RC-202 Loop Station Compact Performance Controller Review

Great features lacking pro finish

I got this looper because it had all the features I wanted for my solo live set: small size, XLR mic input with phantom and stereo line inputs that could be used simultaneously, input and output fx, the ability to import backing tracks and lots of storage. It has all that and other than the larger RC505 it's the only looper out there with all of those things. Unfortunately there… read more are some really frustrating elements of this device. First, the lack of headroom on the inputs. I plugged my sampler directly into this device and it was clipping the 202 with the volume at 80% on the keyboard. Also, the inputs (or the DAC) seem to color the sound in an undesirable way. I wish it was at least 24-bit instead of 16-bit. I had to re-render all my DAW produced backing tracks to 16-bit 44.1 from 24-bit in order to load them. And then, much to my dismay, the 202 "guessed" the tempo of the backing track, not letting me define it via wav embedded project tempo, or manually. It would often guess incorrectly as well. The whole thing feels a bit cheaply built, although I haven't had anything break on it yet. Ultimately this isn't the right tool for me because of these issues, but it does look like the RC10R may address some of them (without a mic pre though sadly).

---

Cancel Comment

Amazing

I already own an RC20 , and have done some wild stuff with it. Because of all the inputs , and the solid knob I most often used it as a live mixer for voice /guitar . I needed something next level for my synth rig and WOW did this do the trick .Not only can I run all my synths through it but also have eliminated several multi effect units from my live setup . Less cables, and… read more wall warts with all the effects I need. As a looper it does everything the RC20 did ×2 with more , and better sync options. Best live looper I have ever used . AMAZING for sound design , writing sketchpad, and live performance. Brings inspiration and is dripping with possibilities.

---

Cancel Comment

Instant Gratification

This is a great tool for in the studio and easy to use live. Intuitive to learn and the curve is very slight. I use it for quick looping and making longer drone, collage, vocal synth lines, and samples. Could even do a whole set with this and a mic. Also could be good in your fx send for your drum machine, and to help create complex rhythms. Beyond the stratosphere is really the… read more limit with this piece. The sound quality isn't as poor as another reviewer remarked, but I make loud and experimental sounds, so I might be not as much the tone junky.

---

Cancel Comment

This thing is a beast!!!

Got this from Sweetwater last week, and MAN, I´M IN LOVE!!! Not only is this thing easy to use, i can sync it to my Korg Kaossilator Pro+ and do whatever comes to mind!!! It took me one night to get used to the controls and settings, and after that it´s been Loop-A-Palooza for me! Sure, it´s made of plastic, but i don´t intend to pound on this like a motherfreaker, i can… read more just plug in some pedals and rock on it without damaging it if i get too excited while looping!!! Easy to use, free shipping, and 2 year warranty? i´m in looper heaven!!! Thanks, Sweetwater!!!

---

Cancel Comment

Build quality for Roland is going down the toilet...

This unit does what they say it does, it is. It is fun and a great toy for beginners and experts alike, if it was $199 I would give it 5 stars.....HOWEVER......if I spend the $300 they are asking (and I did) I expect a couple of things to be a given: 1. Sound quality: FAIL 16 bit cheap and ratty sounding DAC converters, wherever the problem is here, be assured there is one. What… read more you put in will come out sounding worse....guaranteed, right there this thing eliminates itself as a serious professional tool. 2. Build quality: FAIL! Good god almighty, we as consumers need to draw the line with Roland/Boss this kind of plastic toy disposable garbage build cannot be allowed to continue, I hadn't even had it for 1 day before the power jack started to break it's internal solder point.....absolute junk. It's a shame because the unit is a lot of fun and downs what it is supposed to otherwise, but just like the JDXA Roland has well at least the JDXA sounds good! Roland has no fear of us as consumers, it thinks we will accept trashy items because they say we should. I have returned mine and sent them an email letting them know that until they improve the quality of what they br4ing to market, they have pinched their last dollar from me. How about you? Plenty of great loopers out there with 24bit converters and built to last, I strongly suggest you get one of them instead.

---

Cancel Comment