How to chop samples like a pro

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to chop samples, sound designer and producer vvundertone has you covered.

In the tutorial video above, the expert producer and sound designer breaks down his sample chopping process, covering everything from core techniques and effects processing to the challenges and joys of analog sampling. Although he primarily uses the Roland SP-555 for his walkthrough, the key concepts covered are also applicable for those who want to chop samples directly in their DAW.

3 tips for chopping samples

1. Use your ears (over your eyes)

With DAW-based workflows, we’re used to constantly being presented with visualizers and waveforms. While they can be helpful in certain contexts, they can also bias our perception and thinking in others.

When learning how to chop samples, vvundertone encourages working with just your ears when possible to spark fresh ideas. “It’s a fun challenge using these older samplers without screens,” he shares. “You can’t fine-tune your chops, so you have to go with your gut. That might actually help you get better at metering and feeling out rhythm.”

2. Embrace imperfections

Unless the style of music you’re making explicitly calls for it, don’t stress too much over perfect timing—loose, slightly off-grid chops can often bring more soul and human feel to your beats than hyper-quantized slices.

3. Experiment with reverse and pitch effects

Try occasionally reversing individual chops or pitching them slightly up or down to add variety. Especially if you’re repeating a one-shot over and over, subtle randomizations like these can help make your samples feel more organic and less sterile.

Keep honing your sampling chops

Mastering the art of sampling is a lifelong journey—for more artist-led resources on the topic, check out some of our guides below:

And there you have it! What was your favorite tip or technique that vvundertone covered in his tutorial? What other topics would you like to see us explore next? Let us know in the comments section of the video, and subscribe to the Splice YouTube channel for more tutorials and insights.

Incorporate vvundertone’s warm, analog-tinged sounds into your own productions:

May 27, 2025

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Harrison Shimazu

Harrison Shimazu is a composer, content strategist, and writer who’s passionate about democratizing music creation and education. He leads the Splice blog and produces vocaloid music as Namaboku.