Prior to owning the Sp-404A, I’ve been using computer software like Cool Edit and Garageband to cut samples and create loops. I’m still stuck with my old ways and have been importing my projects into the SP. Mainly using it for live performance based. I’ve also done some chopping on the fly when I’m out and about, taking sounds from whatever I plug into the 404. It’s great getting ideas down while on the road.When working in Garageband, I usually do all my arrangements in there and record layers of textures. Before the Roland Juno D, I was using the on board musical type with the laptop keyboard. Pretty ridiculous but it got the job done most if the time. I get it now why people are addicted to synths and the different sounds they produce.
Where do you get your sounds and samples? I’ve been collecting samples (digital & analog) for quite sometime now. I’ve learned all this through working with No Luck Club. I would recreate patterns of existing samples with different sounds. Sometimes layer the same sound to give it more oomph. At times I’d layer different drums to give it a certain feel when necessary.
I’m no pro when it comes to making music. A lot of it was self taught and using the only things that was available to me. I guess what I’m trying to say is that there isn’t a right or wrong way on making music in my opinion. I’ve sat in conversations and I would be completely lost on production topics. Questions like how did you get it to sound like this and that. Trial and error I guess. Keep messing around with filters until you like it. I keep telling myself if past musicians can make it sound a certain way with the technology they had then, I can make it too. What to take from this post is that you don’t necessarily have to have to latest gear. Work with what you have and fully master it.
Paul Skratch 
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