The Roland SP-404MKII Sampler can be powered from a USB-C power bank using a Birdcord PD➔6V power cable. The setup diagram below shows how to connect the devices for portable operation without a mains outlet, for example, when making music outdoors, travelling by train, or just sitting on the couch.
Quick Facts: Roland SP-404MKII Mobile Setup
| Device | Roland SP-404MKII |
| Supply voltage | 5.7-6 V DC |
| Current draw | max. 1.1 A |
| Power consumption | max. 6.6 W |
| Connector | 5.5 x 2.1 mm |
| Polarity | Center negative |
| Power source | USB-C power bank* |
| Compatible power converter | Birdcord PD➔6V |
| Status | Tested and verified |
*Note: Use a USB-C power bank with USB Power Delivery (PD) and/or Quick Charge 4/4+ support. The power rating should be higher than the power consumption.
What You Need
✅ Birdcord PD➔6V – A compact USB-C power cable that requests 9 V output from a compatible USB-C power bank, converts it to 6 V, and delivers it to the Roland SP-404MKII. View product
✅ USB-C Power Bank – A power bank that supports USB Power Delivery (PD) and/or Quick Charge 4/4+. A minimum rating of 18 W and 10,000 mAh is recommended. Recommended: INIU 65 W 20,000 mAh USB-C PD Power Bank
✅ USB-C cable – To connect the power bank to the Birdcord PD➔6V (usually included with the power bank). View product
How It Works
The Roland SP-404MKII requires a DC power supply in the 5.7-6 V range. USB-C power banks typically provide 5 V by default, so a compatible voltage converter is needed to obtain the required voltage.
The Birdcord PD➔6V negotiates a 9V DC output with a compatible USB-C power bank and converts it to 6 V DC for the SP-404MKII.
Connect the Birdcord PD➔6V to the power bank using a USB-C cable, then plug the DC connector into the SP-404MKII. The setup works exactly like using the original power adapter, but gives you the freedom to create music anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long can it run on a USB-C power bank?
With a standard 20,000 mAh (74 Wh) power bank, the Roland SP-404MKII will run for over 11 hours of continuous use under typical operating conditions.
Will my existing power bank work?
Yes, as long as it supports 9 V output. You can easily check this by looking at the technical specifications printed in small letters on your power bank. If you see an output listing like 9V=2A, 9V=3A (or anything similar), it is compatible and will work perfectly. If it only lists 5V, it is not compatible.
Will this setup introduce any ground loop noise or hum?
No. Since your Roland SP-404MKII is completely disconnected from the mains grid and runs on isolated battery power, you actually eliminate ground-loop hum. It is one of the quietest ways to power your gear.
What’s the advantage of this setup over powering the SP-404MKII directly via USB-C?
The main advantage is that the SP-404MKII’s USB-C port remains available for audio, MIDI, and data connections while the device is powered through its DC input. This also keeps the power and data connections separate (to avoid noise).
Can this power setup damage my SP-404MKII?
No. We thoroughly tested this setup and monitored the SP-404MKII’s voltage regulator temperature throughout testing. The Birdcord PD➔6V supplies a slightly higher voltage than the original PSD power adapter. Our tests confirmed that the SP-404MKII works reliably with this setup.
