Akai Professional has announced a public beta for its MPC 3 standalone software, a major update that they say represents “the next evolution in MPC workflow.”
MPC 3 features include the Linear Arranger, a new Mixer, disk streaming, direct-to-pad sampling and more.
Here’s what’s new in MPC 3 Standalone Software:
- Enhanced Main Mode: The new “Main Mode” provides a significantly enhanced user experience with stunning visuals and seamless navigation of every parameter of a project.
- Linear Arranger: This feature transforms the way users construct and sequence songs from start to finish in a true DAW-style workflow, complete with stunning graphics and an intuitive layout.
- Track and Pad Mixer: The full-color track and pad mixer offers a more engaging and efficient workflow.
- Advanced Automation: Advanced automation on the Master Track and Submixes, including multiple parameter Macro controls, brings endless possibilities to the sonic landscape.
- Disk Streaming: Large projects load in seconds, enabling better system performance to expand creative possibilities.
- Q-Link & X/Y Pad Macro Controls: The new Q-Link Macro Controls enhance performance and creativity.
- Direct to Pad Sampling: Direct to pad sampling allows for faster and more intuitive workflow.
- Full Color Drum Grid: The drum grid has been improved with full color and enhanced visual feedback.
- Legacy Project Importing: MPC 3 imports legacy projects and sequences.
- Compatibility: MPC 3 is compatible with Live, Live II, One, One +, X, X SE, Key 37, and Key 61.
Availability:
MPC 3 is expected to be available in August 2024 as a beta release, and will be a free update for all users.
Amazing free update, Maybe for a few die-hard MPC users will miss programs, but for most these things make the MPC far more usable, a great free update. I hope the MPC software isn’t too far behind…Oh, and please re-release the ‘retro’ versions!!
According to loopop’s video, they have no plans for an upgraded MPC software this year..
Hopefully that means they are working on it and it could be early 2025? The realisty is the MPC 3 hasn’t even gone to open Beta yet, the official release may be towards the end of 2024 anyway….
Been waiting for this forever, I knew it was only a matter of time. The force clearly had the superior workflow so I was annoyed for a while that they weren’t bringing the arranger over but i figured they would wait till it was on its last legs. So i held on to my mpc keys 37 waiting for this, and it’s finally within sight. This change might make me buy an mpc one for portability in addition tbh.
Standalone MPCs (and everything with a computer) need to have upgradeable computers inside like the Push 3 is poised to have which is why I got one. As the MPC software evolves it’ll eventually bring older units to less than stellar user experience with Akai having to disable or gimp features altogether. It is not convenient to buy a whole unit when you’ll be getting the same thing with just an upgraded computer inside which was the backlash Polyend got with the Play vs Play+. MPCs, MPC Keys, Maschine Plus, even the Astrolab that Bad Gear got to crash with a simple chain, need to have user replaceable computers. Even Elektron stuff could do this as well instead of repackaging the same thing becasue of an update the old computer cant handle just right.
Underpowered at maximum price? You really think in 10 years time Push3 is still gonna be supported with new hardware? Not gonna happen.
The ol’ company makes less money with upgradable gear’ trick. Probably not gonna fly but im with you.
One example of a ‘gimped’ feature already is the Stems feature. The sound quality on the MPC Software is much better than what is currently available in Standalone.
I don’t see Akai offering upgradeable components like what you described with Push 3. I see them offering incremental upgrades with a few extra GB of ram here or there, and maybe an upgraded CPU at some point with the next generation machines. I’m not expecting a major leap forward in terms of specifications. Even the MPC Key 37 ended up being cut back in a disappointing way compared to the 61.
oh look at that – an actual mixer page
Is it just me or is mpc3 seem more complicated than the previous o.s?
It offers more but from some of the videos I’ve seen it also looks like it streamlines a few things too.
are you really so sensitive you cant allow my comment about the existence of a new mixer window?
L O L
I’d like a port for my iPad Pro.