Published
Mon, Jan 9, 2017, 15:00
- The legendary sampler no longer requires a computer to operate.
Akai has a new line of MPCs.
Recent generations of the iconic sampler removed on-board memory and required users to connect their machines to a computer. The new models change this, with the small, portable MPC Live and larger MPC X functioning without an accompanying computer. Both are powered by MPC 2.0 software, which can used to track and warp audio, and feature touch screen interfaces and 16GB of internal memory with additional external hard drive support. They can also run on batteries.
The Live model has two 1/4-inch inputs and an RCA (plus a connection for grounding a turntable), a stereo master out with four additional 1/4-inch outs and two MIDI in and out ports for controlling and syncing with other devices. The MPC X has an extra eight CV/gate ports for connecting vintage synths and Eurorack modular equipment in addition to eight outputs, another pair of inputs and four MIDI outs. The new models are expected to be displayed at the NAMM music tech conference in Anaheim, California, later this month and a release date is yet to be disclosed.
The Akai MPC Live and MPC X will retail for $1199 and $2199 respectively and will be available later in 2017.