Akai Introduces New MPD2 Drum Pad Controllers

Introducing the Akai MPD2 Drum Pad Controllers Published on Jul 6, 2015 AkaiProVideo

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL ROCKS ELECTRONIC MUSIC MARKET WITH STUNNING NEW MPD SERIES MIDI PAD CONTROLLERS

Feature-packed units give artists unprecedented creative musical firepower with Thick Fat backlit MPC Pads, multiple controls and included software

Cumberland, RI USA (July 7, 2015) —Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of keyboards, mixers and production equipment for performers and recording artists, today announced the introduction of their new MPD Series of pad controllers. These new controllers are a product of over six years of detailed customer research and user feedback. The result is the most capable and user-friendly line of pad controllers Akai Professional has developed to date.   

All models feature new, ultra sensitive Thick Fat MPC pads creating an amazingly responsive user interaction. They also have an expanded control set to maximize the sounds and effects available to the user, iOS compatibility using the Camera Connection Kit and over $400 of free software (Big Bang Drums and Big Bang Cinema from Sonivox, Ableton Live Lite, and Software Preset Editor). 

Building on the success of Akai Pro’s previous MPD18, MPD26 and MPD32, these new pad controllers introduce greatly enhanced control capability to support the artist’s creative efforts:

- The MPD218 has red light-up MPC pads and a greatly expanded control set of 6 knobs in 3 banks vs. one control on the previous MPD18 model. 

- The MPD226 has an expanded control set of 4 knobs, 4 faders, 4 buttons in 3 banks for 36 total controls vs. 12 controls on the MPD26

- The MPD232 boasts an all-new 64-channel 32-step performance sequencer, which the MPD32 did not have.

In addition users enjoy intuitive control editing right from the front panel on the MPD226 and MPD232, and all three models can be programmed via the included easy-to-use Preset Editor, so musicians of any level can enhance their performance right away. This is one of the many things that distinguish the Akai Professional MPD218, 226 and 232 from everything else.

A recap of the new MPD Series features:

MPD218
• 16 Thick Fat backlit MPC Pads with Velocity and Aftertouch
• 48 assignable pads accessible via 3 banks
• 18 assignable 360-degree potentiometers accessible via 3 banks
• MPC Note Repeat and Full Level
• iOS compatible using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• 16 configurable presets
• Includes Ableton Live Lite
• USB powered, no AC adapter required

MPD226
• 16 Thick Fat RGB illuminated velocity- and pressure-sensitive MPC Pads
• 64 assignable pads accessible via 4 banks
• 4 assignable faders, 4 assignable Q-Link knobs, 4 assignable Q-Link buttons
• 36 assignable controls accessible via 3 banks
• Classic MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, 16 Level, Full Level and Tap Tempo
• 30 presets total, with configurations for most popular DAWs
• iOS compatible using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• MIDI In and Out jacks for controlling external gear
• Dedicated Transport controls
• Includes Ableton Live Lite

MPD232
• 64-part, 32-step sequencer to control pad events
• 16 Thick Fat RGB illuminated velocity- and pressure-sensitive MPC Pads
• 64 assignable pads accessible via 4 banks
• 8 assignable Q-Link faders, 8 assignable Q-Link knobs, 8 assignable Q-Link buttons
• 72 assignable controls accessible via 3 banks
• Classic MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, 16 Level, Full Level and Tap Tempo
• Dedicated transport controls
• iOS compatible using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• 30 presets total, with configurations for most popular DAWs
• Works with virtually any MIDI software or MIDI hardware
• MIDI In and Out jacks for controlling external gear
• Includes Ableton Live Lite

“The MPD218/226/232 family marks an important evolution in our pad controller series. Six years of research and customer feedback has led directly to some of the most capable pad controllers we’ve ever developed,” said Dan Gill, Product Manager for Akai Professional. “Our goal was to create controllers that respond quickly and intuitively to the player’s input, to make their playing experience the best it can be. We’re very excited about these new units.”

The Akai Professional MPD Series will be available in Summer 2015 at Akai Professional dealers and online directly from Akai Professional.

U.S. retail pricing is $199 for the MPD218, $299 for the MPD226 and $399 for the MPD232.

For more information, visit akaipro.com."

Akai MPC Keys 61 #AKAI #MPC #mpckey61

video upload by Kraft Music

"Find exclusive Akai MPC Key 61 BUNDLES at Kraft Music:
https://www.kraftmusic.com/brands/aka...

Akai gives an example of producing a beat from scratch and layering it up live at the Kraft Music studio.

The Akai Professional MPC Key 61 is a standalone production synthesizer keyboard ready to write the next chapter in the MPC legacy. Building on a history of powerful sequencing and the full MPC sampling experience, MPC Key 61 adds advanced next-generation virtual instruments and effects to MPC, expanding upon its arsenal of industry-leading music production tools. An incredibly expressive and playable 61-key semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch delivers dynamic and responsive control for MPC Key 61's world-class sounds, connecting the dots between sound and feel, while 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads provide a complete standalone creative workflow.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Akai Professional MPC Key 61 bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new music production & synthesizer keyboard, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please contact us. Our knowledgeable sales advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"

NAMM 2020 Akai MPC One First look

Published on Jan 15, 2020 sonicstate

"Akai have announced a brand new member of the MPC family, the MPC ONE is the entry level stand alone MPC with the same 7 inch touch screen, as well as the ability to work in both stand alone mode and also controller mode - when linked to the MPC software.

The same software features are available throughout the range making it just as powerful as the higher priced units.

One thing that we appreciate is the addition of 8 CV gate outputs - previously only available on the top of the range MPC X.
You also get host mode, to directly attach class compliant MIDI controllers if you need keys as well as the 16 velocity/pressure equipped pads.

We had a visit from Andy Mac who showed what the MPC ONE can do."

Vintage Sampler's! E-MU Emax Rack VS. Akai MPC-60 VS. Akai S-1000 VS. Enosoniq Mirage

YouTube via peglegjoe857
"So upon request, I made a video that is a collection of vintage samplers, all producing pretty much the same beat but ALL sounding VERY different. I will be doing more of these videos pretty soon, I am sure I am one of the only people out there crazy enough to have this group of machines...

So I sampled a Meters break, "Hey ! Last Minute" Then I sampled myself playing a bass riff and two chords on my Musitronic Wurlitzer. Then I sampled just a fat bass synth resonant filter decay sound from my Akai AX-80. So you can go find that break if you want, but you wont find the rest of the stuff in the track because it is all played live.

So the MPC-60 caught a lot more vinyl scratch and pop than any of the rest of the machines. Don't quite know why that is. The MPC definitely rocks really hard and has groove and whatnot, I love that machine!

The Emax obviously came out darker sounding. It somehow cleaned all that scratch and pop vinyl noise out, and it bumps pretty hard because of it. This machine is my favorite of all my samplers, it definitely does warm things to samples! I sampled at 28K, which is the compromise setting between 10K and 40K.

The Mirage KILLED these sounds. KILLED them, for real. Everybody talks about that SP-1200 stardust... well how bout the Mirage! Who has the balls to be doing Hexadecimal these days! I guess I wanted the grittiest of the gritty, and believe this machine offers just that! 8-bits of dirty filth. Nothing I sample into this thing ever sounds quite right?!? I love it. I had to sample with a setting of 40... I don't quite know how that translates in sample rate, but know that it is VERY low. I think the least it can be is 30, and the most is 99... so 40 is pretty close to the bottom! And even setting it that low still didn't provide all the time I needed to cram all those samples in there, so some got cut short. But it sure did make some crazy noise, I actually ended up enjoying what the Mirage sound a whole lot. It definitely does certain sounds really well and would slip into a mix nicely with one of my other samplers taking on other duties. I would say it is perfect for short samples that can be pretty dirty, like one shots, or short bass lines and stabs. It definitely took the longest to program!

The Akai S-1000 was definitely the cleanest... and that's why I got it! It was a breeze to program, but frankly not as quick as the MPC or the Emax (Probably because these two have less things to program!) Not much else to say about the machine, it accurately does it's job!

I have also owned the S-2000, S-900, and Emax Keyboard, and have also spent a lot of time with my friends S-3000. I wound up with my collection of these 4 machines because I feel they cover all bases. Somebody one a forum said "get one sampler that is 12-bit and dirty, and one that is 16-bit and clean... and you will have covered all bases". Well, for me to be satisfied I had to have at least all 4 or these. The MPC-60 and the Emax are VERY different 12-bit samplers with VERY different characteristics. Listen to the god damn video! The MPC sounds more like the S-1000! I had gone dirty with the Emax, but wanted even dirtier, something nobody else would be willing to do. In walks Mirage, an 8-bit sampler that actually has a ton of analog features, can store several (16) samples at a time, and has adequate time do function. From the specs I have read, it has a similar amount of time to the SP-1200. When you sample at a higher sample rate, know this machine DOES actually clean up a bit. The S-1000, though, does NOT get dirty.

So with all these machines, they each have a very specific characteristic that they impose on whatever is sampled into them. As I mentioned, I will be doing some more videos soon so you can hear that characteristic more fully, as well as show off their filter sounds and other features. The Emax and Mirage make GREAT melotron type instruments because of their filters!"

Akai MPC | Firmware Update 2.6 & Force | Firmware Update 3.0.3

Published on Jul 16, 2019 AkaiProVideo

"Join us as we highlight the latest features and enhancements in Firmware 2.6, available for MPC Live, MPC X and MPC Software."

Force | Firmware Update 3.0.3

Published on Jul 16, 2019 AkaiProVideo

"Firmware 3.0.3 brings many new features and enhancements to take your production on the Force to an entirely new level. Let's take a brief look at what's new."

And the press release:

Cumberland, RI USA (July 16, 2019) — Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, today announced two new firmware updates for the Force as well as the MPC X and Live products. Available for immediate download, the updates feature multiple workflow enhancements alongside Ableton Live Set Export functionality, enabling users to move their projects from the MPC and Force ecosystems to the Ableton Live platform.

Users can now enjoy a seamless transition from the MPC and Force work environment into that of Ableton Live to take advantage of their favorite Ableton features as well as their virtual instruments and plugin collections. Akai Professional is proud to add one more tool into the immense palette for users to take their creativity and performance to unparalleled heights.

Updates Force 3.0.3 and MPC 2.6 also include a host of other new features and enhancements: New in MPC firmware 2.6:

• Grid Automation - Users can now input, edit and view automation in Grid Edit and Audio Edit.
• Step Automation - Users can now input, edit and view automation in the Step Sequencer.
• Support for up to eight submixes in the mixer window.
• All-New TUI layouts for Akai Vintage effects.
New in Force firmware 3.0.3:
• Grid Automation - Users can now input, edit and view automation in Clip Event/Region editors.
• Step Automation - Users can now input, edit and view automation in the Step Sequencer.
• Functionality to export all clips or export a single clip - users can now export the clips in their Force
project to audio, MIDI or MPC Pattern files.
• Matrix Mode enhancements - Users can now copy, paste, create and delete clips from the Matrix
mode.
• Convert to Keygroup function - On a Drum track, users can quickly convert a sample assigned to a
pad into a Keygroup track so they can play the sample chromatically.
• Improved external keyboard support for scales selected in Force.
• New Step Sequencer Mode - Mono Lanes, perfect for single line melodies and basslines.
• Support for up to eight submixes in the mixer window.
• Force now works as an audio interface in Computer Mode
• All-New TUI layouts for Akai Vintage effects.

Dan Gill, Senior Product Manager for Akai Professional said, “Equally important as Akai Professional’s mission to empower the music-makers of today is our commitment to continuously refine our platforms. Each subsequent update is a renewal of our dedication to this promise in pursuit of the most perfect music

production & performance experience for every member of the Akai Professional community.” Both firmware updates will be available in July 2019."

Akai MPC 2.10 Features Update

"The MPC 2.10 features update brings new plugins instruments, insert effects, and the first vocal suite to MPC standalone."

Playlist of the updates:

MPC Feature Update 2.10 for MPC One, MPC Live, MPC Live 2, MPC X, and MPC 2 Desktop

Introducing the MPC 2.10 features update. With expanded plugin instruments, a new collection of insert effects, and the first standalone vocal insert effects suite, this is the most creative MPC update ever.

Hype Synthesizer Plugin Instrument for MPC Standalone

The powerful, advanced hybrid synthesizer Hype comes to MPC. This plugin instrument is packed with over 1500 presets, insert effects, and dedicated macro controls for a sonically limitless creative experience.

Mellotron Tape Sample Keyboard Plugin for MPC Standalone

The legendary Mellotron keyboard comes to MPC. See and hear this plugin instrument in action on MPC standalone and discover how easy it is to craft and create new sounds and textures for modern music production.

AIR Vocal Suite featuring Vocal Tuner, Doubler, and Harmonizer

The AIR Vocal Insert Effects Suite is a powerful collection of plugins for MPC Standalone. Create, record, and mix the perfect vocals right from your MPC device.

Half Speed Insert Effect Plugin for MPC

Half Speed is the amazing new plugin for MPC that immediately adds a loose, half-tempo sound and texture to your tracks. It's easy to create a new vibe and feel for your favorite loops, samples, and other audio with the Half Speed plugin.

Class-Compliant Audio Interface Support for MPC Standalone

MPC is the ultimate hub for your standalone workflow. Now with support for class-compliant audio interface devices, access up to 32 inputs and outputs for routing audio quickly and easily via a single USB cable.

808 Glides on MPC One with Enhanced Keygroup Section Updates

Add some more excitement to your 808 drums with the portamento feature on your MPC. 808 Glides are a signature of modern hip hop music production and give your drums melodic sound while maintaining the punch you need from your low-end 808 drums.

AKAI Introduces MPC LIVE 2 Beatclub Timbaland Edition 🔥

video upload by AkaiProVideo

"MPC Live 2 Beatclub TIMBALAND EDITION featuring the hardest-hitting drums EVER inside an MPC is Available Now 🔥

· Timbaland’s Bounce Coming up MPC Drum Kits
· 3 Beatclub Essential MPC Edition Expansions
· 32GB Exclusive Beatclub/Timbaland SD Card loaded with Drumkits, Loops, and Melodics
· Signature Beatclub/Timbaland Splash Screen
· Exclusive Beatclub Merch Bundle

This release is limited to only 500 pieces. Go get yours NOW. They will go FAST (web exclusive only) 🔥
https://inmusicstore.com/mpc-live-2-b... 🔥"

And the press release:

Cumberland, RI USA (April 3rd, 2023) – Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, and Beatclub, the premier global marketplace for music creators, and home to the most talented and sought-after producers, songwriters, and artists in the music business, announced today the exclusive, limited edition MPC Live 2: Beatclub “Timbaland Edition”.

Loaded with the iconic drum kit sounds of legendary producer Timbaland, the MPC Live 2 boasts a collection of over 12GB of Beatclub samples and sound packs, an exclusive customized Beatclub/Timbaland Signature boot experience, along with loops and melodies that will fire your creativity like never before. The content includes Timbaland’s official “Bounce Coming Up” Drum Kit, along with sounds inspired by Mike Dean, CashMoneyAP, Tainy, Mike Will Made-It, Rance from 1500 or Nothing, and many more.

Just 500 units have been produced, each individually numbered. This limited MPC Live 2 Beatclub “Timbaland Edition” will be available Monday, April 3rd. Given the quality of them, and the limited number they are going to go very quickly.

Creative A&R Director for Akai Professional, Andy Mac shared “This exclusive Timbaland Edition MPC Live 2 delivers the ultimate library of hard-hitting drums into the hands of the next generation of beat makers. This gives them the same sonic bounce Timbaland is known for, heard on countless hit records spanning over 3 decades.”

Timbaland said “I am pumped for this new collaboration. We have Akai, one of the most legendary music production brands in the game, and the MPC has been an iconic instrument in hip hop history. Beatclub mixing it up with Akai is taking your potential up several notches and shows what you can do with a powerful partnership. We’re talking power, precision, and creativity all mixed together. This is going to be epic. This is the peak of when technology, culture and excellence come together.”

MPC Live 2 Beatclub “Timbaland Edition” Features

• Standalone MPC – No Computer Required

• Built-in Stereo Monitors

• 16 Full-size Velocity Sensitive RGB Pads

• Brilliant 7-inch Multi-Touch Display

• Timbaland’s Bounce Coming up MPC Edition Expansion

• 3 Beatclub Essential MPC Edition Expansions

• 32GB Exclusive Beatclub/Timbaland SD Card loaded with Drumkits, Loops, and Melodics

• 16GB Internal Storage / Factory Content.

• Includes MPC 2 Desktop Software for Mac or PC

• Signature Beatclub/Timbaland Splash Screen

• Custom Serialized Plate With Production Number

• Exclusive Beatclub Merch Bundle

• Full 12 Month Subscription to Beatclub.

MPC Live 2 Beatclub “Timbaland Edition” will only be available exclusively at the inMusic Store on akaipro.com Monday April 3, 2023 for $1399. To learn more, please

visit www.akaipro.com/mpc-live-2-beatclub-timbaland-edition.com

CLICK FOR MORE »

NAMM: AKAI PROFESSIONAL ANNOUNCES MPD26 PAD CONTROLLER

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL ANNOUNCES MPD26 PAD CONTROLLER

Pad Instrument For Producers Features Exclusive MPC Pads and Technologies

Cumberland, R.I. (Jan. 14, 2010) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces the MPD26 USB/MIDI Pad Controller. Akai Pro will introduce the MPD26 at the 2010 Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA, booth 6400, January 14–17.

The MPD26 is a MIDI-over-USB pad controller with genuine MPC pads. Producers, programmers, musicians and DJs will appreciate the MPD26’s capabilities. Its blend of intuitive MPC controls and technologies meshes with USB connectivity to bring the feel of classic beat making to the world of computer music production.

The heart of the MPD26 is its bank of 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads, an Akai Professional exclusive. Producers can access four different sounds from each MPC pad for a total of 64 at a time. The MPD26 also features the MPC series' assignable Q-Link controllers, enabling musicians to control a wide range of parameters in their software in real time. The MPD26’s six assignable Q-Link faders and six assignable Q-Link 360° knobs enable producers to spend less time with the mouse and more time making music. The MPD26 also has a dedicated set of transport controls for instant access to the most commonly used DAW or sequencing-software controls.

While the MPC pads and Q-Links might be the heart of the MPD26, its brain is transplanted directly from the MPC. That’s because is not just a control surface; it contains a handful of the key MPC technologies that have made the MPC the de facto standard in professional beat production. MPC Note Repeat is a capability that enables the MPD26 to automatically play a rhythm pattern, such as 16th notes on a hi-hat, for accuracy and speed of entry. MPC Swing is sometimes referred to as "the heart and soul of hip hop" because it turns perfectly aligned sequences into human-feeling grooves. Users can specify exactly the degree and timing of swing they want to apply for the perfect feel. The MPD26 also has MPC Full Level and MPC 16-Level on its pads.

The MPD26 sends MIDI information over its plug-and-play USB interface so producers can use it with their Mac or PC without installing any drivers. The USB connection even powers the MPD26 so only the included USB cable is needed. The MPD26 also has traditional MIDI jacks so musicians can use it with MIDI hardware such as synths and other sound modules. The MPD26 also comes with Ableton Live Lite and Editor Librarian software so users can start creating right out of the box.

“The MPD26 is the perfect interface between your creativity and your studio’s computer,” said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Akai Professional. “Its blend of intuitive MPC technology and USB computer connectivity makes one powerful device.”

The MPD26 will be available from pro audio and musical instrument retailers in January 2010. It has a U.S. Retail Price of $299.00 and an estimated street price of $199.00

Ableton and Ableton Live are trademarks of Ableton AG."
via http://www.akaipro.com/content217669

AKAI PRO FURTHER EXPANDS CONTROLLER LINE WITH MPK61

"New MPK61 Is Fourth Model Of Unique Keyboard and MPC Performance Controller

Cumberland, R.I. (Jul. 17, 2009) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces the MPK61, the fourth model in the company’s unique line of keyboard/MPC performance controllers. The MPK61 will make its debut at Akai Professional's booth, number 400, at the Summer NAMM Show held at the Nashville Convention Center, July 17 – 19.

The MPK61 is a keyboard performance MIDI controller that expands the popular MPK line. Each MPK controller combines a piano-style keybed with a bank of genuine Akai Professional MPC pads, assignable Q-Link controllers and some of the technologies from the icon MPC. Producers, performers and DJs will appreciate the MPK61’s mix of 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 16 MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity, 72 assignable Q-Link, MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing and an arpeggiator. The MPK61’s size is ideal for performers who need a larger range than the original 49-key MPK49 offers, but also prefer the lighter weight and associated portability of a semi-weighted keyboard. The MPK61 retains the key split features from the MPK88, enabling the performer to divide the keyboard into two zones for performing with two different programs at once.

Like its 25, 49 and fully weighted 88-key siblings – the MPK25, MPK49 and MPK88, respectively – the MPK61 empowers musicians to create and manipulate melodic, harmonic and rhythmic content and manipulate quickly with its arpeggiator, MPC Swing and MPC Note Repeat technologies. The MPK61 comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software, one of the most popular and powerful performance and production programs worldwide. Ableton Live Lite enables musicians to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit musical ideas in a seamless audio/MIDI environment. The MPK61 is a MIDI controller that sends MIDI values over USB for plug-and-play performance with Mac and PC. Because they are MIDI compliant, the MPK series works with virtually all MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software for musical performers from keyboard players to producers to DJs and VJs.

“The MPK61 was designed to meet the requests of many keyboard performers,” said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Akai Professional. “They loved the MPK49’s portability and ease of integration into their setup; they liked the large scale of the MPK88, and requested something in between: the MPK61.”

The MPK61 performance keyboard controller will be available from professional audio and musical instrument retailers Q3, 2009.

# # #

About Akai Professional

Since 1984, Akai Professional products have been a staple of modern music both in the studio and on stage. With intuitive design and cutting edge features, Akai Professional is one of the world’s most influential manufacturers of musical electronics. For more information, visit www.akaipro.com; images are available at http://akaipro.com/media.php."

The Best-Selling Synths and Electronic Gear of 2021 on Reverb

"Note: All rankings are determined by total order count—that is, the actual number of items sold, not the total price of sold items. And because Reverb is home to individual sellers, independent brick-and-mortars, and licensed retailers alike, our rankings include all sales, whether brand-new or used."

CLICK FOR MORE »

AKAI MPC ONE: Review and full workflow tutorial // Comparison to MPC Live

Published on Feb 9, 2020 loopop

"Here are answers to over 200 questions, plus a full workflow tutorial in this review of Akai's MPC One (a lot of which is relevant to the MPC Live as well)

Get my constantly expanding book of synth and electronic music ideas, tips and tricks here:

► Patreon: https://patreon.com/loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:10 Overview
2:25 Connectivity
4:20 Is it worth it?
4:45 vs MPC Live
5:55 Terminology
6:55 Track overview
8:55 Sample pool
9:50 Drum programs
15:20 Plugins
18:50 Keygroups
20:40 Auto sample
22:35 Clip programs
25:05 MIDI programs
26:50 CV programs
28:05 Audio tracks
30:10 Sampling
33:40 Looper
34:30 Resampling
35:45 Timing correct
35:55 Recording live
36:30 Step sequencing
37:40 Automation
41:00 Q-LINK knobs
43:45 Performance controls
46:20 Song options
49:35 Effects
52:40 Pros & cons"

Meet The New Akai MPC One+

video upload by AkaiProVideo

"Meet the MPC One+. Supercharge your beat-making with powerful Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 16GB internal storage, and more. Visit akaipro.com/mpc-one-plus to learn more and how to get a free MPC plugin."

MPC One+: Red’s going for the jugular // Ideas for WIFI & Bluetooth setups // MPC One Plus Review

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:30 What’s new?
2:55 2GB RAM OK?
5:00 CPU loads
5:25 Using WIFI
6:40 Splice
7:20 Ableton Link
8:50 MIDI over WIFI
9:55 Ableton control
12:20 Bluetooth
13:30 Connection tips
14:20 MIDI routing
15:20 Mapping CCs
17:15 Using WIDI
18:45 Pros & cons
22:05 Outro

Akai MPC One - NAMM 2020

Published on Jan 15, 2020 Bedroom Producers Blog

"Andy Mac demonstrates the features of Akai MPC One, a hardware sampler for beginner beat makers."

---

And the NAMM floor videos begin. First one goes to the Bedroom Producers Blog.

NAMM: Akai Pro MAX49

NAMM: Akai Pro MAX49: Overview

YouTube Uploaded by AkaiProVideo on Jan 17, 2012

"MAX49 from Akai Professional places revolutionary MIDI and CV control at your fingertips. With an intuitive layout and included AkaiConnect automatic-mapping software, MAX49 offers an instant, fully immersive experience with your favorite music software and virtually all VST plugins. From its 49 semi-weighted keys and 12 real MPC pads, to its groundbreaking LED touch faders and vintage CV & Gate outputs, MAX49 combines cutting-edge Akai Pro technology with classic capability to give you an unprecedented music-making experience.

CLICK FOR MORE »

New Akai Rhythm Wolf - Analog Drum Machine and Bass Synth?

Real or not? You be the judge. I'm not seeing anything on the Akai site yet. This one is in via Soviet Space Child.  Synthtopia is reporting on it and the following is via Gearslutz.  $199 price point.

Update: some discussion on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge

Update2: looks like the Akai site is down. Updates coming or too much traffic?

Update3: The site is back and the info is up here.  Supersize image and press release captured further below.

"Musikmesse 2014: Following in the wake of the Korg Volcas and Roland's Aira range, Akai is the latest brand to get in on the vintage-inspired groovebox action with the announcement of the Rhythm Wolf – an analogue unit combining a five-voice drum machine and single-ocsillator bass synth.

The drum machine section of the Rhythm Wolf comprises kick, snare, metallic percussion, and open and closed hi-hat sounds, all of which are tuneable. The bass synth, meanwhile, can be switched between saw and square waveshapes, and features a filter with resonance control and a basic envelope shaper. Akai describes Rhythm Wolf as having an "authentic analog design that references classic rhythm machines and synthesizers" - no prizes for guessing which instruments the company is alluding to.

The whole unit is built around a 32-step sequencer, and also features six MPC pads for live performance. There's also a 'Howl' distortion circuit for adding a bit of dirt to the sounds. Additionally, the Rhythm Wolf features a USB MIDI connection and has both MIDI and gate in and out ports, so can be triggered via a DAW or external hardware. It packs a swing control on its front panel, and the unit also appears to have a built-in preset bank.

Arguably the most interesting aspect of the Rhythm Wolf, however, is its price. At an estimated street price of $199, the unit comes in at slightly cheaper than the combined price of the Volca Beats and Bass, and cheaper than either the Roland TR-8 or TB-3.

The Rhythm Wolf is due to arrive summer 2014. Visit Akai Professional for more details.

Rhythm Wolf highlights (from the official press release)
5-voice analog drum machine and synth—authentic analog design that references classic rhythm machines and synthesizers
Legendary analog drum sounds—kick, snare, open & closed hi-hat, and metallic percussion
Synth-bass module—selectable square or sawtooth wave with classic filter design for warm, deep basses and squelchy leads.
Onboard 32-step sequencer—classic drum machine workflow for quickly laying down grooves and melodies
Six genuine MPC pads—responsive controls for sequencing and finger drumming
Howl knob—custom distortion circuit for additional sound design
USB-MIDI and MIDI In/Out—flexible MIDI connectivity for easy integration into modern studios
Gate Trigger—triggering via modular synths, vintage sequencers, or external sound sources
Independent audio outputs—dedicated outputs for the drum machine and synth-bass module for precise mixing"

Update: full size pic & press release:

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL UNLEASHES THE RHYTHM WOLF

Leading music production equipment manufacturer debuts an analog drum machine and bass synthesizer inspired by the classics.

Cumberland, RI, USA—March 11, 2014. Akai Professional (akaipro.com), a leading innovator of music equipment for production and performance, announces the Rhythm Wolf, an analog drum machine and bass synthesizer module with built-in sequencing.

The Rhythm Wolf is an authentic analog instrument that combines the coveted sounds of early electronic and hip-hop music with genuine Akai Professional workflow. Inspired by the classic analog beat machines and synthesizers of the past, Rhythm Wolf enables today’s musicians to harness iconic analog sounds for music production and performance. The drum machine consists of five highly-tweakable drum sounds and includes a kick, snare, open & closed hi-hat, and metallic percussion. Onboard controls allow users to customize the tuning, amplitude envelopes, and volume of each drum voice separately for precise real-time adjustment. The bass synthesizer features a selectable oscillator (sawtooth or square wave), classic filter design, a filter envelope with variable decay, and is capable of creating powerful bass sounds and squelchy leads.

Outfitted with six genuine MPC pads and a built-in 32-step sequencer, the Rhythm Wolf provides an ultra-responsive interface with a classic drum machine layout. Drum patterns can be fine-tuned using the Rhythm Wolf features USB-MIDI, MIDI In/Out, a gate trigger, and integrates seamlessly with modern and vintage equipment.

Rhythm Wolf Highlights:
• 5-voice analog drum machine and synth—authentic analog design that references classic rhythm machines and synthesizers
• Legendary analog drum sounds—kick, snare, open & closed hi-hat, and metallic percussion
• Synth-bass module—selectable square or sawtooth wave with classic filter design for warm, deep basses and squelchy leads.
• Onboard 32-step sequencer—classic drum machine workflow for quickly laying down grooves and melodies
Swing function, Pattern Select, and Tempo Control knob. A custom
distortion signal path, activated by the “Howl” knob, adds grit and character for additional tone
shaping.
Two audio outputs enable producers and
performers to mix percussion sounds and bass independently.
• Six genuine MPC pads—responsive controls for sequencing and finger drumming
• Howl knob—custom distortion circuit for additional sound design
• USB-MIDI and MIDI In/Out—flexible MIDI connectivity for easy integration into modern
studios
• Gate Trigger—triggering via modular synths, vintage sequencers, or external sound
• —dedicated outputs for the drum machine and synth-bass

Akai Professional Product Manager Dan Gill notes, “The Rhythm Wolf puts those sought after analog drum machine and synthesizer sounds right into the hands of today’s musicians. We set out to make a compact drum machine and bass synthesizer, inspired by the classics, that can adapt to any studio setup and integrate with modern and vintage music equipment.”
The Rhythm Wolf will be available in Summer 2014, distributed worldwide with a $199.99 USD street price. Akai Professional will unveil the Rhythm Wolf at Musikmesse, Hall 5.1, Booth B45, March 12-15 in Frankfurt, Germany. For more information, visit: akaipro.com/messe2014.

###

About Akai Professional
The world’s most influential manufacturer of music production gear, Akai Professional (akaipro.com) develops creative technologies to empower music makers with tools that are unmatched in expressive capability. Akai Professional is best known for creating the legendary MPC, an instrument that has inspired generations of producers and performers and spawned entirely new genres of music. Akai Professional is a part of the inMusic Brands family (www.inmusicbrands.com)."

Update4:

Musikmesse 2014: Akai Rhythm Wolf Video

Published on Mar 11, 2014 delamartv·373 videos

Unfortunately no audio demo.

AKAI MPC-60II SN 90125-00144

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"For sale is this used Akai MPC-60II. The MPC-60II is the music production studio that has single-handedly taken over the Rap and R&B music genres as the main instrument of Hip Hop production. Designed by Roger Linn (Linn Drum), the MPC-60 is a one-box-does-it-all sequencer-sampler workstation. This particular example, serial number 99125-00144 works great and is the perfect addition to any professional or home studio.

The built-in sequencer is very complete and professional. There are 99 tracks per sequence, 99 patterns, and 99 sequences that can be created, edited and stored in the MPC-60II with ease. Most artists create their patterns in real-time adding drum parts to a beat-loop spontaneously creating a groove that captures the vibe. These patterns are varied and chained into a sequence. Full MIDI, SMPTE and various other forms of external control prepare the MPC-60 for any studio situation.

The Sampler section is lo-fi but highly respectable. Its 12-bit sampling at 40KHz is pretty good. Sample editing, looping and transforming is simple to do. And finally, there’s even a built-in drum machine for extra groove! Finally, the 18 voices of polyphony should be plenty of room for anyone who wants to create Hip Hop on the machine of professional artists worldwide including Apollo 440, BT, Jean-Michel Jarre, Jimmy Edgar, DJ Shadow, Jermaine Dupri, and A Guy Called Gerald.

The main differences between the original MPC-60 and the MKII was the casing and a head-phone jack but either machine is still very useful for today’s aspiring musicians.

This particular example is in used condition and good working condition and comes with an IEC power cable. The MPC is missing 5 mounting screws, though is structurally intact. As can be seen in the photos, the "soft key 1" and "space" buttons display serious wear, and there are visible scratches on the backlit LED panel. Though the unit works, I suggest having a tech do a fundamental service to bring it back up to studio-ready shape."

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Musikmesse: AKAI MPK88

product page is up
"Professional performance instrument for the modern keyboardist.

The Akai Professional MPK88 is a professional performance keyboard controller with MPC production controls. The MPK88 draws on the design of the popular MPK49, the first keyboard ever to features MPC pads. This first-of-its-kind keyboard is ideal for performance, starting with a premium, fully weighted, hammer-action keyboard, adding MPC pads, Q-Link controls, and a selection of MPC technologies. The MPK88 is born for the stage and is equally at home in the studio.

CREATIVE INPUT
MPK88 features an 88-key keyboard and 16 genuine MPC pads. The hammer-action keyboard is fully weighted and features aftertouch for expressive melodic control. The MPC pads are pressure and velocity-sensitive to capture every nuance of your creative concepts. The pads can access four banks of sounds, so you have 64 samples at your fingertips with the touch of a button.

The MPK88 places dedicated transport controls within your reach for easy control of some of the most important tracking and editing controls. The MPK88 has modulation and pitch-bend wheels for expressive musicality, and two assignable footswitch inputs enable you to connect an expression pedal or other continuous controller and a footswitch for momentary controls like patch change or start/stop.

Q-LINK COMMAND
One of the most important input devices on an MPC is its Q-Link assignable control section. Akai Pro built a massive collection of Q-Links into the MPK series. The MPK88 gives you eight virtual knobs that are assignable to control nearly any software parameter. You can control three different parameters per knob thanks to the knobs' three-bank selection, totaling 24 parameters of instant, hands-on control. Like the virtual knobs, eight virtual faders and eight virtual buttons also control three banks of parameters each, so you get 24 virtual faders and 24 virtual buttons. That's 72 Q-Link controls!

EXPRESSIVE ENGINE
Two technologies pioneered in the MPC series and built into the MPK series are MPC Note Repeat and MPC Swing. These note-modifying features can be heard in many of the most popular tracks over the last two decades. MPC Note Repeat is a capability that enables the MPK (or MPC) to automatically play a rhythm pattern, such as 16th notes on a hi-hat, for accuracy and speed of entry. MPC Swing is sometimes referred to as "the heart and soul of hip hop" because it turns perfectly aligned sequences into human feeling time alignments. You can specify exactly the degree and timing of swing you want to apply for the perfect feel.

The MPK88 has Key Split, enabling you to control two different sounds from the same keyboard. On top of MPC technologies, the MPK88 has its own arpeggiator, which enables you to create quick, creative riffs in seconds. Just pick a note or chord and a rhythm pattern in the arpeggiator's library and the MPK will play your notes in the rhythm and sequence you choose.

The MPK88 also has MPC Full Level and MPC 16-Level on its pads, as well as Tap Tempo and Time Division so you can nail the tempo, timing, and dynamics exactly as you hear them in your head."

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AKAI Roger Linn MPC3000 Music Production Center SN 0615-01319

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"AKAI Roger Linn MPC3000 Music Production Center in very good condition but does have some minor wear from normal use. Includes manual on CD in pdf format, and power cable.

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AKAI MPC One: Sampling some acoustic instruments (free download)

video by Floyd Steinberg

"Some more sampling on the Akai #MPC​ One, this time some acoustic instruments I have here. You can download this sample pack for free (seperated, normalized, named notes and chords and MPK files for MPC) here: https://gum.co/ifZoOs​ . If you do so, please consider supporting my musical endeavours on floydsteinberg.bandcamp.com, thanks!

TOC:

00:00​ hello
00:30​ sampling...
00:45​ creating the accordion keygroup program
01:52​ setting the number of keygroups
02:04​ assigning and tuning samples
03:32​ assigning the rest of the samples
04:14​ global filter
05:20​ filter envelope
05:43​ amp envelope
06:15​ master volume
06:29​ synced lfo
07:22​ effects
09:29​ creating a short jam/demo track
10:26​ drums
11:10​ pad (accordion)
11:46​ sidechaining compression on the pad
13:23​ bass
13:58​ metallophone
14:20​ hang drum
15:19​ lead
17:39​ bye-bye"



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NAMM 2013: New Akai MPX8 Sample Pad Controller & MAX25

"MPX8
SD Sample Pad Controller

Add sound samples via standard SD card (sold separately)
8 velocity-sensitive and pressure-sensitive pads
Drag-and-drop sample editor for Mac and PC included
Built-in library of popular sounds, samples, and bumps
Tune, add reverb, save sample sets for easy recall
USB MIDI plus standard MIDI inputs and outputs
1/8” headphone output and balanced 1/4” outputs"

"MAX25
Compact USB/MIDI/CV Keyboard Controller

25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 4 LED touch faders
Included AkaiConnect software automatically maps to VSTs
8 MPC pads, MPC Note Repeat, and MPC Swing
4 pad banks, 4 fader banks: 64 assignable pads, faders, and buttons
Step sequencer and expanded arpeggiator
CV & Gate outputs (1V/Oct), Mackie Control® and HUI® modes"

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL ANNOUNCES MAX25 KEYBOARD AND NEW ULTRA-COMPACT SAMPLE LAUNCHER WITH MPC® PADS
Adding to Akai Pro’s keyboard controller and portable production instrument lines, MAX25 and MPX8 give musicians groundbreaking capability in space-saving designs.

Cumberland, R.I. (January 24, 2013) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces MPX8, a standalone SD sample launcher with MPC pads, and MAX25, an innovative USB/MIDI/CV keyboard controller. Akai Professional will unveil MPX8 and MAX25 at Booth 6700 at the 2013 NAMM show, January 24-27 in Anaheim, California.

MPX8 is one of Akai Professional’s most innovative pad instruments yet. Using a standard SD card, users can load virtually any sample onto MPX8 and then assign it to any of the unit’s eight backlit velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads. MPX8 also comes with a large library of standard samples built in, which can be used for live performance in front of a crowd, on a radio show, or for in-studio production. Its bright blue backlit display and intuitive interface make for easy operation in any amount of light. A 1/8-inch headphone output, two balanced 1/4-inch outputs, and five-pin MIDI and USB MIDI inputs and outputs are onboard. 'With MPX8, we’re giving musicians a quick and convenient way to have one-touch access to a virtually unlimited number of sounds, shots, stabs, and drops,' said Dan Gill, Akai Professional Product Manager. MPX8 comes with a drag-and-drop sample editor for Mac® and PC for easy sample conversion. Users can also save sample sets together as kits for easy recall and even tune and add reverb to samples.

Akai Professional will also exhibit MAX25, a compact version of the innovative MAX49 USB/MIDI/CV keyboard controller that was released in 2012. MAX25 has all of the same cutting-edge features as MAX49, including CV/Gate output, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, a built-in step sequencer, expanded arpeggiator, and revolutionary LED touch faders for gradual or instant parameter value changes. The difference between MAX49 and MAX25 only lies in the number of onboard controls. Where MAX49 has 49 keys, 8 faders, and 12 pads, MAX25 has 25, 4, and 8, respectively. Like MAX49, MAX25 will come with AkaiConnect automatic-mapping software and Mackie Control® and HUI® modes for instant compatibility with many DAWs. 'This is a controller that’s made to be in front of a crowd,” said Gill. 'It’s everything people love about MAX49 but in a compact package that will fit perfectly in front of a laptop on stage.'

Mac is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Mackie Control and HUI are registered trademarks of LOUD Technologies Inc."