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🤔

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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??

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@nickafflitto7519]

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

[@LiamKillen]

Thank you Nick! Very much appreciated.

[@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

[@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.

[@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! 🎩

[@johnnymandez]

FUN to watch bro, I appreciate it!

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks Johny! Always appreciate you stopping by!

[@caseyrogers935]

I appreciate this video brother! All the best 🤙

[@LiamKillen]

🍻

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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?

[@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!

[@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.

[@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

[@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).

[@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.

[@EvilldewerTv]

AKAI master of all beat machines. No contest here.

[@LiamKillen]

Overall- yyyyup

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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!

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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

[@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?

[@jjanevski]

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

[@LiamKillen]

Glad to help- cheers.

[@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

[@daniel6959]

Hey man, I love your work! I’m a keyboard player with plenty of synths and keyboards. Lately, I’ve been getting into making beats and am looking for something I can also use for live performances with my synths. I’ve got both the OXI One and Digitakt, and I’m considering adding a sampler, but I’m not sure if I really need it since I’m still pretty new to making music without a DAW. After watching some videos, I’m torn between the AKAI One and Roland SP-404 MKII. Which one would you recommend to help me find the right flow in the studio, especially for making hip-hop beats and some electronic music? I really want to incorporate my synths and also have something that would work well for live performances.

[@LiamKillen]

I'm biased butI would def recommend the SP-404 mk2. I also know that the akai one is an amazing unit as well, i'm just not as familiar with it.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@simonsmith2642]

Did I miss a segment on launching scenes? Im used to using a laptop and launching pre saved scenes live. For verse chorus bridge etc..

[@LiamKillen]

Didn’t touch on this in this video!

[@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

[@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

[@phenomena17]

Please help me out . I just wanna know is the Mic/Line input Jack in front of the SP404 , a STEREO or MONO signal? Thanks

[@LiamKillen]

I believe it’s stereo

[@phenomena17]

@@LiamKillen oh wow thanks 😊 🙏

[@lamarrion]

That yellow killin em 🔥

[@LiamKillen]

😏

[@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.

[@daneguitarist1]

is there a way to use the two outs of the 404 as separate like.... can i have bass drum go output 1 everything else out output 2 im a eurorack musician, and so i could easily have allllll the effects i want on melodies and whatnot, plus I literally made a ducker/sidechain guitar pedal with Modular for the masses, so i could custom sidechain

[@LiamKillen]

I’m not sure that’s possible

[@lukvermeir9085]

Intresting how they sounded totally different after loading the same samples. The MPC sounded mor hi-fidelity / a bit more snappy compared to the somewhat duller SP404 mk2. Is this because of the audio convertors or may there be other reasons? Was the sample rate / bit depth the same on both machines? Thanks

[@LiamKillen]

Hmm interesting take! I have no idea what the reason for this could be.

[@arunca190]

Is the sequencing on the mk2 similar to say a SP505? I enjoyed that simple sampler. I had an mpc2500 too so I appreciate that sequencer. And the pads are just soo comfy. I want a mk2 for what it is and the price. But they are hard to get. Thinking I’ll wait or just go for an mpc one.

[@LiamKillen]

I don’t know how the 505 sequences. The MPC One is a good choice though - much more capable than the mk2

[@ashlihankerson9776]

Where did you get the skins from?

[@LiamKillen]

Style Flip! :-)

[@SnaFOo75]

Hi Liam. Are you still losing the kick ( 4:45 ) when making 4/4 beats? OS update fix this?

[@LiamKillen]

It’s still not as strong as the MPC one

[@SnaFOo75]

@@LiamKillen true that. I had an MPC One and sold it, I’m a DAW guy like you. Ive had the mk2 on order since October and running out of patience lol.

[@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.

[@rl8070]

I want to get into making beats and have the money should I get an MPC one?

[@LiamKillen]

Personally i would go 404 but that's just me 😏

[@Lizzybirds40]

What’s the best way to start learning finger drumming

[@LiamKillen]

Here's something that might help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJynoXWNms-ZeaMsi=boB6qZ_yaOY8FOFa

[@Lizzybirds40]

@@LiamKillen thanks. How about creating house and drum and bass music? Is the mpc one a good choice

[@wmsmza]

Hi i have a question can i transfer sound files from pc with windows 7 via usb to 404 mk2?

[@LiamKillen]

you'd have to verify to see if the software is compatible with windows 7- if yes- then yes you can do it.

[@BIG1TOWER]

Where did you get the skin on the two devices?

[@LiamKillen]

Style flip or MPC Stuff :-)

[@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

[@JGajet-nrg]

Where did you get the NEON skins with logos on them ?

[@LiamKillen]

that's from MPC Stuff-

[@NicleT]

@@LiamKillen can’t find it. Was it a special order?

[@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.

[@johanberube3490]

MPC with fat pads all the way to go along my fat fingers! What are your pads settings (velocity, sxensitivity) to do finger drumming? I couldn't manage to find the sweet spot yet, and sometime I get double triggers on these pads. I don't reme,ber to have that much trouble to find the right settings on my maschine mk3. Cheers!

[@LiamKillen]

I haven't had any issues with those so i've kept them at default! What I will say is that there's no perfect setting you kind of have to find that middle ground with your technique vs the pads. Comes with practice!

[@benwatson9570]

i was sold on the SP404 until you mentioned we cant sidechain to the kick. That is 100% necessary for the music i make! is there any chance an update to the software could fix this in the future?

[@LiamKillen]

You can actually side chain to the kick…sort of- here’s a workaround: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpyqnHluj8yVgtU

[@benwatson9570]

@@LiamKillen thank you!!

[@prod.marciano]

I produce with a PC but I need a machine to work as a DJ, which one do you recommend?

[@LiamKillen]

Anything from pioneer! Or Traktor pro software w/ a lap top and 2 SDJ controllers

[@bennethos]

Which box for live dj use to trigger loop play samples etc ?

[@LiamKillen]

404 mk2 has a DJ mode

[@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! :-)

[@elijahjackson8636]

I was wondering how file transferring would work between the new 404 and the MPC via the USB cable. Can you drop files onto the 404 via the MPC?

[@LiamKillen]

No those two are not compatible via software you'd have to drop on your comp and then drop[ again on either machine.

[@elijahjackson8636]

@@LiamKillen dang. Thanks for confirming this. I was hearing that you can send files go the octatrack from an MPC so I was hoping the SP would be the same.

[@LiamKillen]

✌️🎛✌️🎛

[@bairahrecordings]

That color combo is nice. 👍🏿😎

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks Bairah!

[@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 :-)

[@aliasghar907]

what camera and video editing software do you use ?

[@LiamKillen]

Canon r6 and DaVinci resolve

[@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!!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@graxxor]

@Liam how are you finding the new 3.0 update?

[@LiamKillen]

It's delightful - they just keep hitting us with new updates and it's amazing. Here's a video I did on it actually: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oqWWontsfrdgaJosi=s5evt9Jph5ik3cg2

[@graxxor]

@@LiamKillen Thank you. Bought one for my 17yo daughter, so I forwarded your video to her along with an SD card with the 3.0.2(?) update on it.

[@drd1614]

Is there any way to emulate the effects of the sp 404 on the MPC like the dj effects loop? Now that the sp 404 mk2 has a screen and the bomb effects I don’t see a reason to get an MPC.

[@LiamKillen]

Unfortunately not- although the MPC One has some pretty dope FX on its own- not quite the same as the 404 IMO.

[@drd1614]

@@LiamKillen yeah I just can’t get past the flavor the sp 404 adds. Guess I’ll stick it out and wait for my mk 2 to get here lol. Thanks, keep up the great work!

[@kolorsurreal4491]

What’s that little speaker you’re plugged into? Looks and sounds great

[@LiamKillen]

That's the OB-4. Here's some more info incase you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jILPmnyApLJrsKc

[@kathleencoveny3860]

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

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks as always for watching! ❤️

[@1980VINZ]

Liam your MPC pads are aftermarket ones right? I’m asking you this because I’ve got a MPC-X (bought brand new, 2 years ago) and I swear these MPC pads drive me crazy… In a bad way…

[@LiamKillen]

I got them from MPC stuff- they’re called fat pads

[@1980VINZ]

@@LiamKillen oh yes I see… Thanks a lot mate !!

[@JackJazzm]

Good Stuff bredren 👍🏾 Thanks for sharing

[@LiamKillen]

Big up! Always a pleasure.

[@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.

[@lifeonmyave472]

Awesome video man ! Where and how did you do that custom work on your mpc one tho?

[@LiamKillen]

Thanks! And style flip!

[@VJFranzK]

Q: "Pad mute" on the MPC - does 404 have it? (not "mute groups", but temporarily silencing certain pads, to create breakdowns, outros, etc?)

[@LiamKillen]

I haven't needed to try that yet but i'm sure there's a way. Not sure you can sequence pad mutes though- you might have to do that manually.

[@VJFranzK]

@@LiamKillen Could it really be a missing feature? I've looked at the manual. I've asked several people, and nobody has answered yes. (It just seems wasteful to have to make multiple versions of every pattern just to mute sounds in them)

[@TheSicsicksix]

hi is it really USB bus power supply as mention on their website? as in u can plug in with powerbank?

[@LiamKillen]

I'm not 100% sure on that one but if the website says it i'm sure they're correct.

[@TheSicsicksix]

@@LiamKillen i have found the answer, output of the power bank needed to be 1.5A or higher,i just order mine,should be in January 2022, i like to do my research before hand because not a lot review on these matter,but anyway thanks for the reply

[@That125Kid]

Wuss good homie trying to figure out how to change midi channels on the sp404mkii so I can sequence from the ASR 10?

[@LiamKillen]

Midi is something I haven't explored yet with the SP-404.

[@davidwall4090]

What are your headphones in this video?! They look super minimal.

[@LiamKillen]

Those are the Teenage Engineering M1's! Here's a full video review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5fRgnd8d9xjZ6ssi=Psr6CoBf3hUYIXi6

[@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.

[@kisho2679]

which one is more suitable for DJs to use it as live sampler/looper in improvisation performance?

[@LiamKillen]

Hmmm I would lean towards the 404 for that

[@dwaynekendrick_]

Great video. But where did you get those drums?

[@LiamKillen]

I can’t remember! Lol- I’ve got some packs though if you’re interested: samples.liamkillen.com/

[@alwoo]

Do you need an app to load your sounds on the boss

[@LiamKillen]

I’m not sure ask chat GPT!

[@hyperion2502]

I'm looking for a good standalone sampler. Tired using ableton, and i suffer from latency when it comes to finger drumming. I think both mpc and 404 would be great choice once i'll know the workflow, but maybe the mpc would be slighty better for me. This 404mk2 seems a great deal.

[@LiamKillen]

MPC is far superior if you’re willing to spend a lil extra. And it’s actually available rn

[@hyperion2502]

@@LiamKillen thanks for your feedback. I guess this is it. I'll pay this little extra^^

[@hyperion2502]

Yeah!!! Mpc ordered. 655€. I managed to get a 18% discount. Great deal.

[@dombeats835]

@liamkillen can you make more videos on the sp404 software

[@LiamKillen]

I haven't used it much TBH other than just dropping samples. I'm trying to get away from using a screen too much especially because i'm predominantly in my DAW.

[@dombeats835]

@@LiamKillen ok cool I have a some questions about applying the samples to pads because when I try to assign my samples it doesn’t work

[@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.

[@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!!!!!

[@Влад-к6х8й]

Yo! Tell me please, how did You get these acid yellow skins?

[@LiamKillen]

404- direct from Roland MPC- MPC stuff

[@Влад-к6х8й]

@@LiamKillen yea, ty