Creative Sampler and Effector

The ultimate SP is here.

Roland SP samplers are the bona fide kings of performance-based beatmaking, celebrated for their distinctive sound and ability to create rapid-fire beats anywhere, anytime. Carefully refined through community feedback and extensive research and development, the SP-404MKII is the ultimate SP sampler. It’s faster and better than ever, with a vivid OLED display, expressive new pads, expanded effects, fluid sequencing and sampling, onboard looping, and a massive library of authentic sounds to inspire your music.

+ Features

  • Vivid OLED display for visual waveform editing, full menu access, and more
  • 17 velocity-sensitive, RGB pads with no-click design for smooth playability
  • Faster workflow with quick startup and load times, 16 GB internal storage, low-latency pads, and rapid sample editing
  • Compact, ultra-lightweight design (2.4lbs / 1.1kg) with versatile power options: USB-C, mobile battery (via USB-C port), six AA batteries, or AC adaptor
  • Upgraded I/O includes 1/4-inch line in/out, 1/4-inch mic/guitar input, 1/4-inch and 1/8-inch headphones outputs, and 1/8-inch TRS MIDI in/out
  • Customize the look with the detachable metal faceplate, user design template, and support for importing your own startup logo and screensaver images
  • Extensive onboard effects, including SP classics like Vinyl Simulator and DJFX Looper plus new Lo-fi, Cassette Simulator, and Resonator
  • Dedicated Vocoder, Auto Pitch, Harmony, Guitar Amp Simulator, and Anti-Feedback processing for the mic/guitar input
  • 32-voice polyphony, 160 samples per project, and 16 internal projects for expanded programming possibilities
  • Blazing onboard sample editing with real-time or auto-chop mode, auto BPM detect, envelope, pitch shift, and resampling for layering sounds and phrases
  • Pre-loaded sound library with 144 high-quality, professionally recorded samples and patterns
  • New resampling workflow for re-recording with various effects for detailed sound design
  • Loop Capture feature inspired by the SP-555 allows you to record, loop, and layer performances with effects in real time
  • Audio capture and streaming supported with mobile devices and computers via USB-C*
  • Skip Back Sampling to automatically capture up to 40 seconds of audio from your last performance
  • VariPhrase encoder for high-quality time-stretching of pitch and speed parameters
  • Groove Function inspired by the VP-9000 for adding swing and timing variations to sample phrases and drum loops
  • Multipad Export for saving all samples within a pattern as individual WAV files
  • Bus FX for layering multiple effects, with customizable routing for creating intricate sound textures
  • Adjust quantization before or after recording and tweak shuffle percentage across multiple note resolutions to customize swing
  • Pattern sequencer with BPM per bank and the ability to create full songs
  • Sequence patterns with real-time loop recording or TR-REC step input
  • Chain patterns for automatic playback and use Pad Link to trigger up to four samples with a single press
  • Motion recording for capturing dynamic changes to effect parameters, sub step, pitch, and velocity
  • Sound Generator for creating and capturing basslines and melodic phrases
  • DJ Mode with the ability to mix two audio files or patterns, manipulate eight cue points per sample, adjust fader curves, and much more
  • Koala Sampler integration provides bidirectional sampling support and a dedicated control mode to manipulate the app from the SP-404MKII panel
  • SP-404MKII standalone editor app for macOS and Windows provides direct sample access, detailed waveform editing, sample management, pad assignment, and import of MIDI files and legacy SP-404SX and SP-404A projects
  • SP-404MKII editor app also available as an AU/VST3 plug-in for music production software on macOS

    *A supported iOS mobile device with a Lightning connector can be connected to the SP-404MKII via USB-C using the appropriate Apple adaptor cable. The SP-404MKII must be powered with the included PSD AC adaptor or six AA batteries (not included) in this circumstance. See the SP-404MKII Reference Manual for more USB-C connection info.
SP-404MKII

Bigger, better, faster, stronger.

The SP-404MKII has everything you love about its predecessor—and so much more. You get 17 ultra-expressive pads and updated knobs for smooth, hands-on control, plus faster operation with speedy boot time, swift project loading and sample import, and 16 GB of internal storage. Longtime users and new beatmakers alike will feel right at home with the intuitive layout and classic SP effects, enhanced with a revamped sampling and sequencing workflow, DJ mode to mix beats live, Skip Back Sampling and Loop Capture features, and many other powerful creative tools.

SP-404MKII

Guerilla beatmaking.

SP samplers are loved for their rapid workflow, portability, and tactile approach. The SP-404MKII takes this experience even further, retaining the light-yet-rugged design while adding features that make it even easier to create in any scenario. Bang out beats anywhere with AA or mobile battery power. Collaborate with a partner using the dual headphones outputs and mic/guitar input. Or capture and stream audio with your mobile device via USB. Onboard integration with the popular Koala Sampler app is now included, offering bidirectional sampling and a dedicated mode for hardware-based remote control.

SP-404MKII

A sampler with soul.

With the SP-404MKII’s vivid OLED screen and zoomable waveform view, sample editing is smooth like butter. Chop up samples by tapping out edit points in real time or use auto chop to slice samples automatically, and then finesse them with envelope and pitch shift. Convert any pattern or pattern chain to a sample with the press of a button. Call up the Groove Function to add swing and timing changes to sample phrases and drum loops. And use Skip Back Sampling to instantly grab those golden moments by capturing up to 40 seconds of audio from your last performance.

SP-404MKII

All about effects.

Process, flip, and twist your sounds with legendary SP effects and a selection of new classics. SP staples like Vinyl Simulator and DJFX Looper are now joined with powerful additions that include Lo-fi, Cassette Simulator, and Resonator. Layer and route multiple bus effects and motion record effect parameters for intricate sound textures and dynamic playback. Or plug into the mic/guitar input and jam with ready-to-go Vocoder, Auto Pitch, Harmony, and Guitar Amp Simulator effects.

SP-404MKII | Performance-tuned sequencing

Performance-tuned sequencing.

The SP-404MKII makes it simple to create unique patterns and infuse performances with fresh energy, thanks to versatile real-time recording, evolving editing tools, and our intuitive TR-REC step sequencer. There’s adjustable quantize and shuffle, a Roll button for performing and recording note repeats, and BPM-per-bank for instant tempo changes. Jam with samples live and organize patterns for chained playback in different sets. Sync with external MIDI gear and work with imported multitrack files. And use Multipad Export to save all samples within a pattern as individual WAV files for song development in your DAW.

SP-404MKII | Record shop

Sound stash.

Dive into beatmaking with the pre-loaded sounds in the SP-404MKII's blazing-fast 16 GB of internal memory. There’s a huge collection of curated samples to choose from and plenty of room to augment them with your private sound stash. You can now load even more sounds at once, with 160 samples across each project for expanded performance and beatmaking combinations. A Sound Generator is also available, allowing you to build mono synth tones and sample basslines, melodic phrases, and sound effects within the SP-404MKII.

Break beats. Not banks.

You shouldn't need to take out a bank loan to make beats or produce tracks. The SP-404MKII is more powerful and more affordable than ever, making it easy to add its rapid workflow and characteristic sound to your existing setup. And with all it can do, the SP-404MKII may be the only piece you need for production and performance.

SP-404MKII | Break beats. Not banks.
SP-404MKII | Customize it

Customize it.

You work hard to be a unique artist—so why play on cookie-cutter gear that looks like everyone else’s? Personalize your SP-404MKII with your own style or branding for a look that's as distinctive as your sound. Grab the faceplate template to create custom overlays, style your startup screen with personalized logos, or select a screensaver that matches your vibe.

CUSTOM FACEPLATES

Colored control knobs pictured are sold separately and not available from Roland.

SP-404MKII Sample Packs
SP-404MKII App

SP-404MKII App, Sample Packs, and more on Roland Cloud.

Download the SP-404MKII App from Roland Cloud Manager to go even deeper with your Mac or Windows computer. Access more detailed waveform editing, assign samples to pads, and import MIDI files and legacy SP-404SX and SP-404A projects for remixing and updating. You can also use the editor within Mac-based DAW workflows thanks to AU and VST3 plug-in support. And don’t forget to check out our exclusive Beat Maker Sample Pack series, which offers new sonic material from legendary sound designers and musicians to inspire your next production.

SP-404MKII APP

SP-404MKII
SP-404MKII
SP-404MKII
SP-404MKII
SP-404MKII
SP-404MKII
Roland SP-404 Story
Specifications
Maximum Polyphony
32 voices
Recordable Data
Samples = 2,560 (16 samples x 10 banks x 16 projects, stored in internal storage)
Patterns = 2,560 (16 patterns x 10 banks x 16 projects, stored in internal storage)
Internal storage
Size: 16 GB
*Including preload data
Maximum sampling time
16 minutes (approximately 185 MB per sample)
Skip Back Sampling
Maximum 40 seconds (always records LINE OUT signal independently of sampling/resampling)
Internal Data Format
16-bit linear
Import Format
WAV, AIFF, MP3
*SP-404MKII APP supports WAV, AIFF, MP3, FLAC, M4A.
Sampling frequency
48kHz
Pattern Sequencer
Resolution: 480 ticks, quarter note
Pattern length: 1 to 64 bars (variable during recording)
Recording methods: real-time loop recording, TR-REC step sequencing
Effects
Multi-effects: 41 types
Input effects: 17 types
Pad
16 pads + 1 sub pad (Velocity-sensitive pad)
Controller
Control knobs x 3
Display
Graphic OLED display
External Storage
SD card (sold separately) for backup, restore, import, and export functions (SDHC compatible)
Connection terminals
PHONES jacks: 1/4-inch phone type, Stereo miniature phone type
LINE OUT (L/MONO, R) jacks: 1/4-inch TRS phone type (impedance balanced)
LINE IN (L/MONO, R) jacks: 1/4-inch phone type
MIC/GUITAR IN jacks: 1/4-inch TRS phone type (for MIC), 1/4-inch phone type (for GUITAR)
MIDI (IN, OUT) jack: Stereo miniature phone type
USB terminal: USB Type-C (Audio, MIDI)
DC IN terminal
Power Supply
AC adaptor
USB bus power supply (USB Type-C port, 1.5 A ormore)
Ni-MH batteries (AA, HR6)(sold separately) x 6
Alkaline battery (AA, LR6)(sold separately) x 6
Current Draw
1,100 mA (AC adaptor)
1,500 mA (USB bus power)
Expected battery life under continuous use
Alkaline battery: Approx. 2.5 hours
Ni-MH battery: Approx. 3.5 hours
*This can vary depending on the specifications of the batteries, capacity of the batteries, and the conditions of use.
Accessories
Quick start
"Read Me First" leaflet
Roland User Registration Card
AC adaptor
Warranty card
Options (sold separately)
TRS/MIDI connecting cable: BMIDI-5-35, BMIDI-1-35, BMIDI-2-35, BCC-1-3535, BCC-2-3535
Wireless MIDI Expression Pedal: BOSS EV-1-WL
Size & Weight
External dimensions
177.5 (W) x 275.8 (D) x 70.5 (H) mm7 (W) x 10-7/8 (D) x 2-13/16 (H) inches
Weight (excluding AC adaptor)
1.1 kg
2 lb. 7 oz.
Careers in Music: Sarah Tudzin on Producing

Careers in Music: Sarah Tudzin on Producing

Sarah Tudzin, songwriter and vocalist for illuminati hotties, guides us through her rapidly ascending career as a producer and mix engineer.Read more…

Hands-On: Foundations of Live Electronic Music Performance

Hands-On: Foundations of Live Electronic Music Performance

Live electronic music performance creates a unique interaction between performer and listener. Discover how it is both exciting and transformative.Read more…

404 Day

404 DaySP samplers & the sound of lo-fi hip-hop

Every music genre has its origin story: a combination of people, places, and products that contribute to the overall sound. And this is one such story—about how a little black box from Japan helped the world to kick back and relax.Read more…

Inside the São Paulo Beat Scene

Inside the São Paulo Beat Scene

Explore the multifaceted São Paulo beat scene with this in-depth history of its close-knit ecosystem of artists, beatmakers, and labels.Read more…

Inside the Japanese Beat Scene

Inside the Japanese Beat Scene

The lo-fi sound and aesthetic have deep roots in Japan. Dive into the colorful subculture with the Japanese beat scene's key players.Read more…

The Science of Sample Packs

The Science of Sample Packs

Alin Dimitriu, Saint Ezekiel, Lightfoot, and Ski Beatz share the challenges and rewards of sample pack creation and give tips to producers.Read more…

Roland Engineering: Designing the SP-404MKII

Roland Engineering: Designing the SP-404MKII

The lead designers behind the SP-404MKII provide an exclusive look inside the making of the updated version of the beloved classic.Read more…

Ultimate Guide: Customizing the SP-404MKII

Ultimate Guide: Customizing the SP-404MKII

The SP-404MKII is ready-made for numerous types of customization. Here's a deep dive into the world of options for modding the new model.Read more…

Skin Deep: Art of the SP-404 Overlay and Beyond

Skin Deep: Art of the SP-404 Overlay and Beyond

Welcome to the world that’s grown around SP-404 custom skins and beyond. Get lost in the art and hear from the creators in their own words.Read more…

4 Essential SP-404 Live Performance Tips

4 Essential SP-404 Live Performance Tips

Austin, TX beatmaker/producer/artist Flobama shares four essential quick-start tips to help SP-404 users maximize their machines.Read more…

SP-404: DJFX LOOPER and How to Use It

SP-404: DJFX LOOPER and How to Use It

Learn to utilize the SP-404's DJFX LOOPER, a definitive feature of the SP series and sonic cornerstone of the lo-fi hip-hop movement.Read more…

Listening Guide: An Intro to the L.A. Beat Scene

Listening Guide: An Intro to the L.A. Beat Scene

Many artists and releases played a pivotal role in shaping the L.A. Beat Scene. Here's a variety of key sounds from a unique musical moment.Read more…

Support

If you have questions about operating your Roland product, please check our Knowledge Base for answers to the most common questions.
You can also contact our Product Support through Roland Backstage.
In addition, we have a library of Owner’s Manuals and Support Documents that you can download and reference.

Owner's Manuals

Support Documents