The SP-404 MK II has long been a favorite among producers and DJs for its versatility and compact design. With the recent upgrades, particul...
The SP-404 MK II has long been a favorite among producers and DJs for its versatility and compact design. With the recent upgrades, particularly the enhancements brought by version 4.07 released in November 2024, users can expect a more stable and refined experience. Here’s a breakdown of the latest features and bug fixes across several versions leading up to the current upgrade.
Version 4.07 (November 2024): Stability at Its Core
The recent 4.07 update focuses primarily on bug fixes, enhancing the overall functionality of the SP-404 MK II:
Bug Fixes:
Resolved an issue where importing multiple samples at once resulted in duplicates.
Fixed problems with saving edited sample names under specific conditions.
Addressed various minor bugs for smoother operation.
These updates help ensure that the SP-404 MK II remains a reliable tool for live performance and studio production.
Version 4.06 (October 2024): Improved User Experience
Before the latest fix, the 4.06 update introduced functional improvements, particularly beneficial for DJs:
Functionality Improvements:
Added a progress bar in DJ MODE to visually track the sample import process from the SD card.
Bug Fixes:
Cured crashes related to long filenames and sample imports during DJ mode.
Corrected issues with sound generation levels and USB audio meter inconsistencies.
Fixed a recording glitch when using the sequencer in very specific conditions.
These changes indicate a commitment to enhancing user interaction for both novice and experienced users.
Version 4.05 (May 2024): Addressing Crashes and Export Issues
The May 2024 update concentrated heavily on addressing crashes and operational hitches:
Bug Fixes:
Resolved crashes when sampling or resampling after importing.
Addressed project exporting issues where folder names erroneously defaulted to "PROJECT1".
Fixed recording and MIDI synchronization bugs that were hampering usability.
This version exhibited the developers' responsiveness to user concerns and the importance of system stability.
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Version 4.04 (April 2024): A Wealth of New Features
One of the most exciting updates came in April 2024 with version 4.04, which brought significant new functionalities:
Additional Functions / Functionality Improvements:
Added "LOOPER": This feature allows for overlapping samples, enabling a more dynamic performance.
Added "GROOVE": This function adds rhythmic characteristics to samples, enhancing creativity in beat-making.
Added "MULTIPAD EXPORT": A useful tool that converts phrases recorded in patterns into audio for each Pad, streamlining the export process.
Added the ability to bounce Pattern Chains: This feature converts patterns into samples, making it easier to work with recorded material.
Expanded "Koala Sampler" Integration: Users can now operate the "Koala Sampler" directly from the SP-404 MK II.
Added "SOUND GENERATOR": This allows users to create bass sounds and other original sounds without the need for external equipment.
Introduced "MICROSCOPE": A tool for editing patterns note by note in TR-REC mode, enhancing precision in pattern creation.
Tap Recording Function: Added to TR-REC, making it easier to input rhythms and melodies quickly.
Added "SAMPLE MERGE": This function allows users to combine multiple samples into one, expanding creative possibilities.
Sampling/Resampling Enhancements: Now users can set the number of measures to sample and see a level meter during the process.
MIDI Control: Users can control sampling and resampling using external MIDI start/stop commands.
Enhanced Naming Features: Added "RENAME" functionality to edit sample and project file names directly on the SP-404 MK II.
Project Importing: Users can now import projects from the SP-404SX / SP-404A, making it easier to integrate past work.
Directly Load Projects: The ability to load project files saved on the SD Card without complications.
Import Samples in DJ Mode: Users can now import samples while in DJ mode, adding versatility during performances.
Increased Number of Scale Types: Improves the options available in Chromatic Mode for more musical expression.
Record ROLL in Patterns: This addition allows for more intricate live performance capabilities.
Enhanced Roll Interval Types: Expanded options for sample playback rhythms.
Added "DJFX Delay": A new effect that enhances the versatility of audio manipulation during performances.
Expanded Effects (MFX): Included additional effects such as FILTER+DRIVE, RESONATOR, DELAY, ISOLATOR, and DJFX LOOPER, providing users with a broader range of options for sound processing.
Preserved Effect Parameter Values: When swapping effects between BUS 1 and BUS 2, the effect parameters will now retain their values, streamlining the workflow.
Pad Color Customization: Introduced "Pad Color ", allowing users to set the pad lighting color for each sample individually, enhancing visual feedback during performance.
Blank Pads Screen Saver: Pads that do not have samples assigned to them will no longer light up when the screen saver is active, reducing distractions while inactive.
Forced Mute Feature: Added a function to forcibly mute when samples from other banks are played, providing better control during performances.
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Bug Fixes:
Addressed various bugs, including issues with undo functionality when quantize settings are around 50%.
Resolved GATE being turned OFF when recording a pattern in Chromatic Mode.
Fixed crashes under specific conditions in DJ Mode.
Corrected motion deletion issues and sample point recognition upon importing certain samples.
Enhanced MIDI control to ensure it functions correctly in Chromatic Mode.
Resolved issues with MIDI start/stop commands not being passed under specific conditions.
Fixed crashes associated with playing certain WAV files.
Addressed multiple minor bugs for improved stability.
Conclusion
The SP-404 MK II continues to evolve with each update, reflecting the needs and feedback of its user community. With the exciting new features and substantial improvements introduced in version 4.04, alongside the stability enhancements in versions 4.07 and 4.06, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of sampling and beat-making with this powerful device. Whether you're a live performer or a studio producer, these upgrades enhance your creative toolkit and ensure that your workflow remains uninterrupted.
For those interested, be sure to check out the SP-404MKII Reference Manual (Version 4) for detailed information about every new feature and usability improvement. Happy sampling!
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