Another new feature is the ability to edit note mapping – that is, to assign different MIDI notes to each pad in a program. When you touch a Q-Link control, you’ll see an overlay on the screen showing the currently controlled parameter and values. Somewhere down the line, we’d like to see the MPCs and Force softwares merge, so the Force can sync with the MPC software, and the MPCs get the lovely arrangement view that appeared in the recent Force beta. As you might expect, the more expensive the MPC, the better the audio input and output options. The MPC X SE is by far away the winner here, with eight individual audio outs, two standard inputs, dedicated mic inputs (with phantom power), instrument level inputs (to directly connect guitars, Rhodes etc) and phono/turntable input (with grounding). Definitely the most studio ready MPC for recording vocals and instruments. With the option for battery operation and everything you need to create music contained within the Akai MPC Live 2, this music production centre allows you to create music whenever and wherever you want. The Force does not interact with the MPC software, though it’s entirely possible that Akai is going to bring all of its hardware products into line with a future software update. The Live has a song mode and a selection of software instruments but, at heart, it’s always been more about the sampling and the beats – you can probably tell that by looking at it. The Force is more of an Ableton-in-a-box concept, which is something that many users have wanted for years. The Live boasts more ways of connecting with the outside world – more audio inputs, full-size MIDI ports, and the CV/gate outputs – than the Force too. In terms of quality, you can’t really go wrong with either. Akai’s hardware prowess is second to none.

All four MPCs run the same ‘MPC firmware’ with the same features, but Akai have bundled each MPC with its own unique factory library (sounds, projects, kits etc) but the MPC X SE and MPC Key both include the following premium plugins; Fabric Collection, Studio Strings, OPX 4, Organs, Stage EP, Stage Piano. You should note that this is not the complete set of premium plugins, there are others that are only included as trials such as Mini D, Jura, Flavor Pro etc.The speakers sound great, you can take it to anywhere from bed/sofa or even outdoor. The update made it possible to use class compliant audio interface to expand the audio in and out, so you can take a portable audio interface with you on the go too. You could build a mobile studio with all these features and maybe go to your friend place etc etc. Then there’s those 16 Q-Links which give you immediate hands on control of essential parameters which dynamically change depending on the screen you are currently using (you can also manually configure these to suit your exact needs). And the little OLED display above each dial lets you know exactly what that currently assigned parameter is. That's why the Akao MPC Live II features three stereo 1/4" TRS outputs (six mono) along with phone/line-level inputs, USB, MIDI, four TRS CV/Gate Outputs and even Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Probably the best sampler on the market, with ease of sample editing, auto chop and a wonderful auto-sampler which allows use to easily capture any synth or sound modules as a multisample key group. My workflow is to create songs ideas and structure on the MPC then transfer the project to the MPC software and Audio/Midi in Ableton.

MPC One is designed with a seven-inch touchscreen, which makes it convenient to edit and file music samples. In addition, the musicians can trim the samples. There are specific touch keys and knobs for conducting every function. With your modern production work taking place in various studios and even on the move, the Akai MPC Live II gives you all the tools you need to keep creating music the way you need. This new MPC Live has more buttons, the master volume control is now on the front panel and, oh yes, there's a built-in speaker. There's Always More There are fourteen plugins available in MPC One, including the tuner, harmonizers, and doubler effects. It has 4GB storage, but you can connect a USB or SD card to load up the audio samples.

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MPC Live Mk 1: No built in speakers, but same battery and screen, same CPU and RAM. No CV/Gate outs. Smaller and lighter. My MPC Live Mk 1 battery is still going strong after 6 years (I get approximately 3 hours from each charge) The new MPC Live makes the process of performing your studio inventions on stage incredibly seamless by combining the power of a production centerpiece with the portability and rugged design of an on stage workhorse. This article will walk through setting up a MIDI controller with the MPC Live. Absolutely! The MPC Live will be fully compatible with projects, programs and sequences from previous MPC versions and legacy hardware MPC's such as the MPC5000, MPC4000, MPC3000, MPC2500/2500XL, MPC1000, and MPC500. The MPC Live will support the following file types .AKP, . ALL, .IPT, .PGM, .PRJ, . SND, .MID, .SEQ, . APS, .50k, and .50s. This isn’t necessarily a problem - it’s not that the MPC workflow is difficult or frustrating, it’s just not neatest system. Rather than causing barriers to creativity, it merely means there’s a slightly steep learning curve for new users. Of course, this complexity is also testament to how deep Live is for a standalone device. Solution home Akai Pro | MPC Series MPC Series | Frequently Asked Questions Akai Pro MPC Live and MPC 2.0 - Frequently Asked Questions

There are various ports designed on the unit, and there is a USB port that allows connectivity with the host computer. The unit is integrated with an extensive range of preloaded samples and can be connected with an external hard drive to help you access various sounds. It is less than 6lbs, which means it can be carried around for your music gigs. AKAI just launched version 2.10 of the MPC firmware, their biggest update ever, with loads of new features and improvements! Let’s go through some of the amazing novelties you can enjoy with version 2.10. USB class audio support

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MPC 2.9 Firmware Update: now includes 8 all-new synth engines, powering 9 incredible DrymSynth plugins Now the MPC replaces all this and with the built-in battery, it only takes a minute to plug the audio cable and controller keyboard and voila! You’ll have to decide what type of inputs you’ll need from an MPC, but if you know you’ll be needing lots of varied I/O, you’re probably going to find life is easier grabbing an X or MPC Key. A wide array of connections, including a SATA port to have your samples library and project everywhere.

Yes! The MPC X and MPC Live will both ship with USB 3.0 cables and work at USB 3.0 speeds when connected to the computer as a controller. While USB 2.0 may work, we do recommend using 3.0 cables and ports whenever possible for the best results. If the MPC is in standalone mode, any connected thumb drives or storage devices will operate at USB 2.0. Can I add additional storage space? This excellent update sees the inclusion of the wonderful DrumSynth addon to your production tools, adding unparalleled rythmic power to your already impressive toolset.

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As I said at the beginning, MPC veterans will likely feel right at home with the new MPCs — albeit a completely refurbished home of the future. The basic workflows and modes of operation are fully consistent with MPCs that have come before. In my review of the Touch I expressed some gripes about the MPC way of working, but over the last few months I’ve spent some intensive time comparing the workflows of the MPC, Maschine and Push, and have developed an appreciation for the strengths of the MPC, in particular the speed with which you can get stuff done once you’ve built the muscle memory, and the single point of focus.