SP-404 MK2 vs MPC One // Are they on the same lvl now?

[@LiamKillen]

Interested in purchasing the SP-404 MK2 or MPC One? Support this channel while you're at it! Below are affiliate purchase links for MPC models that I make a small commission off of AT NO EXTRA CHARGE TO YOU: MPC One ►bit.ly/2Rbo5rX SP-404 MK2 ►bit.ly/3FLBlsf

[@Rustik1722]

Unfortunately no one in US seems like till late Jan when SP404 come in stock

[@elijah7525]

to swap sample on pads on mpc hit assign samples from main screen bottom right.

[@Quark.Lepton]

How about a discount for the MPCX for live recording? I’m not a very good button-pusher.

[@Shmack_]

@@Rustik1722 shops got them but decided to sell on eBay for $759-$900

[@brawndothethirstmutilator9848]

So glad I found this video! I really like your approach to comparison here, it solidified for me why the 404mk2 is what I’m looking for with my intended usage.

[@LiamKillen]

Awesome! Glad to help 😊

[@bigkingsha]

Apples to apricots here. The One is a luxurious full-on workstation with a superior sequencer, deep audio editor, multitrack recorder, multiple effects layers/instances and contains a programmable synth engine...the 404 is a just a little box of creative fun but feels more old school with all tactical controls and no touch screen. With Akai there are no limits, whereas the 404 limits you to be more creative with less - so it more accurately simulates the feel of traditional old school aesthetics and principalities of beat production. It's beautifully updated but still feels like the starving producer's basement analog tool. The The MCP X/Live/One are luxury samplers. This is a HUGE win for Roland.

[@LiamKillen]

I really appreciate people such as yourself that contribute to the comments 🙏🏻

[@donartyone3258]

There are definitely limits on the Akai (like only 8 audio tracks for example) but certainly a lot less than the SP.

[@dennishunter5552]

I thought you would say a huge win for Akai.

[@AUGUSTIN-MUSIC]

@@dennishunter5552 yeah wth

[@hans5077]

MPC One is a DAW in the box and I'm trying to get out from there🤔

[@Mikepepp2]

Ease of use is the most important thing. With the mk2. Audio interface. Capabilities. Battery. , usb-c. Song mode . Small form factor. I’ll use the mk2 more than my mpc one I predict.

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah MPC is very complex but it's not for everyone.

[@zyairthetruth]

I own the mpc one and it has been a great and challenging learning curve with going from a traditional DAW like logic or ableton to a standalone and software unit like the mpc I love all that it can do and is capable of doing I have a lot to grow with it . And that's why I love the mpc you grow to get your own style out of it . I want the sp 404 to have the versatility and convenience of it . I loved this comparison.

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks for watching Zyair! I agree with you there- and that's just an overall thing to consider with the MPC- the learning curve! The MK2 is also pretty complex but not quite the MPC.

[@zyairthetruth]

@@LiamKillen exactly. Thank you so the more you find more shortcuts and ways to get around. They both compliment each other well because where one lacks the other shines .

[@PHeMoX]

Maybe I just understand things more quickly, but I made my first beat and first complete song on my MPC One, the very first day I got it. The issue is more in how some things in the user interface just do not make sense or lack consistency. This, unfortunately, includes loading up samples / assigning samples to pads etc. Once you understand how to activate a plug-in for the synth expansions and load up a drumkit, it'll be extremely easy. The harder part is dealing with all the quirks of how some stuff just does not make much sense in terms of an intuitive user interface. I wish Akai would have sat down and discard a bunch of the 'old MPC' work flow and come up with something better. Having said that, the MPC One _can_ do pretty much anything you throw at it or want it to do.

[@zyairthetruth]

@@PHeMoX I agree after having it for a good 6 months I can load up and start a beat instantly. It was tough getting use to in the beginning having never used a hardware as powerful as an mpc system but I'm loving what it can do and I've put my time in . Still learning . Because it takes a while just to get a good song going and mixed and everything

[@thehomienicked8208]

The MPC One looks fantastic and I love my Maschine Mk3, but I really really want an SP-404. Just looks like a super cool toy. Resampling stuff in there and using its effects looks very fun and interesting too.

[@LiamKillen]

It is great! MPC One is much more capable though- except for FX

[@thehomienicked8208]

@@LiamKillen I can see that for sure. I just feel as if my Maschine covers a lot of the use cases where I would want an MPC One over a 404 and the more compact form factor of Roland's device just seems neat. Being able to take it out in my backpack to the park or even into the backyard or wherever and just be creative with some samples seems fun. Of the three I've only used Maschine so I can't comment as well as you on the relative merits of each. Thank you for the great video! :)

[@billB101]

@@LiamKillen Except for FX??

[@I.O.M.]

Just got mine and 100% need to update right away. Only complaint they missed in the update making chromatic polyphonic.

[@Two-Eyed_Boy]

Duuuude 🤘🤘

[@LiamKillen]

aaaahhhhhhh

[@Schemez-16vhiphopbeatz]

The mpc workflow is really straight forward i learned the who thing in a couple hours if i couldn't figure something out id watch a tutorial its so nice to work with ...i know alot of people are put of getting one cause they are scared of the workflow but its so easy id recommend you to definitely get one...

[@LiamKillen]

yeah i'd recommend both of these for different reasons - both great units.

[@sgkountz3280]

The things that make the MPC the winner IMO is it does everything you throw at it. The SP404 on the other hand does key things well and is laser focused on doing those thing great. I see my myself getting the ideas started in the SP and moving to the MPC for plugins and some polishing. Then back to the SP for live performance. This is what I told myself to justify the purchase, so we will see when arrives.

[@LiamKillen]

You've summed it up- that seems to be the general consensus between these two.

[@shaqhightower3614]

Same brutha! Just ordered mine last week. Good luck!

[@psysword]

Good luck. It ain't ever coming.

[@PHeMoX]

I know what you mean sgkountz and I can agree, however the SP-404 mk2 does allow for full beat / full song production. It's not that much more limited in a true sense, even when obviously it lacks the whole touch screen DAW vibe and user interface to go along with it. It's more old school in that sense. I do think the MPC One / Live / X can take the audio quality to a higher level more easily, just through the many FX you get access to (not just side chained compression). But even in this video, I was actually fairly impressed with the overall sound quality.

[@wm1573]

mpc doesnt have amp sims for guitar which SP has.

[@QuantumKatmusic]

I was surprised at how delightfuly simple the roland 404 mk2 was, after using the mpc one for so long, and having never used an sp404 of any model, I was not sure what I was in for, I do wish there was just one nice lithium battery since aa's will last you like 3 hours on the roland. I also noticed like you said the 404 does not like it when you hit multiple pads at the same time, all in all though it shines at its small footprint and amazing effects

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah for the price it’s highly considerable in comparison to the one

[@Drone453]

Despite the MPC being the obvious choice for those wanting a complete package, I still feel like the MKII offers something more unique in some ways, in terms of it not just being 'a daw in different casing'. 99% of people would be better off using a laptop than an MPC in terms of functionality but there's not much to rival the MKII as a small form factor device for live use/DJing etc - laptop with a controller is much clunkier than the MKII.

[@LiamKillen]

Hey you’re right there man- I see where you’re coming from.

[@SAFC8294]

I have the og Live and I love it. With the new 404 out, I guarantee that’s gonna put fire under Akai’s feet to stay competitive. That being said, the newest MPC update bringing class compliant audio interfaces into your workflow is a game changer.

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah the MPC is still way ahead as an overall instrument- no question there.

[@doppelganger8659]

You still can’t record MPC audio over USB, though. The 404 can act as an interface.

[@kevingillespie3557]

You can drag and drop samples onto the pads in the mpc either by a) plugging it in via USB in controller mode and using the software (as you did with the SP-404) to choose from drives on your pc or the SD card in the mpc, or b) going into the sample assign tab after pressing the 'browse' button in standalone mode and dragging and dropping them onto the pads with the touchscreen (you need to load the samples first this way, but once you get into it it's super quick, and you can load all samples from a folder using the shift key when browsing). I'm reasonably sure that you can swap pads much quicker with either of these methods too. MPC DAW/software is crazy deep for what is essentially free software, but as you've alluded to in the video, you'd need to be using it as your main DAW to get the most out of it as it isn't immediately intuitive, and the rewards in terms of workflow probably come further up the learning curve than with other software. Thanks for all the quality content! Also those skins are 🔥

[@LiamKillen]

Thank you for this input! ❤️

[@MannyOGK]

Mpc beats is hard to use out of all daws available and I have used almost all I can’t make a beat from scratch without a template.

[@LUImusic856]

MPC one is the best production hardware I’ve ever worked with and feel so blessed to have been able to get one. Oh and maschine pads are definitely not bad but the MPC feels so much more idk comfortable IMO

[@LiamKillen]

It's a really strong tool! Thanks for watching :-)

[@LUImusic856]

@@LiamKillen for sure good luck on your upcoming channel boul

[@bjamminsincebirth3494]

I’m getting my SP404 MK2 today. Great video. I was second guessing my purchase but maybe the software updates will help.

[@LiamKillen]

There will be lots I bet.

[@bjamminsincebirth3494]

@@LiamKillen I returned it already. I don’t like the workflow.

[@shark6350]

@@bjamminsincebirth3494 why didn't you like it ?

[@bjamminsincebirth3494]

@@shark6350 So I’m not use to hitting resample to record. That’s was weird. It was crazy menu diving and I don’t wanna work harder to get an idea out. I do like the velocity sensitive pads, 303 effect, super filter and the look. Another thing I hated is the chopping wasn’t good but I come from IPad Koala Sampler, BeatMaker 3. The MPC is probably closer to the workflow I would like. I like super intuitive workflows. Press record press play and bam. Also the fact that you can’t plug-in and download latest firmware. You have to get a sd card and stick it into the computer then download firmware put it back in the SP hold shift click yes the power off then on again. 🤔 wowwwwww. 2 hours later I go to record and it doesn’t sound better than the iPad. I was hoping the effects were better and they were alright. For SP heads it’s probably the best thing ever. For newbies prepare to give all your time to learning. I ain’t got time for that much menu diving. Oh top of all that…there is no true way to stem the tracks out properly. Kicks, Snares, Hats, Keys, Samples, etc. This is 2021 going into 2022. Why?

[@shark6350]

@@bjamminsincebirth3494 interesting. This is my first sp and I'm loving it rn.

[@wiidlbeetle3857]

Awesome video to me because I’ve been on the fence about what to get

[@LiamKillen]

I hope this informed your decision! Thanks for watching.

[@EvilldewerTv]

AKAI master of all beat machines. No contest here.

[@LiamKillen]

Overall- yyyyup

[@dillipphunbar7924]

Looks like I bought the MPC ONE at a good time, and I was considering the 404 instead, but it wasn't available for 3 months. Having both must be great as you could route an output (using a usb interface to give you more ins/outs) to the 404 to take advantage of those cool effects. I'm a total noob with samplers and grooveboxes so it is proving to be a challenge , but having fun.

[@LiamKillen]

Keep on exploring my friend! Thank you for watching :-)

[@LUImusic856]

Why did they go up in price lol?

[@shawndiggz8904]

Great review. I own both machines and I love it! Having the best of both worlds in my studio is paramount.

[@LiamKillen]

Absolutely! Thanks for watching

[@stuffnuns]

I’m giving a longing look to the SP-404. With the upgrades, especially the Screen, it will be a perfect addition to my live sets. Neither the SP404 mk2 nor the RC505 mk2 LoopStation are available to us regular folks until after February 2022. No Christmas for me.

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah it's nuts right now. Hang tight!

[@nickafflitto7519]

Love those drum sounds....Downloaded your sample pack. Great work.

[@LiamKillen]

Thank you Nick! Very much appreciated.

[@Blogspierre]

Thanks for the work. I will say, by way of critique, and as someone well versed w/ the Live / X / One ecosphere, that your familiarity with the One’s GUI / workflow has colored your perspective on its intuitiveness. It’s really kind of arcane in many of Akai’s design choices. Having also come from a more destructive OP-1 / Koala world (Not to mention Portastudios.. way back!), I see the MK2 as a more intuitive performance-based recording tool. Hunting down a stray feedback loop that’s bleeding into the next sequence, among 25 programs (or god forbid an individual pad effect nestled inside one) is something I’ll be glad to put down, from the MPC world. 👑

[@LiamKillen]

For me: MPC = producing // MK2 = FX (for the most part).

[@briannhinton]

Good review of Distrokid. I’d love a video covering using Distrokid and what the process is like.

[@LiamKillen]

I actually made a video about that a couple years ago! Here it is kzbin.info/www/bejne/hXjVhWCgdpKLhtE

[@cireirby5359]

I have the following MPC ONE,LIVE,60,60II,1000,500,REN,STUDIO BLACK,ELEMENT,2000,2000XL plus SP404 mk2, ASR 10, Emu Sp 1200,MC 909, all are unique in their own way but I must say the sound quality ,the effects that can be combined per pad in the Sp 404 mk2 and then resampled with the pitch adjusted bring a Whole other level I have owned this unit for 2 months and found a lot of tip & tricks on ver 3.0

[@LiamKillen]

Oh you're stacked my guy

[@Drrolfski]

1. If you already have the SP 404 MK2: buying the MPC One still makes sense because of the improved (performance) capabilities 2. If you already have the MPC One: buying an SP 404 MK2 makes less sense because then it basically becomes a cool fx module at best that you hook up to your MPC 3. If you have neither of them, go for the beast that pretty much has the best of both worlds: The MPC Live 2. Suddenly you realize that having good speakers on your groovebox is something you've always wanted and you will find yourself using this around your house everywhere.

[@LiamKillen]

I like the analysis! Although I think the MK2 is worth it for the FX alone!

[@PHeMoX]

I really disagree the MPC Live 2 has the 'best of both worlds'. It's just as limited as the MPC One in terms of realtime live FX mangling on whatever you have going on on your MPC. It's why the SP-404 mk2 or really any SP-404/SP-303 FX box is such a nice companion. Personally, I think the SP-404mk2 is a bit pricey at the moment, but at the same time it is stand-alone and fully functional as it's own complete sequencer / sampler too. Anyway, my point being, in no way is getting the MPC Live 2, the same as getting an MPC One and the SP-404mk2. Not remotely close. The MPC One + SP-404mk2 combo is way more worth it than just the Live 2.

[@Drrolfski]

​@@PHeMoX Mobility and some cool FX are really the only things that the SP 404 MK2 has to offer over the MPC One. But that mobility becomes meaningless as you hook it up to the MPC One because of its superior pad performance and other capabilities. With the MPC Live 2, you keep the mobility and gain even better pad performance and more capabilities (I/O's, wireless, etc.). Sure, you miss out on some cool FX (for now) but the MPC is no slouch in that regard and new FX literally get added all the time. The SP 404 MK2 with its smaller form factor and screen, is by design more limited in how much it can expand its capabilities with firmware updates and can never hope to do the stuff an MPC can do. And used in conjunction with an MPC One it's really nothing more than an expensive FX module so overall, you're better off spending less money on a single device like the MPC Live 2 instead.

[@boombyeah]

It's so ahead of it's time we can't even have it lol 😂

[@LiamKillen]

It's overwhelming how quickly updates come now. Especially for someone in my position!

[@boombyeah]

@@LiamKillen with updates that's a good thing I was referring to the units availability it's like the ps5 of the beat making community

[@Jason75913]

@@boombyeah hahahaja, behringer synths were the PS5 of audio gear for a while, and it's too early for the SP-404 MkII to be the same

[@LiamKillen]

Ah yes true

[@jjbing3]

@@boombyeah yep. I went to check for one… preorder so you can get one in September 2022.

[@igotbit9454]

I dunno if it’s on purpose but the subtle humor in your vids is top tier. In terms of the video, I’m looking to get my first sampler. The Akai sounds great cause it’ll have stem support the only problem I have with it is that it’s not as portable as the Roland and the live 2 is just too expensive plus I feel they’re gonna upgrade the live 2 any day now with a new + model or if we’re lucky, a 3rd version!

[@LiamKillen]

Haha thanks for watching :-) You're in good hands with Akai!

[@tk33k]

I’ve bought Sp404sx and a Mpc 5000 in 2010 three years later mpc literally exploded and I was left with the sp. Since then it had water, double cream, and all kind of food spilled on it by my kids , took it apart cleaned it and it’s still working. Mpcs are delicate equipment and there is a lot of parts that can and are breaking.in my opinion the variety of use of mpc is limited. Sp can be used outdoors as a field recorder , I often use mine as multi track recorder.

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah absolutely! I love the way the SP pre amps sound too!

[@bjamminsincebirth3494]

I think the MPC One or Live is an easier workflow for anyone who is new to these two machines. The SP has perks but I think it’s best feature is the effects. I with Roland would have focus more on the sequencer which is one of the weak points. Although the MPC sequencer isn’t great at all. I think all in all I would go MPC or get an IPad and Launchpad Pro Mk3.

[@LiamKillen]

I absolutely agree there- I think that the FX are the most unique part of the instrument and what really makes it worth it.

[@inperfectsequence7840]

MPC one is a good machine for making beats in the classic way of musicians with Akai machines. But the SP404mk2 has the capacity to be an audio and midi interface for the device via USB-C. USB-C has the advantage of emitting sound from any external device plugged into that cable. an iphone, ipad, MacBook, android, PC... but the MPC One doesn't work that way and I see much more practice to capture audio instantly from anywhere. MPC one is a DAW, the SP404 mk2 is an audio-only sampler. MPC One just for using samples is very powerful, but if you demand plugins, its 2 GB of ram and its limited processor make composing with plugins a big problem. If we use both only for audio samples we will see that both are great, but the SP404 mk2 is the only one that works as a sound and MIDI card for any computer.

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks for all of these additions - speaking of additions! You'd be a great addition to the Discord with knowledge like this :-) discord.gg/xj8J2xJuBP

[@DesiLofi]

MPC live I’ve had and MPC One SO CLUNKY the user experience is everything and MPC does not have that, SP404MK2 on other hand wow , game changer one of my best investments in last two decades in music equipment!

[@LiamKillen]

Interesting! You're one of the first that just full on prefers the MK2 over the MPC!

[@ndavies8]

Great video and I agree with you! If you are new to the MPC world, it understandly can take some time and commitment to learn but when you do, boy you will be chopping and slicing your way to some really great sounds. The Roland is fantastic for someone who doesn't want to commit to the learning curve or have the MPC as their centre piece. Both are really great units.

[@LiamKillen]

Exactly! Thank you for watching 😊

[@o.g.9919]

I’ve had my MPC one for a year and a half so I can say as soon as you have your head wrapped around it and you have good workflow. It’s a wrap. But the SP looks so interesting

[@Zeal808]

Hiii Liam 😊 hope all is well. I picked the 404mkii. Mainly because of the size and price. Other wise if I had the space and money I’d get the Mpc. Both machines are pretty legendary 🤩 awesome video!

[@LiamKillen]

Thank you ! :-) You won't be disappointed with the 404 mk2

[@ThinkerThunker]

I use the MPC One as my DAW. There's no latency, you can add HUNDREDS of audio clips, using MPC's Clip Programs, which work like Ableton Live's Session Mode. Plus, the MPC has mastering effects, synth bass and lead instruments, drum kits galore and on and on and on. It's awesome! And while the SP-404 is cool and portable, the MPC One is a reliable, professional music making work-station. Get one.

[@LiamKillen]

I agree with everything you just said there.

[@PeteOnTheBeat]

Liam, I'm working on my beat tape and for that I had to go back to my MPC DAW beats. So far it's been a slog and i can't trust it. It doesn't export samples sometimes. Sometimes doesn't load the Plugins etc etc. Probably it's just my bad PC,but still...

[@LiamKillen]

Hmmm well that's annoying.

[@Hitnrun69ify]

Liam you are a true character... 👍 You're my new mentor that's for sure. Can't wait to get my MKII in. Love the way you clearly explained everything that you did in this video. Tip my hat off to you!

[@LiamKillen]

Wow that's great to hear! I really appreciate you watching! 🎩

[@elambi]

My 404 finally came a couple weeks ago. Loving how easy it is to input my synths and guitar into it! MPC looks great but I already have a Maschine mkII.

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah you’re good to go then

[@kevinmackler]

i think this is a really solid video. i dont even have either of these machines, just a maschine mikro mk2 thats collecting dust, but enjoyed the comparison regardless!

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks for watching kevin! What do you think of the maschine pads?

[@DavidDeLuge]

For me, the SP-404MKII is the instrument of choice. Anything with a big screen is a turn off to me since I sit in front of a screen all day writing software. The last thing I want to do is sit in front of a screen when making music. For that reason, I've had an OP-1, an OP-Z and now have a Deluge, a Verselab MV-1, a Circuit Rhythm and an SP-404MKII. The immediacy of the SP-404MKII is what makes it really shine. Here's my latest song made on it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4OziIF5lJt-hNE

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah I totally get that- MPC screen is a big ol’ thang.

[@joshhanson9321]

I don't mind screens, but touchscreen? Fahget about it. No way. Might as well have a mouse at that point. Touchscreens are too awkward. If I got a new MPC I would get the X because there are plenty of knobs, faders, and buttons. I have an MPC2500 and aside from the effects and portability, it does everything I need it to. I may get the 404 mkII and use them together.

[@sabrosapurr]

This is a big factor for me for the same reason. I'm dying to get away from screens after working on one all day. So, the SP-404MKII is attractive for that reason. The MPC ONE is super cool though for those without those considerations. Plus, as @KingShaman said, the SP does have that traditional old school aesthetic.

[@ghanezu]

Compared to mv1 how's the immediacy of the sp mk2?how it works with mv1?I too have mv1.

[@DavidDeLuge]

@@ghanezu the SP-404MKII is much more immediate because it's not a synth. It trekked in your putting samples onto the SD card or sampling from other sources. The MV-1 is very deep by comparison.

[@Jerewalch]

It would be great to have another comparison between the MPC One and the MC707 :) great job with this one

[@LiamKillen]

That is def something to consider! Thank you! I def have some homework to do there though before putting something valuable out.

[@tastelesstouch]

Awesome video man. I’m using the SP404 with a Maschine+ as kind of a master fx unit with the ability to play samples or interlude tracks I make while I load up the next project in Maschine. You really need to try playing on a Maschine controller, the pads are 🔥

[@LiamKillen]

I heard!!

[@md9418]

yooo someone might’ve posted this already but saw you were turning off the gate for each individual pad…pretty sure you can turn gate off/on the entire bank by pressing shift + gate-hope this saves some time!

[@md9418]

You can also shift the volume of an entire bank by doing shift + bank

[@LiamKillen]

🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@LiamKillen]

Thank you!!!!!

[@thecliffofzero8294]

When I was a kid I saved up hard for a Yamaha SU700 and despite initially finding the workflow a bit tricky I learned to love it. I had to sell it when I went to college and now I’m nostalgic for it but picking up an old SU700 seems a bit crazy considering how far the tech has come. Which of these two would you say is the closest to the SU700 in terms of workflow and capabilities?

[@LiamKillen]

I’m not familiar with the SU700 but the MPC One is the far more capable of these 2

[@jamesjr2550]

Crazy how I own a su700 I got not to long ago and just got my mk2 2 days ago but su700 is more similar to ableton with its loop pads right

[@jamesjr2550]

I would say that 8bit sound in the su700 is good for running samples in

[@aliasghar907]

...not that I could do as good anytime soon, but.. kinda nice to know as an audio / video enthusiast

[@LiamKillen]

Glad to help 🍻

[@lifeonmyave472]

Awesome video man you really went in depth with the comparison. Those drums too are top notch ! I just wish you would’ve talked more about your custom pads lol. That makes a world of difference to the mpc one experience.

[@LiamKillen]

The red pads are from MPC stuff and they’re pretty much the exact same size + feel as the original pads

[@emil3087]

dude love and thank you so much for the Whole Video, but mainly for the Mute Group Part... Im a beginner at the MPC One and tried for Weeks to let my Samples "slide" into another. what Stupidity of myself

[@LiamKillen]

Glad to help and appreciate you watching :-)

[@shoku72]

if Akai had something like Roland with a more cheap portable standalone, Akai would take it for the best machine of the year

[@LiamKillen]

MPC One is the closest thing they have ATM- if you can afford it- it's totally worth it.

[@45516unable]

well there is a mpc 500...

[@randomanton]

It's extremely affordable for what it can do

[@omnidirectional1]

I just want to say I have used both machines and I think they it's hard to compare mpc are great in dynamic sound full spectrum but u can make some serious samples on the 404 the effects are unreal but I don't think just one of them can do it all the akai is great but if I could only choose one I'd take the 404 it's special

[@LiamKillen]

I find that after all recent updates on the MK2 - they just keep adding new stuff to it and now it feels like a completely different entity compared to the MPC One.

[@omnidirectional1]

I completely agree I love the 404 I go everywhere with it I got a great little battery pack the give me 8 hours of its like an instrument in itself I love you videos aswell sure but yeah to me the sp404 just makes cents I've used the circuit all over them but I find the creative complexities the come with the 404 just make it more great

[@jsnswt]

you can edit a mute group in the 404 by holding copy while in the pitch/speed menu

[@LiamKillen]

Thank you for this info! :-)

[@lamarrion]

That yellow killin em 🔥

[@LiamKillen]

😏

[@tom22333]

If I had to choose 1, I would go mpc for more flexibility and an almost complete all in 1 package. I have a live and have a mk2 coming in. You can't go wrong with either that's for sure. I think you are right that Roland is going to keep pushing out updates too. It's a beast of a little machine

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah I think that's just going to be a thing now- more leverage for them too because with each update there will be a surge in purchases. Geniussssss

[@tom22333]

@@LiamKillen As a fellow owner of both, I'll be more than happy to sit back and reap the rewards!

[@chareslamb87]

I have an MPC one and ordered the MKii yesterday. Had a nice 15%off coupon from guitar center. Sadly like others, it's back ordered until march 2022.

[@sinewaymusic]

I agree with your recommendation to go with the MPC first, but your point that one can't go wrong with either really depends on what kind of music you'll be making. If it's anything other than hip-hop, then you'd actually go wrong pretty badly with the SP-404.

[@LiamKillen]

jeeeezzz

[@CXtheproducer1]

Link mode off is a killer on the MPC “meaning playing past slices” This is video is cool from your perspective but as a seasoned MPC user since the 60 when you know the MPC you fly through things quickly. You definitely got it down💪🏿 ALSO, all the current MPC’s sample slice the full 127 midi implementation where as the 404 only slices to 16 but it’s a workaround. I’m definitely getting a 404

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks you for watching CX!

[@esaint7]

In the minute 10:45 when you are assigning samples to pads, after chopping you can just make a drum program instead of going one by one as you did my man, the workflow it's very easy tbh & also when chopping you don't need to hold shift for chopping, in the same window you can just click chop and adjust, Marlow digs channel and tubedigga are very helpful btw

[@LiamKillen]

word thanks for that info!

[@johnnymandez]

FUN to watch bro, I appreciate it!

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks Johny! Always appreciate you stopping by!

[@bairahrecordings]

That color combo is nice. 👍🏿😎

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks Bairah!

[@kathleencoveny3860]

Another good one .. thanks for the tips .. insights .. sharing your experience and expertise ..

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks as always for watching! ❤️

[@tonybeatbutcher]

5:07 That's maybe because the rubber (latex) pads interact on each other. The SP404 has probably a to tight or to lose build frame where the rubber "pulls up" the pad nr13 when the second finger strokes pads nr14. So because of pressure on the 14th pads make you have less sensitivity on pad 13 and maybe around others too.

[@LiamKillen]

It sems that all of the pads have that same sort of sensitivity.

[@jjanevski]

Fantastic review and comparison. Really helped me out!!!

[@LiamKillen]

Glad to help- cheers.

[@werNASTYle]

everybody here just ignore this fire skins? 🤷🏾‍♂️🔥

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah they're pretty JUICY!!

[@NicleT]

Where are they come from?

[@NJJL98]

You make the best point when you say you haven't gotten into the MPC Studio DAW because you already use Logic. To me with this comparison the SP-404 wins hands down. The MPC One to me feels like it's in this awkward middle ground where it's too expensive/feature-creeped to be this alternative to beat production with its own unique effects. Yet it's not feature-packed or robust enough to replace a DAW. If I wanna make a detailed, polished song I'll just use a DAW, the MPC One feels like you're just handicapping yourself for no reason, where as the SP-404 actually has features I couldn't get in a DAW like portability, the effects, ability to perform and more.

[@LiamKillen]

You bring up some really good points there bubbly!

[@NosebergEatzbugsVonShekelstein]

Spoken like a couple of people who don't know how to use the MPC......

[@strelokknoize]

@@LiamKillen Well, I've been watching your video to find out if the SP could replace my One. I can agree with some of the points bubbly has made. After watching the whole thing I guess I'll stick with my MPC. Yeah, the workflow is a bit annoying sometimes but I really like the built-in plug ins. I been watching a lot of SP videos. For me it seems everyone is making this thin LOFI sound with it and so I'm still wondering if it can make "bigger" sounds too.

[@fmagic2000able]

Liam, I'm team YES to both! But upon further reflection, you did me no favors here - I'll have to add the SP-404 Mk2 as a complement to my MPC One. Once again, I have to have a long discussion with my wallet since we got into an argument a month ago about getting a Korg Wavestate after making a recent purchase of a Korg Modwave. So far, I may be losing these arguments soon as I am running out of excuses to justify purchasing more gear.

[@LiamKillen]

I feel you! Gear for the wiinnnn!!

[@PHeMoX]

@5:00 by the way, this is definitely user related. I don't want to sound rude, so didn't say 'error', but it kind of is. The MPC One actually has the same problem, because in reality the pads are not sensitive to a hit across the entire surface of the pad (ie. including corners), but more so only in the exact centre of the pads. This means if you try to hit the pad more diagonally due to finger drumming angles and simultaneous play, it can actually mistrigger or respond late. I had this exact same issue on the MPC One and had to slightly adjust my play style to fix it. It also helps to adjust the sensitivity and pad threshold value to something that allows you to hit the pad fairly hard. I would have preferred more of a lighter touch to respond, but the MPC One actually will start to double trigger and glitch just through basic play. Now don't get me wrong, with the other pad sensitivity and threshold values it is extremely playable and works fine. But my Maschine Mikro MK2 does allow for a more mellow play with higher sensitivity, without annoying double triggers or mis-firings. At the end of the day, I do wish the MPC One had bigger pads. They truly are a bit too small. I kind of think the SP-404 pads allow you to hit the pads more off centre, whilst still responding as their design is a bit different (ever so slightly more rounded on top). But I guess it depends a lot of actual finger drumming. Oh and last but least, the MPC software is kind of trash honestly. Using the MPC One in stand-alone is just way more straight forward. The software is a cluttered mess that does not feel like a DAW. And mind you, it largely does the exact same thing as when in stand-alone mode. It's not remotely close to the Maschine 2.x software or stuff like Ableton or even Reaper. It also can not really do more than the MPC One stand-alone, except for more audio tracks (which you do not have to use, there are plenty of work-arounds available including bouncing to a sample pad or bouncing to a single audio track) and for more extensive plug-in usage (yes, some are MPC software-only unfortunately and do not allow stand-alone use, but the better ones are stand-alone compatible it seems and possible to export from the software. It sucks this process fails to work most of the time though).

[@LiamKillen]

Ah I see what you're saying- in comparison though the 404 mk2 pads are a lot more sensitive and there's these double triggers happening which makes it harder to execute.

[@ashconbeats8414]

If only there was an MPC stand-alone with all the effects of an sp404. That would be the perfect combo

[@LiamKillen]

And thus it would 😢 nothing’s perfect 😢

[@creationbeatsuk]

I run my mpc through my sp and then back Into mpc 😁

[@bjamminsincebirth3494]

I do wish they offered 24 bit sample capabilities. Then you could down grade if you wanna.

[@LiamKillen]

Truth

[@Jason75913]

That it is restricted to redbook audio (44.1kHz @ 16-bit) is an odd limitation, given it is $500 and has no keybed or such things that can drive up price. Not even an aluminum chassis. edit: and I read that the post effects aren't very good either versus the $500 MC-101, and then that would mean it falls behind even the older JD-Xi which has been $500 for years before the price hike (+$20) during the pandemic. JD-Xi is also 24-bit because I noticed that the noise floor of its main outputs is -120dB, well beyond the -96dB limit of 16-bit (typically ranging from -90dB to -70dB in actual practice depending on what gear we're talking about)

[@wslbeats]

I am pretty sure that the mpc converts everything to 24bit. It only works with 24bit internally..

[@Jason75913]

@@wslbeats Badass

[@Dante-qf9yd]

This has to be one of the best videos demonstrating music equipment. Pros, cons, how to use with great examples. I wouldn’t know which to get because you can edit with software. But if he would have given an opinion on live performance, well...

[@LiamKillen]

Awesome! Glad that it's helping you out! :-)

[@MaxOstrovtheheadyhive]

@@LiamKillen haha Nice reply.

[@SeverusHilltop]

Pls someone answer me. Can u actually make a song with the sp, can u actually sequence a 4 minute song and then export it. Should it be your studios center/brain of producing. Cuz i wanna make music without a computer and im think between the sp and mpc

[@LiamKillen]

Gonna go with no on that one- MPC is b more of what you’re describing

[@caseyrogers935]

I appreciate this video brother! All the best 🤙

[@LiamKillen]

🍻

[@GrootsieTheDog]

For those on the waiting list, just heard back from Sweetwater. I'm on the top half and the appx. Time frame is Jan/Feb. So If you're not on the top half, take a deep breath, center, relax, and be prepared to wait awhile 🤪

[@LiamKillen]

Fingers crossed! I ordered a new I phone and it's been on back order for over a month now...not expecting it till like march maybe

[@doppelganger8659]

I ordered sweetwater on day one, was told January, it’s getting delivered today.

[@SeverusHilltop]

Actually, u can get the mpc one from thomann for about 545£

[@LiamKillen]

That’s a steal!

[@robertgarvansnyder4665]

Great video. I’m be currently got an MPC Live II, and heavily considering switching to an SP-404. Have been an OG 404 owner before, and mostly what I miss from that was the fun and immediacy. The MPC can do so much, but I have to confess, I’ve never enjoyed my time using it. To me, it just isn’t that fun to use. (I’m sure I’d feel differently if I learned it inside and out). I’ve also got a Syntakt/Digitone, and I think sequencing the 404 with the Elektron boxes might be the setup I’m currently looking for.

[@LiamKillen]

A lot of people are making the same consideration!!

[@truelionofjudah4097]

here in germany a new sp404 mk2 is around 500€ and a mpc one is 650€ new...

[@LiamKillen]

Wow the price is different everywhere eh? Crazy- I guess shipping costs play a big factor.

[@larsyvegas8140]

Its €400 in europe , not €500

[@Neuneu8]

I got myself the sp404sx as a fx processor for my MPC some time ago. I also had the modbapmodular per4mer module by that time. Per4mer appeared to be way better. So I sold my old classic sp404sx

[@LiamKillen]

oh really...interesting. I think you'd like the per4mer better than the MK2 as well (for FX). While there are some new FX the general "vibe" of them is very 404. That being said if you want to deep dive, here's a video going through all of the MK2 FX extensively! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ip2cnIafprSEgqs

[@fade2blak91]

I have have a MPC One and 404a an between those 2 i’d have to say MPC all day, chopping on the old sp’s was way to tedious to do all the time. I cancelled my order for my mk2 bc it seems so much like an mpc now and bc ive heard the sound on the mk2 isn’t nearly has grimey as the older sp’s which is the main reason i picked it up.

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah I feel you there- the MPC One can DEF do way more and is just higher quality over all. But IMO the FX alone are what makes the mk2 (or other SPs) worth it

[@fade2blak91]

@@LiamKillen yea man, i thought i was sort of accomplishing the same kind of sp fx with the XYFX but not being able to record those on the master drove me crazy! So now i just make a long seq on the mpc adding mutes. Record that seq onto a an sp pad using what xyfx i like, then resample that to another sp pad with more mfx.

[@lovedead710]

the 404 has cool little geometry spinning around, automatic win for the SP

[@LiamKillen]

It seems to be a love / hate sort of design honestly.

[@lovedead710]

@@LiamKillen I personally love my glorified calculator.

[@yongamusic]

Why, oh why, do so many people say “Em-Kay 2” when it’s simply an abbreviation for “Mark 2”? Isn’t that the same as saying “Em-Arr & Em-Arr-Ess Smith”?

[@LiamKillen]

Good question lol. I like saying MK2- it's got a bit more rhythm to it 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@Nehmie]

4:00 is lovely

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks for watching Nem :-)

[@sinewaymusic]

I think the key difference between the two that seems overlooked is the dramatic difference in versatility. The SP-404 is really a sampler first and foremost, so "making a beat" with it really means making some sort of hip-hop in the end, or at least a very very samples-based form of music. I haven't come across any reasonable examples of how other genres of music can be produced with ease, except maybe BoBeats remix of his own already finished song. The MPC is extremely versatile in comparison - it can be used to "make a beat" of any genre imaginable: techno, EDM, hip-hop, rnb, ambient, rock, pop, synthwave, etc etc.

[@chareslamb87]

Check out animal collective, mainly Panda bear, using it in an experimental indie style.

[@sinewaymusic]

@@chareslamb87 Yeah there are of course the obscure examples out there, but there's a reason why SP-404s are 99.9% hiphop dominated. The workflow just doesn't work well for any other genre unless you're prepared to bend yourself backwards to make music.

[@LiamKillen]

I absolutely agree with you there but also disagree! If you're talking from an FX standpoint the sky is the limit IMO. They def have a throwback/lofi quality that's for sure but they're diverse enough to use in lofi chill (of course) house and electronic: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b32wlpeHebybgdU I've also done some synthwave/ambient things as well. Here's a thing I did with the JU-06a: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqucnI2Gg5ZkqpI As for composing it really depends on the samples that you're using. I agree that there is SOOOO much (maybe too much) boom bap/throwback hip hop stuff with the 404 but by simply just speeding your samples or choosing up tempo samples and changing up the rhythm of your drums, you've entered a completely new genre. This actually sparks some ideas of how to step out of that lofi/boom bap genre with the 404.- should I maybe make a video on this?

[@sinewaymusic]

@@LiamKillen Well, I absolutely agree and disagree with you too! Yes, as an effects box, it's very versatile, but you can't really compose music on it unless you sampled existing melodies into it. Your example with the JU-06A is a good one but it proves that point: you actually made the melody on another device, then you were able to generate interesting iterations of it on the SP-404. If you were stranded on an island with just the SP-404, you wouldn't be able to do much with it. With an MPC, you could create a full album. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure the SP-404 is a creative beast as part of a larger set, but standalone, it's pretty darn limited.

[@LiamKillen]

I see your point and yeah you have to get external sources involved but it’s just so easy to sample with that it doesn’t feel like a big hurdle

[@inspector-tech]

Great video but regarding the MPC... RTFM! The software is ridiculously powerful & I'm sure you'll pick up 1 or two tips to help/improve your current workflow...

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah I haven’t gotten around to it yet…my DAW is enough to work with!

[@mont-doggBeats]

The regular black Mpc one is $800 new and the Mpc one Gold is $800 new at guitar center .

[@LiamKillen]

Yes it's my bad! I made that correction on screen in the video. I was thinking in my own currency for the MPC One Price (Canadian Dollar). Our dollar is weak AF lol

[@jasonchambers6787]

The SP is a down and dirty creative sampler. More of a sampling instrument. The MPC is a workstation built on a drum machine. The SP does what it does and does it very well. The MPC does more, but not as well or as fluid as the SP at what the SP is good at. Both are fantastic samplers, just with different approaches.

[@LiamKillen]

Absolutely

[@IndependantMind168]

Anyone that owned an RS7K and stuck with it knows how horrible and how rewarding steep learning curves can be. The latest gen MPCs have a steep learning curve and I think the oldheads without enough time in the day will probably still be learning it by the time the next gen comes out 😀 I'll report back in two years and let yall know how that's working out. I have a Live II and it's a very deep and flexible machine. I just wish it was available in 2000.

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah especially with all these new updates coming out as well

[@wingsofsteel3246]

Should I buy one if these, or not? I have a Maschine Mk3, and it’s pretty cool, I can’t lie, But I want a sampler that’s easier to sample, incorporates easy into most DAWs, and has that BOOM BAP sound. I like to produce hip hop LoFi, and chill jazz type stuff …..

[@LiamKillen]

if you have the MK3 then I think you're set for those genres- the 404 mk2 is really special though for its FX

[@sgnlbeats]

MPC debuted at $700. That's only a $200 difference in price but a significant difference in specs.

[@LiamKillen]

The One is currently 800 - also sorry about the error! I corrected it on screen in the video. I was thinking in my own currency for that price (it's 1000 Canadian Dollars).

[@PHeMoX]

By the way, there _are_ limitations to how many FX you can assign to pads. For example, you can only have one Vocal Harmonizer active at the same time. And I'm guessing there are more limitations like this in the MPC Live / One / X. It is true these limitations depend on your PC/Mac specs when you use the MPC in controller mode, but honestly .. I don't see the point of using my MPC One in anything but its stand-alone mode. You can of course resample whatever FX you add / bounce to a pad.

[@LiamKillen]

There are some limitations but it's a lot closer to being a DAW in terms of FX application.

[@PHeMoX]

@@LiamKillen Yeah true that!

[@zongzoogly4549]

An advantage to the MPC One? You can actually purchase one. I preordered my 404 the day of rollout and Guitar Center says I might not get my unit until March

[@LiamKillen]

that's a good point dude I feel for you guys.

[@wtvdonot1135]

For the mpc chopping part i prefer to start from a sample, then i trim it, then i chop it in parts. Then i create a new program from it. if i need to have drums on same kit i simply add them after in that program.

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah that would def have been an easier workflow.

[@wtvdonot1135]

@@LiamKillen check out latest Ricky Tinez video about mpc sampling workflow. It is easier also that way to “swap” the part on the pad inside the program.

[@Khordmaster]

I have neither and will likely never get either (maybe the mkII?!?!) but still enjoyed watching and learning about these supremely popular pieces of music tech! K imma go order the mkII now. Jk… 👀… lol

[@LiamKillen]

Ayoooo there he is. Thanks so much for watching! 🤜🤛

[@seanms35]

I just picked up the Maschine mkIII Anniversary model. As a long time MPC user (over 10 years), I still think MPC pads win in terms of feel. The simplicity and portability of the SP404mkII looks really really good. I’m very interested in getting on once they’re in stock.

[@LiamKillen]

Yeah having both is dope for sure.

[@LiamKillen]

MPC pads def win 🔥

[@Schemez-16vhiphopbeatz]

I ended up just getting the mpc one+ last week iv got the circuit rhythm and the ko33 so think im gonna get the sp 404 at some point

[@LiamKillen]

Good choice :-)

[@hijackcloud9]

This is a good compare video! thanks a lot :) quick question, what type of headphones are you wearing in the video? :)

[@LiamKillen]

Those are Teenage Engineering M1s! ALMOST studio quality headphones but not quite.

[@starpause]

sp404mk2 you can just feel, akai makes you think. that's my impression. do wish for sidechain on sp404mk2 tho.

[@LiamKillen]

I hope they implement that too! :-)

[@provokedthoughtz2602]

The mk is dope for what it does but there isn't a comparison between the mpc and the live 2. What you get and the capabilities of the mpc one and live 2 for a stand alone is outstanding. The Mpc line up has everything past mpc users ask for and some. Is it alot packed in a box yes and you need to read the manuals and really learn the machine. It also has great flow back and fourth with your computer. No to mention wifi and Bluetooth.

[@LiamKillen]

Oh yeah besides FX it’s way ahead

[@WyattLite-n-inn]

MPC display looks so much better here but my friend used his sp404mkll in conjunction with his iPad via the app Roland made for it . HUGE difference . Otherwise , great video and thanks for doing this .

[@LiamKillen]

Oh really! Interesting- thx for this!

[@JackJazzm]

Good Stuff bredren 👍🏾 Thanks for sharing

[@LiamKillen]

Big up! Always a pleasure.

[@parisdontlikeyou]

If you go into sample edit on mpc (coming from the Force) you should be able to switch any pad to any sample used in the drum program.

[@LiamKillen]

Oh! Thank you for mentioning this i'll try and remember for next time...so many lil ins and outs that i'm still learning!

[@atetraxx]

@@LiamKillen did you try it?

[@creationbeatsuk]

Right, I'm not an expert with either but I'll add my 2 pence. The mpc is a more versatile unit, it has its own rechargeable battery and built in monitor speakers with more affects and mixing capabilities and ins/outs. The sequencer is 100 times better and there isn't much you can't do with it. It also has a direct link to your splice library and categorises folder by key/instrument/bpm etc, so for a sampler style producer it's easy to find samples in the same key to make a beat, one you get used to the workflow you can bang out your standard youtube producer style beat in like 30-120 mins, paired with splice it's got me throwing away beats I would of been proud of making before getting this unit as its that easy it feels like cheating, I feel I value my beats less now. The sp is fun and has fun effects that you can easily implement to make a standard beat sound interesting with little effort, the resample button allows you to get really creative with samples to the point where they are unrecognisable, you can spend hours just messing with a sample. The sequencer is inferior to the mpc but the limitations in the unit push you to be more creative. And the sound is 90's boom bap/lo-fi with minimal effort. The sp404 mk2 is great as just an effects module, wanna make your clean spending piano sounding like a 90s producer sampled it from Ahmed Jamal? Slap a 404 vinyl sim on it and go full helmet on the flutter, wanna make it sound dirtier? Resample it and add some lo-fi on it, wanna make it sound even dirtier? Resample it again and add saturation. It can be powered by its adapter, or batteries, it can also be powered by an ipad pro! You can also sample directly from the ipad pro both using the type c charger cable. So if you want to travel and have unlimited samples and extra power, bring your ipad pro and a type c cable, get a dual type c adapter and plug your ipad into the wall and the other side of the dual use to power/sample to sp. My only couple of gripes are sequencing in the sp and external sample size which I'm sure can be bettered with updates.

[@LiamKillen]

Thx for this addition!

[@creationbeatsuk]

@@LiamKillen sorry, mpc live I was referring to.

[@webmasterultra3487]

Should have done a history of mpc Montage when demonstrating the chunky pads. ;)

[@LiamKillen]

If only!

[@webmasterultra3487]

@@LiamKillen you are awesome, I love your advice. Pose counting if it gets in the way! You are the most practical best.

[@bendixmax]

Sp, but its gonna be my first device!Just gimme an portable mpc, and just because they havent done it already i also would like to have it waterproof please 😆 well argumented and honest vid, thanks liam!

[@LiamKillen]

I wonder if there's a way to mod it and make it battery powered-

[@kidoctulus01]

10:14 converting the chops into a program is a single ‚click‘ 😉

[@LiamKillen]

The thing with that is that i'd have to re upload all the drums onto that new program (if you're finger drumming all your parts)- which is why i mentioned that I should have started with the sample chopping on the MPC and then add the drums later for consistencies sake.

[@phelper4554]

If Roland would add ableton Link I would instantly buy a sp404. This is something I’m really missing

[@LiamKillen]

Ahh yes that would be cool