Akai mark 35 years with MPC X Special Edition sampler
The new model is said to be Akai’s “most powerful” production machine to date
Akai celebrated 35 years since the release of its seminal sampler, the MPC-60, with a brand new model that promises to be its “most powerful” production machine to date.
The MPC X Special Edition is the latest sampling station from Akai with over 100 effects and a new storage capacity of 48GB, far exceeding the previous model’s 16GB.
The sampler retains its “timeless look” in the new model with its notable retro colourway and “time-tested functions” that remain some 35 years on.
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It also includes 4GB of RAM for sampling capabilities - doubled from the previous model - on top of a “premier collection” of MPC plug-in instruments, sounds, and insert effects.
The MPC X Special Edition features 25 plug-in instruments and access to over 6,000 pre-sets such as atmospheric pads, drones, and pianos.
“MPC X SE features unrivaled standalone performance with the most internal storage, the most memory, and most hardware controls for the demanding music-makers of today,” reads Akai’s website. “MPC X Special Edition is the ultimate standalone MPC.”
The sampler also allows users to control MIDI, instrument, CV/gate, and modular-enabled devices easily, and audio captured directly from vinyl turntables “clean sample and loop creation” into your sample memory.
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On top of its 16 backlit pads and 10-inch touchscreen display, the MPC X SE allows you to sequence all your devices and connect wireless to devices over WiFi using Ableton Link 3.
“MPC is regarded today as the most influential sampling drum machine ever created, cementing itself into the history of music,” Akai’s website reads.
The MPC X Special Edition is currently priced at $2,499 (£2,000). Check out a video of it in action below, and find out more about the sampler here.
Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter
