The SP404 MK2 is capable of way more than just Lofi. Pair it with free iOS apps like Paustretch, and you can create lush ambient soundscapes perfect for drones, or even flipping samples into intricate layers fit for any genre.
Ambient Sound Design: Getting Started with Paulstretch
Paulstretch is a remarkable app that can turn any sound into a prolonged, ethereal mix, perfect for ambient tracks. It's an old app but remains incredibly useful for ambient sound design.
Record a Sound: Start by recording a sound. In this example, we used GarageBand to create a quick chord progression. Even if you're not a proficient keyboard player, GarageBand's stock sounds provide a solid foundation for sound design.
Load into Paulstretch: Transfer your recorded sound into Paulstretch. Here, you can experiment with various settings to stretch the sound, creating that dreamy, ambient effect.
Warping Sounds with the SP404 MK2
The SP-404 MK2 is a powerful sampler and effects processor that can further refine and manipulate your sounds.
Apply Effects: Start by applying some basic effects in Paulstretch. You can add filters, pitch shift and modulation to your sound. The goal is to create a rich, textured audio sample that will serve as the base for further manipulation.
Resample in SP404 MK2: After initial processing in Paulstretch, resample the sound into the SP404 MK2. Here, you can add additional effects such as low-pass filters, LFO modulation, and various SP-404 MK2-specific effects like cassette simulation, lofi and compression. This can get as dusty, distorted or clean as you want depending on the fx used.
Fine-Tune and Stretch: Adjust the pitch and stretch settings to fit your desired sound. For ambient tracks, longer stretches and lower pitches often work well to create that deep, atmospheric feel.
Creating an Ambient Track
Now that we've processed and refined our sample, it's time to create an ambient track.
Layering Sounds: Layer multiple sounds to build a complex soundscape. This involves recording additional layers and applying different effects to each layer.
Resampling and Chopping: Resample your combined layers and chop them into usable segments. The SP-404 MK2's granular chopping feature allows for precise control over each segment.
Arrange and Play: Arrange your chopped segments into a coherent track with the Pattern Sequencer or in a DAW. Use the SP404 MK2's performance features to trigger different segments and create a dynamic, evolving soundscape. In the video above, I used the new looper in the SP to build layers of ambient drones and live guitar.
For a detailed and easy to reference SP404MK2 Quick Start Guide, check out my SP404 Cheat Sheet
Sample Packs: https://soundsbysunwarper.bandcamp.com/
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