by Rob Puricelli | 4,7 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 2 Minutes
Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 Angle

Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12  ·  Source: Sonicware

Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 Top

Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12  ·  Source: Sonicware

Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 Hands on

Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12  ·  Source: Sonicware

Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 Top Corner

Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12  ·  Source: Sonicware

Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 Anime

Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12  ·  Source: Sonicware

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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?

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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 Hands on

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.

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Sonicware LIVEN LoFi-12 Top Corner

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.

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