The SP-404MKII is best known as a powerhouse for lofi beatmaking, but its extensive features like audio over USB, a live looper, a sound generator, and more—make it a versatile tool in any studio. On top of all that, it includes a surprisingly great-sounding Amp Simulator for guitar. Today, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Amp Sim and how to make the most of it.
Accessing the Amp Sim: The Amp Sim is available only as an Input Effect, meaning you’ll need to send audio into the SP-404MKII via an external cable (1/4" or USB). To access the Input FX menu:
Press [SHIFT + EXT Source]
Change the input effect to Amp Sim
From there, you can explore multiple options, including amp model types, EQ, and gain.
Amp Types:
The SP-404MKII's Guitar Amp Simulator offers several distinct amplifier models, each bringing its unique tonal characteristics:
JC (Jazz Chorus): Models the Roland JC-120, celebrated for its pristine clean tones and signature chorus effect
TWIN: Emulates the Fender Twin Reverb, known for its bright, clean sound and substantial headroom
MATCH: Simulates the Matchless DC30, offering a blend of chime and grit, suitable for both clean and overdriven tones
BG: Based on the Mesa/Boogie Mark series, providing a thick, sustaining lead tone with a pronounced midrange
MS: Reflects the Marshall Plexi, delivering the classic British crunch and dynamic response favored in rock music
SLDN: Models the Soldano SLO-100, delivering a high-gain, harmonically rich tone, perfect for soaring leads and modern metal sounds
Check out the Amp Sim in action as I sample some guitar loops and make a jazzy beat:
Amp Simulator Settings:
To tailor these amp models to your specific sound, the SP-404MKII provides several adjustable parameters:
Gain: Controls the input level driving the amp model, affecting the amount of distortion or overdrive. Lower settings yield cleaner tones, while higher settings introduce more saturation
Bass: Adjusts the low-frequency response, allowing you to add warmth or reduce muddiness in the tone
Middle: Modifies the midrange frequencies, crucial for defining the body and presence of the guitar sound
Treble: Alters the high-frequency content, enabling you to brighten the tone or soften harshness
Volume: Sets the overall output level of the amp simulator effect, balancing it with other elements in your mix
Make the most of the SP404 MK2 with the easy to reference Cheat Sheet that covers everything you need to know about this awesome piece of gear:
Must Try Settings for Each Amp Type:
JC (Jazz Chorus) – Clean and Crisp Tone
Drive: 20
Bass: 50
Middle: 50
Treble: 60
Level: Adjust to match overall output
This setting emulates the Roland JC-120, delivering a clean and crisp tone suitable for jazz and clean rhythm parts.
2. TWIN – Bright and Clear Tone
Drive: 30
Bass: 55
Middle: 45
Treble: 65
Level: Adjust to match overall output
Emulating the Fender Twin Reverb, this setting provides a bright and clear tone, ideal for clean leads and country-style playing.
3. MATCH – Chiming Overdrive Tone
Drive: 50
Bass: 50
Middle: 60
Treble: 70
Level: Adjust to match overall output
This setting simulates the Matchless D/C-30, offering a chiming overdrive tone that works well for both rhythm and lead parts.
4. BG – Smooth Lead Tone
Drive: 70
Bass: 60
Middle: 55
Treble: 50
Level: Adjust to match overall output
Based on the MESA/Boogie combo amp, this setting delivers a smooth lead tone with a pronounced midrange, suitable for solos and melodic lines.
5. MS – Classic Rock Crunch
Drive: 60
Bass: 55
Middle: 65
Treble: 60
Level: Adjust to match overall output
Emulating the Marshall 1959, this setting provides the classic British crunch, perfect for rock rhythms and power chords.
6. SLDN – High-Gain Lead Tone
Drive: 80
Bass: 60
Middle: 50
Treble: 70
Level: Adjust to match overall output
This setting models the Soldano SLO-100, offering a high-gain lead tone with rich harmonics, ideal for modern rock and metal solos.
You can also add fx like reverb, delay, 404 sim and more on Bus' 1-4 for even more sound design and tone options!
Get some drum loops and one shots perfect for adding guitar on top of in the SP404 MK2:
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