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Description
Discover the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler, a versatile tool for producers and musicians seeking creative freedom. Designed to serve as both a sampler and a sequencer, this innovative device offers a rich palette of features that cater to various production needs. With its intuitive interface and powerful capabilities, the SP-808 is ideal for both studio and live performances.
At the heart of the SP-808 lies its powerful D-Beam controller, allowing for expressive manipulation of sounds through hand movements, adding a dynamic layer to your creative process. The GrooveSampler also boasts an extensive library of built-in effects, giving you the ability to shape your sound with precision and flair.
The unit's expansive sampling capabilities are complemented by its ability to handle up to four stereo tracks simultaneously. This makes it a robust choice for multi-track sequencing and dynamic audio manipulation. Whether you're creating loops or arranging full tracks, the SP-808 adapts to your workflow seamlessly.
To accommodate your evolving creative needs, the SP-808 offers a ZIP drive for storage, ensuring you have ample space for your samples and projects. Its user-friendly design is perfect for musicians looking to push the boundaries of their sound with a reliable and adaptable tool.
Key Features:
- Integrated D-Beam controller for dynamic sound manipulation
- Built-in multi-effects engine with extensive options
- 4-track stereo sequencing for comprehensive production
- ZIP drive for expanded sample storage
- Intuitive interface suitable for both studio and live use
- Versatile sampling capabilities for diverse audio applications
Product specs
| Brand | Roland |
| Model | SP-808 Groove Sampler |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2000s |
| Categories | Samplers |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through |
| Number of Pads | 16 Pads |
| Polyphony | 4 Voices |
FAQs
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What type of storage does the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler use?
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The Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler uses an internal Zip drive for storage, allowing you to save and load samples and projects efficiently.
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How many voices of polyphony does the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler have?
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The Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler offers 4 voices of polyphony, enabling it to play four stereo samples simultaneously.
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Does the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler include built-in effects?
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Yes, the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler comes with a variety of built-in effects, including a 2-band EQ, multi-effects, and a virtual analog synthesizer.
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How does the D-Beam controller on the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler function?
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The D-Beam controller on the Roland SP-808 allows for hands-free control of effects and parameters by detecting hand movements above the sensor, adding dynamic expression to your performance.
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What are the MIDI capabilities of the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler?
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The Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler features MIDI Input, Output, and Through, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with other MIDI-equipped devices in your setup.
Videos
Matt Greer Music
The Roland & Boss SP Sampler Series - Episode 2: Roland SP-808 Groove Sampler
The Roland & Boss SP Sampler Series - Episode 2: Roland SP-808 Groove Sampler
Matt Greer Music
Roland SP-808 Video Manual
King Skullie
My Quick Review On The Roland SP 808 Sampler / Quick Lo-Fi Beat !
DJ ROCK CEE TV
A hardware phrase sampler in 2022? Are you Mad? Introducing the Roland SP 808 Groove Sampler.
Mad Gear
Roland SP808 Groovebox Sampler Demo
Synthetech
ROLAND SP 808 BEATMAKING PRODUCTION BY TRE TRACKS #sp808 #rolandsp808 #beatmaker #production
TreTracks
Reviews
PROS
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Extensive effects options with Roland quality
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Functions well as a 4-track mixer and recorder
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Intuitive UI aids in easy learning
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Sturdy build quality withstands regular use
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Handy jog wheel for precise sample editing
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Vari-speed option for creative sample manipulation
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Decent sound quality for early digital sampling
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D-beam offers unique performance modulation
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Good for remixing with customizable effects
CONS
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Not designed for sequencing individual drum hits
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Zip drive limits sample loading speed and storage
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MIDI event timing can be sluggish
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Zip disks prone to "click-of-death" issue
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D-beam considered gimmicky by some users
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Pitch function creates artifacts in drum samples
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Effects can't be applied to individual samples
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Notable "Drive busy" errors during operation
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Sequencer often produces errors, deemed useless
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Only one mic-level input, limiting connectivity
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler.
Features and functionality
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The SP-808 offers a unique combination of sampling and a virtual analog synthesizer, which sets it apart from more modern alternatives.
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The SP-808 uses Zip disks for storage, which can be noisy, potentially affecting recording quality due to background noise.
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The SP-808's Zip drive limits real-time performance due to sluggish streaming, hindering rapid sample triggering.
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The SP-606 includes a basic mono synth within its effects, offering additional sound design capabilities beyond typical sampling functions.
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The SP-606 supports 8 voices of polyphony and a 4-track sequencer, which is seen as robust for its class within the SP series.
Source
Comparisons
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The SP-808's effects are praised, though the SP-404 is noted to have a similar quality of effects with a better sequencer, making it more suitable for modern use.
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The SP-404SX's loop editing is less efficient compared to the SP-303, as it starts samples from the beginning rather than the current point, complicating sample chopping.
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The SD card reader offers similar processing speed to the original Zip drive but potentially less flexibility than the MCD drive, which is noted for faster performance.
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The SP-505 features waveform editing and a chop function, reportedly superior to the MPC 2000 for sample manipulation.
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User experience
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Some users find the SP-404SX's higher fidelity samples sound harsher compared to the warmer, lower fidelity sounds of the SP-303.
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Owners of the SP-303 appreciate its ability to reverse samples from the current point, a feature not available on the SP-404SX, enhancing its utility for creative sampling.
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Owners mention the SP series excels in performance-oriented sampling, offering immediacy and creative sound manipulation.
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Mods and upgrades
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A working SD card reader can replace the Zip disk drive, enhancing reliability and reducing noise, although it lacks computer file transfer capability.
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Use cases and applications
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The SD card solution provides reliable onboard sampling memory, allowing users to bounce audio out when necessary, fitting those who prioritize sampling within the unit.
Source
Value and pricing
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Some owners find investing around $350 for an SP-808 with a new SD card reader a fair deal, considering it a cost-effective way to revive non-working units.
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The SP-505 is considered a hidden gem, offering extensive features at a lower price than models like the SP-404, despite providing more functionality.
Source
4.0 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 14 Ratings
26900
Fun FX, but let down by sluggish, sloppy timing
This was my first "real" piece of music gear that wasn't guitar-focused. It got me through a late-90s live performance obligation that required some live sample triggering and manipulation, but it proved to be an unworthy studio hub during my first year of ownership.
The FX were fun, the flashing lights were fun, and the layout was straightforward enough, but I recall the (MIDI) event timing was noticeably sluggish, even to someone as inexperienced as I was at the time... and, if memory serves, it only got worse when more FX and disk-streamed tracks where added at the same time.
I'm lucky to have sold it while the original SP-808 still being produced; I remember being relieved that the eBay auction closed for only a few bucks below list price... at least my (ultimately) bad decision didn't cost me too much $$.
If you see one at a yard sale, skip it. This is NOT an SP-202/303/404 on steroids, it's a 90s Roland VS-series multitrack recorder taking on more sampling and sequencing duties than it can successfully handle.
491
my first sampler
The effects and editing of the effects is much more extensive than a SP404 or 303. However, the effect when applied to the sample bank applies to all samples, as opposed to being able to choose single samples for effects like the 404. You have mute groups on this, clicks can be pretty noticable tho. Sequencer is basically useless and too often produced a "DISK BUSY" type error. There is a vari-speed option which is like playing all sample at a fixed slowed down rate on tape, changing frequency response and all, as well as sample time, and of course pitch and speed. Resampling is your friend here. I always felt like I could give my drums character using this unit with all the effects and eq.
Pretty powerful, but not what I needed
Picked this up at a time when I needed a sampler and was about to become unemployed, so it was a bit of a desperation purchase. And as it turned out, it really wasn't the sort of tool I needed. I eventually ended up getting an SP-505 and a Korg ES-1 to replace it, and between the two of them they do what I need better than this thing does. And my SP-808 has been stored away in a box for about 12 years.
That's not to say that it's not useful or powerful, though. It's got some great capabilities, great effects and such. But it has a bit of a split personality. It's best thought of more as a studio workstation, rather than just a sampler, yet it's designed for live performance. And it uses a zip drive and zip disks, which can develop the click-of-death issue from being moved around too much.
101
great sampler
the sampler is awesome, just dont expect the mpc workflow. the sequencer is actually a 4track recorder and the pads are super small. also, it works with zip discs and its very hard/impossible to switch to hdd or cf.
great for remixing, awesome customizable fx, dbeam is fun but useless in dark clubs, can be upgraded to the EX software.
Artist usage
Add artist
In an article published by BBC Radio 1, Thomas from Daft Punk listed the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler among the studio gear they were using. Archive.org link of the article here.
Trent Reznor is confirmed to have used the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler in the recording of "The Fragile," as indicated by the Fragility Tour program, which includes a partial list of equipment utilized during the album's production. This information is sourced from nin.wiki.
Liam Howlett, of The Prodigy, has been linked to the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler, as noted on The Prodigy.info site. While Liam typically prefers vintage gear from before 1980, the SP-808 offers modern features that could complement his setup. This device is a versatile sampling and recording workstation, ideal for remix artists and DJs, boasting professional-quality phrase sampling, a hard disk audio recorder with 8 tracks, and a host of onboard effects. Released in 1998, it includes innovative features like a dual D-Beam Controller and can store 64 minutes of audio on removable 100MB Zip disks.
Craig can be clearly seen using the Roland SP-808. According to SlipknotIowa.com, Craig used the sampler during the Iowa era of Slipknot.
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A Roland SP-808 was used on the album Small Moon, according to the liner notes.
at 1:00 mark, when Static-X is asked what electronic gear they use, Koichi specifies "Roland Groovebox 505, 808 sampler..."
We have one with the SP 808 EX OS, which enables use of 250 mb zip drive and a lot of other functions. Used it a lot in the old days live for triggering samples, we used the internal synth as well
Phil is using a Roland SP-808 in this picture.
Extrakd is confirmed to use the Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler, as credited on the album "Bermuda Triangle" by Buckethead, released in 2002, according to Discogs.
In this Youtube video from 2023, arcologies manages to make a whole track with the SP-808, as mentioned in the title, the posting notes, and as seen throughout the whole video. Cool FX engine and flashing lights aside, I hope they sold this thing off right after the vid... SP-808s aren't worth the space they take up, as the onboard sequencer sluggish and Zip drives this old can't be trusted.
Album Usage
The Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland SP-808 GrooveSampler, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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