Alright so I'm just about to pull the trigger on purchasing an SP404sx. I'd just like to know beforehand if there are any known problems with the unit. For example, I've read the ins/outs on the SP303 had problems to where people would have to go in and solder the connections themselves.

Are there any issues such as this, or similar with teh SP404sx?

Thanks in advance!

Hardware-wise, I've never had problems of any kind. I've never heard about anyone else having any problems like that either. The machine is very solid and gig-proof as far as samplers go. Pots and buttons seem and feel a lot more durable than those of MPC's. I guess the need of external power is the only real drag, but at home it's not even a thing to worry about.

having to resolder RCA connectors is common on any gear that uses RCA plugs that arent directly attached to the case itself; the reason u hear about it is because of the age of the 303.. u plug stuff in/out of it enough times, it will eventually wear out

so, no problems with the hardware itself

don't think twice, just get one. you will be infinitely happier.

Thanks for the input guys. I'm pulling the trigger in a couple of days.

V8000- What do you mean by needing external power? It doesn't come with a power adapter?

It comes with a power adapter

ive had mine for less than a year, and the cntrl 3 knob is kind of loose. But thats honestly due to me getting a little too crazy with the effects and turning it often and fast.


still works fine, just a little loose.

Addiction to the 404 is the most common problem.

may cause extreme head nodding, vinyl lust, and annoyed neighbors, if looping lasts more than 4 hours......just roll another one up

Dang I'm so pissed. I went to the roland dealer here (in vietnam) and I just got told that if I wanted it I'd have to take their old shitty loaner and then wait 4 months for Roland Japan to build a 404 and send it to Vietnam. WTF?! Apparently they build them per order in this case.

So I asked my friend in Japan if she could buy me one and send it and she said she would. She found 303s on average for 150 and haven't checked on the 404sx yet. Is there any reason why I should get the 303 over the 404sx? I know this has been beaten to death several times, but I am new to the game and when I heard the sound comparisons between the 303 and the 404 I couldn't hear any difference at all.

Seems like a bunch of people jumped on the 303 bandwagon simply because dilla or madlib used it which I find hella retarded, but please, other than cosmetics and "sound" is there any reason I should consider the 303 over the 404sx?

Well, the 404sx looks pretty good *and* you can plug an SD card (32GB max) in. Smartmedia cards for the 303's are pretty rare nowadays. Trying to find those in vietnam (or elsewhere) might be harder than finding an sx.

I bought a brand new 404sx and the only problems I've had are the 5 and 9 pads dont' work quite right, like the membrane is offset, so it's not as responsive...and sometimes stays on a bit after being pushed or not being triggered when hit 'normally'.

it ain't a 404 og!

(old grimy)