If you make beats, one of the most essential pieces of equipment in your studio is a reliable sampler.
The right sampler will allow you to take samples from any sound source and manipulate them into new compositions for your hip-hop tracks.
That’s why we’ve created this buyer’s guide – we want to help you make an informed buying decision when it comes to purchasing the best samplers available.
In this article, we’ll review some of the top-rated digital and hardware samplers on the market today and discuss their features, benefits, and drawbacks so that you can select the best option for your needs.
What is a Sampler?
A sampler is a piece of music-making hardware or software that allows you to record and manipulate sound.
Specifically for hip-hop producers, samplers allow you to take samples from any source – be it vinyl records or even your own voice – layer them over beats and other instrumentals to create powerful builds and drum lines. Ultimately, they bring out nuances that can’t usually be achieved through traditional recording methods alone.
In the past, hardware samplers were limited by memory, but today’s advanced offerings allow you to sample longer stretches of audio. Nowadays, samplers are highly sophisticated pieces equipment that provide seamless integration with major production platforms like Pro Tools, Logic Pro X and Ableton Live.
What to Look for in a Sampler
When shopping for a sampler, there are several key features you should keep in mind.
First, consider the type of sampler you need. Do you want to use it for live performance, or are you looking for something that will stay in your studio?
Second, think about how many sounds and samples you want to be able to store. If you plan on creating complex instrumentals and beats, then more is better.
Third, decide on the quality of sound you require – some samplers offer high-fidelity recordings while others may produce low-quality results.
Finally, think about the price range that fits your budget – there’s a wide range of samplers available at different prices so it’s important to find one that suits your needs and wallet.
I’ve organized this guide into two categories, one for the best all-around samples, and another for the best samples on a lower budget. With these guidelines in mind, selecting the perfect sampler for your hip-hop production setup should be a breeze.
Best All-Around Samplers
The best all-around samplers offer a great combination of features and performance at an affordable price. Let’s take a look at the top choices.
Akai MPC X
Let’s talk about the MPC X, the heavyweight champion of samplers in the digital music production arena. If you’re a sample-based producer like me, you know that chopping samples is not just important—it’s everything. And when it comes to chopping, the MPC X reigns supreme.
First off, let’s talk about speed. When I’m in the zone, I need a sampler that can keep up with my creativity, and let me tell you, the MPC X doesn’t disappoint. Sure, there are other samplers out there, but none can match the lightning-fast chopping capabilities of the MPC series. It’s like the Usain Bolt of samplers, leaving the competition in the dust when it comes to slicing and dicing samples.
But speed is just one part of the equation. The MPC X is also packed with features that make sample manipulation a breeze. From the intuitive touchscreen interface to the 16 velocity-sensitive pads, every aspect of the MPC X is designed to streamline your workflow and unleash your creativity.
And let’s not forget about sound quality. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how fast you can chop samples if the end result sounds like garbage. Thankfully, the MPC X delivers on that front too, with crystal-clear audio that retains every nuance of your original samples.
But perhaps the best thing about the MPC X is its versatility. Whether you’re making boom-bap beats or experimental electronic music, this sampler has you covered. With its advanced sampling options and performance mode for live manipulation, the MPC X is like having an entire studio’s worth of gear packed into one sleek package.
If you’re a sample-based producer that needs an efficient chopping workflow, look no further than the MPC X. With its blazing-fast chopping capabilities, intuitive interface, and top-notch sound quality, it’s the perfect companion for any music maker serious about their craft.
Native Instruments Maschine+
If you’re on the hunt for a powerhouse sampler that offers both portability and versatility, look no further than the Maschine+ by Native Instruments. This sleek machine packs a serious punch, boasting 16 pads and two touch strips that put you in complete control of your sound samples and drum loops.
One of the standout features of the Maschine+ is its extensive library of sounds, kits, and loops, giving you access to a wealth of sonic possibilities right out of the box. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, having such a vast array of sounds at your fingertips is a game-changer.
But what really sets the Maschine+ apart is its intuitive user interface, which makes it a breeze to navigate and customize your sounds. Whether you’re searching for a specific sample or tweaking parameters in real-time, the Maschine+ makes it easy to bring your creative vision to life.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the lack of a built-in battery. Initially, I’ll admit, I was skeptical. However, after spending some time with the Maschine+, I’ve come to see the value in its standalone nature. Sure, it may require a power source, but the freedom of not being tethered to a computer is truly liberating. Plus, without the need for a battery, you don’t have to worry about degradation over time, ensuring that your Maschine+ will stand the test of time.
Of course, no device is without its limitations, and the Maschine+ is no exception. Some users have noted that it could benefit from a more powerful processor and additional RAM to run more demanding plugins. However, despite these shortcomings, the Maschine+ remains a top contender in the world of standalone groove boxes.
I would recommend the Maschine+ to anyone who values versatility in their sampler. With its extensive sound library, intuitive interface, and sleek design, it’s the perfect tool for producers who want to take their music to the next level without being tied down to a computer.
Elektron Octatrack MKII
If you want a powerful digital sampler tailored for live performance, look no further than the Octatrack MKII. It’s a simple machine that combines an intuitive workflow with powerful features.
Unlike most digital samplers, the Octatrack MKII comes equipped with an integrated sequencer that simplifies the process of recording and manipulating samples in real-time. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate, allowing you to focus on the creative process without getting bogged down by technical complexities.
Chopping samples on the Octatrack MKII isn’t quite as intuitive as other machines like the MPC series. It may require a little more forethought during the preparation phase.
However, the precision and control it offers make it well worth the investment of time and effort. By manually chopping samples and creating slice points, you can tailor each slice to your exact specifications.
While the sample chopping process on the Octatrack MKII may be slower compared to some alternatives, its comprehensive feature set more than compensates for any perceived drawbacks. The ability to edit samples in real-time and apply effects on the fly allows for unparalleled workflow efficiency, empowering you to bring your creative vision to life with ease.
The Octatrack MKII is one of the top sampler choices for a reason. Its intuitive interface, integrated sequencer, and robust feature set make it an indispensable tool for sample-based producers. Whether you’re performing live or crafting studio productions, the Octatrack MKII offers a level of control and flexibility that is second to none.
Best Low-Budget Samplers
If you’re on a budget and still want to get your hands on some quality equipment, don’t worry – there are quite a few samplers that fit within a tight budget.
Here are some of the best low-budget samplers currently available:
Roland SP-404
Alright, let’s dive into the SP 404MK2, the unsung hero of the sampler world, especially when it comes to chopping samples. If you’re on a budget, then the SP 404MK2 might just be your best bet.
First things first, let’s talk about chopping. The SP 404MK2 makes it a breeze to chop up samples and rearrange them to your heart’s content. Whether you prefer manual slicing or letting the machine do the work with auto-mark, the SP 404MK2 gives you the tools you need to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
But chopping isn’t the only thing the SP 404MK2 excels at. It’s also great for manipulating samples, changing pitch, adding effects, and even sequencing your beats. With its built-in sequencer and performance mode, you can create entire tracks from start to finish without ever leaving the machine.
Sure, the SP 404MK2 might not have all the bells and whistles of some of its more expensive counterparts, but what it lacks in fancy features, it more than makes up for in simplicity and reliability. And let’s not forget about its portability. Small enough to fit in any backpack and battery-powered for on-the-go creativity, the SP 404MK2 is the perfect companion for any producer looking to capture inspiration whenever and wherever it strikes.
If you’re a sample-based producer on a budget who values simplicity and powerful slicing above all else, then the SP 404MK2 is hands down the best choice for you. With its intuitive workflow, powerful sampling capabilities, and unbeatable price point, it’s a no-brainer for anyone looking to chop samples without breaking the bank.
Elektron Digitakt
At first glance, the Digitakt’s sleek design and promise of powerful sampling capabilities piqued my interest. It took me some time to adapt the Digitakt to my sampling workflow, but I’ve come to appreciate its power.
As I delved deeper into the Digitakt’s features, I was struck by its versatility and intuitive interface. The device boasts 8 internal audio tracks and 8 MIDI tracks, alongside a multimode filter, reverb, delay send, and overdrive per track. Its assignable LFO per track adds an extra layer of creativity, allowing for dynamic sound manipulation. Moreover, the sleek metal chassis, backlit buttons, and endless encoders exude quality craftsmanship, making for an immersive user experience.
Despite its mono sampling limitation, the Digitakt’s stereo input pair allows for seamless integration with external sources, while the stereo output pair ensures pristine sound reproduction. MIDI connectivity, including MIDI in, out, and through, as well as USB connection, further enhances its versatility, making it a fully featured standalone sampler and drum machine.
One of the Digitakt’s standout features is its sound design capabilities. While the device comes preloaded with high-quality stock samples, its true potential shines when used to sample and manipulate custom sounds. From recording guitar riffs and modular synth patches to capturing field recordings, the Digitakt empowers users to create unique sonic landscapes tailored to their artistic vision.
I found myself spending hours experimenting with different samples, tweaking parameters, and crafting intricate patterns. The ability to assign each step within a track to its own sound, known as parameter locking, adds depth and nuance to compositions, allowing for dynamic variation and expression. Furthermore, the built-in effects, while not the most extensive, provide essential tools for adding motion and depth to productions.
Despite its initial learning curve, the device has proven to be a worthy investment, offering unparalleled flexibility and creative potential. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or a newcomer to electronic music production, the Digitakt’s blend of versatility, functionality, and sound design capabilities makes it a valuable addition to any studio setup.
Should You Use a Software Sampler or Hardware?
Before you decide to purchase a hardware sampler, you should also consider whether a software sampler would be a better choice.
Software samplers are digital programs that allow you to create and manipulate samples on your computer. They’re often more affordable than hardware samplers, they’re easy to use, and they offer a wide range of features.
On the other hand, hardware samplers are physical devices that produce samples with the help of knobs and buttons. They can provide a more hands-on experience for producers who want to tweak sounds in real time and take their music on the go. Plus, many models come equipped with built-in effects and recording capabilities.
No matter which type of sampler you choose, there are pros and cons to consider. Software samplers tend to be cheaper than their hardware counterparts but require a powerful computer for optimal performance. And although hardware samplers provide a tactile experience that some producers prefer, they can be pricey compared to software options.
Ultimately, it depends on your budget and preferences as an artist. Do your research before deciding which type of sampler is right for you.
How to Choose the Right Sampler
Different types of samplers offer different features, so it’s also important to know what’s available and what would work best for you.
Different models vary in size, with some smaller models offering fewer features than their larger counterparts. Other considerations include sample rate (the number of samples per second), storage capacity, MIDI compatibility, and audio inputs/outputs. Certain models may also offer specialized features such as sequencing capabilities and automated mixing functions.
Finally, remember that price plays an important role when selecting the right sampler. Models range widely in terms of cost and quality – make sure that you have a clear budget in mind before making your purchase.