What is the primary function of the M-Audio SP-2?

The M-Audio SP-2 is a sustain pedal used to hold notes on a digital keyboard or piano after the keys have been released. It is designed to mimic the action of an acoustic piano's sustain pedal.

Is the M-Audio SP-2 compatible with all keyboard brands?

Yes, it is considered a universal pedal. It features a polarity switch that allows it to work with various electronic keyboards that may require different signal polarities.

How does the polarity switch work?

The switch toggles between 'normally open' and 'normally closed' states. This ensures that the pedal sustains when pressed rather than sustaining when released, regardless of the keyboard manufacturer.

Does the pedal slip on the floor during use?

The SP-2 features a specially designed rubber bottom. This material is intended to grip the floor surface and keep the pedal in place while the musician plays.

What materials is the SP-2 made of?

The device features a chrome-plated metal pedal for durability and a realistic feel. The main body is housed in a protective rubber-coated shell.

What is the typical price for this pedal?

The M-Audio SP-2 typically retails for approximately £15.00. This makes it an affordable upgrade for most keyboard setups.

Can this be used as a guitar effect pedal?

No, it is a keyboard sustain pedal and does not process audio. It is distinct from guitar pedals like the Boss NS-2 or the Electro Harmonix Big Muff, which are designed for signal processing.

Does the SP-2 require a battery or external power?

No, the SP-2 is a passive momentary switch. It draws no power and connects directly to the 'Sustain' or 'Pedal' jack of a keyboard via its built-in cable.

How does it compare to the Yamaha FC7?

The SP-2 is a sustain pedal (on/off switch), whereas the Yamaha FC7 is an expression pedal. Expression pedals allow for continuous control over parameters like volume, while the SP-2 is strictly for sustain.

Is the cable included with the pedal?

Yes, the M-Audio SP-2 comes with a 6-foot cable permanently attached to the unit. The cable terminates in a standard 1/4-inch jack.

Does it support 'half-pedalling'?

The SP-2 is a standard switch-style sustain pedal. It is generally used for on/off sustain rather than the continuous variable control required for advanced half-pedalling techniques.

Who is the M-Audio SP-2 designed for?

It is designed for keyboard players who want a more realistic piano-style action than a standard plastic footswitch provides. It is suitable for both live performance and studio environments.

Gear article

M-Audio SP-2 Piano Style Sustain Pedal

The M-Audio SP-2 is a universal sustain pedal designed to provide a realistic acoustic piano experience for electronic keyboard players. It features a chrome-plated metal pedal, a polarity switch for broad compatibility, and a slip-resistant rubber base.

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Overview

The M-Audio SP-2 is a dedicated sustain pedal intended for use with MIDI controllers, digital pianos, and electronic keyboards. Unlike standard plastic 'square' pedals often included with entry-level instruments, the SP-2 is built to mimic the physical response and aesthetic of a traditional acoustic piano's damper pedal. It serves as a primary interface for musicians looking to add expressive sustain to their performances.

Key Features and Design

The pedal is defined by its heavy-duty mechanism and chrome-plated metal pedal. The underside is equipped with a specially designed rubber bottom that grips the floor, preventing the unit from sliding during vigorous play. A significant feature is the built-in polarity switch, which allows the pedal to function with virtually any keyboard brand regardless of whether the internal circuitry requires a 'normally open' or 'normally closed' signal.

Sound and Character

While the SP-2 does not generate sound itself, its 'character' is defined by its tactile response. It was engineered to provide a realistic pedal action that mirrors the tension and travel distance of a concert grand piano's sustain pedal. This physical feedback allows for more precise control over sustain triggering compared to lighter, non-weighted momentary switches.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the entry-level market, the SP-2 is often compared to basic plastic footswitches. However, its metal construction and weight offer a more professional feel. While dedicated expression pedals like the Yamaha FC7 provide continuous control for volume or modulation, the SP-2 is a binary sustain switch. For players requiring specific effects, it differs fundamentally from guitar-centric pedals such as the Boss DD-3T Digital Delay or the Fender Hammertone Flanger, as it does not process audio signals but rather sends MIDI or control data to a keyboard.

User Suitability

This pedal is best suited for keyboardists who prioritise a traditional piano feel. Because of its universal polarity switch, it is an ideal choice for musicians who own multiple keyboards from different manufacturers. It is also a popular upgrade for home studio users who find stock plastic pedals insufficient for serious practice or recording.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the M-Audio SP-2?: The M-Audio SP-2 is a sustain pedal used to hold notes on a digital keyboard or piano after the keys have been released. It is designed to mimic the action of an acoustic piano's sustain pedal.
Is the M-Audio SP-2 compatible with all keyboard brands?: Yes, it is considered a universal pedal. It features a polarity switch that allows it to work with various electronic keyboards that may require different signal polarities.
How does the polarity switch work?: The switch toggles between 'normally open' and 'normally closed' states. This ensures that the pedal sustains when pressed rather than sustaining when released, regardless of the keyboard manufacturer.
Does the pedal slip on the floor during use?: The SP-2 features a specially designed rubber bottom. This material is intended to grip the floor surface and keep the pedal in place while the musician plays.
What materials is the SP-2 made of?: The device features a chrome-plated metal pedal for durability and a realistic feel. The main body is housed in a protective rubber-coated shell.
What is the typical price for this pedal?: The M-Audio SP-2 typically retails for approximately £15.00. This makes it an affordable upgrade for most keyboard setups.
Can this be used as a guitar effect pedal?: No, it is a keyboard sustain pedal and does not process audio. It is distinct from guitar pedals like the Boss NS-2 or the Electro Harmonix Big Muff, which are designed for signal processing.
Does the SP-2 require a battery or external power?: No, the SP-2 is a passive momentary switch. It draws no power and connects directly to the 'Sustain' or 'Pedal' jack of a keyboard via its built-in cable.
How does it compare to the Yamaha FC7?: The SP-2 is a sustain pedal (on/off switch), whereas the Yamaha FC7 is an expression pedal. Expression pedals allow for continuous control over parameters like volume, while the SP-2 is strictly for sustain.
Is the cable included with the pedal?: Yes, the M-Audio SP-2 comes with a 6-foot cable permanently attached to the unit. The cable terminates in a standard 1/4-inch jack.
Does it support 'half-pedalling'?: The SP-2 is a standard switch-style sustain pedal. It is generally used for on/off sustain rather than the continuous variable control required for advanced half-pedalling techniques.
Who is the M-Audio SP-2 designed for?: It is designed for keyboard players who want a more realistic piano-style action than a standard plastic footswitch provides. It is suitable for both live performance and studio environments.