Alright, so between these 2 it was such a hard decision.. I reaaalllyyy liked the compressor of the 303.. but other than that it was pretty similar. I liked the flux more on the 404 sounded a little more natural even though it can be strong at times. If i could have both i would! That'll probably end up happening sooner or later.. What was your favorite part about each machine? Which would you choose if you could only have ONE!?
Enrique Martinez Music i have the 404 og and the vinyl sim is different compared to the sx. ctrl 1 is CMP. i do like the 303 sound but the 404 takes it for me
Great video man. I love the 303 but have never messed with a 404. I just don’t understand why they removed the compressor setting from the vinyl simulator on the 404. What are your thoughts on this? Also, sorry if i left two comments - I couldn’t tell if my first one posted :)
The vinyl sim compressor on the 303 is the compressor that makes that sampler so special, not the MFX compressor. The algorithms are slightly different.
This! The thing to do with the 303 vinyl sim is to turn the noise and flutter all the way down and just use the compressor in it, great sound. As far as actually simulating vinyl, the noise and flutter on the 404 sound a lot more convincing, but the vinyl compression on the 303 is fantastic. It's almost worth having one just to use that one effect on drum machines alone. I got mine free because two of the pots were cracked off the PCB, and even though I bridged the broken traces I wouldn't really trust it for heavy use but I use it a lot for the vinyl compressor, the sound of the lo-fi sampling mode and the overall workflow of sampling and resampling to come up with loops that I'll record into the Octatrack. It's also great to just keep hooked up to the aux out on the stereo in case you want to grab a quick sample when you're listening to music or watching a movie or something. EDIT: The 303 time stretch algorithm sounds pretty wretched in a good way, too.
I use my 202, 303 & 404sx everyday differently in my workflow along with my 2000XL. They are great machines, and nothing compares to the 303 when you track a whole mix through the compressor, it really molds everything together so nicely.
I think one crucial thing that should have been mentioned is the workflow between the two. I have both and simple matters such as deleting a noise off of a bank takes much longer on the 303. The 404 reacts instantly when deleting/recording whereas the 303 takes a second or two to do so. This can affect your workflow greatly but ultimately the 303 is a beaut!
One drawback of the 303, depending on your intended use, is the warping/glitching caused by adjusting many of the effect parameters in real time. I imagine it’s due to some kind of bottleneck in the processing power, but I’m not sure. It only happens when the dials are being moved, but it’s not usually a good sound. Might not be a problem depending on how you’re using it, but it makes it less versatile as a live instrument so to speak. The compressor on the 303’s vinyl sim is one of my favourite effects ever though. The way that compressor makes already dusty-sounding vinyl samples sound is a thing of beauty.
The major upside to the 303, aside from the compressor, is the ability to downsample as low as 11k. Although still 16 bit, it allows you to fake some of that SP-1200 grit. I would have liked to have seen an example of sampling on the 303 at different sample rates.
The 404sx has something similar. Just use the bit crusher MFX with the filter turned off. You will get a metric ton of sp1200 style aliasing on your samples
Higher Glyphix The trick on the SP1200 was to record 33rpm vinyls at 45rpm & then pitch the sample down which contributed to that gritty low bit sound & ofcourse saved memory Just an idea to maybe get that 'authentic' 1200 flava
@@XHALE303 Actually it wasn't really that, when you listen to Pete Rock, he never really did that. He used the Akai S950 for basslines and longer samples and SP1200 for drums I reckon.
just some FYI for those interested....a 505 is the exact same sampling and FX engine as a 303 but will come at a cheaper price. Unfortunately, many have caught on years ago and they aren't found for steals like they used to. Also, if you want an SP box that drips with character and is a lo-fi juggernaut...then get a 202
While the MPC4000 is quite a clean sampler, it still has it´s sound and most importantly, it´s still a difference if you sample into the 4K and then into one of the SPs or if you would sample directly from the original source into one of the two Boss SPs. As you know, first conversion is the most "critical". Thx for the video.
What I love about the 303 is it has the least amount of ugly distortion when you peak the audio during sampling or resampling. I can layer as many effects as I want building beats and I never run into any problems. Ive had a 404 OG and an SP555 and they both tend to add nasty bites and crunches to samples when the peak light flashes hella while resampling or sampling. Not the 303. Makes sense when Madlib said he likes it peaking 100% of the time hahaha
The 303 wins the aesthetic game all day. It is just so much more pleasing on the eyes. I actually prefer the flux on the 303 a lot more than the 404sx. But the 404sx is wayyy more versatile and I feel more rugged as well. You can bang that thing around throw it in your bag, run it off batteries, use the built in mic to sample whatever weird shit you encounter and store and backup much easier. Also there are some really nice programs out there for managing samples on the 404 as well.
It seems to me like the 303 has a bit of latency between you pressing the pad, and the sound playing. Whereas the 404 played thew sound instantly. Maybe its just me.
Good work dude! Your tume and efforts are MUCH appreciated! And keep all the noises and exclamations you make while you test stuff. This is what makes me love that channel, it's real! 👍🏼👍🏼🌶
got recommended this after watching your sequencer video aaaaaaaaaaand you have a new subscriber
5 лет назад+7
Thank you, getting my 303 out of storage....The compressor on the 404 seems a bit OD, dirtier, fatigued...not crazy about it . The 303 compressor sounds punchier, better dynamics. I have a Roland TR-8 and I believe since the latest firmware I can use it with this 303...hope so.
The 404 is a bigger machine and therefore probably has better A/D convertors, which explains why it has a noticeably more open sound than the 303. However, the compressor on the 303 is super punchy and you can really the compressor breathe between transients. If I had to pick, I'd say get the 404 if its gonna be your main beat making machine (more pads, storage space, open sound), but if you just wanna add something to your existing setup or have something to make beats on the go then get the 303. Its smaller, great compressor and seems like a great addition unit as opposed to a standalone.
The 303 really starts to shine and show it’s ruggedness when sampling in ‘long’ mode - nice comparison though, I have both these machines and they’re a great pair! I’d pick the 303 if I could only keep one
@@tom22333 there are three sample modes on the 303 - standard, long & Lo-fi. Long is for longer samples at a cost of recording at a reduced sample rate, lofi allows even longer but comes with an even greater sample rate reduction. The reduction affects the sound of the sample and causes a more grainy tone.
SP404Sx compressor is usable but you have to turn the volume to VERY LOW when compressing to not squash the hell out of your transients. Not sure how did they program the threshold and ratio but it gets triggered extremely easy. The only way to tame it is to level your sample to something like 40-50 , that will introduce plenty of noise of course but at least you can make something out of the compressor without destroying the sound
One thing is a cold hard fact: Enrique, you love your samplers! The 404 is far better from a technological standpoint, but the sound of the 303 may have more character. Are'nt we all after a bit of character and imperfection in these clinically digital times? The old SP202 is still loved too for the sound of some of the FX like the re-pitching effect. The SP202 is an annoying bit of gear from a technical point of view, obsolete, hard to find 3v Smartmedia cards, 12 seconds of sampling time, lol! If Roland could combine the best of these units into a new machine, man would it sell like hot cakes!
For me its the 303. The reverb on the 303 sounds a little more lush and hall-like. The 404 does have a lot more features but I always found myself digging too deep when the root of the idea was in the sample in the first place, which is what the 303 does very well; simplicity and streamline process in the 303. Both are amazing though instruments though!
I listened carefully with headphones on and the 303 sounds better or should I say butter. It just had more body and has a deeper warmer sound. I'm glad I own one. Thanks for the vid.
I sold my SP-202 and Sp-303 after getting the Sp-555 and sort of always regretted it... What do you think of the 555 vs the 404sx? Something about those older units that just sounded better (im my memory?) or was it just nostalgia... The lofi 1 and 2 of the 202 was unreal. I have never really been able to get into the 555 so I end up doing my sampling in Ableton. A comparison between them all would make a great video, 202, 303, 404sx, 555, and whatever other ones you could get your hands on. Thanks for the rad video.
I have both samplers but have been concentrating on the 404 mostly. Been great seeing this though! I heard a lot about the Vinyl Sim on the 303 and after hearing this comparison i would say that the 303 is better for that effect.. Generally though i'm happy with the 404 at the moment.. Have to say. great content on here.. thanks a bunch man!
sp-404sx has the effects limiter function on most of its effects. you get there by hitting [func] + Pad 8.. so if you use it on the compressor, the SP limit's your attack [ATT] , and switches the option to Release [REL].. so thats useful. ive used both the sp-404sx & the Sp-303. something about the 303's Vinyl Sim having a compressor attached to it makes it butter as a fuck. Side note: The SP-505 has the exact same DSP effects processpr as the 303. last i checked it was cheaper than the 303 as well LOL.
The Sp404 (not sx) has a compresser on the vinyl sim and a longer, slower vibrato/warp like the 303... probably the same effect by the sounds of it from this vid
I do not have these equipments yet. I been meaning to try Boss by Roland. I tried Zoom and it not so bad. I think they all have uniqueness. Korg have great filters and fx, btw.
I dusted off my SP-404 the OG version, and to jog my memory started watching 404 vids. I notice the vinyl sim is not a separate/dedicated effect on the SX, while it is on the 303 and OG 404. My 404 has the compressor as a part of the vinyl sim. I'm curious if the 303 and OG 404 fx are closer together. And if the lofi-ness compares. Most sp-404 vids are about the SX version or the A, so its hard to get specific details on the older models. Great vid! And involuntary sounds of pure joy cracked me up, because i had the same reactions to what the fx did to the loop :)
Speaking as a cat who has only ever worked "inside the box", other than school, I have no allegiance to any specific tools (other than my trad instruments - guitars, basses, harmonicas). So I have no dog in this fight (why cats get all tribal about "tools" I'll never understand). But from over here - on the east coast, on my MBP, I dug the 303. Yes, the 404 sound was a little more transparent. Cleaner/ish. But when you added the FX, it sounded like a new machine trying to sound vintage - if that makes sense. I know these things are subjective. But in my own defence, I am not one to fetishize gear. Honestly, I got into computers back in the 90s, the ONLY reason I got into computers was because someone showed me Acid Pro, and then gave me a copy and a bunch of other cracked PC software. ReBirth, Fruity Loops .01, Sound Forge. I had NO interest at all until it was made clear to me that I didnt have to wait around for other musicians anymore.... damn.... that was 96(?) I think.... Im fucking old.... anyway all that being said - I dont have any romantic notions about the SP-303. Dont get me wrong - I have some tools that are such creative revelations that I LOVE them...Samplr comes to mind, (I used to get happy when I opened a protools session, until I worked in LA... now I get triggered when I look at my protools usb key) Ableton Live since V4 (though I am in a sort of love/hate mood with Live right now. Its not Live, its me.... I just need some space, ya know.?) recently the app Koala (which the dev has based on the 303 - if you haven't checked it out yet - do it! Its less than $5 and its fucking addictive. Super minimal interface. The features are Deep, not wide, if you catch my meaning. Big shout out to Elf Audio! Check it out! You will not be disappointed. Dev is super on top of fixes and very reachable and engaged.) So all that being said... and I CAN go on.... I dig the sound of the 303 better. I have never worked with one - but if its anything like Koala, it's be dope to have around.
SP303 was my first sampler so I'm definitely biased. They both are great for various reasons. Been wanting the 404 for SD card port v smart media card since one is more accessible than the other right now. But the crunch when over modulating drums added with compressor and vinyl effect gives real warmth especially when you keep stacking resampled hits through filters and the rest above.
It seems like there's just a little bit of a EQ, Reverb, and depth for the one on the right a little higher than the other one. It seems like theres less of an input delay too while having just about a cent of pitch down
I like your style mate! Just a tip, perhaps you might want to include click-able links to the timeline. I know.... people are spoilt and need to be spoonfed, but it will greatly improve the whole experience.just my 2cent
Maybe it was just me, but wasn’t there a bit latency on the 303 when pressing the pads? And no latency on the 404sx. That is pretty important if you would like to fingerdrum, to figure out a groove.
Hey Carl, that latency was my fault. I didn't bother to clean up the dead space in the beginning of the samples. You can trim and shorten them too. So the 303 would be just as fast as the 404
Enrique Martinez Music yeah that makes sense! I also thought that if there where latency, you would maybe not even compare it to the 404sx, idk. Nice video though! I’m actually looking to buy a more in-depth sampler, rather than the po33, which I love and use a lot (usually lofi hip hop). I think I might end up with the 404sx. I’ve also looked at the mpc1000 and actually found a great deal on eBay, but it isn’t as portable than the 404sx, though “better”. I don’t even know, haha
J Fields i couldn’t agree more, I was just pointing the latency out, ‘Cause even if the sp404sx isn’t really the beat for finger drumming, it should still be available, or in this case the 303
I’ve owned a 303, a 404sx, and a 555; of You’re comparing the 303 and the 404sx, 404sx wins out in many ways; primarily speed, storage size, number of pads, etc. any desires of an effect or perceived sound isn’t anywhere enough to make the switch to a 303. As for the 555; the extra pad banks, looper, and footprint make that a worthwhile consideration but no batteries and lags a bit. Conclusion: You really can’t go wrong with a 404sx.
Yes I agree. But the 303 is just more musical to me for some reason. The pads are nicer to play. Not stiff like the 404. And the sound overall is warmer. and the resampling abilities kind of have that 2000xl thing where you can mark the sample without it going all the way back to the beginning of the sample. Which for me, speeds up my creative workflow alot. I was lucky to own both, and I would recommend owning both actually. They both have strengths and weaknesses. and in my opinion and in those ways, compliment each other very very well. That's my .02
That 303 vinyl sounds dope af. Sounds more in the mix like it’s coming off a record then the 404. The 404 vinyl sounds like it’s above the samples just playing over top.
They are both irreplaceable in my setup. On top of being a very compact grit box, The 303 is the ultimate song building companion along side Ableton at literally any part of the DAW process. I'm always finding new ways to join forces between them. The same logic can be applied to the 404 as well, though it's significantly faster and more capable in standalone mode (I can def say I work faster on my 404 than Ableton). Neither sound better imo and can't really part with the sound of either.
"The 303 is the ultimate song building companion along side Ableton at literally any part of the DAW process." Curious how you apply/use it within an ableton project when making beats/tracks. Can you elaborate?
@@ArapBayraminOglu i am guessing using it's fx and sounddesign capabilities on seperate samples and tracks. Ableton makes it easy to hook a machine to your interface and running sounds trough the interface out then in again.
DUDE, thank you for this video. I've always wondered why Goodhertz would want to emulate just the FX of the 303 to make the Vulf Compressor but this helps clear that up.
I never really use the mfx 12 on the 303, always the vinyl sim comp. Altso, on the 303 you can resample(for example a drum pattern) with the exit source on! The lo-fi 1 and 2 sampling mode on the 303 are real gritty too. The pads are way nicer... Love the 404sx though. Dig the fast vibrato on the vinyl sim more, altso dj fx and pretty much unlimited sampling time.
Dope! Hope to see more vintage gear comparisons, particularly GROOVE boxes like the Korg EMX (Red,Blue) and the Roland MCs ( 303, 505, 909). I just got a Roland MC 909 but I haven't cracked it open yet.
Well, maybe I can interest you in my channel then... I made many tutorial videos on the MC-505 and the EMX which are my favorite instruments. I also have an ESX, MC-909 and an MC-307. The first groovebox I ever bought was an MC-303 back in 1997. If you have any questions on these units let me know.
Both sound so tinny but it may be the RUclips compression. I've only owned an SP1200, ASR-10, Ensoniq EPS and an S950. I want to get one of these, but hate the look of the 404 with a passion so may just get a 303 and see what happens.
The 303 sounds like there may be some aliasing in the high-end. The shaker/hat in the loop seemed like it had more high-end but it was more of a resonant sound. I'm not saying if that's good or bad. I'm just noting the difference.
Ricky, I had an OP 1 ..loved it.. seriously crazy beast.. my dog chewed it up like a play toy last year.. ever since I've been looking for a good looper:/ dont know what to get. So close to getting the sp 404 a.
Just got the SP 404A you want be mad but i also have the 303 also . Its not much that stands toe to toe with the 303 thoe . I'm thinking about writing a petition to up grade the 303 but keep the same internals as far as sound goes .
The main differences between the 303 and the 404 are that the vinyl sim comp is warmer that the fx12 and that you can resample pads and an external sound/instrument at the same time on one pad, on the 303!
I don't know about you folks but the 303 sounded better to me on all examples- samples,loops,FX et all,I prefer the sound on the 303 anyday to the 404 and I don't own either!!!
Hey Ricky, random question. Been looking for a reliable replacement power chord for the SP-303, but i haven’t. Do you know of any reliable company/online company or website that sells the exact specs for a replacement power chord? Thanks, Jay
Also Flux and noise aren’t the high points of the vin sim on the 303 isn’t why it’s sought after is the the general warmth and NATURAL PUMP..(perf for pump teenage engineering pieces) ... 303 is superior imo
Which one of these can process a audio-in signal through the fx? How many fx at the same time? My old SP-606 can do that (2 simultaneous fx) and I've gotten really used to having that possibility.
Im in the middle of a move but i'd like to compare them to my MC-909. Im sure it's the same FX algorithm in one of these two as in the 909. Thanks for video!
I don't think it is, maybe the 404, let me know what you find, I just moved my mc-909 to the shelf, so it is out of it for a while. If I somehow missed that the 909 can do 303 compression, I'll kick myself in the ass, and get that 909 back into the swing of things.
our opinion about the sp-555? Till novation brings out a sampler it will be my all-time favourite... I'm curious: what's that novation-thing in the right bottom corner of the video?
I know little about samplers although this was very interesting... I am looking for a sampler to add to my sequencing workflow... I would like to add sampled guitar parts .... the brain of my outfit is the Squarp pyramid... I’m hoping the 404 might be the ticket .
great video, as always. still undecided! haha. i was set on the 404SX for so long but after reading the comments, feelin like the OG 404 may be the moves. there's just some modern lux stuff on the SX i feel i'll regret missing out on. but this is getting paired up with my digitakt anyway. one thing... i was under the impression (falsely, apparently) that these easily time stretch. i guess not. have you found any chill work arounds for that kind of thing? thanks again!
My 505 has a lofi effect & the SX has bit crush effect. Same thing different name. The 505 version is so much better. Wish you would of compared those 2fx on these.
Alright, so between these 2 it was such a hard decision..
I reaaalllyyy liked the compressor of the 303.. but other than that it was pretty similar. I liked the flux more on the 404 sounded a little more natural even though it can be strong at times.
If i could have both i would! That'll probably end up happening sooner or later..
What was your favorite part about each machine? Which would you choose if you could only have ONE!?
Enrique Martinez Music i have the 404 og and the vinyl sim is different compared to the sx.
ctrl 1 is CMP. i do like the 303 sound but the 404 takes it for me
You can’t go wrong with the 404sx; extra pads, banks, sd card convenience, no lag etc. The subtle differences in sound are negligible in my opinion.
Enrique Martinez Music sp 404 sx is the best
Great video man. I love the 303 but have never messed with a 404. I just don’t understand why they removed the compressor setting from the vinyl simulator on the 404. What are your thoughts on this? Also, sorry if i left two comments - I couldn’t tell if my first one posted :)
303 hands down!!
The vinyl sim compressor on the 303 is the compressor that makes that sampler so special, not the MFX compressor. The algorithms are slightly different.
This! The thing to do with the 303 vinyl sim is to turn the noise and flutter all the way down and just use the compressor in it, great sound. As far as actually simulating vinyl, the noise and flutter on the 404 sound a lot more convincing, but the vinyl compression on the 303 is fantastic. It's almost worth having one just to use that one effect on drum machines alone.
I got mine free because two of the pots were cracked off the PCB, and even though I bridged the broken traces I wouldn't really trust it for heavy use but I use it a lot for the vinyl compressor, the sound of the lo-fi sampling mode and the overall workflow of sampling and resampling to come up with loops that I'll record into the Octatrack. It's also great to just keep hooked up to the aux out on the stereo in case you want to grab a quick sample when you're listening to music or watching a movie or something.
EDIT: The 303 time stretch algorithm sounds pretty wretched in a good way, too.
Yeah it’s the Vinyl sim
vulf compressorrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Love these comparisons. Also your production and presentation is pretty killer. Great job, man.
Thanks Hand, gotta have a little fun with it right?
I use my 202, 303 & 404sx everyday differently in my workflow along with my 2000XL. They are great machines, and nothing compares to the 303 when you track a whole mix through the compressor, it really molds everything together so nicely.
Chad Wallz Which compressor? Vinyl sim or MFX?
Chad Wallz exactly why I want it 100% . Can I not achieve it with the 404sx?
SP-555 user right here, looper function is ace
Ehhh
I think one crucial thing that should have been mentioned is the workflow between the two. I have both and simple matters such as deleting a noise off of a bank takes much longer on the 303. The 404 reacts instantly when deleting/recording whereas the 303 takes a second or two to do so. This can affect your workflow greatly but ultimately the 303 is a beaut!
One drawback of the 303, depending on your intended use, is the warping/glitching caused by adjusting many of the effect parameters in real time. I imagine it’s due to some kind of bottleneck in the processing power, but I’m not sure. It only happens when the dials are being moved, but it’s not usually a good sound. Might not be a problem depending on how you’re using it, but it makes it less versatile as a live instrument so to speak. The compressor on the 303’s vinyl sim is one of my favourite effects ever though. The way that compressor makes already dusty-sounding vinyl samples sound is a thing of beauty.
The major upside to the 303, aside from the compressor, is the ability to downsample as low as 11k. Although still 16 bit, it allows you to fake some of that SP-1200 grit. I would have liked to have seen an example of sampling on the 303 at different sample rates.
The 404sx has something similar. Just use the bit crusher MFX with the filter turned off. You will get a metric ton of sp1200 style aliasing on your samples
@@MGoolas na u cant fake the funk
Higher Glyphix The trick on the SP1200 was to record 33rpm vinyls at 45rpm
& then pitch the sample down which contributed to that gritty low bit sound & ofcourse saved memory
Just an idea to maybe get that 'authentic' 1200 flava
@@XHALE303 do this on a 202...with the variable SR and pitch/time knob = textures and dirt levels that an sp1200 could never achieve
@@XHALE303 Actually it wasn't really that, when you listen to Pete Rock, he never really did that. He used the Akai S950 for basslines and longer samples and SP1200 for drums I reckon.
303 & it's smaller
I'm an mpc head but for travel 303 all the way
Sold my 202 n 404
303 all the way
The little things are important
mpc500
u sold 202? jeez
Why the 303 over the SX tho?
@@phansy9642
there's no sequencer
memory cards are €110
@@adriannunez8868
the sample rates, compressor & filter to begin with
just some FYI for those interested....a 505 is the exact same sampling and FX engine as a 303 but will come at a cheaper price. Unfortunately, many have caught on years ago and they aren't found for steals like they used to. Also, if you want an SP box that drips with character and is a lo-fi juggernaut...then get a 202
woooord! 202 & 505 are heavily underrated....
While the MPC4000 is quite a clean sampler, it still has it´s sound and most importantly, it´s still a difference if you sample into the 4K and then into one of the SPs or if you would sample directly from the original source into one of the two Boss SPs. As you know, first conversion is the most "critical". Thx for the video.
I was surprised to hear you shout out cripnip! one of the OG SP homies from a long time ago!
He’s the man!!
What I love about the 303 is it has the least amount of ugly distortion when you peak the audio during sampling or resampling. I can layer as many effects as I want building beats and I never run into any problems. Ive had a 404 OG and an SP555 and they both tend to add nasty bites and crunches to samples when the peak light flashes hella while resampling or sampling. Not the 303. Makes sense when Madlib said he likes it peaking 100% of the time hahaha
The 303 wins the aesthetic game all day. It is just so much more pleasing on the eyes. I actually prefer the flux on the 303 a lot more than the 404sx. But the 404sx is wayyy more versatile and I feel more rugged as well. You can bang that thing around throw it in your bag, run it off batteries, use the built in mic to sample whatever weird shit you encounter and store and backup much easier. Also there are some really nice programs out there for managing samples on the 404 as well.
It seems to me like the 303 has a bit of latency between you pressing the pad, and the sound playing. Whereas the 404 played thew sound instantly. Maybe its just me.
I was thinking that or maybe he didn’t trim the samples in the 303?
same it thre me of very much
Same specially with the snare
there is 100% a delay or it plays the sample slower by MS
Old thread but I'm pretty sure it's related to loading the samples
Good work dude! Your tume and efforts are MUCH appreciated! And keep all the noises and exclamations you make while you test stuff. This is what makes me love that channel, it's real! 👍🏼👍🏼🌶
got recommended this after watching your sequencer video aaaaaaaaaaand you have a new subscriber
Thank you, getting my 303 out of storage....The compressor on the 404 seems a bit OD, dirtier, fatigued...not crazy about it . The 303 compressor sounds punchier, better dynamics. I have a Roland TR-8 and I believe since the latest firmware I can use it with this 303...hope so.
what you mean by dynamics ? You know what is dynamic ? The compressor explodes dynamics.
303 is superior BUTTER said it
BUTTER BUTTER BUTTER
@@jonasan2417 ayyye lol
how did i know id find you on here.....hahahah BUTTTTER
@@RanaAli-eb2rg ayyyyyye butttta
ofc u did bro. thats ur tag g lolololol!!
one of the greatest shout outs ive ever seen in a video. Great vid mah man!
Love the videos man, I've learned so much about hardware from your channel! Keep up the good work
The 404 is a bigger machine and therefore probably has better A/D convertors, which explains why it has a noticeably more open sound than the 303. However, the compressor on the 303 is super punchy and you can really the compressor breathe between transients. If I had to pick, I'd say get the 404 if its gonna be your main beat making machine (more pads, storage space, open sound), but if you just wanna add something to your existing setup or have something to make beats on the go then get the 303. Its smaller, great compressor and seems like a great addition unit as opposed to a standalone.
Elu Eboka ll
This video is rad from video production to audio production. Thanks for it.
The 303 really starts to shine and show it’s ruggedness when sampling in ‘long’ mode - nice comparison though, I have both these machines and they’re a great pair! I’d pick the 303 if I could only keep one
What's long mode?
@@tom22333 there are three sample modes on the 303 - standard, long & Lo-fi. Long is for longer samples at a cost of recording at a reduced sample rate, lofi allows even longer but comes with an even greater sample rate reduction. The reduction affects the sound of the sample and causes a more grainy tone.
SP404Sx compressor is usable but you have to turn the volume to VERY LOW when compressing to not squash the hell out of your transients. Not sure how did they program the threshold and ratio but it gets triggered extremely easy. The only way to tame it is to level your sample to something like 40-50 , that will introduce plenty of noise of course but at least you can make something out of the compressor without destroying the sound
One thing is a cold hard fact: Enrique, you love your samplers! The 404 is far better from a technological standpoint, but the sound of the 303 may have more character. Are'nt we all after a bit of character and imperfection in these clinically digital times?
The old SP202 is still loved too for the sound of some of the FX like the re-pitching effect. The SP202 is an annoying bit of gear from a technical point of view, obsolete, hard to find 3v Smartmedia cards, 12 seconds of sampling time, lol! If Roland could combine the best of these units into a new machine, man would it sell like hot cakes!
You are correct. The 404 mk2 is on backorder until September 2022 (from some estimates I've seen)
just scored a sp-202 with 4MB memory card for 100$
@@256k_ that's an incredibly good deal grats dude
For me its the 303. The reverb on the 303 sounds a little more lush and hall-like. The 404 does have a lot more features but I always found myself digging too deep when the root of the idea was in the sample in the first place, which is what the 303 does very well; simplicity and streamline process in the 303. Both are amazing though instruments though!
Yea i liked the 303 reverb more too, felt a little more real vs the gated sounded 404sx
the Boss 303 is one of the greatest samplers of all time. MPC 3000 SP1200 ASR10 SP 303
Agreed. I would also add the MPC2000XL.
Madlib
I wish you had an OG 404 to compare with the 303, I feel like it might be a slightly closer comparison.
As a layman, I liked the vinyl sim compressor on the 303, but I barely noticed a difference between the two.
That beat is very "Silent Hill." Great video!
the 303 is sounding so much better. loving the gritty overtone structure on this thing!
The 303 seems to have a bit of latency when you touch the pads
Hey man I like the commenting of each dial change. Super informative comparison
I listened carefully with headphones on and the 303 sounds better or should I say butter. It just had more body and has a deeper warmer sound. I'm glad I own one. Thanks for the vid.
Yeah. Something about it right? I'm going to need to find one for my personal collection
Can i buy it From you?
I sold my SP-202 and Sp-303 after getting the Sp-555 and sort of always regretted it... What do you think of the 555 vs the 404sx? Something about those older units that just sounded better (im my memory?) or was it just nostalgia... The lofi 1 and 2 of the 202 was unreal. I have never really been able to get into the 555 so I end up doing my sampling in Ableton.
A comparison between them all would make a great video, 202, 303, 404sx, 555, and whatever other ones you could get your hands on.
Thanks for the rad video.
Great vid man I bought the 303 12 years ago. Been dusting off the cobwebs lately.
i’ve been waiting for this!!!
The sp 303 had a little of a delay with the pad but it would still be good to use
Reverb has better definition on the 303 which suggests better horsepower under the hood. Good video!
I was hearing that also, i like the tail end and natural feel of the 303 reverb. 404 sounded almost like a gate, or a massive pre-delay
I have both samplers but have been concentrating on the 404 mostly. Been great seeing this though! I heard a lot
about the Vinyl Sim on the 303 and after hearing this comparison i would say that the 303 is better for that effect..
Generally though i'm happy with the 404 at the moment.. Have to say. great content on here.. thanks a bunch man!
Thanks Spider, yea im a bit on the fence about it too even though i like the 303 effects more sometimes
sp-404sx has the effects limiter function on most of its effects. you get there by hitting [func] + Pad 8.. so if you use it on the compressor, the SP limit's your attack [ATT] , and switches the option to Release [REL].. so thats useful. ive used both the sp-404sx & the Sp-303. something about the 303's Vinyl Sim having a compressor attached to it makes it butter as a fuck.
Side note: The SP-505 has the exact same DSP effects processpr as the 303. last i checked it was cheaper than the 303 as well LOL.
@Nath T naw I don't remember the effects limiter feature being available on the 505.
The Sp404 (not sx) has a compresser on the vinyl sim and a longer, slower vibrato/warp like the 303... probably the same effect by the sounds of it from this vid
Whoa, had no idea.. that might be the one for me!
Yeah - the OG 404 is definitely a sweet spot in the series, imho (sound v storage/features etc ...) 👍🏼😎👍🏼
Man, that 303 compressor just thumps.
I do not have these equipments yet. I been meaning to try Boss by Roland. I tried Zoom and it not so bad. I think they all have uniqueness. Korg have great filters and fx, btw.
I had both at one point... had to sell one. I've still got the 303.
Can i buy it?
For the 303 can anybody explain the difference between the vinyl sim compressor and the mfx 12 compressor ? Never peeped it was 2
I dusted off my SP-404 the OG version, and to jog my memory started watching 404 vids. I notice the vinyl sim is not a separate/dedicated effect on the SX, while it is on the 303 and OG 404. My 404 has the compressor as a part of the vinyl sim. I'm curious if the 303 and OG 404 fx are closer together. And if the lofi-ness compares. Most sp-404 vids are about the SX version or the A, so its hard to get specific details on the older models. Great vid! And involuntary sounds of pure joy cracked me up, because i had the same reactions to what the fx did to the loop :)
Yeah the OG 404 has more vibe to it.The SX is higher quality,less character.
The OG HAS A WAY MORE BOOM bap sound to it JUST like the 303, I find the vinyl sim on the 404 OG sounds a lot more drunken on the wobble
Speaking as a cat who has only ever worked "inside the box", other than school, I have no allegiance to any specific tools (other than my trad instruments - guitars, basses, harmonicas). So I have no dog in this fight (why cats get all tribal about "tools" I'll never understand). But from over here - on the east coast, on my MBP, I dug the 303. Yes, the 404 sound was a little more transparent. Cleaner/ish. But when you added the FX, it sounded like a new machine trying to sound vintage - if that makes sense. I know these things are subjective. But in my own defence, I am not one to fetishize gear. Honestly, I got into computers back in the 90s, the ONLY reason I got into computers was because someone showed me Acid Pro, and then gave me a copy and a bunch of other cracked PC software. ReBirth, Fruity Loops .01, Sound Forge. I had NO interest at all until it was made clear to me that I didnt have to wait around for other musicians anymore.... damn.... that was 96(?) I think.... Im fucking old.... anyway all that being said - I dont have any romantic notions about the SP-303. Dont get me wrong - I have some tools that are such creative revelations that I LOVE them...Samplr comes to mind, (I used to get happy when I opened a protools session, until I worked in LA... now I get triggered when I look at my protools usb key) Ableton Live since V4 (though I am in a sort of love/hate mood with Live right now. Its not Live, its me.... I just need some space, ya know.?) recently the app Koala (which the dev has based on the 303 - if you haven't checked it out yet - do it! Its less than $5 and its fucking addictive. Super minimal interface. The features are Deep, not wide, if you catch my meaning. Big shout out to Elf Audio! Check it out! You will not be disappointed. Dev is super on top of fixes and very reachable and engaged.) So all that being said... and I CAN go on.... I dig the sound of the 303 better. I have never worked with one - but if its anything like Koala, it's be dope to have around.
SP303 was my first sampler so I'm definitely biased. They both are great for various reasons. Been wanting the 404 for SD card port v smart media card since one is more accessible than the other right now. But the crunch when over modulating drums added with compressor and vinyl effect gives real warmth especially when you keep stacking resampled hits through filters and the rest above.
Thanks for the vid. Timestretch and Pitch functions would have been an interesting comparison, too...
Wreckless Reto they are all complete shit
@@richariz7896 haha, they seem to be..
It seems like there's just a little bit of a EQ, Reverb, and depth for the one on the right a little higher than the other one. It seems like theres less of an input delay too while having just about a cent of pitch down
I like your style mate! Just a tip, perhaps you might want to include click-able links to the timeline. I know.... people are spoilt and need to be spoonfed, but it will greatly improve the whole experience.just my 2cent
Maybe it was just me, but wasn’t there a bit latency on the 303 when pressing the pads? And no latency on the 404sx. That is pretty important if you would like to fingerdrum, to figure out a groove.
Hey Carl, that latency was my fault. I didn't bother to clean up the dead space in the beginning of the samples. You can trim and shorten them too. So the 303 would be just as fast as the 404
Carl S don’t think it was latency it looked more like Enrique either didn’t trim/set his sample start on the 303.
Enrique Martinez Music yeah that makes sense! I also thought that if there where latency, you would maybe not even compare it to the 404sx, idk. Nice video though! I’m actually looking to buy a more in-depth sampler, rather than the po33, which I love and use a lot (usually lofi hip hop). I think I might end up with the 404sx. I’ve also looked at the mpc1000 and actually found a great deal on eBay, but it isn’t as portable than the 404sx, though “better”. I don’t even know, haha
Hoose yeah if it was real latency, it would have been an awful “feature” to the machine. Probably can’t even call a feature
J Fields i couldn’t agree more, I was just pointing the latency out, ‘Cause even if the sp404sx isn’t really the beat for finger drumming, it should still be available, or in this case the 303
I love this video! thanks for sharing!!
Really well done videos sir
This was great , didn't know I wanted to see this lol
I’ve owned a 303, a 404sx, and a 555; of
You’re comparing the 303 and the 404sx, 404sx wins out in many ways; primarily speed, storage size, number of pads, etc. any desires of an effect or perceived sound isn’t anywhere enough to make the switch to a 303. As for the 555; the extra pad banks, looper, and footprint make that a worthwhile consideration but no batteries and lags a bit. Conclusion: You really can’t go wrong with a 404sx.
Yes I agree. But the 303 is just more musical to me for some reason. The pads are nicer to play. Not stiff like the 404. And the sound overall is warmer. and the resampling abilities kind of have that 2000xl thing where you can mark the sample without it going all the way back to the beginning of the sample. Which for me, speeds up my creative workflow alot. I was lucky to own both, and I would recommend owning both actually. They both have strengths and weaknesses. and in my opinion and in those ways, compliment each other very very well. That's my .02
The 303 looks like it has way more vibe/special sauce, from these comparisons at least. I know Panda Bear swears by its reverb, too.
That 303 vinyl sounds dope af. Sounds more in the mix like it’s coming off a record then the 404. The 404 vinyl sounds like it’s above the samples just playing over top.
They are both irreplaceable in my setup. On top of being a very compact grit box, The 303 is the ultimate song building companion along side Ableton at literally any part of the DAW process. I'm always finding new ways to join forces between them. The same logic can be applied to the 404 as well, though it's significantly faster and more capable in standalone mode (I can def say I work faster on my 404 than Ableton). Neither sound better imo and can't really part with the sound of either.
definitely their own beasts.. im going to have to pick one up permanently
"The 303 is the ultimate song building companion along side Ableton at literally any part of the DAW process." Curious how you apply/use it within an ableton project when making beats/tracks. Can you elaborate?
@@ArapBayraminOglu i am guessing using it's fx and sounddesign capabilities on seperate samples and tracks. Ableton makes it easy to hook a machine to your interface and running sounds trough the interface out then in again.
DUDE, thank you for this video. I've always wondered why Goodhertz would want to emulate just the FX of the 303 to make the Vulf Compressor but this helps clear that up.
Haha, yea clearly can be heard now right?
Enrique Martinez Music definitely, the 404sx is a lot harsher
I never really use the mfx 12 on the 303, always the vinyl sim comp. Altso, on the 303 you can resample(for example a drum pattern) with the exit source on! The lo-fi 1 and 2 sampling mode on the 303 are real gritty too. The pads are way nicer... Love the 404sx though. Dig the fast vibrato on the vinyl sim more, altso dj fx and pretty much unlimited sampling time.
Dope! Hope to see more vintage gear comparisons, particularly GROOVE boxes like the Korg EMX (Red,Blue) and the Roland MCs ( 303, 505, 909). I just got a Roland MC 909 but I haven't cracked it open yet.
Well, maybe I can interest you in my channel then... I made many tutorial videos on the MC-505 and the EMX which are my favorite instruments. I also have an ESX, MC-909 and an MC-307. The first groovebox I ever bought was an MC-303 back in 1997. If you have any questions on these units let me know.
@@LousyFacelift Awesome , thanks for letting me know. I'll be sure to check out your channel!
wr4 Thanks! 😊
Both sound so tinny but it may be the RUclips compression. I've only owned an SP1200, ASR-10, Ensoniq EPS and an S950. I want to get one of these, but hate the look of the 404 with a passion so may just get a 303 and see what happens.
Cool, now a zoom sampletrak :-)
hyyyy
I second that, the best SP sampler Roland/Boss never made, I'll take it with me to the grave :)
Ooo I still use this machine for my cassettes! I almost sold mine a while back for an SP 303 and I thought to myself "why"..
Diggin the compression on the 303 more
The 303 sounds like there may be some aliasing in the high-end. The shaker/hat in the loop seemed like it had more high-end but it was more of a resonant sound. I'm not saying if that's good or bad. I'm just noting the difference.
Ricky, I had an OP 1 ..loved it.. seriously crazy beast.. my dog chewed it up like a play toy last year.. ever since I've been looking for a good looper:/ dont know what to get. So close to getting the sp 404 a.
Just got the SP 404A you want be mad but i also have the 303 also . Its not much that stands toe to toe with the 303 thoe . I'm thinking about writing a petition to up grade the 303 but keep the same internals as far as sound goes .
Are we just gonna gloss over the fact that your dog ate a machine that costs a rack?
I dig the 303 , had one ages ago it really pumps but musically the fx on 404 seem a bit noisy
The main differences between the 303 and the 404 are that the vinyl sim comp is warmer that the fx12 and that you can resample pads and an external sound/instrument at the same time on one pad, on the 303!
Batteries, sub pad. More and quicker storage.
SP-303 compressor is light years ahead of the SP-404SX. It sounds better and is not nearly as noisy as the SX.
so i may or may not have recorded that loop into my 303 to compare to the 505 and...
They sound close
Either one is a good choice...
Yo Ricky how did you not get an SP MKII? Hope you get your hands on one soon, looking forward your thoughts on in!
Didn't read too deep on the comments, but doesn't it seem like the Roland is more responsive re: hitting a button and sounds coming out?
You’re videos are so good! Keep up the awesome work dude. Love your music too!
Kyle my man! thanks so much
I don't know about you folks but the 303 sounded better to me on all examples- samples,loops,FX et all,I prefer the sound on the 303 anyday to the 404 and I don't own either!!!
But if I had to make a choice I would go with the SP404.
Nice video 👍🏽
Hey Ricky, random question. Been looking for a reliable replacement power chord for the SP-303, but i haven’t. Do you know of any reliable company/online company or website that sells the exact specs for a replacement power chord?
Thanks,
Jay
Also Flux and noise aren’t the high points of the vin sim on the 303 isn’t why it’s sought after is the the general warmth and NATURAL PUMP..(perf for pump teenage engineering pieces) ... 303 is superior imo
Which one of these can process a audio-in signal through the fx? How many fx at the same time? My old SP-606 can do that (2 simultaneous fx) and I've gotten really used to having that possibility.
Im in the middle of a move but i'd like to compare them to my MC-909. Im sure it's the same FX algorithm in one of these two as in the 909.
Thanks for video!
I don't think it is, maybe the 404, let me know what you find, I just moved my mc-909 to the shelf, so it is out of it for a while. If I somehow missed that the 909 can do 303 compression, I'll kick myself in the ass, and get that 909 back into the swing of things.
Hey Ricky the SP-505 is the best one. You gotta get one man
Also it would be a dope video to compare every Roland SP. 202,303,404,505,555,606,808
@@logansdrums and 909 and 707
@@murciegaloltda.produccione8275 sp1200 also
our opinion about the sp-555?
Till novation brings out a sampler it will be my all-time favourite...
I'm curious: what's that novation-thing in the right bottom corner of the video?
You were calling it flux but I think it's flutter?
303 kills on vinyl sim and compressor. Geez
Shout out to Jay!!! Homie has mad knowledge on samplers!!!
Great video ! :)
Nice video. Just curious but were the sounds sampled into the machines or files just dropped into the memory?
@@BarnacleButtock SP303 manual p.52 - media.sp-forums.com/manuals/SP-303_OM.pdf
SP404 manual p.38 - media.sp-forums.com/manuals/SP-404_OM.pdf
They were sampled in!
@@RickyTinez Cool! good to know, thanks for the speedy reply
I know little about samplers although this was very interesting... I am looking for a sampler to add to my sequencing workflow... I would like to add sampled guitar parts .... the brain of my outfit is the Squarp pyramid... I’m hoping the 404 might be the ticket .
Totally. Especially if the loops are in tempo with the music. There is no time stretching on the 404
great video, as always. still undecided! haha. i was set on the 404SX for so long but after reading the comments, feelin like the OG 404 may be the moves. there's just some modern lux stuff on the SX i feel i'll regret missing out on. but this is getting paired up with my digitakt anyway. one thing... i was under the impression (falsely, apparently) that these easily time stretch. i guess not. have you found any chill work arounds for that kind of thing? thanks again!
i prefer the 303. Next test you do though dude can you make sure the LUFS matches up plz. Thx :) nice video!
You got it! sorry about that :)
Yooo I told u that 303 compression is gold. Lol
man... needed this since day one!
My 505 has a lofi effect & the SX has bit crush effect. Same thing different name. The 505 version is so much better. Wish you would of compared those 2fx on these.
How do I preview and access individual sounds i upload into the sd card at 32 gigs on the sp404sx?
Is it me or does the 303 have louder transients?
sp303 isolator
insane.
Can I hook my novation circuit to the sp 303? Like your sp 404 video. Would it apply the same?
Only have the 202! Very gritty, limited, small memory, and no sequencing. Hope to grab a 404 but making this 202 work til it dies haha