What is the polyphony of the Volca Sample 2?

The Volca Sample 2 features an 8-voice polyphonic engine. This allows up to eight different samples or sounds to trigger simultaneously during a sequence.

How does the MK2 differ from the original Volca Sample?

The MK2 includes a micro-USB port for easier sample loading, doubled sample memory, and a newer library of sounds. It maintains the same physical layout but offers significantly improved data connectivity.

Can I use the Volca Sample 2 without an external power supply?

Yes, the device is designed for portability and can run on six AA batteries. It also features a built-in speaker, allowing for completely wireless operation.

Does the Volca Sample 2 have built-in effects?

It features an onboard digital reverb effect that can be toggled per part. Additionally, it has a master Analogue Isolator section for adjusting bass and treble frequencies on the master output.

How do I load my own samples onto the device?

Users can load samples via the micro-USB port using Korg's dedicated software or via the Audio Pocket app. This is a significant upgrade over the original model's audio-sync-only loading method.

Can the Volca Sample 2 be synced with other Korg devices?

Yes, it features standard Volca Sync In and Out ports. This allows it to be perfectly tempo-synced with other units in the Volca range or compatible gear.

What kind of outputs does the device have?

The device features a 3.5mm stereo headphone jack which serves as the main output. It does not have balanced 1/4-inch outputs.

Is the Volca Sample 2 a synthesizer or a sampler?

It is a sample sequencer, meaning it plays back recorded audio files rather than generating sounds through oscillators. However, its extensive manipulation knobs allow you to shape samples much like a synthesizer.

Can I record audio directly into the Volca Sample 2?

No, the device does not have an audio input for direct sampling. Samples must be prepared on a computer or mobile device and then transferred to the unit.

Does it support MIDI control?

Yes, it includes a MIDI In port. This allows you to trigger samples from an external controller, such as a Viscount Legend 70s or a MIDI keyboard.

How many steps are in the built-in sequencer?

The Volca Sample 2 features a 16-step sequencer. It supports motion sequencing, which records the movements of the knobs to create evolving sounds.

Is the Volca Sample 2 suitable for live performance?

Absolutely, its compact size and 'active step' features make it highly performative. Many musicians use it alongside drum machines like the Roland TR-08 for live sets.

Gear article

Korg Volca Sample 2 Digital Sample Sequencer

The Korg Volca Sample 2 is a compact, digital sample sequencer that offers eight-voice polyphony and extensive real-time manipulation features. An evolution of the original Volca Sample, this MK2 version provides increased memory, modern connectivity, and an expanded library for mobile and studio-based music production.

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Overview

The Korg Volca Sample 2 is a portable digital sequencer designed for tactile sample manipulation and rhythm creation. It retains the signature small form factor of the Volca series, measuring approximately the size of a VHS tape, while offering a powerful engine for sequencing up to 100 or more samples. The device is powered by six AA batteries, facilitating music creation in any environment, and includes a built-in speaker for immediate monitoring.

History and Development

Building upon the success of the original Volca Sample, the MK2 was introduced to address user requirements for better connectivity and storage. While the core synthesis engine remains familiar to users of the original, the hardware was updated to include a micro-USB port for easier sample management and MIDI integration. The internal memory was also expanded to accommodate larger sample sets compared to its predecessor.

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Engine and Features

The device features an 8-voice polyphonic engine that allows for complex rhythmic patterns and layering. Key features include:

Sample Manipulation: A series of dedicated knobs for Start Point, Length, Hi Cut, Pitch, and Envelope generators.
Digital Reverb: An onboard spatial effect that can be applied to individual samples to add depth.
Sequencer: A 16-step sequencer with motion sequencing capabilities to record knob movements.
Connectivity: Includes MIDI input, Sync In/Out for linking with other Volca units or gear like the Behringer Neutron, and USB for data transfer.

Sound and Character

The Volca Sample 2 is known for its punchy, lo-fi digital aesthetic. Because it allows users to load their own samples, its sonic character is highly versatile, ranging from industrial percussion to melodic chops. The onboard 'Analogue Isolator' (Bass and Treble) provides a final stage of EQ shaping that can drastically alter the master output, giving the unit a warm, tactile feel despite its digital core.

Suitability and Comparison

This device is ideally suited for electronic musicians seeking a portable, hands-on rhythm machine. Compared to larger workstations like the Yamaha MX49 II or luxury instruments like the Oberheim OB-X8, the Volca Sample 2 focuses specifically on sample-based sequencing in a minimalist format. While it lacks the full modularity of a system like the Gear4Music modul, its ease of use and price point make it a common entry point for those exploring hardware-based music production.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the polyphony of the Volca Sample 2?: The Volca Sample 2 features an 8-voice polyphonic engine. This allows up to eight different samples or sounds to trigger simultaneously during a sequence.
How does the MK2 differ from the original Volca Sample?: The MK2 includes a micro-USB port for easier sample loading, doubled sample memory, and a newer library of sounds. It maintains the same physical layout but offers significantly improved data connectivity.
Can I use the Volca Sample 2 without an external power supply?: Yes, the device is designed for portability and can run on six AA batteries. It also features a built-in speaker, allowing for completely wireless operation.
Does the Volca Sample 2 have built-in effects?: It features an onboard digital reverb effect that can be toggled per part. Additionally, it has a master Analogue Isolator section for adjusting bass and treble frequencies on the master output.
How do I load my own samples onto the device?: Users can load samples via the micro-USB port using Korg's dedicated software or via the Audio Pocket app. This is a significant upgrade over the original model's audio-sync-only loading method.
Can the Volca Sample 2 be synced with other Korg devices?: Yes, it features standard Volca Sync In and Out ports. This allows it to be perfectly tempo-synced with other units in the Volca range or compatible gear.
What kind of outputs does the device have?: The device features a 3.5mm stereo headphone jack which serves as the main output. It does not have balanced 1/4-inch outputs.
Is the Volca Sample 2 a synthesizer or a sampler?: It is a sample sequencer, meaning it plays back recorded audio files rather than generating sounds through oscillators. However, its extensive manipulation knobs allow you to shape samples much like a synthesizer.
Can I record audio directly into the Volca Sample 2?: No, the device does not have an audio input for direct sampling. Samples must be prepared on a computer or mobile device and then transferred to the unit.
Does it support MIDI control?: Yes, it includes a MIDI In port. This allows you to trigger samples from an external controller, such as a Viscount Legend 70s or a MIDI keyboard.
How many steps are in the built-in sequencer?: The Volca Sample 2 features a 16-step sequencer. It supports motion sequencing, which records the movements of the knobs to create evolving sounds.
Is the Volca Sample 2 suitable for live performance?: Absolutely, its compact size and 'active step' features make it highly performative. Many musicians use it alongside drum machines like the Roland TR-08 for live sets.