Today, we're delving into the world of live performances with the SP404MKII, a portable powerhouse that can take your sets to a whole new level. Whether you're using it standalone or paired with other gear, the SP404 is a game-changer with its portability, long per-pad sample time, and built-in FX. After spending the past year honing my skills and uncovering secrets on this machine, I'm thrilled to share five tips to help you create buttery smooth beat sets.
🔷Need help navigating the button combos and workflow of the SP? Check out my SP404 MK2 Cheat Sheet: https://www.sunwarper.com/product-page/sp404-mk2-beatmaking-live-sets-cheat-sheet
Follow along with the post & check out live demonstrations of each tip here:
1. Preparing Tracks on the SP: Laying the Foundation
So, you've got a couple of tracks you're eager to play live. Whether you created them in a DAW or directly on the SP404MKII, the first step is optimizing them for performance. let’s take a moment to discuss exporting those tracks. If you’re in a DAW you can either bounce out the stems individually, bounce a stereo 2 track of the full track, or even bounce everything but one or two instruments that you can then sample separately into the SP to play live on top of the 2 track.
If you’re DAWless you can do similar depending on how you’ve routed your setup. If you’ve already performed your jam and only have a stereo 2 track, don’t worry, you can always stem split it in something like Serato Studio to split it up for greater performance possibilities. You can even just use the 2 track, there’s still a ton you can do with it (check out the performance methods in the next step for more). If you made these beats on the SP, you can play them as you made them on the patterns, or do any of the previous methods as well. So Now that you have the tracks ready, let’s talk about ways to perform
2. Ways to Perform: Elevating Your Stage Presence
Now that your tracks are prepped, it's time to explore ways to bring them to life on stage. From chopping tracks into performance sections to using chromatic mode on top of the track, we'll cover techniques that add variability and excitement to your live sets.
Chopping a Track Into Performance Sections:
Overview: This method involves splitting your track into smaller chops to be performed live. It allows for a high level of variability and room for improvisation.
Execution: Divide your track into segments, such as intro, main section, alternate section, and B section. Assign each segment to a specific set of pads (e.g., 1-4 for intro, 5-8 for the main section).
Advantages:
Greater flexibility in setting the duration of each section.
Creation of variations or remixing on the fly.
Requires precise timing and tempo control.
Chromatic Mode on Top of the Track:
Overview: This method involves using chromatic mode to add improv and variation while a locked-in track plays in the background.
Execution: Enter chromatic mode by pressing shift + 4. Consider setting the chromatic sample to one bus and the main sample to another. Note that you can't switch between bus channels in chromatic mode, so set the effect for the chromatic sample bus before triggering the other bus.
Advantages:
Enables playing the SP like a musical instrument.
Adds improv and variation without deviating from the locked-in track.
One Shot:
Overview: Similar to DJing, this seemingly simple method involves using the SP's built-in effects (e.g., Phaser, Ko-Da-Ma, Delay, djfx) to enhance tracks during live performance.
Execution: Apply effects strategically to create interesting movements. For instance, use triplet delays for drum fills, Isolator, filter, and reverb for depth. Split up stems for different track elements, allowing separate bus routings for individualized effects.
Advantages:
Provides nuanced control over the sound.
Allows different stems to have different or no effects.
One Shot with a Sliced Instrument on Pads:
Overview: This method combines DJ techniques and sample chops to create a controlled live performance with improvisation on top.
Execution: Assign different bus effects to different sounds. Utilize sliced instruments on pads for more controlled variations.
Advantages:
Merges the precision of DJing with the creativity of sample chops.
Allows for a more controlled live performance with room for improvisation.
3. Always Make a Set Map: Planning for Success
Planning is key to a flawless live performance, and the best prep for live performance is mapping out your set. The goal is to strike the perfect balance between structure and spontaneity, creating an unforgettable experience for your audience and having a fallback if issues happen during the performance.
Writing Out Tracks:
Objective: The first step involves creating a comprehensive list of the tracks you plan to include in your live set.
Execution:
List each track, including details like key, BPM, and performance type.
This provides a visual representation of your setlist, serving as a quick reference during the performance.
Organizing by Banks on the SP-404:
Objective: This step focuses on organizing your tracks into banks on the SP-404 for efficient navigation during the live set.
Execution:
Assign specific banks to different tracks within your set.
This organizational method streamlines your performance and makes it easy to navigate between tracks without missing a beat.
Write Out FX Transitions:
Objective: Planning and documenting the effects transitions between tracks to ensure a seamless and engaging performance.
Execution:
Jot down all the bus effects for transitions between the current and next track.
This step allows for quick reference during the live set, helping you strategically place effects as a bridge between songs.
4. Considering Track Flow: Crafting the Journey
Once your tracks are organized, it's time to think about the overall flow of your set. Consider the energy you want to convey, the vibes you aim to create, and the surprises you want to introduce. I'll share my approach: starting fast to grab attention (house type track), transitioning into chill vibes (lofi/beats), and picking up the pace again for an epic ending. Don't forget to leave room for ambient interludes or spoken word segments to add depth to your performance.
5. FX for Transitions: Elevating Sonic Adventures
With the track flow in mind, let's explore the world of effects for transitions. Reverb swells, Ko da ma/delay feedback, spoken word segments, filter sweeps, and the iconic 404 sim noise – these tools can transform transitions into sonic adventures. Keep BPM, vibe, and key in mind, and don't be afraid to experiment. If you need a comprehensive guide on what FX work best in different scenarios, check out my SP404 MKII Live Performance Cheat Sheet
Here's a few of my favorites for transitions:
Reverb Swell:
Objective: Create a smooth transition between tracks by introducing a reverb swell.
Execution:
Apply reverb to the outgoing track, gradually increasing its intensity.
This technique adds a sense of continuity and fluidity as one track seamlessly merges into the next.
Ko Da Ma/Delay Feedback:
Objective: Infuse dynamic energy into your transitions with Ko Da Ma or delay feedback.
Execution:
Experiment with Ko Da Ma for a unique, rhythmic delay effect or use delay feedback to create a sense of space.
Adjust the feedback level to control the intensity of the effect, adding excitement to the transition.
Interlude or Spoken Word Segment:
Objective: Introduce an interlude or spoken word segment to add depth and intrigue.
Execution:
Incorporate a brief interlude or a spoken word segment between tracks to provide a refreshing break.
This unexpected element captures attention and adds a unique touch to your live set.
Filter Sweep Up for New Track:
Objective: Build anticipation and signal a new track by using a filter sweep.
Execution:
Apply a filter sweep effect, gradually opening up frequencies, to create a sense of anticipation.
This technique prepares the audience for a new sonic experience as you transition from the previous track.
404 Sim Noise into New Track:
Objective: Infuse character into your transitions with the iconic 404 sim noise
Execution:
Use the 404 sim noise effect as a transition element, bridging the gap between tracks.
Experiment with different settings to find the right balance that complements the overall vibe of your set.
BPM, Vibe, and Key Considerations:
Objective: Maintain cohesion by considering BPM, vibe, and key when applying effects
Execution:
Ensure that the BPM & key of the outgoing and incoming tracks align smoothly to avoid jarring transitions.
Match the vibe of effects to the overall mood of the tracks for a harmonious and coherent sonic journey.
There you have it – five tips to master your SP-404MKII for live sets. Remember, practice is key. Experiment, adapt, and make these techniques your own for a truly unique live experience. Stay tuned for future blog posts where we'll delve into DJ Mode and other advanced SP-404 techniques.
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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