At the 2017 NAMM Show, we got a hands-on demo of the new AKAI Pro MPCs – the MPC X & MPC Live – from MPC guru Andrew Mackay.
The new MPCs are standalone, but also can be used as controllers with your computer. They feature multi-touch screens, which streamline audio editing and also allow for Kaoss Pad style effects control. The MPC Live design is optimized for portability, while the larger MPC X features additional connectivity and controls.
The MPC X is what many MPC fans have been asking for – a modern, standalone MPC. It offers the standard MPC controls and connectivity that you’d expect, including 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads, but also features a large color multi-touch screen and impressive connectivity, including 6 DIN MIDI connections, dual USB MIDI connections, 8 audio outs, 8 CV/Gate outputs; line, mic and phono inputs; and more.
While the new MPC X is designed to be a flagship MPC, the MPC Live expands on the production workflow of the more compact MPC Touch by adding standalone functionality. It has the same essential capabilities as its big brother, but is designed for portability, with fewer knobs and connections and the ability to run on battery power.
Pricing and Availability
The MPC Live is expected to be available in Q1 2017, price at US $1,199. The MPC X is expected to be available in Q1 2017, priced at US $1,999. For more information, visit akaipro.com.
Are there any limitations to the MPCX in standalone mode?
Here’s what AKAI Pro says:
Are there any differences between running a project in standalone vs. with MPC 2.0?
Yes, but not many. You may notice some differences depending on your work style, though the main differences will be with VST plugins and track count.
Standalone, the MPC X and MPC Live can reliably handle up to 64 simultaneous tracks per project, while your computer may be able to handle much more depending on it’s specifications and stability.
MPC 2.0 will also support VST plugins but these will be disabled when using the projects on the MPC X and MPC Live in standalone.
http://www.akaipro.com/kb/article/2223#difference
FYI, there is a process to essentially freeze VST tracks into audio tracks when switching over to standalone. Andy also said they want to make this even more seamless in future updates.
I wonder what the processor / ram is in terms of expansion ??
Who is this guy in all the videos. Something about him and an MPC makes it look like a groovebox and not a massive sampler. Maybe they are trying to reach the money spending audience, with the CV outputs and all the loop beats. We all know what we think on when we think MPC and this isn’t it. It looks awesome but did Akai find God and started not putting out massive technology flops? I cant even find anyone that has nice things to say about their last 3 devices.
Then you’re not asking many people. The Mpc touch and a 11″ MacBook Air are super productive and powerful. And when I bring a little battery power to run the mpc, it’s fully portable and small. Ymmv of course.
Not sure the chronology, but I was under the impression he was talking about the tom cat, rhythm wolf, and timbre wolf. Because he’s absolutely right about those. Literally. Not. 1. Person. Likes or enjoys those products.
Sorry – both like and enjoy my RW and TW.
I dunno why the hate on the Wolf. I actually used one and it was great. All of these haters never used one I bet.
Think it was designed to penetrate the Volca market. Technically it sh*ts on the Volca beats walecially the snare and has a built in volca bass, and its $50 less than buying the Volca Bass and Beats. Whethet it sounds better or not is subjective.
The MPC2000 was the center of my music making at one time as a sampler and MIDI sequencer. I would love to have a modern replacement.
This looks amazing, it really does seem like they finally got it right and then some. As an MPC enthusiast for year this makes me incredibly happy.
These new MPCs are the perfect upgrade for my actual style of working! I produce many ideas using an old Roland MV8800 but I really want to go out of the studio a try to do some live shows and jams using something like the MPC LIVE and some hardware synths.
We’re all assuming it sequences MIDI. I haven’t seen anything about that yet. No piano roll for long sustained notes. Maybe I missed that video but it’s a thing that it does too. With so many videos, might be nice to see the midi sequencing. Anyone see that? Any CV out work? Lots of features but we’ve seen the same Korg KP3 filter beat repeat effect and the same screen from the Mpc touch.
Just playing devils advocate.
“We’re all assuming it sequences MIDI.”
Do you even MIDI, bro?
It’s got four DIN MIDI outputs, in addition to the 2 MIDI inputs. So, yeah, it sequences MIDI.
Also – what do you think he’s sequencing in the video?
Guess i have to be super specific. Sequence MIDI, external gear, CC automation, parameter changes, you know, the whole 2100.00 worth. Alot of machines have MIDI ports, the Analog Rytm has your standard set but it doesnt sequence external gear. Be nice to see the 2100.00 next gen MPC do something beside “Internally”sequence loops and one shots. The audio tracks do look cool though.
Has anyone wondered how you go from standalone to the software. Maybe i missed that lime i missed MIDI 101.
I am pretty sure midi is covered well… MPCs have been full midi sequencers for quite some time, thw MPC2500 can do everything you mention, I’d be surprised if they limit these features.
Take my money Akai. Take it.
Very ready to be finished with Akai led demos so we can get on with the end user led reviews.
Dam Right.
Does anyone knows if you can use the mpc live pluged in or it has to be disconected to use it?
plugged into ….? power? yes.
i love these ,my only gripe being the mobile phone cpu ,i need more than 8 tracks ,please for the love of akai give me at least a dual xeon cpu !!