I’ll tell you why I need an M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal, and why you probably need one too. Are you a pianist? A keyboardist? A music producer who gets a lot of use out of a MIDI controller.
I mainly use mine with an Akai Professional MPK mini Compact keyboard and Pad Controller, but it can be used with most professional keyboards.
M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal
Name: M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal
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Website: https://amzn.to/3qSOzgb
Price: Check Amazon for Price
M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal Review
Personal Rank: 95 out of 100
The Pros of the M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal
- The SP-2 is built like it’s going to Mars. It’s tough, so it can take a beating and keep working. Stomping on it quickly, repeatedly, and sometimes holding it down for a few seconds and doing it again and again. That’s exactly what you need in equipment like this. After a few years of use, it still feels like it’s brand new.
- It’s got a nice aesthetic to it. It just sitting under my desk looks like it’s important. It is. If you plan on making more natural-sounding piano rolls, it is a must. It’s just like what you see on an upright or grand, and it has basically the same function, except there’s only one instead of three of them. They do have models with multiple pedals for the more advanced players.
- The rubber foot on the bottom keeps it exactly where you place it. On carpet, tile, wood, and linoleum, this thing isn’t going anywhere, unless you end up kicking it from the side. Even then, you might injury a toe or five because of its construction. (I do not recommend testing my theory out unless you’d like to prove me right.)
- The polarity switch gives you control over any reverse polarity issues. It’s fairly self-explainable. If you press it and it doesn’t sustain, but when you release, it does sustain. That means it’s reversed. Just flip the switch to fix the glitch.
- The 6′ cable is perfect for any keyboard or controller. It’s the perfect length to set up for any of the previously mentioned equipment. The length also helps keep it from being snagged by walkers-by or it getting too far under your desk or keyboard stand. There are tons of bundles available with a keyboard, the SP-2 Universal Sustain pedal, and a keyboard stand for anyone ready to play it live.
The Cons of the M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal
- There aren’t many negatives to this sustain pedal but one is the weight and bulk of it. There are several other models on the market that are much sleeker and slimmer and a little easier to transport. However, that weight and size make it one tough beast.
- Because of its bulk, it can be uncomfortable to use for hours on end, unless you’re tiptoeing it. That requires it to be heavy in the first place when it’s being used like that.
Who is the M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal for?
Are you a Pianist or keyboardist? Do you create melodies on tracks with a MIDI controller? I use mine with an Akai MPK mini so I can sustain parts of the percussions if I want to. You can use it to be more creative with your music creation as opposed to sticking to its original use.
Most studio producers are going to have a sustain pedal. So, why should a bedroom or basement producer have one, right? There are a few benefits to using it over going into your DAW to “fix it in post.” A lot of times you just can’t get that authentic feel by using effects and automation.
This is also a great piece of equipment for anyone who wants to learn the piano, but can’t afford one or doesn’t have the room for it. You could set it up at a table, a desk, a stand, your lap and it can be taken anywhere your controller or keyboard goes. I’d highly recommend it alongside the Akai Professional MPK mini as a starter set for any would-be producer or keyboardist.
M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal Features
- Heavy-duty construction for extended usage
- Sturdy chrome foot pedal with rubber protective cover
- Rubber bottom to prevent slippage
- It has a Polarity switch to prevent reverse polarity issues
- The durable mechanism allows use for years to come
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A Six-foot cable with a quarter-inch plug that fits most keyboards and controllers
M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal Price
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M-Audio SP 2 – Universal Sustain Pedal with Piano Style Action For MIDI Keyboards, Digital Pianos
M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal Overview
In my opinion, you really can’t go wrong with most sustain pedals, but I may be a little biased for M-Audio products. I’ve never had any issues with them, plus, with how inexpensive it already is, why not go with a known quality company?
When I looked the SP-2 up I noticed it is recommended as part of a bundle with nearly every keyboard available. That’s saying something. Especially, because nearly every company that makes keyboards, MIDI, or MPC controllers has its own version of it.
The biggest difference is the construction when comparing it to competitors. The mechanism in the pedal is responsive with just the right amount of spring to it. Its grooved rubber foot is exceptional at keeping the unit in place because searching for the pedal is not your intention. Especially when you’re playing live or you’re under time constraints.
I’ve never had an issue with reverse polarity, but if I had the switch on the bottom would instantly fix it, and the cable easily wraps up or stays mostly out of the way if you leave it connected. I just leave it and push it back just out of reach when I’m not using it. With a 10.75″ by 2.85″ footprint, it’s not too big and can easily be placed out of your way.
If you found this post informative feel free to leave a comment below. I also don’t mind questions or critiques. If you spotted any errors let me know.