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What are the main features of the ROLAND SP-404 Sampler?

The ROLAND SP-404 Sampler has several key features:

Quick and Easy Sampling!: You can sample via the Line/Mic input or use the onboard microphone. It also operates on batteries for portability.

Pro Quality Effects Onboard!: It includes 29 DSP effects such as Filter, Lo-Fi, Isolator, and unique effects like Subsonic and a new looper FX.

Realtime Performance!: The unit features 3 rubber control knobs, 12 trigger pads, and an extra Sub Pad for realtime action.

Create Your Own Tracks!: You can record patterns in real time with the Pattern Sequencer, which includes a quantize function. It allows for smooth triggering from one pattern to another.

More Samples on Memory Card!: You can store up to 1 GB of samples on optional CompactFlash cards. It also reads WAV/AIFF files from CF cards.


What are the meanings of the different symbols used in the ROLAND SP-404 manual?

The manual for the ROLAND SP-404 uses the following symbols to convey information:

NOTE: This indicates an important note that you should be sure to read.

MEMO: This indicates a memo regarding a setting or function, which you can read as desired.

TIP: This indicates a useful hint for operation, which you can read as necessary.

cf.: This indicates information for your reference, which you can read as necessary.

TERM: This indicates an explanation of a term, which you can read as necessary.


What are the functions of the controls on the top panel of the ROLAND SP-404?

The top panel of the ROLAND SP-404 has the following controls:

1. VOLUME Knob: Adjusts the volume of the line output and the headphones.

2. CTRL 1-3 Knobs: Control parameters assigned to the selected effect.

CTRL 1 Knob: Adjusts the sample start location or the sample playback time.

CTRL 2 Knob: Adjusts the pattern’s BPM (tempo) or the sample end location.

CTRL 3/MFX Knob: Selects an MFX type, or adjusts the sampling level or sample volume.

3. PEAK Indicator: Helps you adjust the level when sampling. For the correct level, adjust it so this indicator lights occasionally.

4. Effect Buttons: Select the effect you want to use. An effect is on when its button is lit. You cannot turn on two or more effects simultaneously.

5. Display: Provides information such as BPM, setting values, and error messages. It can also show the remaining sampling time.

6. Display Illumination: Blinks in synchronization with the tempo of the pattern.

7. PATTERN SELECT Button: Used to play or record a pattern. When lit, you can press a pad to select a pattern.

8. SAMPLE EDIT Buttons (START/END/LEVEL, TIME/BPM, TAP TEMPO):

START/END/LEVEL: Change the start point, end point, or volume of a sample.

TIME/BPM: Specify the playback time or BPM of a sample.

TAP TEMPO: Set the tempo by pressing this button several times at the desired interval.

9. SAMPLING Buttons (DEL, REC, RESAMPLE):

DEL: Delete a sample or pattern.

REC: Start/stop sampling or record a pattern.

RESAMPLE: Apply an effect to a sample and then sample it again (“resampling”).

10. SAMPLE MODE Buttons (LO-FI, STEREO, GATE, LOOP, REVERSE):

LO-FI: Switches the sampling grade between standard (dark) and lo-fi (lit).

STEREO: Switches between monaural (dark) and stereo (lit) sampling.

GATE: Switches between gate playback (lit, plays only while holding pad) and trigger playback (dark, toggles play/stop).

LOOP: Switches between loop playback (lit, repeats) and one-shot playback (dark, plays once).

REVERSE: Selects reverse playback (lit) or normal playback (dark).

11. CANCEL, REMAIN, MARK Buttons:

CANCEL: Cancel a sampling or sample-delete operation. Also stops pattern playback or recording. Pressing it four times in rapid succession stops all currently sounding notes.

REMAIN: Shows the remaining time available for sampling. Hold it down and press a pad to select a sample for effect application or setting changes.

MARK: Play just a specified portion of a sampled sound.

12. BANK Buttons (A, B, C/G, D/H, E/I, F/J): Switch sample banks or pattern banks depending on the status of the [PATTERN SELECT] button.

13. Pads (1-12): Play the sample assigned to the pad, or select a pattern if [PATTERN SELECT] is lit.

14. HOLD Pad, EXT SOURCE Pad, SUB PAD:

HOLD Pad: Hold down a sample pad and press [HOLD] to keep the sample playing after you release the pad.

EXT SOURCE Pad: Mute/unmute or apply an effect to an external audio input source (line or mic).

SUB PAD: Play the sample of the pad you pressed most recently.

15. MIC Button: Switches the mic input on (lit) or off (dark).

16. Internal Mic: The SP-404’s internal microphone. It is disabled if an external mic is plugged into the MIC IN jack.


What are the connections on the front and rear panels of the ROLAND SP-404?

Front Panel:

1. PHONES Jack: For connecting stereo headphones. Outputs the same sound as the LINE OUT jacks.

2. MEMORY CARD Slot: For inserting a CompactFlash memory card.

3. MIC LEVEL Knob: Adjusts the volume of the internal mic or a mic connected to the MIC IN jack.

4. MIC IN Jack: For connecting an external microphone.

Rear Panel:

1. Ground Terminal: Connect to an external ground to prevent hum or a gritty feeling on the surface, which is caused by a harmless, infinitesimal electrical charge.

2. DC IN Jack: Connect the included AC adaptor here.

3. POWER Switch: Turns the power on/off.

4. MIDI IN Connector: Connect to your MIDI device.

5. LINE IN Jacks (L/R): Connect to the audio source (e.g., CD player) you’re sampling from.

6. LINE OUT Jacks (L/R): Connect to your audio system, amp, or mixer.

7. Security Slot: For use with a Kensington security lock.


How do I connect and power on the ROLAND SP-404?

To connect and power on your ROLAND SP-404, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the power of all devices before you make any connections to prevent malfunction or damage.

2. Connect the included AC adaptor to the DC IN jack. Alternatively, you can power the SP-404 with six AA batteries.

3. Connect the LINE OUT jacks to your audio system or amp. If using headphones, connect them to the PHONES jack. If you plan to sample, connect your audio source to the LINE IN jacks or a mic to the MIC IN jack.

4. Connect the AC adaptor to an AC power outlet.

Turning the Power On:

1. Turn the SP-404’s VOLUME knob all the way to the left.

2. Minimize the volume of the connected amp or audio system.

3. Turn the SP-404’s POWER switch to the ON position.

4. Turn on the power of the connected amp or audio system.

5. While striking the SP-404’s pads, gradually raise the VOLUME knob to adjust the volume. Also, adjust the connected amp or audio system to the appropriate level.


How do I install batteries in the ROLAND SP-404?

To install batteries in your ROLAND SP-404:

1. Remove the battery compartment cover located on the bottom of the unit.

2. Insert six AA batteries, ensuring they are in the correct polarity as marked on the bottom of the unit.

3. Close the cover securely.

When the battery capacity decreases, the display illumination will remain lit, and a dot in the lower right of the display will blink. If the batteries run down completely, “Lo” will appear, and you will need to replace the batteries.


How do I turn off the ROLAND SP-404?

1. Minimize the volume of the ROLAND SP-404 and the connected amp or audio system.

2. Turn off the power of the amp or audio system.

3. Turn off the power of the ROLAND SP-404.


How do I insert and remove a memory card on the ROLAND SP-404?

Important: The power of the ROLAND SP-404 must be turned off when you insert or remove a memory card to avoid data damage.

Inserting a Memory Card:

1. Insert the memory card into the card slot on the front panel. Carefully push it all the way in until it is firmly in place. If the card is being used for the first time, you will need to format it.

Removing a Memory Card:

1. Press the eject button located beside the front panel card slot. The memory card will pop out partway. Grasp the card and pull it all the way out.


How can I protect the memory card from theft on my ROLAND SP-404?

The ROLAND SP-404 ships with a special screw installed on the bottom of the unit. To prevent theft of the memory card:

1. With the memory card cover attached, use a Phillips screwdriver to remove this screw.

2. Move the screw to the hole marked “CARD LOCK” and screw it in.

Once screwed in, the memory card cover cannot be removed.


How do I listen to the samples on the ROLAND SP-404?

The ROLAND SP-404 comes with factory-loaded samples. To listen to them:

1. Make sure that the [PATTERN SELECT] button is not lit. If it is, press it to switch it off.

2. Press pad 1. The pad will light up while the sound plays.

3. Try pressing pads 2-12 as well. Ensure that sample bank A is selected (the BANK [A] button should be lit). If a different bank is selected, press BANK [A] to switch to bank A.


How do I apply effects to the samples on my ROLAND SP-404?

To apply an effect like “filter + overdrive” to a sample on your ROLAND SP-404:

1. Make sure [PATTERN SELECT] is not lit.

2. Press the pad for the sample to which you want to apply the effect. The sample will start playing.

3. Press the [FILTER+DRIVE] button so it is lit. The effect is now applied.

4. Turn the CTRL 1-3 knobs to adjust the effect parameters:

CTRL 1 (CUTOFF): Adjusts the filter’s cutoff frequency. Left is darker, right is brighter.

CTRL 2 (RESONANCE): Adjusts the filter’s resonance. Turning it right adds a more distinctive character.

CTRL 3 (DRIVE): Adjusts the amount of distortion. Turning it right increases the distortion.

5. To turn off the effect, press [FILTER+DRIVE] again so its LED goes out.


How do I play the patterns on the ROLAND SP-404?

A “pattern” on the ROLAND SP-404 is a recorded sequence of sample playback. To play the factory-set patterns:

1. Press the [PATTERN SELECT] button so it is lit. “Ptn” will appear in the display.

2. Press pad 1. The pad will change from blinking to lit, and the pattern will begin playing. Ensure that pattern bank A is selected (BANK [A] should be lit).

3. Try pressing other pads (2-12) as well. If you press another pad while a pattern is playing, that pattern will be “reserved” and will play automatically after the current one finishes.

4. To stop pattern playback, press the [CANCEL] (PATTERN STOP) button.


How do I change the tempo of a pattern on the ROLAND SP-404?

To change the playback tempo of a pattern:

1. Press [PATTERN SELECT] so it’s lit.

2. Press [TIME/BPM] so it’s lit.

3. Turn the CTRL 2 knob. The display will show the playback tempo as a BPM (Beats Per Minute) value, which changes as you turn the knob.

4. Press [TIME/BPM] again so it’s no longer lit to exit the tempo change mode.


How do I sample my own sounds on the ROLAND SP-404?

Here’s how to sample a sound from a CD player into pad 9 of sample bank B:

1. Connect your CD player to the LINE IN jacks.

2. Make sure that [PATTERN SELECT] is not lit.

3. Press BANK [B] so it’s lit.

4. Press [REC] so it’s lit. The ROLAND SP-404 enters sampling-standby mode, and pads with no assigned sample will start blinking.

5. Press pad 9. The pad will light up, and [REC] will start blinking.

6. While playing the sound from your CD player, turn the CTRL 3 (LEVEL) knob to adjust the sampling level so that the PEAK indicator lights occasionally.

7. Play back the sound you want to sample from the CD player and press [REC] at the moment you want to begin sampling. The [REC] button will light up, and sampling begins.

8. Press [REC] again at the moment you want to stop sampling. The pad and [REC] button will go out.

9. Press pad 9 to play back the sound you just sampled.


How do I delete a sample on the ROLAND SP-404?

If you are not satisfied with a sound you sampled, you can delete it by following these steps:

1. Press the [DEL] button so it is lit. Pads with an assigned sample will start blinking, and “dEL” will appear in the display.

2. Press the pad of the sample you want to delete. The pad will light up, and [DEL] will start blinking.

3. Press [DEL] again. The [DEL] button will change from blinking to lit, and a dot in the display will start blinking. Once the sample has been deleted, the blinking will stop.

Important: Never turn off the power while the dot is blinking, as this could lead to data loss for other samples as well.


How many samples can play simultaneously on the ROLAND SP-404?

The ROLAND SP-404 has a polyphony of 12 notes, meaning it can play up to twelve samples simultaneously. However, each stereo sample will occupy two notes. The number of samples that can play simultaneously is as follows:

Monaural samples Stereo samples
Normally 12 6
While resampling 4 2

How do I use the Hold function on the ROLAND SP-404 to keep a sample playing?

The Hold function allows a sample to continue playing even after you take your finger off the pad. This is especially useful for samples set to Loop Playback.

1. Make sure that [PATTERN SELECT] is not lit.

2. Make sure the correct bank is selected, then press a pad to play the sample.

3. Before you release your finger from the pad, press [HOLD]. The [HOLD] button will light up, and the sample will continue playing even after you take your finger off the pad.

4. Press [HOLD] again to stop the sound.


How do I play and adjust the volume of an external audio source on the ROLAND SP-404?

You can play, apply effects to, and adjust the volume of an external audio source like a CD player or microphone connected to your ROLAND SP-404.

Playing an External Source (e.g., CD Player):

1. Start playback on your CD player.

2. Press [EXT SOURCE] so the pad is lit. The line input sound will now be heard.

3. To switch between stereo and monaural, press the [STEREO] button (lit for stereo).

4. You can apply an effect by pressing one of the effect buttons to make it light.

Adjusting the Volume of the External Audio Input:

1. Press [EXT SOURCE] so the pad is lit. If you’re using a mic, also press [MIC] so it’s lit.

2. Press [START/END/LEVEL] so it’s lit.

3. Turn the CTRL 3 (LEVEL) knob to adjust the input volume. Adjust it so the PEAK indicator lights occasionally.

4. Press [START/END/LEVEL] again to set the volume. The button’s light will go out.


How do I switch between the MFX (Multi-Effects) types on the ROLAND SP-404?

The ROLAND SP-404 has 24 MFX (multi-effects) in addition to the five effects with dedicated buttons. Here’s how to select them:

Using the CTRL 3/MFX Knob:

1. Hold down the [MFX] button and turn the CTRL 3/MFX knob.

2. The display will show the MFX type as a number from 1-24. Turn the knob to select your desired effect.

3. Release the [MFX] button. MFX is now turned on with the selected effect.

Using the Pads:

1. To select MFX 1-12, hold down [MFX] and press a pad from [1]-[12].

2. To select MFX 13-24, hold down [MFX] and [VINYL SIM], then press a pad from [1]-[12].


How can I apply a single effect to multiple samples on the ROLAND SP-404?

Normally, an effect is applied only to the current pad’s sample. To apply the same effect to multiple samples:

1. Make sure [PATTERN SELECT] is not lit.

2. Press the button for the effect you want to use, making it light.

3. Press [REMAIN] (CURRENT PAD). The current pad will start blinking.

4. While continuing to hold down [REMAIN], press each additional pad to which you want to apply the effect. Each pad you press will start blinking and become the current pad.

5. When you’ve selected all the pads, release the [REMAIN] button. The same effect will now be applied to all the pads you specified.


What are the effects that can be selected by directly pressing a button on the ROLAND SP-404?

Type CTRL 1 (display) CTRL 2 (display) CTRL 3 (display)
FILTER+DRIVE
Low-pass filter with overdrive.
CUTOFF (COF)
Adjusts the frequency at which the cut occurs.
RESONANCE (rES)
Adjusts the amount of peak located at the cutoff frequency.
DRIVE (drV)
Adds distortion.
PITCH
Changes the pitch.
PITCH (Pit)
Specifies the pitch change in a +/-2 octave range.
FEEDBACK (Fdb)
Adjusts the amount by which the pitch-shifted sound is repeated.
BALANCE (bAL)
Adjusts the volume balance between the direct sound and effect sound.
DELAY
Repeats the sound.
DELAY TIME (t32-t1)
Adjusts the time at which the sound is repeated.
FEEDBACK (Fdb)
Adjusts the number of times that the sound is repeated.
BALANCE (bAL)
Adjusts the volume balance between the direct sound and the effect sound.
ISOLATOR
Extracts or eliminates low/mid/high ranges from the sound.
LOW (Lo)
Extracts or eliminates the low range.
MID (Mid)
Extracts or eliminates the mid range.
HIGH (Hi)
Extracts or eliminates the high range.
VINYL SIM
Gives the sound a character similar to an analog record.
COMPRESSOR (CMP)
Adjusts the amount of compression that is typical of an analog record.
NOISE LEVEL (noS)
Adjusts the volume of the noise that is typical of an analog record.
WOW FLUTTER (FLu)
Adjusts the irregularity of rotation that is typical of an analog record.

What is the available sampling time on the ROLAND SP-404?

The available sampling time on the ROLAND SP-404 depends on whether you are using internal memory or a memory card, and the selected sampling grade (STANDARD or LO-FI). The times listed are for monaural sampling; stereo sampling time will be half of the listed value.

Internal Memory (Total for Banks A and B)

STANDARD LO-FI
Approximately 5 minutes Approximately 11 minutes

Memory Card (Total for Banks C-J)

Capacity STANDARD LO-FI
32 Mbyte Approximately 12 minutes Approximately 24 minutes
64 Mbyte Approximately 24 minutes Approximately 48 minutes
128 Mbyte Approximately 48 minutes Approximately 96 minutes
256 Mbyte Approximately 96 minutes Approximately 193 minutes
512 Mbyte Approximately 193 minutes Approximately 386 minutes
1 Gbyte Approximately 386 minutes Approximately 772 minutes

How do I resample a sound with an effect on the ROLAND SP-404?

Resampling lets you play back one or more samples with an effect and sample the result as a new sample. Here’s how to apply a “filter + overdrive” effect to pad 1 of bank A and resample it to pad 12 of bank B:

1. Make sure [PATTERN SELECT] is not lit.

2. Press [RESAMPLE] so it’s lit. “LEV” appears in the display.

3. Press BANK [A] (the source) and then press pad 1. The sample starts playing.

4. Press [FILTER+DRIVE] so it’s lit to turn on the effect.

5. Turn the CTRL 3 (LEVEL) knob to adjust the sampling level so the PEAK indicator lights occasionally.

6. Press [REC] so it’s blinking. Available pads for resampling start blinking.

7. Specify the destination by pressing BANK [B] and then press pad 12.

8. Press [LO-FI] to select the sampling grade (STANDARD or LO-FI).

9. Press [STEREO] to select stereo or monaural sampling.

10. Press [REC] so it’s lit.

11. To start resampling, specify the source again by pressing BANK [A] and then pad 1. The source sample starts playing, and resampling begins.

12. When you want to stop, press [REC].

13. Press pad 12 to play the newly resampled sound.


How do I change a sample’s playback mode on the ROLAND SP-404?

You can change how a sample plays back on the ROLAND SP-404 using the following settings:

Loop vs. One-shot Playback:

1. Select the pad of the sample you want to change.

2. Press the [LOOP] button. When it’s lit, the sample will loop repeatedly (Loop Playback). When it’s dark, it will play only once (One-shot Playback).

Gate vs. Trigger Playback:

1. Select the pad of the sample you want to change.

2. Press the [GATE] button. When it’s lit, the sample plays only while you hold down the pad (Gate Playback). When it’s dark, the sample will start playing when you press the pad and continue even if you release it (Trigger Playback).

Reverse Playback:

1. Select the pad of the sample you want to change.

2. Press the [REVERSE] button so it’s lit. The sample will now play backward. Press it again to return to normal playback.


How do I set the Start and End points of a sample on the ROLAND SP-404?

You can specify the portion of a sample that will play by setting its Start and End points.

Changing Both the Start and End Point:

1. Press the pad of the sample you want to edit.

2. When playback reaches the point where you want the sample to start, press [MARK]. The button will start blinking.

3. When playback reaches the point where you want the sample to end, press [MARK] again. The button will become lit, indicating the new points are set.

Making Fine Adjustments:

1. Press the pad of the sample you want to edit.

2. Press [START/END/LEVEL] so it’s lit.

3. Turn the CTRL 1 (START) knob to make fine adjustments to the Start Point.

4. Turn the CTRL 2 (END) knob to make fine adjustments to the End Point.

5. Press [START/END/LEVEL] again to exit.


How do I delete an unwanted portion of a sample (Truncate) on the ROLAND SP-404?

Truncating a sample deletes the waveform data outside of the set Start and End points, which helps make efficient use of memory.

1. Ensure the Start and/or End points have been set for the sample ([MARK] should be lit).

2. Press the pad of the sample you want to truncate.

3. Press [DEL] so it’s lit.

4. Press [MARK]. The [DEL] button will start blinking, and “trC” appears in the display.

5. Press [DEL] again. [DEL] lights up, and the truncate operation begins. A dot in the display will blink while the operation is in progress.

Important: Never turn off the power while the dot is blinking.


How do I record a performance as a pattern on the ROLAND SP-404?

Recording a pattern allows you to layer (overdub) samples to build up complex performances. Here is the general procedure:

1. Press [PATTERN SELECT] so it’s lit.

2. Press [REC] so it’s lit. Pads where no pattern is assigned will begin blinking.

3. Select the pattern bank you want to use for recording.

4. Press the pad where you want to record the pattern. The pad lights, [REC] starts blinking, and the metronome begins sounding.

5. Adjust metronome volume with [START/END/LEVEL] + CTRL 3 knob.

6. Set the pattern tempo with [TIME/BPM] + CTRL 2 knob.

7. Set the pattern length (in measures) with [LENGTH] + CTRL 3 knob.

8. Set the quantization with [QUANTIZE] + CTRL 3 knob.

9. Press [REC]. The button changes from blinking to lit, and after a one-measure count-in, recording begins.

10. Press pads at the desired timing to record them. The samples will play and be recorded. You can switch sample banks during recording.

11. You can continue to press pads on subsequent loops to overdub new parts.

12. When you have finished recording, press [CANCEL]. The recorded data will be saved.


How do I format a memory card on the ROLAND SP-404?

Formatting a memory card will erase all data on the card. Before using a memory card for the first time, you must format it on the ROLAND SP-404.

1. Hold down [CANCEL] and press [REMAIN]. The BANK [C/G]-[F/J] buttons will begin blinking, and “FMt” will appear in the display.

2. Press any one of the BANK [C/G]-[F/J] buttons. The button will change from blinking to lit, and [DEL] will begin blinking.

3. Press [DEL]. The [DEL] button will begin blinking, and formatting will start. A dot in the display will blink while formatting is in progress. When the blinking stops, formatting is complete.

Important: Never turn off the power while the dot is blinking.


How do I import WAV/AIFF audio files into the ROLAND SP-404?

Here’s how to import audio files from a memory card to your ROLAND SP-404:

Before you begin:

– Place the WAV or AIFF files in the root folder (top level) of the memory card.

– The SP-404 can recognize a maximum of 120 audio files.

– File name extensions must be .WAV or .AIF.

– Only 8-bit and 16-bit depths are supported. Files will be imported as if they were 44.1 kHz data.

Import Procedure:

1. Make sure that [PATTERN SELECT] is not lit.

2. Hold down [CANCEL] and press [RESAMPLE]. “FiL” appears, and [REC] and [RESAMPLE] begin blinking.

3. Press [REC]. “iMP” (Import) appears, [REC] lights up, and pads [1]-[12] begin blinking.

4. Select the sample bank (A-J) into which you want to import the file(s).

5. Press the pad where you want the import to start. The pad lights, and [REC] begins blinking.

6. Press [REC] so it’s lit. The import will begin. The dot in the display will blink while in progress. When it stops, the import is complete.


How do I save, load, and delete backup data on the ROLAND SP-404?

You can manage backup data (all samples and patterns) on a memory card.

Saving Backup Data (Backup Save):

1. Hold down [CANCEL] and press one of the BANK [C/G]-[F/J] buttons. “SAV” appears, and pads without saved backup data begin blinking.

2. Select a destination pad (1-12) for the backup. The pad lights, and [REC] begins blinking.

3. Press [REC]. The save operation begins, indicated by a blinking dot in the display.

Loading Backup Data (Backup Load):

1. Hold down [CANCEL] and press BANK [A] or [B]. “Lod” appears, and pads with saved backup data begin blinking.

2. Press a pad to select the backup data you want to load. The pad lights, and [REC] begins blinking.

3. Press [REC]. The load operation begins, indicated by a blinking dot in the display.

Deleting Backup Data (Backup Delete):

1. Hold down [DEL] and press one of the BANK [C/G]-[F/J] buttons. “bdL” appears, and pads with saved backup data begin blinking.

2. Press a pad to select the backup data you want to delete. The pad lights, and [DEL] begins blinking.

3. Press [DEL]. The delete operation begins, indicated by a blinking dot in the display.


How do I synchronize the ROLAND SP-404 to an external MIDI device?

To synchronize your ROLAND SP-404 with another MIDI device, you first need to set the MIDI synchronization mode:

1. While holding down [TIME/BPM], turn on the power. The current MIDI synchronization mode will appear in the display.

2. Turn the CTRL 1 (TIME) knob to select the desired mode:

“Aut” (Auto Sync): Automatically detects and synchronizes to incoming MIDI Clock. Receives MIDI Start/Stop/Continue messages for pattern playback.

“tMp” (Tempo Sync): Synchronizes to MIDI Clock tempo but does not receive Start/Stop/Continue messages.

“oFF” (Sync OFF): Does not receive MIDI Clock or Start/Stop/Continue messages.

3. Press [TIME/BPM] so its LED goes out to complete the setting.

Once set to “Aut,” you can connect your external MIDI sequencer’s MIDI OUT to the SP-404’s MIDI IN to control pattern playback and tempo.


How do I initialize the internal memory of the ROLAND SP-404?

Initializing the ROLAND SP-404 will erase all samples and patterns from its internal memory (banks A and B). This cannot be undone, and factory-set data cannot be restored.

1. While holding down [CANCEL], [REMAIN], and [DEL], turn on the power. “ini” appears in the display, and [REC] begins blinking.

2. If you are sure you want to initialize the internal memory, press [REC]. [REC] lights, and a dot in the display begins blinking.

3. Once the initialization is complete, the dot goes dark.

Important: Never turn off the power while the dot is blinking, as this may damage the data.


What should I do if there is no sound or insufficient volume from my ROLAND SP-404?

If you experience no sound or low volume, check the following:

– Are the ROLAND SP-404 and your connected equipment powered on?

– Are all devices connected correctly?

– Could your audio cables be broken or contain built-in resistors (which can lower the signal)? Try different cables if possible.

– Could the volume be turned down on the connected amp or mixer, or on the ROLAND SP-404 itself? Adjust levels appropriately.

– Is there sound coming from the headphones? If so, the issue may be with your connection cables or the connected amp/mixer.

– If using a memory card, is it inserted correctly?

– If trying to play a sample, is the pad lit? If a pad does not light when pressed, no sample has been assigned to it.


Why can’t I sample on my ROLAND SP-404?

If you are unable to sample, check these possible causes:

Out of memory: If “FUL” (Memory Full) appears, you need to delete unwanted samples to free up space.

Memory card issues: If sampling to banks C-J, ensure the memory card is inserted correctly and has been formatted by the SP-404.

No vacant pads: You cannot sample if all pads already have samples assigned. Delete unwanted samples to free up pads.

Incorrect mode: If [PATTERN SELECT] is lit, you are in pattern mode and cannot sample. Press the button to turn it off.

Delete mode active: If [DEL] is lit or blinking, you are in delete mode and cannot sample.


Why is my sampled sound noisy or distorted on the ROLAND SP-404?

If your sampled sound is noisy or distorted, consider the following:

Input level: If the input level is too high, the sound will be distorted. If it’s too low, it will be noisy. Adjust the level so the PEAK indicator lights occasionally during sampling.

Effect settings: Some effects intentionally distort the sound or boost the level, which can emphasize noise. Try turning the effect off to check the original sample’s quality, then adjust effect settings as needed.

Playing multiple samples: Even if individual sample levels are correct, playing many simultaneously can raise the overall level and cause distortion. Lower the level of each sample to prevent this.


What do the different messages on the ROLAND SP-404 display mean?

MessageMeaning
A.onBank A is protected.
AiFAudio files will be exported in AIFF format.
bdLBackup data will be deleted.
CHGSamples or patterns will be exchanged between two pads.
dALAll samples or patterns in the bank will be deleted.
dELThe sample or pattern will be deleted.
EdtThe sample is being edited.
EJCThe memory card was removed, so processing is not possible.
EMPThere is no sample, pattern, or backup data to delete.
ErrFaulty data was found in internal memory; it has been repaired or deleted.
ErSData will be erased from the pattern.
EXPThe sample will be exported as WAV or AIFF.
FiLWAV or AIFF data will be imported/exported.
FMtMemory card will be formatted.
FULProcessing could not be executed because there is insufficient memory.
iMPWAV or AIFF data will be imported.
iniAll data will be initialized.
L.oFEffect Limit mode is off.
L.onEffect Limit mode is on.
LoIf the batteries run down completely, no further operations will be possible. Replace the batteries immediately.
LodBackup data will be loaded.
MidSynchronized to MIDI Clock.
P.oFProtect is turned off.
P.onAll banks are protected.
PrtThe operation cannot be performed because Protect is enabled.
PtnPattern playback or recording will be performed.
rdyWaiting for input signal during Auto Sampling.
rECSampling. Resampling. Recording a pattern.
rEhRehearsal mode during pattern recording.
S.oFSend/Return mode is off.
S.onSend/Return mode is on.
SAVBackup data will be saved.
trCSample will be truncated.
UnSThe operation was cancelled because the WAV or AIFF is in a format not supported by the SP-404.
WAVWhen exporting an audio file, it will be exported in WAV format.

What are the technical specifications of the ROLAND SP-404?

SP-404: Sampler

Maximum Polyphony: 12 voices

Internal Memory: Samples: 24 (12 samples x 2 banks); Patterns: 24 (12 patterns x 2 banks)

Memory Card (CompactFlash): Samples: 96 (12 samples x 8 banks); Patterns: 96 (12 patterns x 8 banks)

Maximum Sampling Time (mono, approx.): Internal Memory: 5 min (STANDARD), 11 min (LO-FI). 1 GB Card: 386 min (STANDARD), 772 min (LO-FI).

Sampling Frequency: 44.1 kHz

Data Format: SP-404 original format (WAV/AIFF import/export possible)

Sampling Mode: STANDARD, LO-FI

Pattern Sequencer: Max recordable notes: Approx. 8,000 notes (Internal or Memory Card). Pattern Length: 1-99 measures.

Effects: 29 types

Signal Processing: AD Conversion: 24 bits; DA Conversion: 24 bits

Display: 7 segments, 3 characters (LED)

Onboard Mic: Mono x 1

Connectors: LINE INPUT (L, R), LINE OUTPUT (L, R), Headphones (PHONES), MIC Jack, MIDI IN, AC Adaptor Jack, Memory Card Slot (CompactFlash)

Power Supply: DC 9 V (Dry battery LR6 (AA) type x 6 or AC Adaptor)

Expected battery life: Alkaline: 6 hours (approx.)

Current Draw: 300 mA

Dimensions: 177.6 (W) x 256.7 (D) x 72.1 (H) mm

Weight: 1.3 kg (excluding batteries)

Accessories: AC Adaptor, Owner’s Manual

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