street priceThe Akai MPC Live represents a significant shift in the MPC product line, returning to stand-alone operation after five years of focusing on hybrid software-controller models. This portable workstation addresses the demand from beat-makers who prefer self-contained production tools over computer-dependent systems. The MPC Live delivers an impressive combination of stand-alone functionality and hybrid controller capability, allowing seamless transition between these modes.
The MPC Live shares its form factor with the MPC Touch but with a more uniform, chunkier design. Built with a tough metal case, it weighs 2.7kg - comparable to a 15-inch laptop with charger or an Ableton Push 2. A key feature is the integrated Lithium-Ion battery providing up to six hours of untethered operation, making it truly portable.
The unit maintains the excellent pad quality Akai is known for, paired with solid rubber function buttons. The touchscreen sits flush with the surface (an improvement over the Touch's recessed screen), creating an intuitive interface that combines touch and physical controls for a responsive experience.
Connectivity is comprehensive with six TRS audio outputs, a headphone port, and stereo input switchable between line-level TRS inputs or phonos with ground for turntable connection. Two full-size MIDI ins and outs maintain the MPC's tradition as a studio hub. Three USB ports support class-compliant MIDI controllers, computer keyboards, and external storage. The unit also features Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities (with planned Ableton Link support for wireless beat syncing).
Storage options are particularly impressive. While the internal flash storage is 16GB (partially used by factory sounds and the operating system), expansion is available via an SD card slot and an internal bay for a standard 2.5-inch SATA drive, allowing for massive sound libraries to be housed within the unit.
The MPC Live runs version 2.0 of the MPC software, featuring a significant visual makeover and major new functionality. The core MPC workflow remains intact: Projects consist of Programs (drum kits, sampled instruments) sequenced in Tracks, which are contained in Sequences. The touchscreen interface provides multiple views for different working modes, creating a focused, single-device workflow.
The capacitive touchscreen offers excellent responsiveness, allowing accurate drawing and selection of notes. Overall system response is notably snappy, with minimal latency compared to computer-based DAWs. The browsing experience has been improved with a new Content view that categorizes factory sounds and adds search functionality.
Audio Tracks - Traditional linear audio lanes for recording, importing, and editing audio. In stand-alone mode, these are limited to eight tracks.
Clip Programs - Ableton-style clip launching for triggering loops with automatic time stretching. Ideal for live performance and improvisation.
Improved Browser - Enhanced content organization, search functionality, and automatic track assignment.
The MPC Live comes loaded with extensive content including Vault 2.0, Essential Instruments, and MPC Clip Expansion packs. Additional content and AIR plug-ins are available for the computer-side operation.
Switching between stand-alone and controller modes is straightforward. When connected to a computer via USB, the MPC appears as an audio and MIDI interface. The project file format is identical between hardware and software, enabling seamless project transfer. In controller mode, the MPC's storage devices mount on the computer for easy file access.
The main limitation of stand-alone mode is the absence of VST plug-in support and the eight audio track limit. When transferring projects from computer to hardware, tracks with plug-ins switch to MIDI tracks, though a feature allows bouncing any Program, Track or Sequence to an Audio Track to preserve the sound.
The MPC Live shines in providing a focused environment where producers can work quickly once familiar with the workflow. The single point of focus and rapid operation are particular strengths.
One persistent limitation is the MPC's Song mode. Audio and MIDI recording is confined to individual Sequences rather than across an entire Song arrangement. For longer recordings, users must bounce a Song to a Sequence or work with extended Sequence lengths. Unlike Ableton Live/Push, there's no concept of MIDI clips or patterns, making arrangement editing somewhat awkward.
The MPC Live represents a breakthrough in mobile music production, offering an uncompromising stand-alone workstation experience with seamless project transfer to a computer. Its extensive storage options, comprehensive I/O, high-quality hardware, and significant software update make it a compelling option for producers across genres.
While competing with products like Pioneer's Toraiz SP-16, Elektron's Digitakt, and the hybrid DAW controllers Maschine and Push, the MPC Live's unique combination of mobility and functionality establishes it as a versatile tool for studio production, collaboration, and live performance.
The Akai MPC Live marks a significant return to stand-alone operation for the MPC line, addressing the demand from producers who prefer self-contained production tools. This portable workstation combines the best of both worlds - offering robust computer-free functionality while maintaining seamless integration with desktop production environments.
The MPC Live delivers on mobility without compromising on features. With its built-in battery, comprehensive storage options (including an internal hard drive bay), and extensive connectivity, it provides a complete production environment that can move from studio to stage to collaborative sessions with ease.
The updated MPC 2.0 software introduces significant enhancements including audio tracks, clip launching capabilities, and improved browsing - all accessible in stand-alone mode. The exceptional responsiveness of both the touchscreen interface and the overall system, with noticeably reduced latency compared to computer-based setups also helps to achieve a smooth workflow.
While maintaining the core MPC workflow that veterans will appreciate, there are some persistent limitations, particularly around Song mode organization. However, the ability to work in a focused environment with a single point of attention is praised as a strength that enhances productivity once users build muscle memory with the system.
The technical specifications we've provided capture all the key hardware and software features, making it easy to compare the MPC Live with alternatives like Pioneer's Toraiz SP-16, Elektron's Digitakt, or controller-based systems like Maschine and Push.
Country of origin / production: China
Recommend product to a friend| Usage area | |
|---|---|
| Sound Module/ Tone Generator | |
| Groovebox/ MPC | |
| Sampler | |
| Usage Design/ Form Factor | |
| Without Keys, Desktop | |
| Archetype | |
| Digital (D) | |
| Tone Generator / Sound Synthesis | |
| Synthesis Method | Digital Subtractive |
| MIDI in/ out | |
| IN | |
| OUT | |
| IN count | 2 |
| OUT count | 2 |
| Display | |
| Color resolution | 16M colors/ 24bit/ True Color |
| Resolution: Diagonal | 6.9 |
| Pads Matrix | |
| Pads Count | 16 |
| Pads Count, vertical | 4 |
| Pads Count, horizontal | 4 |
| Multicolor Pads | |
| Velocity | |
| Variable Touch Response | |
| Audio out | |
| Stereo | |
| All voices mixed in one output | |
| Analogue: 1/4" (6.35mm) | 2 |
| Analogue: 1/4" (6.35mm) headphones preamplified | 1 |
| Audio in | |
| Analog 1/4" | 2 |
| RCA | 2 |
| Computer Interfaces | |
| USB | USB PC Link |
| USB | USB Storage |
| USB | MIDI through USB |
| External drives/ memory cards | |
| SD (SecureDisk) | |
| Power | |
| Power Supply | External |
| Power Supply | Internal, Accumulators |
| Amperage | 3.42 A |
| Dimensions | |
| Height | 69 mm |
| Width | 424 mm |
| Depth | 224 mm |
| Weight | 5.9 lb |
| Weight | 2.7 kg |
| Case/ body | |
| Metal&plastic | |
| Color | |
| Black | |
| Production start | 2017 |
| Production ended | |
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