Okay:

i'm getting a sampler for Christmas. the Boss "Dr. Sample," to be exact. and while i know theoretically what it does and what i can do with it, i don't have the slightest idea how to actually use the damn thing (well... maybe the slightest idea, but not much beyond that).

how do you import samples? how do you edit samples once they're in the machine? how do you arrange it so it can switch patterns in mid-song? etc?

i realize these are some rather machine-specific questions, so any information regarding general sampler use (especially working it into non-rap-song arrangements) would be appreciated. thanks.

I've used one of them before. They are very simple.

You'll need to use the quick-start guide to figure out what's what.

Does it not use memory cards or something? You can probably import samples easily via a PC or by recording them.

Download the manual now and read it!

Rodabod wrote:Does it not use memory cards or something? You can probably import samples easily via a PC or by recording them.

right, i figured that. i meant more, like, what can you do with it?

instant_zen wrote: i meant more, like, what can you do with it?

Shitloads.

Samplers can do all sorts. For a start, you can emulate any sound you want to a certain extent. Like a certain synth sound? Sample it and then you can play it back at any pitch and for any duration - hook the sampler up to a keyboard if it'll let you.

You can sample drum hits and make your own beats. You can fuck around with sounds and warp them and loop them if you like that sort of thing.

There are many uses - it all depends on what you are wanting to do with it.

instant_zen wrote:right, i figured that. i meant more, like, what can you do with it?

Ruin music that may have otherwise had a chance?

This is just me talkin here...

I think sampling is one of the worst things ever to happen to music. It's akin to what McDonald's has done for cuisine.

Don't get me wrong, it can be done well, and in a way that makes a song stronger rather than weaker. Unfortunately, maybe 9 times out of 10, its effect is a detriment.

If you find yourself feeling like you should use it because it's there, you are in a very dark place.

scott wrote:Don't get me wrong, it can be done well, and in a way that makes a song stronger rather than weaker. Unfortunately, maybe 9 times out of 10, its effect is a detriment.

Although I do agree with Scott as I personally am not into samples and such, I think his '9 times out of 10' ratio can apply to bands with guitars as well.... or bands with singers.... or bands in general. 9 out of 10 bands suck...I think that is actually a conservative statement...

scott wrote:I think sampling is one of the worst things ever to happen to music. It's akin to what McDonald's has done for cuisine.

Hiphop?.......

Would you rather that the Beatles never used a Mellotron?

Mission of Burma, anyone? Granted, Martin did (and now Bob does) it the hard way, with tape loops. Still, it's sampling.

Maurice wrote:Mission of Burma, anyone? Granted, Martin did (and now Bob does) it the hard way, with tape loops. Still, it's sampling.

Yes, I think it is the great ones that are the exceptions... be it using a toy piano, a drum machine, a shredding guitar solo, sampling, rapping, etc.

Maurice wrote:Mission of Burma, anyone? Granted, Martin did (and now Bob does) it the hard way, with tape loops. Still, it's sampling.

this is precisely what i want to do with it, for the record. i dunno to what extent i'd be able to do the kind of stuff those guys do/did (as my band doesn't have a dedicated person to play it), but that's the general idea. not a hip-hop thing at all; more like just thickening up song textures and adding noise.

also, i thought it might be cool to use it to add monologues (a la the GY!BE field-recording use).