^ As title.

Just wondering what you all think in this regard. . . Whether it actually has some unique character or just think its better value for money?

I'm feeling a bit let down with my 404, had it for about 3 weeks now and it hasnt given up any beautiful secrets yet... its tax time too and I got a nice return which would cover the cost of an MPC 500

Answer: Edit it seems I misread the question so Yes I would buy a 404 over an mpc 500; more value for money.

Question:Are you giving up after only 3 weeks?

well, I have been using only the 404 for a while now. It is a very spiritual machine. Its kinda difficult to compare a mpc to a sp. but I use the 404 over my 1000 and 2000xl. Even though i do get back to the 2000xl occasionally, i miss that fat fuck like a first car.

thats good to hear juxt that it has a bit of spirit hiding away in there somewhere

maybe ill hang onto it for a bit longer

^ but doesnt mean its the right machine for everyone. I read in your other post about chopping samples up in a computer and shit. thats not what the 404 is about(imo)- you might be better off with a mpc.

[quote="juxt"]^ but doesnt mean its the right machine for everyone. /quote]

True words.

3333333333333333333333

the 404 is the supreme training beat box!You cant hide behind it,its the truth!

I agree, it's definitely not the toy a lot of disillusioned users want to make it look like. I think it really shines in the hands on approach it offers, that's why I try to do the whole beat making process on the 404 without computer interference, it gives me a more instinctive approach to the sampled material.

absolutely. i love the direct interaction with the box as an instument and the minimalistic beauty of the led 'screen' is very zen. i get tired of staring at led screens. i live the return to the interface model i grew up with, i.e. 7-piece led and flashing lights. i love the audio chops and i love the wild glitchy effects. but i have never been considered normal so your mileage may vary.

if anything thats a sign that I should stick to it I'm a long way off normal in my tastes.


At the moment ive put a thread up in the 404 tips section about timestretching which is really going to be the deciding factor on whether i hang onto it or not I think... although im not sure whether the mpc500 will be a step in a better direction or not, it will make my mind up as to whether i keep the 404.

The one thing that keeps me with the 404 is the fact I'm actually playing music as opposed to programming a bunch of different things. Press the REC button and I'm recording, Hit the MFX button and the effects are immediately ready to go. It seems like with every other sampler / drum machine you have to change setting after setting after setting to get one thing done and I hate that. Do I wish the 404 had some of the features that the MPC 500 does? Of course I do! I'd love the extra polyphony, velocity pads, 48-track sequencer, etc. without having to find some other equipment for a workaround. But for now I'm happy with the SP.

I personally feel the MPC500 is complete garbage. All its good for is the sequencer. Id rather have a 1000 wich is also junk...but in a different way (poorly built). I think you should maybe try and snag a zoom sampletrak to go with your 404. Its got pretty decent time stretch and a couple other goodies that the 404 lacks.

^word, i always wanted to try a zoom sampletrak. seen one in manhatten once for $400, i kinda regret not coppin it.