OVERVIEW
Roland has now discontinued the classic SP-303 sampler (pick them up while we still have them!) and replaced it with the new SP-404. The 404 is built on the easy to use foundation of the SP-303, with a new casing, new features, and expanded ranges for almost all existing features. The 404 should prove to have a similar acceptance to the SP-303 as the industry standard portable sampler and sequencer.

USES
- sample triggering during DJing
- sampling
- sequencing
- effects processing

NEW FEATURES
The SP-404 now has 12 large pads (the 303 had 8) for greater sample storage, more built-in effects, a new built in mic for easy vocal sampling on the fly, a Compactflash drive that now accepts cards up to 1GB, new metal casing, and more.

FEATURES
The SP-404 is recommended for 3 main uses. The first is for live performances, especially DJ sets where you can add sound effects and samples very easily. Now with the built-in mic, sample on the fly. The second use is for the effects. No matter what level producer you are, the 29 built-in effects are very useful especially the vinyl simulation mode. Many well-known producers used the SP-303's effects in their tracks. Lastly, the SP-404 is an easy to use sequencer. It is based on the same fundamentals as the MPC, and for sample-based music, sometimes simpler is better. This is what you get here, just think of it as portable sketchbook for beats (it even can run on batteries), also powerful enough to deliver a finished track (Madlib uses a SP-303 for some of his tracks).

OUR OPINION
The upgrades from the 303 make the 404 more producer friendly. The 303 became a cult classic because its ease of use. This is maintained in the 404; there's just more options and capacity.

- 12 large pads, three control knobs, large display
- 29 effects, including new Vinyl Simulation, Subsonic, BPM Looper, and more
- built-in microphone for quick sampling
- CD-quality sound at 44.1 kHz
- expanded sampling time
- 12-voice polyphony
- import/export .WAV/AIFF via CompactFlash card slot; supports up to 1GB card
- RCA inputs and outputs, MIDI input, 1/4" headphone jack
- Headphones (PHONES) Jack (Stereo 1/4 inch phone type), MIC Jack, MIDI IN Connector, AC Adaptor Jack, Memory Card Slot (CompactFlash)
- runs on battery or AC power
- 7" x 10 1/8" x 2 7/8"
- 2lbs 14 oz.

- power adaptor

reviewed by the mgmnt