Sonic LAB: Akai's MPC X Up Close

CV interfacing, plug-in control, host to unit workflow   29-Mar-17

We've already seen the MPC Live (see our video) - the new breed of Akai standalone MPC units, it has a compelling set of features in a relatively affordable package. Now comes the MPC X, which adds a larger touchscreen (10.1"), 16 fully assignable Q-Link controls with OLED displays. More MIDI ports (4 out, 2 in) , and 8 CV/Gate outputs, for direct interfacing into analog control.

You get the same USB host ports,  2GB RAM, 16GB internal storage with 10GB Library, additional eSata dock for more internal storage, 64  stereo voices, with 8 stereo audio tracks.

Product manager Andy Mac, came down to show us what the MPC X can do, and also to give us some more detail on how to switch from MPC Touch mode, where the host computer handles the processing, to stand-alone mode where tracks created using 3rd party plug-ins can be incorporated. Sit back, there's a lot to cover...

MPC X should be arriving shortly after MPC Live (expected any day now). MPC 2.0 will be released with the MPC LIVE.

MPC X £1499/$2199, MPC Live £799/ $1199.

For more information:

Akaipro.com