Roland SP-404MKII is now supported in Serato DJ and Studio

Roland’s free V5 firmware update brings native support for Serato Studio, Serato DJ Lite, and DJ Pro (via paid upgrade), offering seamless plug-and-play functionality that unites the SP-404MKII with the familiar Serato functionality and workflow.

Bridging hardware and software for DJs and producers, the SP-404MKII is the only sampler of its kind that functions as a DJ controller for Serato DJ, unlocking new creative possibilities for live performance.

The History of the 404

For two decades, the SP-404 has been at the heart of underground beat culture, pushing sound in new directions with its gritty FX, signature workflow, and go-anywhere creativity. These boxes of sonic mayhem have fueled the imagination of a generation of global beatmakers, catalyzing a subculture of beat sessions, DIY tapes, and guerilla videos.

When the SP-404 launched in 2005, it didn’t just introduce a new way to sample—it revolutionized an entire genre. Emerging at a time when underground hip-hop and electronic music scenes were flourishing in cities like Los Angeles, Tokyo, and London, the SP-404 became the go-to music creation tool for pioneering beatmakers. 

To commemorate the SP-404’s 20th anniversary, Roland will take over several global events the week of 404 Day in many of the world’s most culturally vibrant cities that served as major creative hubs during the rise of 404 beat culture. The lineup spans five continents, with celebrations in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Boston, Portland, Sacramento, Tokyo, Osaka, Kumamoto, Yokohama, Mumbai, Berlin, Rome, São Paulo, Melbourne, and more.

Serato DJ and Studio Integration

Expanded Capabilities, Simple Setup.

Transform the SP-404MKII into a powerful all-in-one hub for Serato DJ Lite, DJ Pro (via paid upgrade) and Serato Studio with plug-and-play simplicity and pre-mapped controls.

MIDI Control and USB Audio Interface.

Use the SP-404MKII as a MIDI controller and USB audio interface for both Serato DJ and Studio, with ¼”stereo inputs and outputs, plus Mic/Guitar line in for use with the SP’s wide range of input FX.

Enhanced DJ Performance.

Integrate the SP-404MKII’s signature effects and hands-on workflow to mix songs, trigger samples, and elevate transitions with real-time controls.

Get creative with your DJ sets and utilize some of the integrated features, including:

• Deck volume control, crossfader control and monitor balance
• Triggering Hot Cues and set Looping controls
• Access to the internal sample pad mode while using Serato DJ
• Access to the SP-404MKII’s onboard effects while using Serato DJ
• Browse your track library and load songs directly on the SP-404MKII

Serato Studio Integration for Producers.

Access Serato Studio’s pre-mapped controls directly from the SP-404MKII for a tactile beat-making experience without relying on a mouse or keyboard.

Key integration features for Studio include:

• Using the SP-404MKII’s 16 pads to trigger samples, loops and one-shots
• Toggle between Scene mode and Deck modes
• Using the SP-404MKII knobs to adjust Deck Gain, Filter, Pan, Attack, Release, and Tempo/Glide for instruments and samples
• BPM and Key sync
• Transport control functionality to record, overdub, and arrange patterns

Download Roland’s V5 firmware from their website, and ensure you have the latest versions of Serato DJ and Serato Studio below to unlock a new level of performance.