Maximum Sample Time (Internal Memory): - Hi-Fi: 32 seconds (mono) - Lo-Fi 2: 4 minutes 27 seconds (mono)
Audio Connections
Stereo line out (-10dBm)
Stereo line in (+4dBm)
Mic input (-60dBm to 30dBm)
Headphone output (mini-jack)
External mic input (1/4" jack)
Effects Section
Pitch (-20% to +10%)
Time stretch (-50% to +25%)
Delay (64th note to whole note)
Two low-pass filters
Ring modulator
Note: Only one effect can be used at a time (except Pitch)
Strengths
Excellent audio quality in Hi-Fi mode and distinct Lo-Fi character when needed
Quick and intuitive sampling process
Impressive sampling times with memory expansion
Portable design with reliable battery operation
Built-in mic for quick sampling
Distinctive ring modulator effect
Smart Media card support for storage expansion
Limitations
Limited 4-voice polyphony (reduced with effects)
Basic sample editing capabilities
Restricted MIDI implementation
Effect routing limitations
No footswitch option
Power supply not included
Use Cases
DJ performance and loop sampling
Live performance effects
Quick sample capture and playback
Basic sound reinforcement
Portable sampling workstation
Size&Weight&Power
Dimensions: 83mm x 145mm x 221mm (HxWxD)
Weight: 850g with batteries
Power: 6x AA batteries or 9V DC adapter
Battery life: Up to 8 hours continuous use
At the time of its release, the SP-202 offered a good value for users needing a straightforward, portable sampling solution. While it had limitations in MIDI implementation and editing capabilities, its sound quality and ease of use made it an attractive option for live performance and DJ applications.
Boss's Dr Sample SP-303 emerged as an intriguing evolution of the pioneering SP-202 phrase sampler. Three years after its predecessor made waves in the budget sampling market, the SP-303 arrived with both gains and losses in its feature set, but still...