Roland SP808EX: Evolution of the Groove Sampler

The Roland SP808EX represents a significant evolution of the original SP808 'Groove Sampler.' Released in 2000, this updated model brings both aesthetic and functional improvements to its predecessor's successful formula. Most noticeably, the device sports a striking new appearance, replacing the original's black-and-red color scheme with a translucent case featuring pearlised purple and black accents, clearly inspired by the contemporary iMac design aesthetic.

Core Features and Functionality

The SP808EX maintains the core functionality of its predecessor while introducing several meaningful improvements. At its heart, the device combines:

• A four-track stereo hard disk recorder
• A five-channel digital stereo mixer
• A comprehensive sampling system with 16 pads and 64 banks
• A monophonic virtual analogue synthesizer with step sequencer
• Preset and programmable multi-effects
• A theremin-like D-Beam controller

Enhanced Storage Capabilities

The most significant hardware upgrade is the implementation of a 250MB Zip drive, replacing the original 100MB version. This expansion provides impressive recording capabilities:

• 61 minutes at 44.1kHz stereo
• 84 minutes at 32kHz stereo
• 122 minutes at 44.1kHz mono
• 169 minutes at 32kHz mono

Unlike traditional samplers that rely on RAM, the SP808EX records, saves, and plays directly from the Zip drive. While this introduces some limitations with older 100MB disks (which can only be read, not written to), the increased capacity of 250MB disks largely compensates for these restrictions.

New COSM Effects

The SP808EX introduces five new COSM effects algorithms:

1. Mic Simulator:
   Offers various input/output configurations and includes features like Bass Cut, Phase controls, Limiter, and Proximity Effect for ambience adjustment.
2. Vocoder:
   A sophisticated 10-band system with extensive control over individual frequency bands, featuring:
   • Level, Sensitivity, Mix, and Pan controls
   • Adjustable envelope parameters
   • Dedicated delay (1ms to 1195ms)
   • Built-in chorus
   • Multiple input source combinations
3. Voice Transformer:
   A streamlined version of Roland's VP9000 Variphrase processor, offering:
   • Voice pitch adjustment
   • Formant control
   • Robot effect with MIDI keyboard control
4. 3-band parametric EQ
5. Integrated delay section
6. Guitar Multi:
   A seven-section effects block including:
   • Compressor
   • Wah
   • Drive
   • Amp Simulator
   • Noise Suppressor
   • Delay
   • Chorus/Flanger
7. Vocal Multi:
   Another seven-section block featuring:
   • Noise Suppressor
   • Limiter
   • Enhancer
   • EQ
   • Pitch Shifter
   • Delay
   • Chorus

Software Integration

The SP808EX comes with valuable software tools, including the SP808EX Wave Converter v2.0, which enables:

• Direct sample transfer between computer and SP808EX
• Drag-and-drop functionality for AIFF and WAV files
• Sample bank management
• Retention of loop points during AIFF file transfers

Technical Specifications

• 20-bit A-D and D-A converters
• 92dB Signal-to-noise ratio
• Frequency response: 10Hz-21kHz
• Capacity for 1,024 samples (16 pads × 64 banks)
• Storage for 64 songs with up to 2000 events per song
• 298 effects patches (149 preset, 149 user)
• 25 effects algorithms

Expansion Options

Two expansion options are available:

• OP1: Adds six individual phono outputs, optical/coaxial digital I/O, and SCSI
• OP2: Provides XLR stereo I/O, coaxial digital I/O, and SCSI

Strengths and Limitations

Advantages:

• Doubled recording and sampling time
• Powerful and versatile effects system
• Quick sampling, editing, and multitracking capabilities
• Valuable included software bundle
• Innovative D-Beam controller
• Stable performance, particularly suitable for live use
• Maintained pricing despite improvements

Disadvantages:

• Limited to four stereo parts for polyphony
• SCSI options restricted to Zip drives only
• No integrated MIDI sequencer
• Non-velocity-sensitive pads
• Some performance limitations with older 100MB Zip disks

Target Market and Applications

While primarily designed for dance music production and remixing, the SP808EX proves versatile enough for various applications:

• Electronic music production
• Ambient and experimental music
• Sample-based punk and industrial genres
• Companion to existing keyboard/sequencer setups
• Alternative to computer-based recording
• Live performance and DJ work

The SP808EX represents a thoughtful evolution of its predecessor, maintaining the original's strengths while adding significant improvements in storage capacity and effects processing. Despite some limitations, it remains a compelling option for electronic music producers, particularly those focused on dance and remix work in a 90s style workflow.