Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $523

Standard/Professional

$249

$700+

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Standard

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Roland SP-404A". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 22, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Roland SP-404A, a must-have gear in the DJ world. This sampling marvel is equipped with 16-bit linear sampling and 29 effects, making it a powerhouse for smooth audio transitions. It features 12 performance pads and a built-in mic, enabling you to explore and express your musical talent effortlessly. With over 100 stereo samples, effects, and one-shots from Loopmasters, this compact yet dynamic tool is sure to invigorate your performance. Easy portability coupled with the ability to create your own samples on the go, or import them directly from your computer, makes the Roland SP-404A a versatile companion for any musical journey.

Key Features:

  • 16-bit linear sampling
  • 29 effects with smooth switching
  • 12 performance pads
  • Built-in mic
  • Over 100 stereo samples, effects, and one-shots from Loopmasters
  • Load samples via SD card or direct import from computer
  • Compact and portable design for easy transportation
  • Ideal for live performances and on-the-go music creation

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model SP-404A Linear Wave Sampler
Finish Black
Year 2017 - 2025
Categories Samplers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input
Number of Pads 12 Pads
Polyphony 12 Voices

FAQs

What type of power supply does the Roland SP-404A require?

The Roland SP-404A operates on six AA batteries or an AC adapter, making it versatile for both portable and stationary use.

How many samples can the Roland SP-404A store at once?

The Roland SP-404A can house up to 120 samples across its internal memory and an SD card, providing extensive storage for creative sampling.

Does the Roland SP-404A have built-in effects?

Yes, the Roland SP-404A features a variety of built-in effects, including reverb, delay, and vinyl simulation, allowing for creative sound manipulation.

Is the Roland SP-404A compatible with MIDI devices?

The Roland SP-404A includes a MIDI input, enabling it to interface with other MIDI-compatible devices for expanded performance options.

Can the Roland SP-404A be used for live performances?

Absolutely, the Roland SP-404A is designed for both studio and live use, with its intuitive interface and robust effects making it a popular choice for live performances.

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Roland SP-404A & TR-8 Performance

Video thumbnail for Roland SP-404A & TR-8 Performance by RolandChannel

Roland SP-404A & TR-8 Performance

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Video thumbnail for Roland SP-404A - Basic layout and overview by Product Support

Roland SP-404A - Basic layout and overview

Product Support

Product Support

Video thumbnail for ROLAND SP 404A!! THESE EFFECTS ARE CRAZY!!!! (First Impressions & Review) by - SweetScale TV -

ROLAND SP 404A!! THESE EFFECTS ARE CRAZY!!!! (First Impressions & Review)

- SweetScale TV -

- SweetScale TV -

Video thumbnail for Roland SP-404A Preset Samples and Patterns by DJ Digital Josh

Roland SP-404A Preset Samples and Patterns

DJ Digital Josh

DJ Digital Josh

Video thumbnail for Roland SP-404A - Stock Sounds by Product Support

Roland SP-404A - Stock Sounds

Product Support

Product Support

Video thumbnail for Roland SP-404A - Unboxing and Contents description by Product Support

Roland SP-404A - Unboxing and Contents description

Product Support

Product Support

Video thumbnail for Roland SP-404a Unboxing by Matthew Stratton

Roland SP-404a Unboxing

Matthew Stratton

Matthew Stratton

Video thumbnail for Roland SP-404A Unboxing x How I Plan to Use It x Lifted Noise by Lifted Noise

Roland SP-404A Unboxing x How I Plan to Use It x Lifted Noise

Lifted Noise

Lifted Noise

Reviews

PROS

  • Intuitive use with clear button labeling, minimal menu navigation

  • Enhanced features: OLED screen, 32 voice polyphony, 37 DSP effects

  • Increased memory with 16gb internal storage

  • 25-second retrospective sampling for capturing missed ideas

  • Includes a dedicated vocoder for vocal effects

  • Attractive new black design as an update to predecessors

  • Compatible with TR-8S for expanded music creation possibilities

  • Recognized as a cult classic, offering unique musical experiences

CONS

  • Pads can feel clicky and stiff initially

  • Lofi effect quality not as rich as the original SP-404 model

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SP-404A.

Features and functionality

  • The SP-404A offers limited polyphony, which can be a significant constraint for complex arrangements or layering multiple sounds.

    Source
  • The SP-404A requires RCA cables for connections, which some users find inconvenient compared to more modern connectivity options.

    Source
  • The SP-404A is often overlooked as an effects processor, with a notable tutorial by Nick from Tera Melos highlighting its capabilities in unique sound processing.

    Source
  • The SP-404A is praised for its immediacy, allowing users to operate it almost instinctively, akin to playing an instrument without needing to look at the controls.

    Source
  • The SP-404A can be used creatively by resampling performances into pads and sequencing those in an MPC, allowing for innovative beat-making and sample manipulation.

    Source

User experience

  • Users find the built-in mic of the SP-404A convenient for quick sampling, but the lack of true pitch adjustment is a limitation compared to newer models like the MK2.

    Source
  • There's a preference for the SP-404SX over the MK2 due to its simpler buttons and screen, which enhances workflow and reduces the need for menu diving.

    Source
  • The lack of quantization on the SP-404A is seen as a plus by some users, allowing for more organic and less rigid beat creation compared to the MPC Live's perfect quantization.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The SP-404A's workflow is noted as more intuitive for some due to its simpler interface, avoiding the "menu diving" associated with the MK2's advanced features.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • SP-404A is favored for live performance setups, particularly for resampling and filtering loops and stems that are pre-aligned for seamless transitions.

    Source
  • Many users find that personal experimentation, rather than relying solely on tutorials, leads to a better understanding and creative use of the SP-404A in their music production.

    Source
  • Treating the SP-404A as a sampling instrument rather than just an FX processor adds creative depth, enabling real-time effects manipulation and automation through resampling.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners recommend taking screenshots of the most helpful manual sections and storing them in the battery compartment for quick reference during use.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 14 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jvml
jvml

141

so so so cool

i cannot emphasize enough how awesome this thing is. you could probably straightup find god in it if you tried. a beyond cult classic for good reason and More.

jeffersonweber

Learning curve

Great sampler, slight learning curve to it. Pairs well with my TR 8

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kurt Vile uses Roland SP-404A

Kurt Vile

Guitarist, Singer

The War on Drugs

...
Verified via Photo

In this instagram story, Kurt shows his Roland SP-404A audio sampler.

See how Nick Reinhart uses Roland SP-404A

Nick Reinhart

Singer, Guitarist

Death Grips

...
Verified via Photo

Nick posted a story on 7/7/2021 of him using the Behringer TD-3 and the Sp-404A on his Instagram account.

See how Japanese Breakfast uses Roland SP-404A

Japanese Breakfast

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

The workstation can be seen at the bottom of this photo from an April 2018 concert. It is often used to trigger vocal samples at the end of the song Roadhead.

See how Lila Ramani uses Roland SP-404A

Lila Ramani

Singer, Guitarist

Crumb

...
Verified via YouTube

Lila Ramani, the singer and guitarist, is confirmed to use the Roland SP-404A, as evidenced in the video titled "CRUMB Outside Lands 2023 Full Show" on YouTube. The specific usage of this audio sampler by Ramani can be observed at the 3:32 timestamp.

See how Dibiase uses Roland SP-404A

Dibiase

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Been get caught up on the iPhone beats lately. Had to come back to the trusty SP,and switch it up a bit. @roland_us @rolandaira #sp404a

See how Eyedress uses Roland SP-404A

Eyedress

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

He is seen holding it and uses this at his shows.

See how Xavier Swafford uses Roland SP-404A

Xavier Swafford

Keyboardist

3Teeth

...
Verified via YouTube

In this live video, we can see Xavier Swafford using the Roland SP-404A at 2:08.

See how 猫 シ Corp. uses Roland SP-404A

猫 シ Corp.

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In a profile picture on Equipboard, 猫 シ Corp. can be seen using the Roland SP-404A. Although the full view is partially obscured, a visible portion of the letter "A" confirms the model.

See how Michul Kuun uses Roland SP-404A

Michul Kuun

Drummer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by nah_is_nah, Michul Kuun is seen using a Roland SP-404A during a performance.

See how JD Fuller / Kisatrix uses Roland SP-404A

JD Fuller / Kisatrix

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

He uses an SP404a in this video and another.

See how Drum & Lace uses Roland SP-404A

Drum & Lace

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Featured in this May 15, 2018 video.

Also used:

Roland SP404A

See how Flawless Issues uses Roland SP-404A

Flawless Issues

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

he used it in his instagram story

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland SP-404A, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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