I am trying to become less technical idiot and would like to purchase myself a decent sampler.
Until now I have been working 70% with samples by simply recording different sources with digital recorder and manipulating them via software or effects, while I would like to work more seriously with them.
I would need to know where to start with hardware, good samplers that are reasonably portable (so no rack) and can be used live to edit both pre-recorded material and stuff recorded on site.
I have been offered at very cheap price a Korg microSampler, which I think I will buy as a toy, but I presume there is something better.
And of course I am not looking for something that requires studies in applied physics or an MIT degree.
Thanks for any suggestion.
The standard is probably Boss SP-404, SP-606 something like that. I use the Sp404 for live. But it does have it's limitations, or I just haven't figured it out yet
btw. is there are significant difference in soundquality between the sp-404 and the sp-404sx?
I don't think really powerful hardware samplers are being made any more. Not since 1999/2000 or something..? Gadgets like Roland SP404 are good for playing pre-edited loops etc. in live situation, but quite useless when it comes to editing sounds. I guess Korg Microsampler is quite nice for live stuff too. The latest rack samplers from the '90s are great for editing but I don't really see a difference between editing on sampler or editing on computer -- other than the more hands-on atmosphere, obviously.
I've thought about a sampler with various banks, efx, etc. All I have is this little blue thing that samples up to 15 sec's. You can play it back at normal speed or half speed. Comes in handy sometimes. Something that stores samples would be useful in a live situation or for rec'ing b/c no one can tell much difference in junk metal loops from one release to the next.
they are obviously much more handy than cd players for backing tracks in live situations and more flexible. You can make a track longer or shorter on the spot
thanks for the infos.
I need it exactly for what human l. told.
I no longer play gigs due to some health problems, but as a caligula, I tend to record everything "live" in a reharsal room, and would like to limit computer usage only to long "narrative" samples and mixing.
working with a sampler would permit me to handle sounds "on-the-fly" while there.
I have purchased the microsampler, but please keep infos coming since I want to try different options.
Recently got a MPC2000, will be picking up a S900 to go with it next week. Obviously very different beasts. I don't plan on using any of them for PE but guess the S900 could function well with the low-bit rate and analog filter. The Boss/Roland I guess are optimal if you're looking for a simple PE loop machine. the oldest one, SP-202 is def more limited but has a stronger effects section and better looks :)
korg microsampler looks like a toy but is a total power station! also recommend that 404
one important missing feature in 202/404/etc family is ability to play "scaled" sounds, up and down the keyboard... here you can only do start/stop, but thats where the micro shines brighter...
brilliant.
my parents told me the package has arrived, I will let you know the results :)
Quote from: pentd on September 25, 2012, 03:37:33 AM
korg microsampler looks like a toy but is a total power station! also recommend that 404
one important missing feature in 202/404/etc family is ability to play "scaled" sounds, up and down the keyboard... here you can only do start/stop, but thats where the micro shines brighter...
Yeah they're good for some stuff, but in the world of samplers, I think not having the possibility to play samples slower/lower and faster/higher, is a
HUGE thing not to have. Comparable to an analogue synth without a filter or drummer with just one drumstick. Of course one can always go Def Leppard but it gets a little complicated if you know what I mean. Really hard to understand why the feature isn't included.
but those 404 things are fast to use!! no setting up... power on + go!! if you store mono sounds you can have insane amounts of clips... +ok fx section for real time mangling... pretty much what a sampler should do.
now its only up to tiny to make an awesome junkstep album!! :D
Quote from: pentd on September 25, 2012, 12:33:44 PM
but those 404 things are fast to use!! no setting up... power on + go!! if you store mono sounds you can have insane amounts of clips... +ok fx section for real time mangling... pretty much what a sampler should do.
now its only up to tiny to make an awesome junkstep album!! :D
Sure thing! Industrial version of: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twHhcB4D-po
Quote from: Salamanauhat on September 25, 2012, 12:24:35 PMYeah they're good for some stuff, but in the world of samplers, I think not having the possibility to play samples slower/lower and faster/higher, is a HUGE thing not to have. Comparable to an analogue synth without a filter or drummer with just one drumstick. Of course one can always go Def Leppard but it gets a little complicated if you know what I mean. Really hard to understand why the feature isn't included.
one can always go Def Leppard .. man, that crack me up! But seriously.. I am currently researching to invest in an sampler (new or second hand) with the possibility of
pitching samples as Salamanauhat mentioned. Anyone have suggestions?
When I have something more substantial after my research I'll post it here. Thanx for the thread.
This (http://www.bossus.com/gear/productdetails.php?ProductId=1159) attracted my attention. Any experience of it from anyone?
(http://www.andertons.co.uk/Products/i/xl_2_rc3.jpg)
Quote from: Andrew McIntosh on October 03, 2012, 05:55:51 AM
This (http://www.bossus.com/gear/productdetails.php?ProductId=1159) attracted my attention. Any experience of it from anyone?
(http://www.andertons.co.uk/Products/i/xl_2_rc3.jpg)
i use it. not this model rc-2 but its pretty much the same as this. very useful but sometimes can give off sounds that were not recorded( esp happens when i use contact mic. it will give out "sonic" sounds).
Quote from: Andrew McIntosh on October 03, 2012, 05:55:51 AM
This (http://www.bossus.com/gear/productdetails.php?ProductId=1159) attracted my attention. Any experience of it from anyone?
(http://www.andertons.co.uk/Products/i/xl_2_rc3.jpg)
I own and operate a couple of RC2's which I think is a fantastic pedal really, never had any trouble like the ones Streemeat describes. When my budget allows I will get one of these, since recording time/space is superior on the RC-3. I think this series is excellent (have a big one as well, is it called RC-50 perhaps?) and with just a little effort really easy to use for nice seamless looping, rhythm, layered noise etc. Now, that goes for the RC-2 but I would imagine they have kept the very simple basic qualities of it for this one.
yep, this is what I often use. I think RC-1 or 2. Not the latest model.
I never use storage or such, but simply to make live loops and layers of loops.
One mistake that can be made - especially live, is to accidentally turn the drum machine knob, as it's basically part of output volume level control.. Seen it happen by others.
Quote from: FreakAnimalFinland on October 08, 2012, 09:22:37 AM
One mistake that can be made - especially live, is to accidentally turn the drum machine knob, as it's basically part of output volume level control.. Seen it happen by others.
Yes I totally forgot about that horrible function, happened to me ONCE and luckily I think people didn't get that but for me it sort of ruined a lot of the build up. Fucking stupid function. A huge set back come to think of it, but still not enough to discourage from use.
I think this should do exactly what I need.
I will try to get one and let you know.
The MicroSampler is a damn good instrument as well but for totally different things.
I still have to learn how to use it properly but I am glad about my purchase.
Quote from: STREETMEAT on October 03, 2012, 06:29:08 AM
Quote from: Andrew McIntosh on October 03, 2012, 05:55:51 AM
This (http://www.bossus.com/gear/productdetails.php?ProductId=1159) attracted my attention. Any experience of it from anyone?
(http://www.andertons.co.uk/Products/i/xl_2_rc3.jpg)
i use it. not this model rc-2 but its pretty much the same as this. very useful but sometimes can give off sounds that were not recorded( esp happens when i use contact mic. it will give out "sonic" sounds).
im selling the RC-2 if anyone wants it email me at
whitegimpmask@gmail.com
got the rc-3 does what it says!
How long of a sample can the RC3 do? I like the idea of being about to store some samples on a pedal. Would come in handy for a live performance. Having some drums would be good when I get that urge to make techno. If it kettle drums, I can start my martial folk project...
i think the rc-2 was around 16 seconds are so with up to 3 or 4 different loops going at the same time. i "save loops" with it/ if its even possible with the rc-2
from the site :
" The sky's the limit with three hours of recording time!"
the rc2s (got two) are my most valued assets for recording as well as providing a stable live base. I'm dying to get an RC-3 but my fucked up economy does not allow it for the moment. Its a shame.
I've used an Akai Headrush for looping things, just live layering. But when looping continuous sound there always seems to be a faint click or jump sound where the loop ends/starts... even if the sound going in is the same level etc. all throughout. Does the RC-2/RC-3 have this problem? If not I might consider trading up.
I was recently recommended roland sp-808 as the best sampler ever (whatever). Anyone used that? From locals I've heard that though memory is not that big, it's quite enough, but the zip drive might "jump off" because of vibrations etc. your opinion?
The SP808 is easy to use and fairly durable. Zip disks can hold like 2plus hours of music for them however both Roland Sp808 and the 804 that I had started corrupting zip disks which seems to be fairly common problem with zip format in general.
Samples usually have a little clipping sound because the beginning and end of the wav file or whatever needs to be fixed. It's way easier to make samples and do the pad layout/parameters on a computer with an MPC or whatever then using the sampler it's self.
ive been using the boss sp202 i would say better then the boss rc-2 pedal "limited" but at the same time just using it for another synth line/wall/porn clip it does everything just the way i want it too.
I like the weird little envelope filters in the 202. The time chop is kind of nasty too.
Quote from: whateverforever on November 19, 2012, 07:52:10 AM
I like the weird little envelope filters in the 202. The time chop is kind of nasty too.
i also wanna say the effects dont sound bad but i was watching someone use the sampler with the built in effects at dead audio last week and it sounded horrible... yet again maybe they were just using shitty source.
Using the loop machine a lot now, it has become essential (thanks!). although it has no manipulation/effect I was requesting it is very very powerful (despite the annoying rythm patterns).
got that sp 808 ex today. feeling slightly retarded when dealing with this sort of technology. but it's good with built-in mixer and you can use it like 4-track recorder etc. will have to go to studio soon to check how it works in environment with high volume. but it's rather nice. my main concern is zip disc. i hope it doesn't start failing. we'll see
I'm looking to buy a loopmachine/sampler that will store phrases when switched off, will probably use it for 60% live looping and 40 pre-recorded stuff.
What loop boxes, samplers etc. allow you to combine two (or more) pre-stored loops live? The Boss RC20/RC30 looks good in that it can handle two separate loops at the same time and has individual volume knobs/faders (and even tempo, effects etc.) for each, whereas I guess other loop boxes only allow you to layer loops on top of each other?
Also, how does the Digitech JamMan stand up against the Boss? It seems practical to be able to store loops on a memorycard.
EDIT: Or is it just the RC30 that allows one to control the two loop tracks separately?
For some, this may be a good and cheap alternative: Akai MPX8. Small and simple. Possibly gonna try it out myself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fGw1IQoWf4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fGw1IQoWf4)
(https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSnxkf4gdbfFSpeZShCh7LQSXsLHq1MFr5Y9NBii2maSSgeJs0DgQ)
Apparently Akai never got around to finishing the software due to lacking sales, rendering the unit kinda useless. gotta love the modern industry.
I tried to use the boss sampler for some time, but had some issues with the sound. I was supposed to work fine(continue play the loop) after pulling out the in-cable, but there was a quite big detoriation in sound then. However, im quite satisfied with this one:
http://www.voxamps.com/pedals/lillooper/
Seamless loops, two input tracks, and very easy to use in a live setting. Also the erase button is very handy in a live setting when needing to switch/record new loops fast. Not to mention its very affordable!
Quote from: KHH on November 17, 2013, 11:46:01 PM
Apparently Akai never got around to finishing the software due to lacking sales, rendering the unit kinda useless. gotta love the modern industry.
Useless? Maybe for extensive studio work, I agree. One has to prepare the samples on a computer, for example.
But as far as live things go - it's portable, can take midi in, does panning, pitch tuning, looping, etc. 32 Gb can hold a rather nice amount of material. What else would one expect/need from a box of this size?
Quote from: Salamanauhat on November 17, 2013, 10:54:13 PM
For some, this may be a good and cheap alternative: Akai MPX8. Small and simple. Possibly gonna try it out myself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fGw1IQoWf4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fGw1IQoWf4)
(https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSnxkf4gdbfFSpeZShCh7LQSXsLHq1MFr5Y9NBii2maSSgeJs0DgQ)
Got it a couple months ago but still didn't managed how to use it in my setup :)
Mostly because lack of time, prepearing samples and transfering take a lot of time (forever). Software is really raw, hope they will release some updates.
All in all for that price it's still ok and hardware is rather good quality.
points:
+ small
+ cheap
- slow
- raw software
@Jaakko
Regarding "useless" From what I understood, the software is still in beta state meaning dysfunctional, sloppy and no good fro transferring. metalpunk might know more?
i think on yutube some dudes reviewed it and said the same as metalpunk... its a hassle to set it up, but quick and simple to use after that.
whats wrong with good ol stinky 303/404?
The Korg Electribe Sampler will be released soon.
http://www.korg.com/us/products/dj/electribe_sampler/
(http://www.korg.com/us/products/dj/electribe_sampler/)
I still have a EMU E6400 Ultra Sampler, but I don't use it anymore.
It was so expensive back then - just use a DAW nowadays.
I have seen demo of the volca sampler and I am disappointed. there is no input and samples are imported via ios application...
That Electribe sampler seems nice. Could be handy for simple live stuff.
Recently dug up my old Yamaha A3000 v2. Installed a 128 MB working memory back in the day (~15 years ago), still works fine. Installed also 9 GB hard disk back then (officially supports only 8 GB but worked fine somehow), but after years and years of non-use the hard disk seems to have quite working. However, with external SCSI-drive it's still okay. Of course, saving samples is not even mandatory for studio use. Just sample good stuff, play and record on the fly, and get over it.
It's a really powerful sampler, with very nice filters, very good adjustable midi controls, and a fast and intuitive interface (once one gets into it). Can be used also as a good external effects machine. If you need a sampler, got space in your studio and can find one for a nice price, I'd say for for it. Never tried those A4000 and A5000 but I guess they're nice as well.
Quote from: tiny_tove on November 12, 2014, 09:44:58 AM
I have seen demo of the volca sampler and I am disappointed. there is no input and samples are imported via ios application...
Fuck that. They were doing really well with that series, too. The trouble with marketing such machines towards a particular market is that basic common sense often ceases to exist.
i have always been watching out for a sampler with the possibility to fade in/out single tracks, but obviously doesn`t exist ... seems to me like an absolute essential funtionality?!?!?
Quote from: Andrew McIntosh on November 12, 2014, 11:45:04 AM
Quote from: tiny_tove on November 12, 2014, 09:44:58 AM
I have seen demo of the volca sampler and I am disappointed. there is no input and samples are imported via ios application...
Fuck that. They were doing really well with that series, too. The trouble with marketing such machines towards a particular market is that basic common sense often ceases to exist.
I think they don't want to undermine too much the elektribe sample... although they would have two different target users...
Quote from: fin de siècle on November 12, 2014, 12:06:54 PM
i have always been watching out for a sampler with the possibility to fade in/out single tracks, but obviously doesn`t exist ... seems to me like an absolute essential funtionality?!?!?
You mean controlling the volume of single samples/loops? I think this is a standard in most samplers.. What piece do you have atm?
Quote from: Salamanauhat on November 12, 2014, 03:21:54 PM
Quote from: fin de siècle on November 12, 2014, 12:06:54 PM
i have always been watching out for a sampler with the possibility to fade in/out single tracks, but obviously doesn`t exist ... seems to me like an absolute essential funtionality?!?!?
You mean controlling the volume of single samples/loops? I think this is a standard in most samplers.. What piece do you have atm?
Yes, I mean controlling the volume of 2 or more tracks at the same time ... I don`t have a sampler myself, but would like to have such.
Quote from: fin de siècle on November 12, 2014, 04:30:27 PM
Quote from: Salamanauhat on November 12, 2014, 03:21:54 PM
Quote from: fin de siècle on November 12, 2014, 12:06:54 PM
i have always been watching out for a sampler with the possibility to fade in/out single tracks, but obviously doesn`t exist ... seems to me like an absolute essential funtionality?!?!?
You mean controlling the volume of single samples/loops? I think this is a standard in most samplers.. What piece do you have atm?
Yes, I mean controlling the volume of 2 or more tracks at the same time ... I don`t have a sampler myself, but would like to have such.
Depends of the sampler, but if you can assign midi functions to each sample, you can control their volumes with a separate midi controller. Just assign certain command to certain samples' volume values. If they all respond to the same command, it's one knob for several samples, or if you decide to assign individual control knobs for each sample, it's different. Not sure if the cheapest samplers have this but at least normal studio hardware samplers should have this. A3000 for example, hehe.
Since a few loopers hopped in this thread, any thoughts about "Akai Professional E2 HEAD RUSH"? What's good/bad about it? I know that MAAAA used it, but not much more.
got the volca sample. it is good, but the fact you cannot record directly through it is stupid and an hassle.
apparently there should be some hacks in that direction.
The new Korg Electribe Sampler seems rather interesting. I think I'll get it for testing. The memory capacity is somewhat limited but probably good for sequences etc. anyway.
(http://www.sounddevices.com.au/secureshop/photos/large/4421.jpg)
Looks good but as always this machine lacks seperate outputs. Do none of these gear manufacturers understand the importance of that?
Back to the Volca discussion. What I saw and heard of the Volca Sample in demos looked and sounded like an abomination. I'll be selling my 3 Volca's soon. They're good but I have no use for them.
Never really used any samplers or loops for Coma Detox, but I've bee using a Roland MS-1 sampler quite a bit for Disgusting Sanctum material. Compared to newer samplers it's a piece of garbage but works fine for what I need it for. Recently picked up a sandisk 32mb card after about 12+ years of owning the MS-1. It's pretty limited but can turn loops and samples into some nasty sounds.
without a memory card you can have eight 4-second samples on the SP202 if you're recording in 'hi-fi' mode. you can play back four at a time depending on length of the sample and what, if any, on-board effects are active. i've never really used the boss RC-2 (or the bigger one) so i can't comment on that, but if you do all your sampling beforehand using the SP202 live is pretty intuitive.
with the setup you described, it sounds like you're using two mixers? you could save space by running an aux send from your mixer into your effects chain so you can dial in signals from different mixer channels into the same effects.