Roland SP-404MKII

This is a very capable machine, and it seems that Roland will continue updating firmware to make better and better.
This is my first hardware sampler and it is so much fun!
I'm still learning this beast but I can definatly recommend it for a range of uses. I sounds great with my bass plugged in for make like riffs and bass lines to work into a mix. it is also an excellent vocal processor, so can add effects to live voals in real time. I does seem a shame that I can't plug my bass and mic in at the same time but not really a deal breaker.
It comes into its own with chopping up altering and layering samples, this is what it is mostly built for and it does this very well.
I like that I can power it thru USB C and also connect to computer to sample direct from that and swap out and arrange samples thru the free MK2 software. The chromatic mode is very useful and there is lots of little things that I wish were different, but it is exciting that the instrument will shift and change with communities wishes an Rolands updates. Also a big plus for me learning this machine is that there is a very active youtube community that are eager to share their learnings and tips and tricks. So all in all if you are looking for a portable tool for composing, finger drumming, sampling and chopping as someone new to the game I am very satified, but note I don't have much experience with other hardware samplers

Pros:

Enhanced Sampling: Improved polyphony and sample handling make creativity flow.
Top-Notch Effects: Loaded with 37 effects, both classic and new, for dynamic sound shaping.
User-Friendly Interface: Bright OLED display and better navigation simplify use.
Portable Design: Compact and lightweight—great for making music on the go.
Better Connectivity: USB-C, MIDI I/O, and audio interface functions for easy integration.
Cons:

Steep Learning Curve: Might be a bit overwhelming for beginners.
Battery Life: Runs through batteries quickly during extended use.
Limited Sequencing: Doesn't offer advanced multitrack sequencing like some competitors.

The Roland SP-404MKII is a welcome update to the beloved SP-404 series, cherished by beatmakers, DJs, and live performers alike. If you're into creating beats or need a reliable sampler that's both powerful and portable, this might just be your new best friend.

First Impressions:

Right out of the box, the SP-404MKII feels solid yet lightweight. The new OLED screen is bright and makes navigating through menus a lot easier than before. The pads are now velocity-sensitive and have RGB backlighting, which not only feels better under your fingers but also lets you customize colors to keep things organized.

Getting Creative:

Sampling is where this thing shines. With improved polyphony and the ability to load multiple samples per pad, you're free to experiment. Real-time chopping, time-stretching, and pitch-shifting mean you can tweak your sounds on the fly without any hassle.

Effects Galore:

One of the standout features is the range of effects. You've got 37 to play with, including fan favorites like the Vinyl Simulator and new ones like the Cassette Simulator. You can chain effects together and adjust them in real-time, which is super handy during live performances.

Connectivity and Storage:

They've upgraded the connectivity options too. USB-C makes data transfer snappy, and it can act as a USB audio interface, which is great if you're integrating it with a DAW. MIDI in and out means it plays well with other gear. Plus, with 16 GB of internal memory and support for huge SD cards, you've got plenty of space for all your samples and projects.

In Use:

Using the SP-404MKII is generally a smooth experience, though if you're new to this kind of equipment, there might be a learning curve. The device is responsive, and the sound quality is crisp. Battery life is okay for short sessions, but you'll probably want to plug it in for longer jams.

Final Thoughts:

All in all, the SP-404MKII is a robust and versatile tool that builds upon what made its predecessors great. Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out, it offers a lot of features that can enhance your music-making process. It's not without its quirks, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons.

A super Roland Product. You will need to invest some time to it as it has a more advanced learning curve, with some button combination macros to master. But Roland have 2 fantastic Video manuals on YouTube to help with this process.

It has had a major firmware update in 2023 which adds more features that are explained in the update video on YouTube.

Amazing effects, Clearly Laid out Functions and sub-functions, Just the right size mini screen and there is also a companion Computer Application to easily transport files and projects in either direction.

A very creative sampler that can be combined with any electronic musical instrument or vocal.

A lot have been said about this box, these are my two cents that hopefully will be helpful:
Maybe it's just me (although the prominent opinion says otherwise), but for better or worse- I find this sampler to be a tool for a very specific type of productions, i.e ( and you might have already guessed it): BoomBap/LoFi/Trip Hop/ shoegaze?/ "old school anything"... you get the idea. Even with all the great version upgrades, features, mfx. Even if you master all the weird shortcuts and button combinations that you need to remember (and boy if things like that can get in your way, look elsewhere) - the sound and production is still geared towards that "Dusty" result. Yes, you can use it with other gear/tools/daw, yet again - maybe it's just me, but I find that there is a curve that says: The more you utilize it in you production, the "Dustier" the result will get. the fx are great, but more often than not, their sound is inherently distinguished with proclivity to the above mentioned description. This is not a box for meticulous sequencing, precise automation or surgical sound designed. This is not a sampler for pristine sound productions. It's Gritty, Dusty, Raw, demands resampling, chopping and resampling again, repeat.
It's perfect for making amazing imperfections. Yes, you can use it as a sketchbook and finish the track in the daw/elsewhere, but there are better options to do just that and this is not a reason for getting this box IMHO. Yes, limitations breed creativity, but it's a very specific type of creativity with this one. This is all a blessing and curse, because if all of the above is the type of sound you are looking for, then there is no better tool that will give you such immediate (and somewhat addictive) workflow for that hands on smokey creativity.

my order came a month earlier than initially expected, well done thomann!
a worthy successor to the sp line. unlike the 404a, this seems like a well thought release and not a cash grab. its adding PITCH, envelope, an actually useful screen, new fx, quick chopping and others. the free updates gonna fix some minor workflow issues hopefully.
workflow seems a tad bit more tedious, being used to the 404og and its simplicity, as it was my only sampler for some years, but its a well worth trade for the features added and its still fun to use.
Sounds much cleaner and spacier/wider than the og. the fx are still in the same str8forward mindset, with more controls added, but also sounding different, which is good, 'coz i'm gonna keep my og which is the true classic, finding balance between speed-versatility-memory, quality- character.