In a surprise move, Pioneer DJ have launched a brand new sampler — Toraiz SP-16 — which is something of a "best of". Combining a 16-step TR8-style sequencer and 16 Maschine-style performance pads, all (with RGB backlighting), the Toraiz SP-16 is also unusual in that it's a completely stand alone device: no laptop required. Instead, samples can be loaded from a USB stick or from its own 8GB internal memory. In addition, it sports a 16-track mixer, eight outputs and six assignable rotary controls.
The Toraiz SP-16 features two discrete voltage-controlled filters developed by Dave Smith Instruments: a four- pole, resonant, low-pass inspired by the original 1970’s-era Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 filter, and a two-pole high-pass filter.
The Toraiz SP-16 features a 7-inch colour touch screen for accessing its factory sound library and viewing sound and performance parameters. The 16-step sequencer can store up to 256 patterns. Sixteen sequence step buttons allow colour-coding of sounds. Patterns can be saved as “scenes” for instant recall in the studio or on stage.
When the instrument is connected to a Pioneer DJ CDJ or XDJ DJ Deck using Pioneer DJ’s Pro DJ Link, the system synchronizes its loops and one-shots to the beat of a master deck. (Users will need to update the Toraiz SP-16 to the latest firmware to use this feature.) MIDI clock support allows users to connect and synchronize other devices.
The Toraiz SP-16 will be available later this year and will be priced at €1599/£1279.
