When it comes to understanding the differences between the Roland SP-404 OG vs SP-404SX vs SP-404A, it can be difficult for those not familiar with the nuances between each machine.
- The SP-404 OG has a slower, clunkier workflow than the newer two models, due to its older CompactFlash storage format.
- Both the newer SP-404SX and SP-404A models allow you to transfer files to a computer.
- The OG has compressors made by Ableton that have a unique character preferred by some users. With that said, some people think the newer models’ vinyl sim effect has a more pronounced wobble to it, which might be preferred.
- The SP-404A does everything the SX model does, however the A model Can be used in conjunction with the Roland TR-8. All of the 404 models will work with the TR-8 via midi, however the TR-8 can be used as an audio sub-mixer and processor with the SP-404A allowing you to adjust certain parameters like glitch, gate, truncate, stutter and more. The TR-8 also gives you some extra side chaining features as well.
- The SP-404A comes stocked with an SD card full of sounds by LoopMasters, designed to complement the TR-8. It expands the sounds of the Roland AIRA TR-8 Rhythm Performer for a combination of sample and percussive synthesis.
- The SP-404A also has a new surface skin look, which might influence some buyers.
Roland SP-404 OG
Release Date: 2005 (Discontinued)
- 29 effects
- Pattern sequencer with quantize mode
- 12-voice polyphony
- Import/export WAV/AIF via CompactFlash card slot; supports up to 1GB card
- Runs on battery or AC power
SP-404 OG Effects / FX:
Unique Features for the SP-404 OG:
- Fully lighted pads.
- Ableton Compressors… but not very different from the newer ones.
- CompactFlash format is an inherently slower format Less storage space. All actions are slower than the SX and A models.
Buy the SP-404 OG (Used)
Roland SP-404SX
Release Date: 2010 (Discontinued)
- 29 DSP effects, including filter, delay, unique voice effects, subsonic, and looper
- Pattern sequencer with quantize mode and new shuffle feels
- 1GB SD card included; expand sample storage up to 32GB with SDHC
- Import audio files from computer, assign samples to pads with bundled software (Mac/PC)
- Runs on battery or AC power
SP-404SX Effects / FX:
Unique Features for the SP-404SX:
- Fully lighted pads like the OG
- Much faster workflow than the OG model.
Buy the SP-404SX (New)
Roland SP-404A
Release Date: 2017
- 29 DSP effects, including filter, delay, unique voice effects, subsonic, looper, and more\
- Pattern sequencer with quantize mode and shuffle feels
- 1GB SD card included; expand sample storage up to 32GB
- Can be triggered from the 16-step sequencer in the TR-8 Rhythm Performer (TR-8 system version 1.50 or later required)
- AIRA black-and-green color scheme to match existing AIRA hardware
- “Sounds by Loopmasters” SD card includes over 100 new stereo samples, effects, and one-shots
- Runs on battery or AC power
SP-404A Effects / FX:
Key Differences in the SP-404A:
- Much faster workflow than the OG model.
- Can be used in conjunction with the Roland TR-8 for processing and sub-mixing.
- Comes with sounds optimized for the TR-8.
- Outline-lighted pads and a new color scheme.
Buy the SP-404A (New)
Vinyl Sim Comparison
Here is a vinyl sim comparison between the original SP-303, the SP-404 OG and the SP-404SX. Keep in mind that the vinyl sim on the SP-404SX and the SP-404A is the same.
Which SP-404 Should You Buy?
Notice how the effects are the same on all three models… however they are switched around a little bit with their configuration. For example, the OG has a dedicated button for Vinyl Sim, while the SFX and A models have dedicated buttons for the DJFX Looper effect. A subtle difference that can get confusing. I’ve seen people in forums say that the OG is the only one with vinyl sim, which isn’t true as you can see.
The OG’s are obviously discontinued and more difficult to find these days. You will probably be purchasing used so also keep that in mind for the OG model. The SX model also happens to be discontinued but you can still get them new online. As of right now, you can buy the SX model new for less than the A model.
As previously stated, all of the 404 models will work with the Roland TR-8 via midi functionality. The only difference between the SP-404SX vs SP-404A is that the TR-8 can be used with the A model as a sub-mixer and processor, and comes with optimized sounds for this. If you have zero interest in using your 404 with the TR-8 for processing and sub-mixing, and you don’t want to pay more for the different look… then you might as well purchase the SP-404SX for less money. As of the time of writing this, the SX model is still available new.
Roland SP-404 Sampling Workstation Overview
The Roland SP-404 is a new and updated iteration of the Boss SP-303, a previous version of the famous drum machine. It should be noted that Boss is a subdivision of the parent company Roland. The idea of the SP-404 is that it is a modernized version of the SP-303, keeping its best features intact.
The SP-404 is a go-to for lofi producers, being made famous by legendary hip-hop producers like Madlib and J Dilla for using the SP-303 as part of their sound.
The small box form factor and easy to use knobs, in conjunction with the legendary effects on the SP-404 make it a pillar in live performances for producers and DJ’s of many different genre’s. The easy sampling and overall ease-of-use, paired with its colorful and easy to distinguish sound makes this machine a covetable item to have for many musicians.