exactly what I was looking for. I just have to learn all these copying and pasting sounds and patterns or samples. I’ll be watching this a few more times. Thank you.
Dope! Welcome to the SP community and congrats on getting one. My best advice is to just take your time to learning the device, it has a learning curve, but the more you time you put in the more rewarding it gets. Hit me if you have any questions! 🙌🏾
@@ZEALE considering the move to the SP from Circuit Tracks and Rhythm. I feel like with these new updates it has everything I need. External synth sounds can just come from Logic and Polymax now.
@@ZEALE I like how intuitive the workflow is, and you get 2 synth engines, 2 midi tracks, and 4 drum tracks + sidechain, delay, and reverb, but it’s feeling a little limited for me now compared to the SP, especially because I don’t have my S1 anymore so I’m not even using the midi tracks
@@sneaky_general that sidechain feature is dope tho! I do wish there was a sidechain function on the SP. There is a Tremolo EFX I’ve kind of used as a sidechain at times. Thanks for sharing this! 🔥
I considered buying the 404 for on the go stuff but the learning process that I’ll have to go through makes it not for me. I find it easier to use logic on my ipad to build ideas then move them over to studio one to finish them. I have a lot of respect for you and the guys who learned to use the 404. Yall look so much cooler making music on the 404 than me on a freaking ipad lol
That’s amazing! 404 or not, you have a system that works for you and gets your art into the world. Very dope. I’ve been wanting to get a new iPad strong enough to run a DAW. That would be so dope to have some of those tools anywhere I am. Thanks for contributing your thoughts on this! 👏🏾
Some good tips and very nice instructional video format 👌🏻 Except for how the looper is demonstrated as part of a ‘regular’ workflow, which makes it overly complicated and emphasizes the menu diving and the SP’s shortcut walhalla. I’m sorry, but using the looper for this totally doesn’t make sense to me. Yes, it’s one of the possibilities, but a ‘live looper’ isn’t the right tool for sequencing samples. For that there’s a… uh… (step) sequencer 🤷♂️ which is a really straightforward and basic part of the #SP404mk2. So I’m glad you’ve demonstrated that one, too. The looper is a nice addition, but #Roland overly complicated the implementation of it. As said before, it could have been made part of the regular sampling procedure… just an option ‘play loop after sampling’. Same goes for ‘allow overdubbing’ and/or an option to sample onto another pad while playing.
That’s a great point. My goal with this workflow was to try and implement as many of the new update features as possible to showcase them. The looper is not always the practical choice, but I do find value in it. I personally use about 4-6 different workflow methods depending on what the sample source is and if I’m combining with a DAW, a synth, or a drum machine. I’d love to hear your personal workflow or favorite practices. I’m learning new techniques from others every day. Thanks for your thoughts and input here. Really appreciate it. 🙌🏾
@@ZEALEyes, it’s a great video. Really love the quality including visual cues 👌🏻 The workflow is also really straightforward, especially when you (or the viewer) skip the looper part 😉 as its implementation seems to be designed by a totally different department and requires the infamous shortcuts. Personally I Iike to stick with the functions that where (basicaly) in place when the device was released, so with the intended workflow in mind: 1. sample (fixed measures is a nice addition, same goes for great skip back feature!) > 2. edit and/or chop samples > 3. sequence individual patterns (live or steps, also using the power of 1-shot samples!) > 4. Copy / duplicate / modify patterns > 5. add FX > 6. resample / bounce to combined samples > 6. export STEMS to SD (great addition was automating this process). Almost all of this can be perfectly done without the overkill of shortcuts or menu diving, and you’ve nicely covered it all 👍🏻 I think #Roland complicated things even further by adding the demonstrated features outside of this lean and mean standard workflow, again introducing another set of shortcuts / key combinations. The new sound generator is a nice to have, but I don’t use it as I have other sources for that. The DJ Mode… well never mind. And the looper I find quite useless, simply due to the way it’s implemented. That said, I love the #SP404mk2 for its core feature set. It’s awesome and a great quality instrument, which I love to use… especially as a sketch pad on the go or for playing (1-shot) loops in a DAW-less setup! Otherwise exporting STEMS is welcome feature for importing sampled loops into a DAW.
This is a great video! I would say it’s great for intermediate users as there is definitely a beginner and advanced way of using it!!but once you get to know the machine, you’ll find its amazing with what it can do
Thanks youtubers!!! The absolutely best thing about the SP 404 MK2 is it has a ton of tutorials on RUclips!!! Feel my pain, I'm old school and have spent at least $5,000 on music equipment in my life BUT didn't have the time or desire or videos to learn most of my equipment. The 2nd best thing is the MK2 can do almost everything you want it to do... If you have a sampler that can't time stretch, YOU don't have a complete sampler!! They hooked up with Koala sampler and have stems now... Thanks ZEALE!! Tight tutorial!!! My favorite samplers of all time were MPC 1000 and Korg ESX-1. Actually, the MK2 can do way more than both of them. The MK2 is a all in one sampling workstation. I'm speaking to Roland now, the MPC 1000 16 levels is superior to the chromatic mode on MK2 to make original beats. Please fix that!!! All you need is samples or a cheap keyboard. I have the Korg Kross 2 and between those 2, I can make anything!!!! I'm still not there but learning more and more. I love music, that's why I'm in the game!!!!
I just traded an older maschine studio for an sp. I have had it for about a day. I am in the process of learning this hardware. I have an X and live 2, but i am definitely falling in love with this thing!
@@errliest welcome to the SP fam. It’s a lot of fun and hella versatile device. There’s a lot to learn, but it’s dope because you can craft your own workflow and vibe. Hit me if you have any questions 🙌🏾
Soooo glad I came upon this channel. Had my SP MK2 when it first came out and just played with the factory stuff. I am now blowing off the dust and I thank you for that. This is the best video by far that I have seen for beginners of this great music tool. You have earned my sub bro. Got you on alert and I can't wait for the next one. Thanks so much for sharing the knowledge.
Yo thank you! This is exactly what I was hoping to do, inspire people to pick up their SP’s and make something new for the world. I appreciate the sub and your time. More coming soon 🙌🏾
Great Review. I am serious. This is how i do it... I take my Zoom Q2-HD-Recorder with an 32GB-SD-Card. I take a walk through my appartment with a Drumstick...and sample everything i can see...short or long - how i like -. Then i flush my Toilette and sample it for an insane Dubstep-Beat. After about one Hour i go for a walk again...its a SUNNY DAY...with my Zoom Q2-HD(24bit, 96Khz highest Resolution). I walk around anywhere in my troubled but beautiful Hometown Berlin in Germany - just for ONE HOUR...so 2 Hours of my Life....while the REST OF THE Beatmaking WORLD is watching Sampling Tutorials. Back Home i put my SD-Card in my Windows-Tower-PC and transfer the 2 Files on my Desktop. Then i open up Cubase and import 2 Hours of sampling. That means (if i had 2 hours of One-Shot-Samples) about 30 Samples per Minute (actually MORE, but lets say at least 30), so thats 1.800 One-Shots per Hour...but i sampled TWO hours (at home and outside), so i got about 3.600 One-Shots in 2 hours - original Samples, MY OWN SAMPLES - for FREE.🤔🤫 I can turn them into ANY Instrument or Drumsound i want...just with a Basic Cubase Element-Version... So i ZOOM IN to my first 1 Hour of 1.800 Samples and take some time to chop them up the way i want or i let Cubase do it - with a few Clicks with my Computer Mouse. Then i take the Time to process every Sample how i like it - dry, wet, dirty, crunchy, drumsound, pianosound - whatever...In about 2 Days i am finished....with 3.600 Original Samples. Now i create a couple of Folders on my Desktop and name them how I like them to be named. I exported all the Samples in one Folder and then i put them into the specific Folder i`d like them to be - Organize you know...😘 While the Rest of the BEATMAKING WORLD is watching this great Tutorial - and HUNDREDS of other Tutorials on Groove-Boxes, Drumcomputers...any Gear. I have a well deserved SHUT-EYE (Jim Carey said that) and wake up to FOOL & PLAY around and ASIGN my Samples to the Drumpads of my Groove-Agent SE 5. I will NOT count the Number of ORIGNAL DRUMKITS i have made just by 2 hours of walking around and 2 Days of choping, processing, exporting and organizing my OWN SAMPLE LIBRARY. Have a great Day you all. I am a 52yo very hard working StreetMusician and Producer in Berlin, Germany - and thats how I do it. Maybe you`d like to try it too and spent LESS TIME on RUclips and more time with FRIENDS or FAMILY - or your DAW of Choice. 😊
Great video bro. I have made some really good loops but have had a hard time bouncing anything out because I didn’t have the workflow down. I might be able to not use my MPC2500 for the sequencing. I like the portability of the SP and I think they are both awesome.
Agreed man! I really love building loops on the SP. It's much easier now and allows a hands on approach vs the standard DAW workflow. I know it may take longer, but I love the pacing and intention. We have enough distractions, it's rad to be able to escape into the SP!
Supercard stickers. I got them as a gift at 404 day in San Francisco with Dibia$e. I want to stick them on something but also they’re so dope that I just kind of want to keep them as is. I’ve found some dope 404 art on Etsy last night.
I appreciate that, and I can completely understand the getting lost part. It’s a process but with time it becomes second nature. Not to say it’s easy, cuz it’s not. Lol, but it does becomes familiar territory quickly.
Great, but a little bit complicate. I think the SP-404 MKII has a strong learning curve but if you got it, its a fantastic device in paralell to the Octatrack MK2
It has its challenges like any device. But it’s one anyone can learn if they put the time in. I haven’t used the Octatrack yet, looks awesome though. What are you using it for primarily?
Thanks for this video - super helpful! I have the same setup as you with iphone -> usb-c -> 1/4" -> line in but the levels on the line in are low compared to other samples. Any hints on how to get them closer? Thanks!
@@mdjames09 thank you! You could try adding the compressor to your input FX. That will lift the level for sure. Otherwise you can consider normalizing the sample once it’s in the SP. Hope that helps!
You're welcome and I'm glad you found some value in it. I use an app on my Mac called Mixed In Key. It works great, i believe there are different versions. 🔥
My workflow is the Mpc one as the base and . 404 as a ‘salad dressing ‘ on the beat per say. This works like a charm. Good stuff tho! Just learned something new for the 404🦾🦾
Just add any other SP serious to the mk2 and it solves a lot of problems, as far as menu diving and workflow goes Just sample back and forth with each other ( while adding effects)
Why would you use the looper if you're only working with internal samples? You can make the same loop on the pattern sequencer, giving you the ability to go back and edit. I have yet to see a RUclipsr demo the looper in a way that makes any sense at all.
My goal was to show the new update features in the workflow so people new to the SP can see features that may appeal to their style, which includes the looper. I typically use the looper for external gear I want to create melodic layers with or for a live looping performance.
@@ZEALE you should demo that. I found it to be a buggy and frustrating experience, and I would love to see it used in an actual workflow. I only bring it up because you mention specifically the importance of workflow, and the looper is not a good workflow if you're only working with samples. It's quite confusing to newbies
@@hankpiece absolutely, it's on my list. Everything I showed in this video was an overview workflow and I wanted to edit down for time. I'm going to publish deeper dives into my most used features that go more in depth and illustrate how I would and do use them. Thank you for the commentary and engaging. Really appreciate it! 🙌🏾
So how do you master this? So you can't export the stems into your daw? Seems like you would have to record each pattern into each track one at a time, or is there a way to just bring the entire arrangement into multiple tracks in ableton?
@@aaronshailrepair2820 great question! You can stem our patterns currently. So you can def get individual tracks into your DAW, but only one pattern at a time. Hopefully we get an update to that. Thanks for being here! 🙌🏾
😂 bruh, you not wrong. I’m so far from a piano player. I do want to get lessons at some point, but for now these nightmare riffs gotta happen. Appreciate you being here, hope you dig the content 🙌🏾
@@MiguelHuertadelaVega bruh it’s all good. None taken, I really do want to learn some basic piano and music theory. It’s one of my weakness that I know would increase my quality ten fold. Your honesty is appreciated 🙌🏾
@ZEALE I haven't had any problems at all but one person did tell me they had trouble. Just to clarify I mean a full stem export for a pattern chain. I was able to get the drums for a full track of mine stemmed as a single stereo audio file by this method I'm talking about. I cant link the site I wrote it on but if you google "SP-404MKII Pattern Chain Stems" you might find the post 😎
You can but you need a different adapter for Ipad or Iphone. But if your USBC is going straight to your computer it def works as you described. Maybe the newer Ipads work like this, mine is a bit older.
Yeah that MFX and a few other are a bit aggressive. I would adjust setting before triggering it live. There are some other MFX that can get you a similar effect and you can program them to take the place of your default button MFX.
@@Bilpokat I hear that. I love the resampling. In terms of sequencing it’s been dope for me because it challenges me to be more thoughtful on pattern builds. It’s def not the fastest tool to do so, but I like taking that time and getting submerge in the process. But trust, I use Ableton daily too.
@@ZEALE i have SP mk2 and mv1. This combo rocks but i want euclidian sequencer 🥲 hahahha. But its an extra thing. For a while this setup will be great!!
@@talktalk4503 😂 facts. Yeah it’s still a great tool for music creatives. The latest update dropped in April and it really powered up the SP. I have a ton of tips and other long format videos on my channel to help once you grab one. Join the SP fam my guy! I’m sure you’ll enjoy 🙌🏾
@@ZEALE thank you. The latest drop, is that fw 4.04? Can we set the kick sound on pad 13 as a default (start from bottom left instead of pad 1)? I m kinda used to that orientation. It looks like it starts everything from the top or pad 1.
@@ZEALE cool! Also, is there any LFOs to modulate some parameters in samples? Am considering this vs digitakt II and ableton push mk3. Did u compare others before getting the SP? What made u decide on it? Thx
@@talktalk4503 very dope! Currently not a way to modify samples with LFO’s that I can think of. There is a sound generator that allows for some sound design and play, but you’ll def get that on Push and likely Digitakt. I’m not super familiar with either but I know they are more robust in that space. I have an SP as well as an MPC and other drum machines. This is just my favorite to work on.
I felt similar at first, but after a month it’s like second nature. Not much different from MPC One or other hardware in small form factor. For the benefits of a smaller footprint you have to sacrifice some hot keys.
@@ZEALEno offence but MPC is nowhere near as menu divey, everything is one layer deep from the main screen, with the exception of plugins which are annoyingly 2 layers. Recording in an sp404: press record, selecting pads, setting page, then record again, then you mess up and go back to scrap the pattern, then press a delete button then press another button and do it again. Etc. SP is great but it's UX is overcomplicated because Roland didn't bother updating the box when they added a million features, the round screen being case in point meaning a tiny amount info per UI context which is why everything is 20 buttons each with a screen All to pretend it's still just an sp404
@@daniel_dumile yes but the MPC One is also twice the size of an SP. I love both. I do use lots of plugins in my MPC workflow so that I’d wear the menu diving happens for me. I usually apply plug-ins to individual program pads as well as the program as a whole. Gets tricky.
@@larzsmith1214 we knowww, you’re missing the whole point. We all use Ableton, FL,etc. If we go by your logic then violins, guitars, and drums are all dinosaur instruments. The point of an SP isn’t to get from A to Z the fastest and easiest, it’s too enjoy the intentional journey of marking music with your hands. If that’s not for you…we get it. But a DAW isn’t the only way friend. But respectfully, you do you. I’m sure you make dope music and I would love to hear it some time. I salute any artist out here creating. It should be artist against the industry, not us against us. ❤️
Thanks man! I feel in many ways I still am a novice, so that helps. But I also couldn’t find too many YT channels that were easy to follow when I started out on the SP. My goal is to help empower as many dope music creatives as possible, at any level. Thanks for being here! 🙌🏾
Thank you! I think that’s because I still feel like I’m a novice myself, always learning and willing to. But I also couldn’t find too many easy to follow YT channels on the SP when I started out. My goal is to help empower music creatives at any level. Thanks for being here! 🙌🏾
I am just starting with my SP-404, what a lesson! Thanks a lot for the up to date workflow!
@@v5k359 absolutely and congrats on your new SP! Glad to hear this vid is helpful. More coming! 🙌🏾
Hit shift and the value knob to switch between the looper and skip back. Saves some time for you. Great video man.
Thank you man! Really appreciate it 🙌🏾
All this to sample is insane
To sample is hella quick. I’m showing a longer work flow to highlight new update features. To sample you literally hit record and its starts. Seconds
I totally agree
Genuinely appreciate that you made this video! As a perfectionism, I used to struggle with completing my works. Thanks to this video now I"m able to finish my beat with perfect work flow. Looking forwards to your other videos.
@@realrock336577 yo this means a lot to me! I’m glad I can help SP creatives in any way possible. I hope to keep bringing value to everyone on my little channel and community. If there are any specific things you want to learn on the SP let me know! Thanks for being here 🙌🏾
The envelope to get rid of the pop was such a good one. Been using the 404 for years now and still learn something new every day
I use the enveloping every time I make a beat. Helps so much. Thanks for the comment and I'm hyped you found some value. 🙌🏾
@@ZEALEword that’s a dope method, you could also just hit the resample when in sample edit mode. It will automatically move the start point to a point before or after the pop. It works for start and end points. Crosspoint mode
@@ZEALEHype means hyperbole which means extravagant exaggeration. So are you really "hyped" per se? 😉 Or just happy you helped someone?
@@thekeysman6760 I’m using “hype” in the framing of I’m excited or energized by seeing people gain value from anything I make. It’s rewarding for sure
@@BurgBassNJ yup I do that method as well. But I like the accuracy of enveloping 🙌🏾
BEST 404 TUTORIAL EVER!!!! THANKS SO MUCH ❤
I really appreciate that! I know everyone has their own take on the SP, but I wanted to share my thoughts in the hopes to bring value to the community. Thanks for being here!
Literally taking me hours to get through this video as I’m writing practically everything you say down lol most useful sp tutorial I’ve found so far!
@@harshmell0w432 you just put a smile on my face! I’m so glad to hear you found this helpful. This is exactly what I was hoping to with this video and future vids ahead. Thank you for sharing this and for being here! 🙌🏾
This was very helpful as i wasnt really sure how to use the new updates features. Ive always stuggled to find good bass samples so its amazing that they included the feature to create my own. Thanks so much!
Glad you found some value in this vid! The new updates are rad and finding cool ways to use them in your workflow is key. I’m working on a few different additional ways to use them. I’ll be sharing soon! Thanks for being here 🙌🏾
Great video. Awesome workflow. Best complete workflow from start to finish on how to make a complete song. Finally someone did it! 🙏🏽👍🏽✊🏽✌🏽
Yo thank you! It was def a large order putting this together, but I'm glad I could contribute something to our small corner of RUclips. Thanks for the positive vibes on this ⚡
Totally agree. Superb video! Subscribed instantly
@@rodrigolaporte274 I appreciate that, thank you for the sub! Means a lot 🙌🏾
this video is next level AMAZING
Thank you SEIDS! Really appreciate that 🙌🏾
Thank you for all your help! I just received my SP a few days ago. :)
@@CrittendenIV congrats on the new SP and welcome to the fam! Make sure to get the latest update on your SP…you’ll have to download it from Roland’s site. It’s amazing! Thanks for being here 🙌🏾
I’m super new to the sp. ao this is exactly what I was looking for. I just have to learn all these copying and pasting sounds and patterns or samples. I’ll be watching this a few more times. Thank you.
Dope! Welcome to the SP community and congrats on getting one. My best advice is to just take your time to learning the device, it has a learning curve, but the more you time you put in the more rewarding it gets. Hit me if you have any questions! 🙌🏾
@@ZEALE Thank you very much. I'll bet going back to your videos for sure see the gems you been dropping for this device.
thanks for his bro. this device is a lil overwhelming but I'm finding my own unique way to use it and this video was really helpful
@@grahamdern great to hear this! There def a learning curve, but finding your own use case is what it’s all about. Thanks for being here 🙌🏾
Great workflow ideas! Love that they have the sound generator now
Thanks! There’s lots of workflows out there, but this one has always worked for me. Sound generator is one of my fav updates as well. Super useful
@@ZEALE considering the move to the SP from Circuit Tracks and Rhythm. I feel like with these new updates it has everything I need. External synth sounds can just come from Logic and Polymax now.
@@sneaky_general I've never used the Circuit Tracks, how is it?
@@ZEALE I like how intuitive the workflow is, and you get 2 synth engines, 2 midi tracks, and 4 drum tracks + sidechain, delay, and reverb, but it’s feeling a little limited for me now compared to the SP, especially because I don’t have my S1 anymore so I’m not even using the midi tracks
@@sneaky_general that sidechain feature is dope tho! I do wish there was a sidechain function on the SP. There is a Tremolo EFX I’ve kind of used as a sidechain at times. Thanks for sharing this! 🔥
I considered buying the 404 for on the go stuff but the learning process that I’ll have to go through makes it not for me. I find it easier to use logic on my ipad to build ideas then move them over to studio one to finish them. I have a lot of respect for you and the guys who learned to use the 404. Yall look so much cooler making music on the 404 than me on a freaking ipad lol
That’s amazing! 404 or not, you have a system that works for you and gets your art into the world. Very dope. I’ve been wanting to get a new iPad strong enough to run a DAW. That would be so dope to have some of those tools anywhere I am. Thanks for contributing your thoughts on this! 👏🏾
This was my first piece of gear and was about to comfortably make beats within the first few weeks.. It's really straight forward
@@mrbigh95838 one of my fav pieces!
Best step by step video out
@@FlatWHDF thank you! Working up more this month to share 🙌🏾
Some good tips and very nice instructional video format 👌🏻 Except for how the looper is demonstrated as part of a ‘regular’ workflow, which makes it overly complicated and emphasizes the menu diving and the SP’s shortcut walhalla. I’m sorry, but using the looper for this totally doesn’t make sense to me. Yes, it’s one of the possibilities, but a ‘live looper’ isn’t the right tool for sequencing samples. For that there’s a… uh… (step) sequencer 🤷♂️ which is a really straightforward and basic part of the #SP404mk2. So I’m glad you’ve demonstrated that one, too. The looper is a nice addition, but #Roland overly complicated the implementation of it. As said before, it could have been made part of the regular sampling procedure… just an option ‘play loop after sampling’. Same goes for ‘allow overdubbing’ and/or an option to sample onto another pad while playing.
That’s a great point. My goal with this workflow was to try and implement as many of the new update features as possible to showcase them. The looper is not always the practical choice, but I do find value in it. I personally use about 4-6 different workflow methods depending on what the sample source is and if I’m combining with a DAW, a synth, or a drum machine. I’d love to hear your personal workflow or favorite practices. I’m learning new techniques from others every day. Thanks for your thoughts and input here. Really appreciate it. 🙌🏾
@@ZEALEyes, it’s a great video. Really love the quality including visual cues 👌🏻 The workflow is also really straightforward, especially when you (or the viewer) skip the looper part 😉 as its implementation seems to be designed by a totally different department and requires the infamous shortcuts.
Personally I Iike to stick with the functions that where (basicaly) in place when the device was released, so with the intended workflow in mind: 1. sample (fixed measures is a nice addition, same goes for great skip back feature!) > 2. edit and/or chop samples > 3. sequence individual patterns (live or steps, also using the power of 1-shot samples!) > 4. Copy / duplicate / modify patterns > 5. add FX > 6. resample / bounce to combined samples > 6. export STEMS to SD (great addition was automating this process). Almost all of this can be perfectly done without the overkill of shortcuts or menu diving, and you’ve nicely covered it all 👍🏻
I think #Roland complicated things even further by adding the demonstrated features outside of this lean and mean standard workflow, again introducing another set of shortcuts / key combinations. The new sound generator is a nice to have, but I don’t use it as I have other sources for that. The DJ Mode… well never mind. And the looper I find quite useless, simply due to the way it’s implemented. That said, I love the #SP404mk2 for its core feature set. It’s awesome and a great quality instrument, which I love to use… especially as a sketch pad on the go or for playing (1-shot) loops in a DAW-less setup! Otherwise exporting STEMS is welcome feature for importing sampled loops into a DAW.
This is a great video! I would say it’s great for intermediate users as there is definitely a beginner and advanced way of using it!!but once you get to know the machine, you’ll find its amazing with what it can do
Agreed! Glad you dig the video and thx for being here 🙌🏾
mad useful as per usual. Thanks a ton for the content man.
Yo I really appreciate that! Hoping to add value to SP heads. Still figuring out the whole RUclips vibe at the same time. 🙌🏾
Thanks youtubers!!! The absolutely best thing about the SP 404 MK2 is it has a ton of tutorials on RUclips!!! Feel my pain, I'm old school and have spent at least $5,000 on music equipment in my life BUT didn't have the time or desire or videos to learn most of my equipment. The 2nd best thing is the MK2 can do almost everything you want it to do... If you have a sampler that can't time stretch, YOU don't have a complete sampler!! They hooked up with Koala sampler and have stems now... Thanks ZEALE!! Tight tutorial!!! My favorite samplers of all time were MPC 1000 and Korg ESX-1. Actually, the MK2 can do way more than both of them. The MK2 is a all in one sampling workstation. I'm speaking to Roland now, the MPC 1000 16 levels is superior to the chromatic mode on MK2 to make original beats. Please fix that!!! All you need is samples or a cheap keyboard. I have the Korg Kross 2 and between those 2, I can make anything!!!! I'm still not there but learning more and more. I love music, that's why I'm in the game!!!!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences on these instruments. Appreciate you being here 🙌🏾
There is a 16 level mode on the sp! Toggle it with shift+pad2
I just traded an older maschine studio for an sp. I have had it for about a day. I am in the process of learning this hardware. I have an X and live 2, but i am definitely falling in love with this thing!
@@errliest welcome to the SP fam. It’s a lot of fun and hella versatile device. There’s a lot to learn, but it’s dope because you can craft your own workflow and vibe. Hit me if you have any questions 🙌🏾
Soooo glad I came upon this channel. Had my SP MK2 when it first came out and just played with the factory stuff. I am now blowing off the dust and I thank you for that. This is the best video by far that I have seen for beginners of this great music tool. You have earned my sub bro. Got you on alert and I can't wait for the next one. Thanks so much for sharing the knowledge.
Yo thank you! This is exactly what I was hoping to do, inspire people to pick up their SP’s and make something new for the world. I appreciate the sub and your time. More coming soon 🙌🏾
Thanks for making the video, I appreciate this. I won't forget this. 🙌🏾🙏🏾
No prob! I’m glad to hear you found value in this. Much appreciated. More vids coming soon 🙌🏾
awesome video
Thank you man! More coming 🙌🏾
Great Review. I am serious. This is how i do it...
I take my Zoom Q2-HD-Recorder with an 32GB-SD-Card. I take a walk through my appartment with a Drumstick...and sample everything i can see...short or long - how i like -. Then i flush my Toilette and sample it for an insane Dubstep-Beat. After about one Hour i go for a walk again...its a SUNNY DAY...with my Zoom Q2-HD(24bit, 96Khz highest Resolution). I walk around anywhere in my troubled but beautiful Hometown Berlin in Germany - just for ONE HOUR...so 2 Hours of my Life....while the REST OF THE Beatmaking WORLD is watching Sampling Tutorials.
Back Home i put my SD-Card in my Windows-Tower-PC and transfer the 2 Files on my Desktop. Then i open up Cubase and import 2 Hours of sampling. That means (if i had 2 hours of One-Shot-Samples) about 30 Samples per Minute (actually MORE, but lets say at least 30), so thats 1.800 One-Shots per Hour...but i sampled TWO hours (at home and outside), so i got about 3.600 One-Shots in 2 hours - original Samples, MY OWN SAMPLES - for FREE.🤔🤫 I can turn them into ANY Instrument or Drumsound i want...just with a Basic Cubase Element-Version...
So i ZOOM IN to my first 1 Hour of 1.800 Samples and take some time to chop them up the way i want or i let Cubase do it - with a few Clicks with my Computer Mouse.
Then i take the Time to process every Sample how i like it - dry, wet, dirty, crunchy, drumsound, pianosound - whatever...In about 2 Days i am finished....with 3.600 Original Samples.
Now i create a couple of Folders on my Desktop and name them how I like them to be named. I exported all the Samples in one Folder and then i put them into the specific Folder i`d like them to be - Organize you know...😘
While the Rest of the BEATMAKING WORLD is watching this great Tutorial - and HUNDREDS of other Tutorials on Groove-Boxes, Drumcomputers...any Gear.
I have a well deserved SHUT-EYE (Jim Carey said that) and wake up to FOOL & PLAY around and ASIGN my Samples to the Drumpads of my Groove-Agent SE 5.
I will NOT count the Number of ORIGNAL DRUMKITS i have made just by 2 hours of walking around and 2 Days of choping, processing, exporting and organizing my OWN SAMPLE LIBRARY.
Have a great Day you all. I am a 52yo very hard working StreetMusician and Producer in Berlin, Germany - and thats how I do it.
Maybe you`d like to try it too and spent LESS TIME on RUclips and more time with FRIENDS or FAMILY - or your DAW of Choice. 😊
Huh?
Wow , excellent , thnks and i subscribe , more sp 404 videos !interesting work flow .
Thank you! I appreciate that. More SP videos coming soon 🙌🏾
Great video! Was easy to sub to your channel. Straight forward and entertaining at the same time.
I really appreciate the sub and the positive feedback. Thank you and welcome to our little corner of RUclips! 👏🏾
Great video bro. I have made some really good loops but have had a hard time bouncing anything out because I didn’t have the workflow down. I might be able to not use my MPC2500 for the sequencing. I like the portability of the SP and I think they are both awesome.
Agreed man! I really love building loops on the SP. It's much easier now and allows a hands on approach vs the standard DAW workflow. I know it may take longer, but I love the pacing and intention. We have enough distractions, it's rad to be able to escape into the SP!
Thanks so much!!!! Very informative!
Glad you are finding value you in this! How long have you had an SP?
Where are those stickers from? Love them.
Supercard stickers. I got them as a gift at 404 day in San Francisco with Dibia$e. I want to stick them on something but also they’re so dope that I just kind of want to keep them as is. I’ve found some dope 404 art on Etsy last night.
@@ZEALE I know the feeling: stickers you don't want to stick!
@@cgors exactly! lol
Dope !!
Thank you bruh 🙌🏾
Dope
Thank you! 🙌🏾
“Stop struggling”? Ya lost me 10x! Heheh. But as far as these things go, you are an excellent communicator!
I appreciate that, and I can completely understand the getting lost part. It’s a process but with time it becomes second nature. Not to say it’s easy, cuz it’s not. Lol, but it does becomes familiar territory quickly.
Mann Thanks :)
Of course! Thanks for being here and I hope you find value you in this. I’m cooking up more videos like this to share soon. 🙌🏾
Great, but a little bit complicate. I think the SP-404 MKII has a strong learning curve but if you got it, its a fantastic device in paralell to the Octatrack MK2
It has its challenges like any device. But it’s one anyone can learn if they put the time in. I haven’t used the Octatrack yet, looks awesome though. What are you using it for primarily?
How do you live record your performance? I tried via usb c once but the quality was mid.
I typically record stereo outs directly into my ZOOM H6 or my audio interface. Sounds great that way. Hope this helps! 🙌🏾
We want more Verselab
@@FlatWHDF getting my repaired now. Had an encoder break off in a move.
Thanks for this video - super helpful! I have the same setup as you with iphone -> usb-c -> 1/4" -> line in but the levels on the line in are low compared to other samples. Any hints on how to get them closer? Thanks!
@@mdjames09 thank you! You could try adding the compressor to your input FX. That will lift the level for sure. Otherwise you can consider normalizing the sample once it’s in the SP. Hope that helps!
What app do you use to detect the key of the song? Thanks for the great video!
You're welcome and I'm glad you found some value in it. I use an app on my Mac called Mixed In Key. It works great, i believe there are different versions. 🔥
what amp did you use to find key?
I used an app on my laptop called Mixed In Key. It’s rad!
🔥
Thank you 🔥
My workflow is the Mpc one as the base and . 404 as a ‘salad dressing ‘ on the beat per say. This works like a charm. Good stuff tho! Just learned something new for the 404🦾🦾
I dig that! I have an MPC One as well. I've been looping patterns out of the MPC to the SP for some really cool layers. Great tip, thank you 🙌🏾
OP, per se* means in or of itself, or by itself. A very misunderstood term, it seems.
Just add any other SP serious to the mk2 and it solves a lot of problems, as far as menu diving and workflow goes
Just sample back and forth with each other ( while adding effects)
Great point, I'm trying to grab another one to do the same. Also hella fun to have two!
Why would you use the looper if you're only working with internal samples? You can make the same loop on the pattern sequencer, giving you the ability to go back and edit.
I have yet to see a RUclipsr demo the looper in a way that makes any sense at all.
My goal was to show the new update features in the workflow so people new to the SP can see features that may appeal to their style, which includes the looper. I typically use the looper for external gear I want to create melodic layers with or for a live looping performance.
@@ZEALE you should demo that. I found it to be a buggy and frustrating experience, and I would love to see it used in an actual workflow.
I only bring it up because you mention specifically the importance of workflow, and the looper is not a good workflow if you're only working with samples. It's quite confusing to newbies
@@hankpiece absolutely, it's on my list. Everything I showed in this video was an overview workflow and I wanted to edit down for time. I'm going to publish deeper dives into my most used features that go more in depth and illustrate how I would and do use them. Thank you for the commentary and engaging. Really appreciate it! 🙌🏾
So how do you master this? So you can't export the stems into your daw? Seems like you would have to record each pattern into each track one at a time, or is there a way to just bring the entire arrangement into multiple tracks in ableton?
@@aaronshailrepair2820 great question! You can stem our patterns currently. So you can def get individual tracks into your DAW, but only one pattern at a time. Hopefully we get an update to that. Thanks for being here! 🙌🏾
Man that piano loop is gonna haunt my dreams. So awful!💀😂 Really nice tutorial nonetheless, I learnt a couple of tricks!
😂 bruh, you not wrong. I’m so far from a piano player. I do want to get lessons at some point, but for now these nightmare riffs gotta happen. Appreciate you being here, hope you dig the content 🙌🏾
@@ZEALE I was a bit rude but didnt mean to offend. It's just that I wasn't vibing with the loop hah. Peace
@@MiguelHuertadelaVega bruh it’s all good. None taken, I really do want to learn some basic piano and music theory. It’s one of my weakness that I know would increase my quality ten fold. Your honesty is appreciated 🙌🏾
Needs 0 snap when chopping, yes you can get rid of the click with the attack env but that’s just a bandaid to the problem in my opinion
I use both methods, but I prefer the envelope most of the time. It seems to have a softer touch
Hey did you know there's a feature for individual stem separation with the 4.04 update? I figured it out awhile ago and wrote about how to do it
Yes absolutely. I’ve had a few issues doing the stem export though. Have you had any crashes in this process?
@ZEALE I haven't had any problems at all but one person did tell me they had trouble. Just to clarify I mean a full stem export for a pattern chain. I was able to get the drums for a full track of mine stemmed as a single stereo audio file by this method I'm talking about. I cant link the site I wrote it on but if you google "SP-404MKII Pattern Chain Stems" you might find the post 😎
@@MK-vi2cm dope! Okay I’m def checking this out. Thank you for sharing this 🙌🏾
@ZEALE No problem man. Each one teach one! 🔥💪🏾
damn 00:00 that was very personal 😢
We all been there 😂
Roland neds tongive it a proper sequecer like the MV 1 or MPC but meep thebpattern sequencer fot then sp fans 12 track or 10 track sequncer
I would love that addition. The MV1 and MPC have great sequencers.
👍🏾✌🏾!
Thank you! 🙌🏾
Where did you get your skin from?
Etsy, from a shop called Trapdog Art I believe. They have tons of skins 🔥
Why not just use audio over USB to transfer the sample?
You can but you need a different adapter for Ipad or Iphone. But if your USBC is going straight to your computer it def works as you described. Maybe the newer Ipads work like this, mine is a bit older.
I just got my sp I find when I turn on the filter + drive it’s way too loud
Yeah that MFX and a few other are a bit aggressive. I would adjust setting before triggering it live. There are some other MFX that can get you a similar effect and you can program them to take the place of your default button MFX.
@@ZEALE I did even when adjust to make it quiet it’s still quite drastic
@@TwinCitiesOxygen I hear that. Maybe it’s something they’ll address in future updates. I don’t actually use that MFX much cuz of the intensity.
Downfall to a good track is a great sequencer which sp is not
Hope Sp turns into a groove box soon it got potential
How are you using your SP currently?
@@ZEALE just resampling
But it sequencer
it could be better for $500 I’m just saying
@@Bilpokat I hear that. I love the resampling. In terms of sequencing it’s been dope for me because it challenges me to be more thoughtful on pattern builds. It’s def not the fastest tool to do so, but I like taking that time and getting submerge in the process. But trust, I use Ableton daily too.
@@Bilpokat Was the SP12, SP1200 and MPC60 sequencers better OR did they make bad tracks?
That's what I nustmentioned
Is there any chance that mv1 gettin some softawer updates?
I’m not positive regarding the MV1 updates. That would be amazing tho
@@ZEALE i have SP mk2 and mv1. This combo rocks but i want euclidian sequencer 🥲 hahahha. But its an extra thing. For a while this setup will be great!!
@@mushuhaku632 that would be insane!
instructions not clear
Word, what part do you have a question about?
That's a huge calculator! 😮 Jk 😂✌️
Great vid tho ❤ i m considering getting one. Is it still good in 2024?
@@talktalk4503 😂 facts. Yeah it’s still a great tool for music creatives. The latest update dropped in April and it really powered up the SP. I have a ton of tips and other long format videos on my channel to help once you grab one. Join the SP fam my guy! I’m sure you’ll enjoy 🙌🏾
@@ZEALE thank you. The latest drop, is that fw 4.04? Can we set the kick sound on pad 13 as a default (start from bottom left instead of pad 1)? I m kinda used to that orientation. It looks like it starts everything from the top or pad 1.
@@talktalk4503 you can assign samples where you like, and also color each pad per bank to organize your kit. There is not really a default template.
@@ZEALE cool! Also, is there any LFOs to modulate some parameters in samples? Am considering this vs digitakt II and ableton push mk3. Did u compare others before getting the SP? What made u decide on it? Thx
@@talktalk4503 very dope! Currently not a way to modify samples with LFO’s that I can think of. There is a sound generator that allows for some sound design and play, but you’ll def get that on Push and likely Digitakt. I’m not super familiar with either but I know they are more robust in that space. I have an SP as well as an MPC and other drum machines. This is just my favorite to work on.
transiet?
Are you asking about the Transient Sample Chop mode?
@@ZEALE no im saying thats how u pronounce it in the video😭
@@psomi5364 ah. Was a long solo shoot. I’m sure there are a few more mispronunciations in there too. lol
@@ZEALE no h8 was just funny, love the vid
@@psomi5364 all good man! Appreciate you 🙌🏾
Gift me ur SP 😅
Bruh I wish I could gift one. Maybe I can put together a beat flip contest or something in the future. Actually a great idea 🙌🏾
@@ZEALE Imma sub and wait till that day 😇😁 keep grindin
@@fengpengreal yo thank you man! I appreciate the sub and motivation. 🙌🏾
Too much menu diving for every function
I felt similar at first, but after a month it’s like second nature. Not much different from MPC One or other hardware in small form factor. For the benefits of a smaller footprint you have to sacrifice some hot keys.
Just use what you need, its not that complicated lol
@@ZEALEno offence but MPC is nowhere near as menu divey, everything is one layer deep from the main screen, with the exception of plugins which are annoyingly 2 layers.
Recording in an sp404: press record, selecting pads, setting page, then record again, then you mess up and go back to scrap the pattern, then press a delete button then press another button and do it again. Etc.
SP is great but it's UX is overcomplicated because Roland didn't bother updating the box when they added a million features, the round screen being case in point meaning a tiny amount info per UI context which is why everything is 20 buttons each with a screen
All to pretend it's still just an sp404
@@daniel_dumile yes but the MPC One is also twice the size of an SP. I love both. I do use lots of plugins in my MPC workflow so that I’d wear the menu diving happens for me. I usually apply plug-ins to individual program pads as well as the program as a whole. Gets tricky.
it gets easier
🗑
@@larzsmith1214 😂 always at least one of you. Thanks for the view homie
@ZEALE that equipment is for dinosaurs. You can do all those functions in 2 sec on a cpu.
@@larzsmith1214 we knowww, you’re missing the whole point. We all use Ableton, FL,etc. If we go by your logic then violins, guitars, and drums are all dinosaur instruments. The point of an SP isn’t to get from A to Z the fastest and easiest, it’s too enjoy the intentional journey of marking music with your hands. If that’s not for you…we get it. But a DAW isn’t the only way friend. But respectfully, you do you. I’m sure you make dope music and I would love to hear it some time. I salute any artist out here creating. It should be artist against the industry, not us against us. ❤️
The man 🌟
Appreciate it man! Hope you’re finding value in these vids 🙌🏾
Sick!!!! My SP will be here tomorrow so I'm gonna be rewatching this all day lol Thanks for this! Glad i found your page
Congrats on the new SP! Make sure to get the latest update and patch. Glad to hear the vid helps 🙌🏾
@@ZEALE Done!
@@ZEALEjust got mine too. I Come from the 303. I like the limitations and, I’m nervous smfh. This video = you’re my spirit animal. 😭😂💯✌️
OhhHh!
Thanks my friends!
Of course! Hope this tutorial adds some value for you. 🙌🏾
You seem to understand the voice of a novice, you are amazing
Thanks man! I feel in many ways I still am a novice, so that helps. But I also couldn’t find too many YT channels that were easy to follow when I started out on the SP. My goal is to help empower as many dope music creatives as possible, at any level. Thanks for being here! 🙌🏾
Thank you! I think that’s because I still feel like I’m a novice myself, always learning and willing to. But I also couldn’t find too many easy to follow YT channels on the SP when I started out. My goal is to help empower music creatives at any level. Thanks for being here! 🙌🏾
Thank you for the video. Very helpful. I got SP-404 recently, and you cover quite a lot of useful features here.
Thank you! I’m glad you found value in this video. I’m hoping to get more SP content like this up soon. 🙌🏾
This shit is so fun to learn yo
Agreed, I find new ways to use this machine everyday. Working on new long format videos to share soon. Thanks for being here 🙌🏾