Can a cheap drum machine be better? Arturia Sparkle reviewed

[@DopamineOverload]

I continue to be an Arturia fanboy... I listened to a lot of random kits and patterns from Spark 2 and I was blown away by the quality and authenticity of the samples and kits. Unbelievable. My next Arturia purchase, for sure. I've had Maschine for years and while I like the included drumkits... I think Arturia nailed it better... a lot of the Maschine kits have absolutely useless sounds in the top 2 rows. With Spark 2 and the kits that come with SparkLE... it was hard to find useless sounds. Everything just sounds great, easy to use... step-sequencing (64 steps),, record in real-time, XY pad that can do a lot of different stuff... it's hard not to love SparkLE. Superb review, as always, Loopop.

[@robertsillitoe]

I bought this ages ago to use as just a controller, and to be honest, it hasn't seen much use. I am blown away by (and slightly embarrassed I didn't know about) all the functionality. I will be dusting this off and making some beats! Thank you!

[@abitupthehudson]

Questions. 'Stand-alone' means............? Can you load sounds IN the device and how many, so-to-speak 'kits'? What I am trying to ask is can you connect this device to an amplification system without any other devices and hear rhythms. Though I have had to diversify [a lot], I started out as basically a jazz keyboardist and of course, I look for jazz compatibility (sounds and rhythmical nuances).

[@robertsillitoe]

@@abitupthehudson No, all the sounds are on the computer. This is just a controller that allows the computer based sounds to be operated like an external drum machine. But the SparkLE is just a MIDI controller. No audio out.

[@abitupthehudson]

@@robertsillitoe WOW! That is exactly what I thought. Thanks a bunch.

[@Hammer2Bammer]

Very good review I have a secondhand SparkLE for a while now and love it. It works flawless with Abletonlive 10 as a VST in Windows 10 at least. It syncs perfect when you use Ableton as host. Drag the VST in a miditrack but don't use it as instrumentinput and don't enable it in the preferences Midi (track/sync/remote) OFF. Just use the connectcontroller button in the VST. Also its such a nice feature to drag and drop own samples and tweak them. Like pandrums, epic drums or bowls.. Loopmaster samples..It expands creativity. Thanks LoopOp for this overview

[@Fluxwithit]

Another great aspect of sparkLE is that you can use it as a controller for the ios iSpark app which makes it feel very much like a bit of stand alone hardware.

[@detrechter5416]

Ken Flux Pierce Fluxwithit - The app is really nice, but I'm afving some issues with the bass drums sometimes. It starts to oversteer regularly. The sound of the bass drum becommentariëren a kind of high pitched scream. Very strange and irritating. Don't know why and I can't get it to go away. It usually happend after stopping or meting the bass drum. I have an ipad Air 2. So that shouldn't have to be a problem. Any ideas anyone?

[@MrMichimak]

Does it work for you? Many users reported that the flashing pads do not reflect the programmed rhythm.

[@deathcannonx]

Does the iPad app come with it free or is it a separate purchase ?

[@loopop]

Separate purchase

[@deathcannonx]

@@loopop such a bummer and thanks for the info!

[@brians1025]

I very much appreciate your vid on the Awesome SparkLE by Arturia. Very well done & thorough! After a lot of research on this hybrid analog drum machine, I purchased one online for $199 new in April. There is something very special about this hardware (the Spark 2 software is great, too!), and I am so happy with my purchase & this combo! It is literally my favorite piece of gear. I bought the NI Maschine Mk2 last year the week it came out, and while it was pretty cool, It didn’t have the “special X-Factor” for me, so I got rid of it. I liked the Maschine, but I LOVE my SparkLE!! It’s so simple, great sounding & Super fun to make beats on! Arturia is such a great company. My SparkLE came with a bunch of expansion packs (4 at purchase, and several more since then). I just installed the new 2.4 update that came out on 6/6, which also allowed for a few more free expansions! Thanks for the Great overview/demo vid. I’m glad you (and others) appreciate this Dope piece of Kit!! *Viewers: if you’re looking for something fun, inexpensive, versatile, rock-solid and great-sounding, buy this drum machine!!!! Check out the free demo software on arturia.com 1st if you’re not sold yet. Super cool! 😎

[@motlblya]

The best reviews on the web :)

[@masonla653]

Glad you reviewed this. Someone locally has one and I couldnt find want good videos on it. Till now! Thanks

[@SanderAnderon]

been vaguely considering SparkLE/controller a long time, then remembered 'oh yeah, what does Loopop think of it'....you are my go to eyes & ears when it comes to new gear buys, thanks man!

[@GoldenMasterMusic]

SparkLE is a killer drum machine. You got it all! Thanks Loopop!

[@nickpritchard7130]

Big thank you for making this very interesting vid.I just picked up a used Spark Le plus all the extra samples..It is great fun.!!

[@dillipphunbar7924]

Didn't realize the accompanying software was so good...thinking about ditching the Boss DR-3 for this. Good explanation. Thank you.

[@k5r2d2]

Great review+++. I am impressed with how intuitive this interface appears, I think I could be live with Spark 2 and SparkLE in under an hour. I have this profound belief that creativity is unleashed when good software has a dedicated external controller. Thank you.

[@TrNdke]

Picked one of these up recently thanks to your video. What a steal! The quality of the sounds is excellent and it's a very capable little piece of kit. The tune mode and support for samples really elevates it above being a basic drum machine. It's practically a groove box, except for needing a laptop. I've been making lots of music with it and it's really quick to get a backing pattern going when inspiration strikes, but I can also dive deeper into sound design and custom kits if I feel like it. Using it as a VST plugin is brilliant. I can lay down that quick drum track and then tweak and refine it along the way without losing my patterns. The SparkLE paired with a MiniLab MK II is pretty much an ideal complete budget/beginner/backup/on the go setup for making music.

[@habitat5333]

Nishidake You could use it with the iOS app which makes it way more portable you still have complete control over hardware software and midi

[@TrNdke]

@@habitat5333 I'll probably check that out at some point. I'm not an iPad/iOS user, so I don't have one lying around. I could see picking one up in the future just for music production, though.

[@2.7petabytes]

Thank you for the review! I appreciate how in depth your reviews are

[@nukubu9379]

1:10 Spark vs SparkLE 2:10 Sound parameters 3:10 Sequencing 3:40 XY Modifiers 4:10 Performance tools 7:40 Content library 9:10 Advanced sequencing 10:20 Arranging a song 10:45 Advanced sounddesign 12:20 The mixer

[@brunodadivore9606]

Hello thanks for having, these last years, reactivated the interest upon Spark. I owned several drum machines and finally was never fully satisfied. I bought a third hand (!) controler and I have a lot of fun for preanuts money, the pity is that I do not find new kits by Arturia to load.

[@YongaSun]

So, I bought the little bugger for €100,- on ebay, just like you said. Cannot wait to try it out!

[@RP-mp4ow]

Yonga‘s Tidbits how’d you like it?

[@MathHammer]

I bought this new for a ridiculously low price a while ago. I think its only weakness is the lack of polyrhythmic capability in a single instance. I agree that the modular sound design capabilities are a bit clunky, but there is so much content that you can easily find something built already and tweak it. Also, at some point Arturia put a big expansion pack designed for the original Spark on sale for under $10, so look for that. As a bonus, my unit came with a cute little sleeve that holds the controller snugly.

[@VintageMusicGearTV]

Will be getting my spark le out very inspiring thanks loopop

[@igoold1]

I love this software and the controller. Super fun. The modular engine is great for making weird melodic textures too.

[@mattstaples]

I have fallen out of using the SparkLE as I have the Push2 and Ableton but it is a great drum machine - must dust down the controller again for some new beats. Thanks for a great review as always! It's worth mentioning the controller also works with iSpark which is the iPad version of the software

[@jasonrondeau]

Wowzers! THANK YOU. I was able to pick up a Spark Creative Used for 100 Dollars. It is even better than I imagined. I have had it for a few months and I absolutely love the control, the sound quality and the endless amount of tweaking and on the fly adjustments.

[@MWhite-rh1hd]

such a bargain, love to find these little gadgets for so cheap. Almost bought tr8s and this seems to cover all of it plus more

[@TROGULAR10000]

Arturia: great sounding, great interface, clever, and reasonably priced. Their 3 Filters You'll Actually Use and new keyboard V-collection look really good too.

[@NathanChisholm041]

Its Arturia so you know it will be good! I have its big brother and enjoying using in my music....

[@heathbrady8510]

I hope I haven’t already commented on this , but I bought one for $100 Australian , based on this review. I really love your work. What a bargain! I’m only just getting started with this thing but it sounds awesome and I rarely need any convincing when it comes to Arturia ❤️

[@platinumedgemusic9293]

I've had Spark 1 when it first came out. I've tested the DMX, LM1, 707, against NI Maschine.......Spark has MORE punch!

[@oscaraullon]

One of the coolest things in this controler is the awesome pattern length that do not have other hardware machines like electribe and the modular section is cool too but It doesn't has the posibility of play and edit synths. It's like a sampler with good sounds and the quality of them is good but are still sample sounds.

[@jeroenfigee]

This was a really great tutorial. I loved watching it. So many possibilities with this machine :-) and I found it even has old drummachines like Linn Drum & DMX.

[@MikeSmithADSRPro]

Such a great piece of kit, very easy to use and it allows you to drag and drop midi and audio files straight into your DAW. makes creating drum loops and midi files a breeze, BARGAIN!!

[@hodic4653]

The way you edited the interface to pop up over the unit (even at different angles when you change the camera) is some serious dedication! Love your videos. Would be hella cool to have a synth in the future that pops up an hologram interface just like this xD

[@GuitarManiac1975]

This is a wonderful hardware / software combo! For me it was important, that you can connect it via the CCK to your iPad and control - as mentioned below - the iSpark app, which makes it a very portable drum machine / groovebox. I think, the big Spark controller is discontinued, which is not that bitter, because imho the SparkLe fits the software's GUI much better. You get some sturdy hardware and a good sounding software for small money (I bought a crossgrade version for 169,-- EUR), which is definitely worth every cent! And: awesome video! 😉

[@lightfantastik]

You can toggle the GUI to match the SparkLE or the original, full-sized controller layout.

[@gregorio_luque]

Light Fantastik does the big Spark still fully functional? Are there issues for using it in 2020?

[@royklerks1266]

Wonderful showcase

[@stevecc64]

So happy to see this get some attention. The SparkLE is a fantastic combination of hardware and software - low CPU usage as you point out and super deep. I generally find I can get 90% what I'm looking for by browsing the vast library of presets (Arturia also have additional drum packs you can buy to extend this), but the editability is something else. You can tweak down to the finest detail - which is perfect for getting closer to what you have in your head. I use the SparkLE for about 70% of my drums, with the rest coming from Digitakt samples of my modular. The very simple ability to drag and drop an audio clip of a pattern is one of the key features for me - makes it so simple to ensure you have a fully audio mix in Ableton Live.

[@charlesbonkley]

This was a fantastic overview of Spark. The SparkLE interface may be smaller than the original, but it is truly optimized with no real downsides to the original Spark. However, the question that begs to be asked is, "What really is the purpose of the interface?"

[@biochill]

Thanks for showing us this capable drum machine, even though it is already 5 years old. (No irony intended, being sincere)

[@Rickytee2]

Excellent video totally swung it for me got one ordered ...

[@LoftyVisions]

Great review, thank you. Picked one up used today for an absolute steal. Subbed! 👍

[@YongaSun]

What‘s weird is that the bag that comes with it is too small..

[@YouzTube99]

01:15 The original Spark (aka, 'SPARK Creative Drum Machine') is much larger and knobbier, has as a small but helpful display and was discontinued years ago. However, Arturia kindly retains its product page even if it is not referenced on their Product list: www.arturia.com/products/drums/spark Spark PM Emilie provides a clever demo here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ3EZoFshbqjiKs And dancetech have a series of overview/tutorial vids that starts with this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p569Z3p4h7F4fc0 Have fun!

[@digitaldividemusic]

Picked up a mint 2nd hand Spark LE today.for under $80 + tax.. No cable and software but I already have the 2.4 software. Updated the firmware under midi control center. No issues.The 2.4 software on its own sounds great. Having the hardware to complete the package is even better yet. This little box has its own allure. Especially if you have the Spark 2.x software. For the price I paid, Very impressed. I think its a keeper. Anyone want to buy a Circuit ? :) .

[@martinneal5240]

Best I have seen on this little wonder Loopop. Perhaps need to mention that it also runs under an IOS App as well. This really is handy and even more portable...

[@VictorSteiner]

Martin Neal good to know, thnx!

[@ChristopheTessa]

Yes Ipad + Sparkle the perfect combination

[@stateazure]

Great video. One question: If you add repeats onto the automation line, can you adjust the volume of individual repeats there or are the repeats all done at a fixed volume?

[@loopop]

Thanks - I’m away from my spark for a couple of weeks but I don’t recall that being possible

[@stateazure]

Thanks loop! Doesn't surprise me, a fair few drum machines soft/hard don't do this unfortunately. Still it seems like a very good bit of kit regardless.

[@canalmetalurgico213]

Thanks for the great review! Could you go deeper and show the routing and working with the daw versus midi controller or the dragging a drop feature. I have been trying to get spark to play a midi composition in ableton and cubase, but without success. Thanks in advance!

[@loopop]

Hey - thanks for the kind words. I'm not sure I'll make a video just about that - but it should work just fine - just drag the plugin on a MIDI track (at least that's how it works in Ableton) - and it just works... at least it did for me. Send it notes starting from C3, C#3 and on to play the various sounds. If I understood your question correctly ...

[@nobbystyles4807]

i had the spark vst and i literally couldnt believe how good it sounded

[@DeanFreud]

Spark is a really great tool and there is an Update on the way, with many bug fixes! I love this Soft/Hardware, it is the only one that supports a classic Drum machine workflow. I would love to see a new Spark 3 with polyrhythm and an updated big Controller.

[@Sidus666]

Any source on the update?

[@DeanFreud]

Yes, the will be some good bug fixes! But I would love to see a Spark 3 ...

[@Sidus666]

Dean Freud what I meant is where did you get this information?

[@DeanFreud]

I'm testing the Beta!

[@Sidus666]

Dean Freud Nice! Any idea when will it surface?

[@milanwulf]

A standalone device like this would be super cool.

[@DaveDaves]

I've been recommending this anyone looking for an entry-level drum machine around $200 ish, clearly it's the most complete & robust package you can get around that price; comparing it to the Volca Beats, Teenage Engineering Pocket Operators, Akai Rytm Wolf / Tom Cat, Roland TR-08/TR-09 Boutiques, Volca Sample, iElectribe for iOS (Electribe ER-1), those are all limited in ways such that all of your music is gonna sound the same if you've got just that drum machine wheras no risk of that with the Arturia - they cover such a range of sounds, its kinda like the Roland MC-303/505/307/D2 for their drum samples and quick & easy to use sequencing - you can master drums easily this way. Even the Arturia DrumBrute for $300 I think is way more gonna give u that 'only one kind of drum sound' issue if you're using that for perc for every track

[@BatmanWangChung]

Suh dude! Thanks for the great info! ✌

[@pixelflow]

For these hybrid soft/hard controllers it would be nice to see how they operate stand alone and what midi CC/etc they produce! I know the maschines all have it, but details are usually scarce.

[@mathieupe666]

more about the Spark / SparkLE differences, the Big Spark also features: - Midi DIN in/out - External 9v Barrel plug and power button - 6 shared and fixed track Macros for cutoff / Res / FX send 1 / FX send 2 / Pan / Volume. ( the pad is dedicated for the global effects and Roller ) - Dedicated swing amount knob - Dedicated Bank / Pattern and Steps buttons ( as opposed to shared buttons for the three function on the LE ) - dedicated Accent function button ( as opposed to the strangely not labelled "Shift + Step12" on the LE)

[@shapeshiftersmediagroup]

Mr. Loopop, do you know if Arturia plans to release another newer version of this concept? I enjoyed the Drumbrute and DB Impact, but I wish they would do another hardware software combo, since those seem to be more "in" even than when they first came out with this. I figured if anyone had the inside scoop, it would probably be you.

[@loopop]

Sorry but just generally speaking, really not hinting either way, if I shared inside scoops no company would ever tell me them anymore... :/

[@MarianoPerez]

Lately I've been wanting to get into beat making. I've tried it before on a daw but it was just too boring. I also know nothing about drums, drum machines, etc. Piano and guitar are my bread and butter. I was given a gc gift card so I started looking at vids for mpc one, maschine, electribe, sp 404, and the like. I was almost convinced on getting the mpc one. By the way, I love your mpc fantasy examples about one making music on the couch, the garden, and so on lol. I stumbled across this video before pulling out the bank card and remembered I had this little sparkle that I got for 50 bucks years ago. I just didn't know it was this capable. I'm going to dust it out and play with it. You just saved me from a fantasy driven impulsive buy.

[@darrenbarrett123]

Great review!!!

[@localtechnique]

I don't know how it compares to the desktop version, but Arturia also released an iOS version called iSpark which is compatible with the SparkLE controller. Alas, it also hasn't been updated in a couple of years so I'm assuming they've stopped working on Spark. Which is a shame as it is a powerful drum tool.

[@euswust]

Local Technique, they just released version 2.4.

[@localtechnique]

Yep, I've already updated :) Didn't see that coming, but it's nice they haven't abandoned Spark.

[@EannaButler]

Thank you very much for this 👍

[@EannaButler]

Had my eye on this unit for years.. After a particularly crappy week, but of retail therapy, picking a 2nd hand SparkLE up locally for a great price 👌 Quick check on the toob for some video content covering SparkLE, so pleasantly surprised that it got the Loopop treatment! Very good that you review not-new gear. Thanks again 🙏

[@The_Essential_Light]

Years ago I bought the bigger version at Guitar Center. It was the display model and I didn’t know it had been discontinued and I also did not know it was basically a midi controller. If I had known that the sounds were generated by software and not by the unit, I would have never bought it. I also had a big problem getting an activation code so I could even use it. Apparently it had been returned once already and someone else had already registered the software. I do not care about recording with a DAW. I need instruments that can plug into a hardware recorder/mixer. I have the ZOOM R24. I like the sounds generated by the software but the hardware of the Spark is useless for my needs.

[@WildAnalog]

Do you still have the controller? If so, do you want to sell it?

[@edmundgrimes6566]

Brilliant! Thanks a lot loopop! I have the spark 2 software for a while and was wondering what hardware controller I can use for it since you cannot buy the creative anymore but now I know you can use the LE, so I am picking one up asap! I've found the software alone great but really want more control in the physical realm and my other midi devices don't cut it :-D

[@edmundgrimes6566]

I should say since it reads so naive that I find it's not glaringly obvious that this controller pairs with the Spark 2 software on the Arturia website! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@thom-alphaxiii-5106]

got the spark controller mk1 - big one, gorgeous piece of metal- but the layout with the steps above , far from the drum pads, is less convenient that the spark LE. anyway, for the price now, it's a must have. spark2 (software) is really really good .

[@charlesbonkley]

I agree that the SparkLE interface is optimized and is a much better design than the original controller.

[@WarrenPostma]

Still using this or is it gathering dust these days?

[@jjjohny_a5965]

big fan of the arturia drum brute

[@jonmacdiarmid3671]

Still a great little drum machine sounds fantastic

[@lbrown7164]

I think the sweet spot is getting the controller for $100 and the ipad APP for only $20. assuming the software still runs smoothly in 2020 on the new IOS, this is a gr8 place to start making beats. It has everything u need without overwhelming u with everything u want.

[@otepsia1697]

Another very good review ! It seems that you cannot control other VSTis than Spark2 with the SparkLE, but is it possible to export MIDI files from the patterns you made with the SparkLE sequencer into a DAW (Reaper) and assign those files to a track where you place another VSTi ? The controller looks great and I would like to be able to use it with other Drumsynths I have.

[@Imetalman2000]

I wish it was a stand alone system. I like the compact size and lay out better then the drum brute.

[@Hhyperspace]

I don't have the hardware anymore , but it runs fine on my Surface Pro. It's a little a buggy sometimes. I like loading my own samples. It does just fine. An update would be awesome!

[@monseramirez1470]

Es totalmente increíble, lo vengo usando desde hace unos 4 años y es muy muy bueno. Lo único que me gustaría es que tuviera alguna actualización pues desde el 2003 no tiene ninguna. Saludos.

[@onlyrawphotos]

Hello, it works on windows 10?

[@agensop]

did you have any issues downloading the software even though it was used?

[@LoftyVisions]

Nope. I bought a used one today. As long as the previous owner deregisters it from their arturia account you just input the serial into your account and away you go

[@teddym2808]

The Spark plugin was sadly discontinued, and it was my favourite drum sequencer of all time. It's not even working very well on Windows 11 let alone Apple Silicon which is what I use (Logic). Arturia claim that the LE controller can be used as a general midi controller to control any other synth, hardware or software, it just has to be put in midi mode. have you ever tried this? I am wondering without a driver if it will just work if I plug it into a USB port on my M2 Mac. If I can still get use out of the controller, that will be amazing. I could use it sequence softube heartbeat for example.

[@-thirteen]

Recording rock demos to DAW, is this thing reasonable or a hassle? Seems like it woukd be nice but I wonder if sonething like Easy Drummer would be better and easier. Can't tell. It seems offer something outside of standard rock beats with the library

[@sixthsensethaproducer5190]

Yeah I have one of these you actually can make some cool patterns and also link them for song creation

[@lastfanstanding999]

do you absolutely need software if its used?

[@scottcolt4283]

How do I set things up to just immediately like every video I watch by you? I'm sick of having to click that pesky thumbs up icon.

[@loopop]

Your perseverance is much appreciated, despite the difficulties

[@martinlubitz3171]

Thanks for this Video. I just got one for 40,-€ Bit without any software. Is the complete software for downloading at the Arturia Page? Thanks for the good review Martin

[@loopop]

Thanks! I haven't checked recently sorry - but if you can't find it email them

[@martinlubitz3171]

@loopop thanks👍 got my key from Arturia.

[@KiR_3d]

I guess it can work on Linux, right? 2nd thought: if you save a composition in a DAW then how to save Sparkle's drum sequences inside it? Otherwise it can be good only for live plays. Slice functions are good... although guys could add some lo-fi and Glitch type effects there. It's not that hard...

[@loopop]

The controller is a MIDI controller so I suppose you can use it that way, but there are no linux versions of the software to my knowledge. If you save the sequences in the software, then they're there. You can sequence in your DAW as well - the software accepts MIDI.

[@KiR_3d]

I'm pointing that the whole reason to use SparkLE is it's sequencing features... A lot of other VST drum machines on the market... For example, often I prefer built-in FruityLoops' drum machine(s). They sounds really great. Although maybe here is a lot more of patterns and drum presets... Maybe not.... maybe only patterns and these "slice" features. This return me back to "how to save internal drum sequences as a part of a DAW's file?" P.S. almost any VST synth or plugin supports MIDI now. Obvious things are obvious ;)

[@Miyuk9p]

Does it work without software as well? Can I just put it into my bug and sequence some stuff in a café?

[@davidpaul4234]

No, it's purely a controller for the accompanying software

[@lightfantastik]

You can get the iPad app for $20 (to use with or without the controller)

[@acecatman]

ahhh I really want one of those, but I keep forgetting it exists. actually I was going to get one when I went for the beatstep pro instead (which I use with Nerve). I still kinda want one. I bet it's more fun than maschine. I'm guessing I'll see one second hand for cheap at some point and I'll just get it. can't have too many cool devices.

[@lonbluster]

So powerful, so much volume, I hear my subwoofer for real now! Awesome way to learn all aspects of every instrument... it s very instructive just listening to the available songs in Song mode, there are very good midi compositions in that forest, that you can stop and filter at any time. My hat for you Arturia! The Ableton drum rack is totally useless in comparison. But I can't activate the Record CC in the Ableton Spark vst... Any idea? In the meantime I am using another track where I do the Ableton midi capture, then give it as a midi in to the Spark and hit record then, pretty awesome as a workaround! but while Play and Stop midi work fine in the Vst with a different Ableton controller, the Record midi CC seems to be working only in the standalone program

[@MrMichimak]

Can you select "velocity" for one of the three control knobs?

[@tobinakatarx]

Does it go with logic pro 8 😯

[@truthbydesign5146]

For the same price you can get a used Maschine mk1, which I think would be a much wiser purchase -- only downside is having to deal with the hassle and small risk of doing a license transfer with a stranger.

[@prinsTobi]

Or buy both like I did, I use them with each other in Ableton

[@lightfantastik]

Spark is WAY more intuitive than Maschine, and the license transfer is a PITA. I had both, I ditched Maschine and kept Spark.

[@irgend1819]

can u change the time signature? you just tried steps but what happens if you set time signature to odd ones, like 5/4 etc?

[@juanpablorodriguez7961]

Sparkle vs Beatstep pro? in terms of a drum machine? I dont have anyone of this instruments and I'm undecided what do u recommend me?

[@minisoda1914]

Juan Pablo Rodriguez arturia spark is meant to work with computer instruments beastep pro is meant to control hardware specifically modular hardware it can control other instruments using midi as well I believe beastep pro is capable of controlling 2 sequences at once which is fantastic control of two instruments by only touching one beatstep pro is better beat step pro can do just about everything I believe it can control software as well

[@Drumsdude123]

Can I use it as a full-fledged drum machine without a computer?

[@loopop]

no

[@reidmclellan7934]

do you still use this?

[@Franks_Fandom_Frenzy]

I just downloaded the new Spark 2 updated software for my SparkLE and I have it up but can't hear nothing. I can hear all my other audio stuff. What gives? Lol

[@JKC40]

The standard Spark is slightly better than the SparkLE. It has more controls on the unit, and a display, so you can work head-down on the controller and look at the computer far less, making its workflow a bit more like hardware.

[@apocalypseplease19]

is it possible to put extra recorded sounds on it?

[@loopop]

Yes

[@apocalypseplease19]

@@loopop how?

[@loopop]

Schiste in the software

[@apocalypseplease19]

​@@loopop any more precision? cause i couldn't find out where exactly in the software or when opening projects.

[@loopop]

Hey sorry it’s been a while since I used it since I review different gear every week. I suggest the manual, or their support

[@GONZOFAM7]

New to synth and drum machines. I went full Aturia fan boy thinking all their products should play well together. I have the keystep, minilab, V collection synths, SparkLE and use cakewalk. I'm trying to figure MIDI out. Is it possible for the Sparkle to clock/sequence the soft synths? How would I do it?

[@loopop]

The sequencer is in software, not the hardware - so midi control yes, sequencing and clock - not via the hardware

[@TrNdke]

You can sequence VSTs with the Arturia Beatstep. You can also play the pads in controller mode while the sequencer runs. You can get one for $100 or less.

[@JohnnyHurbonConnections]

Awesome video pretty robust drum machine

[@7177YT]

Woah, nice find. I love that you revisit older gear or share discoveries like this. (: Is this a viable competitor to say Volka dtums?

[@loopop]

I don't think so - volca is standalone, this is more of a competitor to Maschine (which does more and costs more)

[@mightymightyironhead]

I have the sparkle. Its a bit hit and miss as a controller within Abelton. There are a few problems with it, such as syncing issues and nor being able to drag and drop wav files from the software player into an audio track in Abelton (the work around is to drag them to a folder or the desktop, then drag them into the audio track in Abelton). I got this because I wanted a basic drum machine to mess around with. But to be honest I have only used it 2 or 3 times because of the issues that I have with it. The software is pretty good and quite useful as a VSTi. I wish that I has just bought software and got something else instead of the SparkLE hardware. Might sell mine or trade it for something else?

[@bosslife_bangin]

Is it necessary to pair this with the arturia mk2 mini?

[@loopop]

No

[@bosslife_bangin]

@@loopop i don't understand but thanks anyway

[@ageshero]

I have a miserable time trying to get this thing to work most of the time. lol but the software is killer, except when trying to double recording- they seem to interfere and try to Link with eachother causing some funky lagging.

[@ageshero]

It’s still really cool

[@TrNdke]

Can you change the scale in tone mode?

[@TrNdke]

For anyone else with this question; I bought one and the answer is no. It's chromatic, but still a very cool feature.

[@artao5]

If you can find an original Spark CDM controller on e-bay or something, do yourself a favor and pick it up. It is way better than the SparkLE controller in many ways. I picked mine up for about $150usd. And no, they are no longer making it, sadly.

[@the_prophecyyy]

is the ipad app 64bit/work on iOS11?

[@blackout2able]

Can anyone tell about build quality and usb connector quality ty

[@karl9411]

The build is good ,metal chases same depth as a mac and sits very neatly in from of one .The usb is small connector .

[@kingabdolbig4306]

Dear LOOpop i am following almost all your video on youtube .they are awesome and because of that i have to need your help please give me some solution. i have rc 505 loop station and this spark lE and Akai mpk mini which with trouble to connection finally I've got how to make in operation each one separately in FL studio. I'm asking you is there any daw easier and user-friendly except FL and other requests or demands about please put a clip about BOSS RC 505. please ... thank you so much

[@olas591]

what's the best deal for a drum machine that sounds like a real drum like that? I don't like all these "beats" sounds, I'm looking for real drum sounds