Roland today introduced the SPD-SX Sampling Pad, a multi-pad percussion instrument with 2 GB of onboard sampling memory and three powerful effects engines.
Features:
- Unique sampling-pad concept — the only instrument of its kind in the world
- 2 GB internal memory, enabling approximately 360 minutes of sampling (mono) without requiring external memory
- Nine velocity-sensitive rubber pads, two external dual-trigger inputs
- Easy capturing and assignment of audio data through Multi-Pad Sampling
- Three units of multi-effects onboard, with two real-time control knobs and four dedicated effect buttons
- Individual Pad Dynamics indicators show pad status and audio-level activity during performance
- Expanded USB functionality (USB Mass Storage, USB MIDI/AUDIO, USB Memory)
- Wave Manager software included for easily importing, assigning, and organizing samples
- Large backlit LCD
Here are a couple of demos, by Michael Schack, of how he uses the SPD-SX Sampling Pad.
The SPD-SX’s 2 GB of built-in memory provides more than three hours of CD-quality sampling in stereo, which can be captured via the stereo mic/line input or imported through USB. The SPD-SX also features new Multi-Pad Sampling, a quick and easy way to capture, truncate, and assign samples to pads by simply striking pads at the appropriate start/end points of a particular sample.
User samples and factory-preloaded wave data can be organized and stored into kits and played from the nine integrated trigger pads, which include six large pads and three edge triggers. According to Roland, the pads feature their latest pad-sensing technology for even, accurate triggering. Two dual-trigger inputs allow users to expand the SPD-SX with optional external pads and acoustic drum triggers for more triggering options.
The SPD-SX has three multi-effects units onboard: one master unit and two units that are assignable per kit. In addition, two dedicated front-panel knobs provide real-time control of user-assignable effects parameters.
The bundled SPD-SX Wave Manager software for Mac and PC lets users import audio files from a computer directly via USB, assign the samples to pads, and edit/organize sample files quickly and efficiently. USB also allows users to interface the SPD-SX easily with their computer to communicate directly with DAWs and other music software, so players can use the SPD-SX to trigger software instruments and record MIDI and audio data in the computer.
The SPD-SX can be played on a tabletop or stand, and can be used with standard drum hardware. Other standout features include an intuitive interface and large display, dual stereo outputs, a phones jack, an assignable click output with dedicated front-panel level knob, MIDI I/O, and more.
The SPD-SX will be available in October with a street price of £499.
I hope they don’t have horrible spongey pads like the Yamaha Multi-12. That thing was a horror to play with sticks.
Do we need this? Can it record a sequence? Why is Roland just rehashing old equipment?
It CAN record a sequence, it can totally resample anything, it can chop up, it can inspire you, it can produce a click and synced FX through separate/assignable outputs, thanks to the SPD-SX Wave Manager software it’s interactive with your computer. Roland has come up with the new standard in “on stage sample triggering” and live FX manipulation for drummers.
Nice plug from some one who gets a paycheck from Roland.
I own a SPD-S and will say this;
It’s as intuitive as quantum mechanics.
Once mastered it is freakin’ awesome for live performances.
It sounds like they’ve done some well needed work on the import side and from the demo it looks like they’ve added some bells and whistles.
Remember to keep your instruction book close by.
Michael, Can you assign a click to the sample ahead of time in the software? For instance, If I play a sample, when i trigger the sample to start, can it be set up so the click starts with the sample at the correct speed automatically?
Please provide me waves i need thousand of waves to insert in SPD SX
In ROLAND SPD SX. After create Mp3 Sample Loop, The Loop Tempo will Increase, Decrease, In Perfect Mode??
it have any factory sounds like spd 20? and banks…?
Have they fixed the pad dynamics? The SPD-S is terrible, no matter what settings you enter. My SPD-20, -11 and -8 are way better.
Will it play MIDI phrases? Sampling loops are almost impossible to get in perfect sync
Why is there no HH Ctrl input anymore? No FD-8 pedal support? Is it only footswitch open/closed control now?
A few more trigger inputs for cymbal and drumpads would have been welcome.
sir .weather loop temo willcahange without original pitch.
Ciomment deleted – personal attack.
It’s just sad that you can’t save midi files with your sequences and send them to e.g. an analog synths. It’s 2011 guys!
Nice instument Rolend brand i like you rolend spd 20 from ratlam m.p.
Oh thanks for ur review….
The SPD-SX is awesome to play. Adding new kits is challanging but it is a learning curve.
My only question is where you find new wavs and loops to make a new kit? Anyone have an answer?
I recently bought one of these and surprise, there’s not midi clock out available… I can not get sync my secquences … terrible job by roland
can we put
all the sound effect of spd 20 in it…?
increase and decrease kit banking it take few seconds time.please give me solution