hello everyone. i just got myself used 404. the problem is: it produces very quiet, extremely distorted (samples are nearly unreconizable) sound. The samles which were already on the machine sounded like this, as well as sample I recorded by myself. I know it doesnt look good, but maybe im doing something wrong?
thanks.

That should not be the result of anything related to the normal functions or common malfunctions of the SP404(sx), because those presets sounds that come with the SX are the loudest/punchiest sounds the SP series has ever produced, by a long shot.

Also, typically with any kind of issue related to power/juice, you will experience other issues like the power cutting off completely, or the lights in the display growing dim, or maybe button response; I have not seen any of that madness though since my days with the Sp202.

Sounds like issues elsewhere in your rig to me, or maybe damage to your motherboard somehow. Has it been exposed to steam/heat/moisture?

I have no Idea, I bought it second hand. Guy who sold it to me states that it was tested (a while ago though) and it was alright.

Another thing is that 1 pad produces always little bit different "distorted noise" each time i press it. it doesnt produce always identical sound as it shoud and the pads are kinda touchy. Im afraid this guy sold me broken machine, but im still hoping someone will correct me.
Thanks

is it all banks doing it? or just bank A+B? or all banks except A+B?

I've had some dodgy memory cards that caused crackly scratchy messed up sample playback, but the internal memory (bank A+B) should still be fine.

from the description it sounds like there might be something pretty major going wrong..

I recommend to try reloading the operating system + factory sample set and see if that helps.. if not..

What are you using for power?
The supplied AC adapter should be a 9vDC regulated universal type I think.
If it had batteries in it when you got it, could they have leaked? The gunk that comes out of them can trash electronics.
I doubt the pad switches themselves could cause sound problems, unless it's rapid re-triggering you can hear.

If none of the above, what are you listening to it with?

Jim

as mentioned before: maybe the memory card.
ive used one on my classic 404 which was corrupte by whatever and the original recordings where distorted, skipping. but I still knew they were shredded versions of what I once recorded

The problem was adaptor. It was AC. Thanks for all help!

That's good news!

I expect the Roland designers would be pleased to know the box survived having the wrong power shoved up it!

Jim