MPC

If you're looking for something that can work as a brain and control several other synths/devices - MPC all the way, IMO.

The advantage of an MPC for what you want to do is that it is great for playing in rhythms with the 4x4 drum pads. And for that matter, if you want to work with playing in basic melodies, you can set the scale to the pads so it only displays those notes. It is also the GOAT for sample management in case you want to manipulate sounds.

If you need the most versatile drum programming in hardware get an MPC.

I think it's the best value for money on groove boxes.

by my MPC is WAY easier to use and far more capable.

There is nothing confusing about the MPC workflow in the 3.0 interface. I’ve never made tracks as quickly as I do in the MPC. And I have no idea what bugs people are talking about. ... It’s a brilliant piece of kit.

Personally, the touchscreen helps me a lot in navigating compared to the button combinations of the SP which I easily forget. ... MPC has a built in plugins and they keep on adding with the help of Native Instruments so you dont need extra external synths.

if you want lifelike drums either buy a older rack sampler with multi samples or a mpc.

Used MPC or Digitakt mk1 are your best options for building complete tracks & sequencing external gear I'd say.

get a used mpc 1 instead. get the 404 second use it after the mpc. record the output of the 404 on your phone with the camera on. throw it on socials. get a 400 dollar used mpc off guitar center brother