Another Cult Digital Percussion Sampler&Sequencer

The Akai MPC2000 marks a significant evolution in the MPC line of digital percussion sampler/sequencers, combining improved functionality with a more accessible price point. Most notably, the MPC2000 introduces looping capability — a feature absent from previous MPC models that significantly expands its sonic possibilities. This innovation breaks from the "percussion doesn't need looping" philosophy maintained since the original Linn 9000 (the conceptual predecessor to the MPC series) and allows for extended playback of samples like cymbals and other longer percussion sounds.

The looping functionality appears to be inherited from Akai's S2000 sampler rather than from previous MPC models. This capability allows users to set loops that don't necessarily start and end at the sample endpoints, enabling more complex sound design. Through velocity interaction with volume and filter envelopes, the MPC2000 can create much more sophisticated sounds than were possible on earlier MPCs. While the envelope controls remain fairly basic (just attack and decay values), they're sufficient for standard sounds like piano, strings, and brass that weren't feasible on previous MPC models.

Another notable feature is the Beat Loop Function, likely derived from Akai's Remix 16. This allows users to match tempos of unrelated loops by setting the length of a drum loop in beats, with the unit instantly calculating the tempo. As loops are tuned up or down, a "New Tempo" readout shows the adjusted tempo, enabling users to synchronize multiple loops at the same price point.

Physically, the MPC2000 is more compact and significantly lighter than its predecessors. The redesigned interface features a smaller backlit LCD display complemented by a new "Open Window" button that provides access to additional parameters. The 16 pads maintain the traditional 4×4 configuration but have been relocated to the right side of the machine. The unit accepts memory expansion via SIMMs up to 32MB (unlike the MPC3000's hybrid approach), making upgrades more cost-effective.

The back panel features fewer connections than previous models, with MIDI capabilities reduced to two inputs and outputs rather than four. This limitation, likely a cost-cutting measure, cannot be expanded. However, the unit has expansion slots for additional outputs, SPDIF connections, SMPTE functionality, Flash ROM, and DSP effects.

Sequencing capabilities remain virtually identical to previous MPC units, with 32 available MIDI channels (numbered in format 10A or 6B). The Step Edit screen resembles a list editor in software packages, allowing users to view four events at once with filtering options for different event types. The Edit screen facilitates copying bars or events with helpful icons to prevent errors.

The disk functionality supports multiple formats including MPC2000, MPC3000, S3000, S1000, and MS-DOS. Loading sounds in MPC2000 format is notably fast from both floppy and SCSI devices. The unit can boot its operating system from a SCSI hard drive rather than relying solely on floppy disks.

In terms of compatibility, the MPC2000 generally handles MPC3000 files well, though with some limitations. Loading MPC3000 banks from SCSI is considerably slower than on the original hardware, while floppy loading is actually faster on the MPC2000. Sound quality between the two machines is indistinguishable, but units with early software versions fail to load MPC3000 song data, though it did load sequences. S1000 and S3000 sounds loaded successfully, including loops.

Despite some limitations, the MPC2000 offers excellent sound quality that belies its reduced price tag. Cost savings come primarily from reduced I/O options rather than compromised audio quality, and many expandability options remain available for users with growing needs. While the smaller display size is a disadvantage, clever interface options compensate effectively for this limitation.

Technical Specifications:

• Type: Digital Percussion Sampler/ Sequencer
• Memory: Base configuration expandable via SIMMs up to 32MB
• Sound Quality: 16-bit
• Pads: 16 (4×4 configuration)
• Display: Backlit LCD (smaller than previous MPCs)
• MIDI: 2 Inputs, 2 Outputs (32 channels total)
• Audio Outputs: Stereo pair, expandable to 8 outputs with optional board
• Digital I/O: Optional SPDIF with expansion board
• Sampling Features: Looping capability, Beat Loop Function for tempo matching
• Expansion Options:
  • IB-M208P board (8 outputs plus SPDIF)
  • IB-M20T SMPTE board
  • FMX008M Flash ROM
  • EB16 DSP effects board
• Disk Compatibility: Reads MPC3000, S1000, S3000 sound libraries and MPC3000 sequences
• Storage: Floppy disk, SCSI support for hard drives, MO drives, CD-ROM
• Form Factor: More compact and lighter than previous MPC models
• Operating System: Loads from floppy or SCSI hard drive