AKAI's New MPC is Born

The pad count has been cut to 12 to accommodate the smaller form factor, but the sequencer and sampler still offers 48-tracks, a 16-channel MIDI sequencer combined with a 32-voice 16-bit/44.1 kHz drum/phrase sampler. The unit’s MIDI sequencer supports the SMF (standard MIDI file) format, while the sampler accepts WAV files. Like all Akai MPC units, the MPC500 provides velocity sensitive pads (12) for triggering sounds and the unit includes Akai’s legendary 12 Levels function—where one sound can be assigned to all pads with varied level or tuning per pad. The MPC500 provides numerous onboard effects plus two stereo effects sends and a Master control. In addition to operation via six AA batteries, the unit includes an AC power adapter. For transferring work to other Akai MPC models, a Compact Flash storage card is included for use with the internal CF drive. The MPC500 includes a USB port for connecting an external hard drive. Memory expansion is available.

Key Features:
• Pattern-based and linear 48-track sequencer with 16 MIDI channels
• 16-bit / 44.1kHz sampling
• 32-voice drum/phrase sampler with up to 128MB RAM
• Battery powered (6 AA’s) or AC powered
• Velocity and pressure sensitive pads for expressive programming
• 12 Levels function: one sound on all pads with varied level or tuning per pad
• Built-in Compact Flash drive and USB port (Mass Storage Class)
• Support for standard WAV files and MIDI sequences
• Built-in Analog Audio I/O, headphone output, and MIDI I/O
• Internal sounds in Flash
• 4-way sample layering and velocity switching per pad
• 1 lowpass filter with resonance per voice
• On-board effects: 2 stereo effects and a Master effect
• Memory expansion available separately
• Compact Flash card and AC power adapter included

According to Harmony Central, the price is to be $1,299 - yes you read that right - it seems a tad pricey consierding the MPC-1000 list - with larger screen is $1,499 but we've seen it for ads little as $899. Available October

• Akaipro.com

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