Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 – Sampling Groovebox
4,7 / 5,0 | 
Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 · Source: Sonicware
Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 · Source: Sonicware
Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 · Source: Sonicware
Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 · Source: Sonicware
Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 · Source: Sonicware
The expanding Sonicware LIVEN product line gets a new box with a retro sampling engine for that authentic true low bit and sample rate sampling. Tipping a nod to the classic Akai colour scheme, can the Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 deliver a classic sampler experience on a budget?
Hot on the heels of previous LIVEN’s (8-Bit Warps, XFM and Bass & Beats) and their soon-to-be-shipping SmplTrek unit, Sonicware release the next in their series of innovative grooveboxes, the LoFi-12.
The Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12: How Low Can You Go?
The LoFi-12 features a 16-bit-12/24kHz sampling engine with a 12-bit sampling mode which allows it to claim true low-bit/low-sampling frequency that some plugins and hardware struggle to mimic authentically.
Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 · Source: Sonicware
The Basics
At just 790g, the LoFi-12 packs in an extensive feature set that allows you to record 4 second samples and the ability to edit pitch, attack/release, start/end and enable reverse playback. There are 128 sample slots in which to drop your samples, and the LoFi-12 comes with 80 presets built in. Sampling automatically assigns it to the keyboard to be played at different pitches.
The LoFi-12 has 10 voice polyphony, a mono and legato mode. A 12 type arpeggiator is included to spice up instrument tracks. It offers low, high and band pass filter options on each of the four tracks.
Controls
LoFi-12 has a compact, playable chromatic keyboard and rotary knobs for editing and performance. The sequencer is 4 track, 64 step, 64 pattern affair with parameter and sound locking. It also has Swing and a “laid-back” controls for those “drunk beats”.
A built in speaker and battery power ensure the LIVEN LoFi-12 is completely usable on the move. Connectivity is the same as other LIVENs with full size MIDI ports, 3.5mm SYNC jacks, Line IN and OUT, mains and headphone jack.
Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 · Source: Sonicware
Effects
Effects in the LIVEN LoFi-12 include Chorus, Flanger, Tremolo, Delay, Distortion, Bit Crusher, Low Pass Filter, High Pass Filter, Isolator, Tilt EQ and a Compressor. Reverbs include Hall, Room, Arena, Plate, Tunnel, Infinity and useful Cassette Tape and Vinyl simulators.
Thoughts on the Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12
One criticism of the LIVEN range has been the pretty steep learning curve involved with their UI. However, sources inform me that the LoFi-12 is much easier than previous LIVEN units. That aside, this promises to be a hit, especially if you’re looking for an SP-1200 experience on a budget!
More Information
The Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 will have an RRP of €319 and will be available from December 2nd 2022.
Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from YouTube. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from YouTube. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from YouTube. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from YouTube. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
This might also interest you
