New SP404 MK2 Live Performance Methods in 2025

I’ve been performing live with the SP404 MK2 since it released in 2021, and over the years I’ve gone through multiple versions of my live set. My earliest setups revolved around one-shots and stem-split playback, often triggering chopped instruments over one-shot backing tracks.

SP404 MK2 and Guitar are a powerful live performance combo

But now, after five major firmware updates, the SP404 MK2 offers a ton of new flexibility for live performance. My upcoming live set is entirely ambient, which required a different approach: drones, loops, irregular time signatures, and a mix of live playing and triggered textures.

Here are the new performance methods I’ve been using in 2025.

1. Quick Mutes with the Pattern Sequencer

The SP404 MK2 has a lesser-known function called Quick Mutes, accessible by holding [Shift] + [Reverse] during playback. You can also press [Shift] + [Reverse] + [Remain] to keep the mute view open.

Here's a quick tutorial on Quick Mutes in the SP404 MK2

This is incredibly useful for building variation within a single pattern. Instead of programming dozens of different pattern versions, I now load all my instrument parts into one pattern and use quick mutes to build the song live. It feels more interactive and frees up memory for other ideas. Since mutes are global, you can’t use them to restart from a different pattern section, but you can use them to construct dynamic arrangements in real time.

2. Parallel Vs. Serial Bus FX Routing

Bus FX remain at the heart of my SP404 MK2 live performance. I often chain Bus 1 into Bus 2 (serial) instead of running them in parallel.

For example, I might dedicate Bus 1 to a filter or isolator so I can fade sounds in or out like a manual automation, while Bus 2 runs heavy ambience, a reverb or tape delay, to glue everything together. In an ambient context, this layering is essential for depth and texture.

Watch this to learn all the different bus fx methods explained.

3. Pattern Sequencer with Loop Variations

The pattern sequencer is still my go to when I want reliability and tight transitions between sections. It’s less “live” than using quick mutes, but it allows for more predictable structure and accuracy.

I’ll often make copies of a base pattern and remove or add elements, like a drum dropout or alternate synth phrasing, to create variations throughout the track. These small differences keep the performance from feeling static while still letting me stay synced across the full set. For a detailed look at the pattern sequencer, check out this deep dive:

4. Real-Time SP404 MK2 Live Performance Arrangement with Looped Samples

Another workflow I’ve been experimenting with involves triggering looped samples directly from sample pads instead of programming them into a pattern.

Each loop is exported as a fixed 4 or 8 bar section. With Loop Mode turned on per pad, the samples continuously cycle. Given that this requires manually triggering each pad, this approach is naturally much looser in terms of syncing each sample to the same tempo... but in ambient music, a little drift adds character and unpredictability. While every other method works perfectly with songs in other genres, this one can still work for beat driven music... but would require a fair bit of rehearsal and timing.

I often combine this with chopped melodic pads, where each chord is on its own pad so I can play progressions live on top of the loops.

5. Live Guitar + SP as Amp Sim (and Looper)

Adding a live instrument or sequenced hardware can add variety to a set

For some pieces, I send my guitar directly into the SP404 MK2, using the internal amp simulator and FX to shape tone. This gives me the freedom to perform between sampler-based tracks without switching setups.

I’ll occasionally use the built in Looper or drones on sample pads here to layer extra chords or textures live. It’s a great way to blend organic instruments with the electronic backbone of the set and to reset the energy between different performance methods.

Another option is to use hardware synths or grooveboxes with programmed sequences (or live improv) to break up the all SP404 MK2 performance methods.

How It All Fits Together in My SP404 MK2 Live Performance

Each track in my current set uses a slightly different approach, some rely on pattern sequencing and mutes, others on looped samples or live guitar improvisation. Having multiple methods keeps the performance fresh and lets me adapt to the mood of each piece.

You can learn how to make the most of all of these live performance methods (and more) in my SP404 MK2 Cheat Sheet & Quick Start Guide, which also covers sampling, resampling, and beatmaking workflows.

SP404 MK2 Beatmaking & Live Sets Cheat Sheet

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And if you want to start building your own live set, or learn how to integrate your gear for performance, book a personalized coaching session with me here.