The 4.04 update for the SP404 MK2 is out, and it's a game-changer. Featuring added functionalities like Live Looping, Koala Sampler integration, and more, the SP404 is becoming quite the powerhouse sampler. There's one underrated aspect of the update that seems basic at first glance but completely revolutionizes the function of the SP404: the new Sound Generator. It may appear to be a simple bassline generator, but with some tweaks and tricks, it can be a powerful synthesizer (both monophonic and polyphonic) and even used to create drums! That's right, the Sound Generator renders the SP404 completely standalone as a groovebox; no samples needed (though the more, the merrier). Let's check out three ways to make the most of this new feature.
Turning Sound Generator Into a Synthesizer (Filter & Envelopes)
The SP404 Sound Generator adds a ton of waveform options, from classic sine waves to gritty pulses. By experimenting with different waveform types and octave settings, you can sculpt a diverse range of tones. When you first turn on the sound generator, there are no effects or filters on the waveform, and the raw sounds may come across as harsh or lacking depth. To make the sound more like a synth, we’ll use the awesome power of the SP’s internal effects. We have four bus effects to work with, and you can toggle the routings in Sound Generator by pressing remain. Applying a super filter on bus 1 is always my go-to for taming harsh frequencies and imbuing your sound with character. Experiment with parameters like resonance and LFO modulation to add movement and expression to your patches. With a few tweaks, you can transform a simple waveform into a rich, dynamic synthesizer-like sound. Currently, the envelopes within Sound Generator don’t seem to work, and the synth is only monophonic (or single note). But the SP is a sampler, and in the sample pads, we can get Attack and Release… and even polyphony!
Achieving Polyphony
While the SP404 Sound Generator is inherently monophonic, there's a clever workaround to achieve polyphonic textures. By sampling your sound into a pad and then accessing chromatic mode, you can get multiple voices. Add effects like chorus and panning to enhance spatial depth and realism. With a bit of creativity, you can emulate the lush, layered textures of a traditional synthesizer, all within the compact confines of the SP-404.
Creating Drums from Noise Waveforms
In addition to synthesizer sounds, the SP-404 Sound Generator can be used to craft percussive elements from scratch. By leveraging the two noise settings, you can generate a wide range of drum sounds, from crisp hi-hats to punchy snares. Experiment with effects like ring modulation and distortion to shape your sounds to perfection. With a bit of creativity, you can build a custom drum kit that's uniquely yours.
Want Synth and Drum Recipes for the New SP404 Sound Generator? Check Out My SP404 MK2 Cheat Sheet
Sampling and Manipulating Loops
The SP404 Sound Generator isn't just for crafting synth patches—it's also a powerful tool for sampling long loops for resequencing. By recording extended passages or musical phrases, you can chop them into individual samples for further manipulation. This eliminates the need for sampling from external gear or vinyl and can act in a similar way of blending chops of samples in new ways. Experiment with different slicing techniques and effects to create unique textures and rhythmic patterns.
Live Jamming
While limited to monophonic performance, the Sound Generator is a great way to add live performance or improv on top of patterns or live-looped jams. To avoid the monophonic and FX limitations of Sound Generator, you can also utilize the resample method from the previous section for polyphony, envelope control, and more.
The SP-404 MK2 Sound Generator is a game-changer for crafting synth patches, exploring polyphony or sampling and manipulating audio. The SP-404 offers endless possibilities for sonic experimentation. Best of all, it makes an already powerful sampler “standalone” without the need for external gear and samples. Samples and external hardware are still an amazing way to work with the SP404, but having the portability of the SP alone now with an internal synth opens up more possibilities for music making.
If you want to truly master your gear and learn how to create, mix and master songs email me at sunwarpermusic@gmail.com for one on one coaching.
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