sequencers vs sampler...

[mikerenwick]

hi, I work with fairly talented musicians in terms of skill level, however, we are all rather cluless when it comes to technology. Hence, recently I purchased Midi keyboard so that we can play together in many place (rather than I drag them to a specific place that has piano or in some cases organ...), but now that I got taste of what these things could do, I want to know more about it.

and question is what is the essential difference between sequencer and sampler? I know that sampler does not have sound, but it seems to me like both ultimately will be able to play anything you want with it... I am not really confused, because at some point, sequencer has to be programmed to create sounds as well, or am I wrong? is it about tweaking sounds? any help will be help since we have no clue... thanks... mike

 

[The Green Hornet]

Hey Mike:

An sequencer is like an electronic tape recorder; there is no tape to wind. When you see a synthesizer that states it is a "workstation," it contains a sequencer. This lets the artist record various parts of a song: bass, horns, strings, drums, etc. Then, the sequencer plays them all at once and this can be mixed down onto tape or DAT or whatever.

When it comes to samplers, I believe they are synthesizers that have no sequencer built in; they can sample sounds, like a bark, and put that bark into the keyboard to be played. (How much is that doggie in the Window?) (Woof, Woof.)

If you touch base with a manufacturer via the net you can get broshures that will give you a better definition of a sampler. I use a Yamaha DX-7, one of the first solid synthesizers made. My unit is about 12 years old and the lithium battery in it is still working. [knock on a woodpecker's head]

Keep asking and looking at this site and you will find answers.

Green Hornet