Roland SP-404MK2 Reference Manual

This document serves as a comprehensive reference manual for the Roland SP-404MK2, detailing its functionalities and operations as of software version 1.14. The SP-404MK2 is an all-in-one device that allows for audio sampling, editing, composition, and performance.

Introduction

The Roland SP-404MK2 is a versatile device designed for music creation, enabling users to sample sounds, edit them, and build patterns for musical compositions. This manual provides detailed explanations of each component and function of the SP-404MK2, guiding users through its various features.

Key Features and Operations

Edit Section

The Edit section includes controls for adjusting overall volume and parameters:

[VOLUME] Knob: Adjusts the master volume of the unit.
[CTRL 1] ~ [CTRL 3] Knobs: Used for modifying various parameters depending on the context.

Control Section (1)

This section features the display and effect buttons:

Display: Shows various information based on the current operation.
Effect Buttons: Used to select and apply effects to the audio.

Control Section (2)

This section contains buttons for pattern sequencing and sampling:

[PATTERN SELECT] Button: Activates the pattern sequencer to select patterns.
[PATTERN EDIT] Button: Opens the pattern editing screen when the pattern sequencer is active.
[RECORD SETTING] Button: Accesses settings for sampling and pattern recording.
[DEL] Button: Deletes sample or pattern data.
[REC] Button: Initiates sampling or pattern recording.
[RESAMPLE] Button: Used for resampling operations.
[EXIT] Button: Returns to the previous screen or cancels an operation.
[COPY] Button: Copies samples or patterns.
[REMAIN] Button: Displays information set for the last pressed pad.

Control Section (3)

This section is dedicated to sample editing and playback control:

[START/END] Button: Sets the start and end points for sample playback and editing.
[PITCH/SPEED] Button: Adjusts the pitch and playback speed of samples.
[MARK] Button: Sets markers or is used with SKIP BACK SAMPLING.
[VALUE] Knob: Rotates to change parameters or select items; press to confirm parameters or execute operations.
[BPM SYNC] Button: Synchronizes sample and pattern playback to the tempo.
[GATE] Button: Toggles the gate function on/off.
[LOOP] Button: Toggles the loop function on/off.
[REVERSE] Button: Toggles reverse playback for samples.
[ROLL] Button: Toggles roll playback, allowing for rapid, repeating playback of samples. Holding [SHIFT] while pressing [ROLL] allows adjustment of the roll interval.
Bank Buttons [A/F] ~ [E/J]: Switch between banks of samples.
[SHIFT] Button: Activates secondary functions for pads and buttons.

Pad Section

This section contains the performance pads and related controls:

Pads [1] ~ [16]: Play samples or patterns assigned to them. In DJ mode, they function as controllers.
[BUS FX] Button: Switches the bus for sample playback or uses the MUTE BUS function.
[HOLD] Button: Keeps a sample playing after the pad is released, if the [GATE] button is active.
[EXT SOURCE] Button: Toggles external input on/off.
[SUB PAD] Button: Used for various functions depending on the mode, such as tap tempo input.

Side Panel

SD Card Slot: For inserting SD cards to store data.

Front Panel

PHONES Jack: For connecting headphones or earphones.
[GAIN] Knob: Adjusts the input level for connected devices.
[MIC/GUITAR] Switch: Selects input impedance for connected devices, such as guitars and basses.
INPUT Jack: Connects external audio devices like microphones and guitars.

Rear Panel

DC IN Jack: Connects the AC adapter.
[POWER] Switch: Turns the unit on or off.
USB Terminal: Connects to computers and can receive power via USB.
MIDI IN/OUT Terminals: Connects to external MIDI devices using a TRS/MIDI connecting cable (sold separately).
LINE IN (L/MONO, R) Jacks: For audio signal input.
LINE OUT (L/MONO, R) Jacks: For audio signal output.

Understanding Data Structure

The SP-404MK2 manages various data types essential for music creation:

Samples

A sample is a data unit comprising recorded audio, loop settings, and effect routing information. Samples can be assigned to pads for playback or used within patterns.

Banks

A bank consists of 16 samples and can be saved across 10 banks (Bank A to Bank J).

Patterns

A pattern is data that records the sequence of sample playback. By playing samples and recording the performance, users can create songs. Patterns are recorded using the pattern sequencer.

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