A common question on SP404 forums is whether the SP404 MK2 is truly capable of making full beats on its own. Today, we'll go through the many reasons the SP404 MK2 is more than up to the task. We'll go over how you can create a full beat using just the SP404 MK2, a few samples, and its powerful Sound Generator for synth creation.
From sound design, chopping samples to sequencing and adding groove, this session covers it all. If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most of your SP404 MKII, this is for you.
Here's a full workflow to follow along with:
Check out the timestamps below to jump to the specific parts of the stream:
0:33 - Sample Sound Design on SP404 MKII
We start by designing the core sounds that will shape the track.
2:55 - Chopping the Sample
Learn how I chop the sample to give it the perfect rhythmic feel.
4:55 - Chopping the Drums into One Shots
The drums are broken down into individual one-shots for ultimate control.
6:30 - Resampling the Kick for Added Punch
How resampling the kick drum can give it a serious punch in the mix.
8:00 - Chopping the Rest of the Drum Kit
A look at how to chop up and layer the rest of the drum kit.
12:00 - Pattern Sequencing
Watch as I sequence the patterns that will form the backbone of the beat.
21:50 - Adding Groove with TR Rec Mode
TR Rec mode brings extra groove and swing to the beat.
26:00 - More Groove with 16 Steps on Hi Hats
Learn how to add even more movement with the 16-step hi-hat sequence.
35:00 - Making Your Own Synths with Sound Generator
I dive into the Sound Generator to create some custom synth sounds that fit the vibe of the track. While basic on it's own, sound generator's true power lies in the "merge sample" feature, allowing you to merge multiple generated waveforms, similar to oscillators on a synth. From there, you can add a filter and fx using resample
44:00 - How I Route Bass in the Bus FX
See how I use the bus effects to shape and route the bass sound.
44:30 - Making a MASSIVE Bass with Sound Generator & Merge Samples
Check out how I use the Sound Generator and sample merging to create a massive bass line.
54:00 - Testing a Few Other Sample Layer
I experiment with adding extra layers to the sample for some subtle texture.
55:00 - Arranging the Track with Pattern Sequencer
This is my favorite method for quickly arranging a track from a single pattern on the SP.
1:07:30 - Adding Polish and Final Touches with Pattern Variation
I show how to add final polish and variation to the track to keep it dynamic.
1:12:00 - Pattern Chaining
I walk you through pattern chaining to bring the track to life.
1:13:27 - Final Jam
Finally, the full jam session where everything comes together for the finished beat.
Learn how to make the most of the SP404 MK2 check out my Cheat Sheet & Quick Start Guide, covering everything from sampling/patterns, FX, synth recipes on sound generator and live performance:
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