The Akai MPC drum machine samplers and sequencers have been dominating the music industry in terms of music production centers for decades (first came out in 1984). Used by most professional music artists for any genre that exists (typically hip hop for sampling, but anything goes), these powerful machines can transform your songs into beautiful movements of sounds and are still very relevant even in this day and age of technological growth. If you’re ready to take your music production to the next level and buy an Akai MPC, we wanted to do the research and see which is best for your specific needs. Do you absolutely need a drum machine to make quality music? Not necessarily, as numerous artists all over the world use their computer and/or keyboards to create their sounds. However, if you like the analog route, or merely want to combine it with your computer with a digital audio workstation and other music production equipment (we know many who have hybrid setups), you’ve chosen the right machine to do so. You might also be performing live and want some pads to pound in front of your audience. Here is a simple guide to help you determine which MPC to buy.
Our first answer we can give you is: there is no such thing as the best Akai MPC. Everyone will give you a different answer to this question, especially if you search around the net. Most people tell you the MPC they’ve personally used. They definitely appeared numerous times in our best drum machine guide for a reason, but which particular model is to be determined. We’ve been able to try quite a few of these awesome machines and have searched up and down the internet for reviews and feedback on each model to spell it out for you.
Choosing the right Akai MPC for you
There are some important factors to first take into consideration when shopping around for your MPC sampler/drum machine. Are you an all-in-one person? Are you going to supplement your MPC with a computer set up? Performing live? Take these into consideration:
- Your budget
- What exactly you will be using the MPC for (studio, performances, or both?)
- What features you absolutely need and which you don’t
- What type of studio setup do you have or want (digital, analog, or both in a hybrid?)
- Do you want the newest of the new? Or is age OK with you? Do you simply want just old school?
- Lastly, what sound you’re looking for (to me, the most important!)
Which MPC drum machine is best for me?
Akai MPC60
This gem of a drum machine is discontinued, and relatively rare at that. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t available somewhere around the net. If you can find one of these for a decent price, it is recommended for more of the sampler enthusiasts. Considered rare and pretty ‘vintage’, the MPC60 is old but a collector’s item. It still works to make music, and the sound you get from it has that warmer, older feel. It won’t give you that SP1200 dungeon cloaked audio, but it comes close. Here’s a video made by the creator, Roger Linn. You can tell just how old it is due to the video being a VHS! (what are those anyways?)
Not recommended for those newer to the sampling game, although you can use it as a sequencer to accommodate your production on a computer. You can probably find one around eBay or Craigslist. If you’re going to drop that much money on an MPC, we recommend skipping this one unless you know what you’re doing. This is just flat-out old school, which we’ll never judge — for some that’s all they want!
Main features: 12-bit (can you say grimy?), 40Hdz, stereo sampler, lower memory at 13.1 sec and expandable to 26.2 seconds, no filters, 16 velocity and aftertouch soft pads, supports MIDI, MTC, SMPTE controlling
Why you should get it:
- If you’re looking for a warm, vintage sound.
- You’re a synth\sampler collector
- You want a drum machine or gear specifically for sequencing to accommodate your computer setup
Why you shouldn’t:
- It is relatively costly due to the rarity of the machine (if you’re going to drop this amount of money, you might as well go with something more new)
- It is 99% most likely used considering they haven’t been in production in years
- It is outdated, no new software updates or fixes (you’re on your own with everything)
- Only good for above mentions, not good for stand-alone nowadays
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Akai MPC500
This little piece of equipment is Akai’s first portable MPC. This is also an outdated piece of equipment, typically seen on eBay or Amazon used (if new, very expensive). This isn’t necessarily an MPC you’ll need if you’re starting to sample and want to keep up with the latest trends of the music scene. A standard, portable fun toy and can also be used as a MIDI controller. It also comes with some preset drum sounds that are stated to sound pretty solid.
It has been noted that this thing takes some learning in order to make music. The sequencing and sampling is a bit tedious. The only appeal here would be the lower price and mobility, as well as perhaps somebody seeking to collect a more vintage type of drum machine. Continue on to the MPC 1000 if you’re looking to drop some money on a portable MPC.
Main features: 12 velocity and pressure sensitive pads (with 4 pad banks available – 36 total pad options), can be battery or wall powered, compact flash drive, has USB port, on-board effects (two stereo effects and one master effect)
Why you should get it:
- You are looking for a sleek, portable machine (great for live performances or making music other than your studio/room)
- Looking for a starter MPC
- Drag and drop data if connected to your PC
- Want to supplement your computer setup for sequencing/drum triggers with the pads
- Looking for a cheaper alternative than the MPC 1000
Why you shouldn’t:
- Not ideal for an all-in-one or strictly analog setup in your studio
- A little more difficult in terms of learning how to use it
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Akai MPC1000
Made in 2003, this is one of the most popular MPC’s on the market, and one I have used numerous times. I first purchased mine from eBay in 2005. I loved it. Unfortunately, I had to sell it to make rent (broke college student woes). The portability is great, as I would sometimes take it onto my balcony when it was raining and make some music with the great vibe of nature. I was also able to take it to my friend’s house and make music with him (he had a studio quality microphone). If you’re looking for an affordable, popular, and mobile MPC, this is the one to buy. They are still being made today and are timeless.
This is arguably the best MPC in terms of overall features. Smaller in size than most and great portability. This is stated to be an excellent starter MPC (the higher versions are a bit more advanced in terms of usage and user-friendly (but once you master it, there aren’t many limits). You also have the option to purchase an external hard drive (like most of the MPC’s) and use it for storage, as there is only a small amount of internal capacity (here’s a nifty video on how to expand.) The sequencing capabilities are very easy and smooth. Combine tracks, sounds, copy and paste…the works. We recommend the MPC 1000 for not only starters but those who want to be serious about their music yet still afford the MPC they buy. Not to mention it is portable — if you feel like making music in the rain like me.
Main features: 44.1KHz sample rate, 16-bit linear WAV, Two filters, ability to add 2 general effects and one master effect (reverb, compressor, chorus, flanger, etc), 16 velocity and pressure sensitive pads, 64-tracks per sequence, MIDI capabilities. All of the necessary features in an MPC. Please note: The USB port is not intended for MIDI controlling. You need a MIDI-to-USB cable for that.
Recommended use: Live performance, at-home production, portable purposes, semi-professional music making. Great starter MPC.
Why you should get it:
- Easy-to-use right out of the box
- It is compatible with Akai’s JJ OS (this is a great post explaining what the new OS is and this FAQ as well)
- Portability or live performance
Why you shouldn’t:
- Some have complained the pads become warn out pretty easily (you can always replace this)
- We don’t want to list anymore shouldn’ts, because there really aren’t any besides wanting to spend some more money on a machine that isn’t portable with more features. Great buy for the price. The JJ OS is a huge plus.
[Related Article: Best Hard Drive for the Akai MPC 1000]
We’ve seen some good deals on Amazon and eBay, but none really on Guitar Center as of now.
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Akai MPC2000 \ 2000 XL
Made in 1997, the MPC 2000 is stated to be one of the first ‘easy-to-use’ drum machines. Rumored to have the ‘digital’ sound, a more new-wave type of drum machine that is worth the price if you have the money. A bit more advanced coming from the 1000. 2MB memory which can be expanded to 32MB, it includes CD-quality 16-bit, 44.1 KHz sample rate in mono or stereo. Most of these available are used, as Akai has not listed this model on their website any longer.
Some say this is the overall best MPC if you’re looking for an all-in-one rig and an MPC to be the backbone of your music studio. The XL version (1999) adds a few more features to it. If you’re looking at a 2000, you might as well just get the XL as it has some necessary additions: four bank keys, track mute key, MIDI soft thru, device naming, time-stretch, resampling — some critical features to have with an MPC. The software is a bit more friendly to the user. It is another entry-level, studio quality sampler/sequencer made by Akai. Dr Premier, Kanye West and Dr. Dre have used this thing. This MPC uses zip disks which some say is outdated technology. It doesn’t necessarily matter besides convenience and workflow. But hey, producers like DJ Shadow, RJD2 and Kanye West were able to get around with it, why can’t you?
Main features (XL): 44.1 KHz sample rate, 16-bit, add up to 4 effects, 300,000 note sequence capacity, supports MIDI controlling, velocity pressure-sensitive pads
Why you should get it:
- Simple to use with user-friendly sequencing
- A sound that’s noted to be in the middle – not super digital and significantly warm
- Can be found for relatively cheap (used)
Why you shouldn’t:
- If you’re looking for a simple midi/sequencer supplement for your computer. This has way too many features for that and should be used if you are looking for a more standalone production center.
- Some would argue to purchase the 2500 over this because the 2500 is newer and has more support options. Get the 2500 if you have the money (although it is almost twice as much as the 2000XL)
We’ve found some here and there on all three main channels.
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Akai MPC2500
Although we stated there isn’t necessarily a best MPC, some would say that it’s a toss-up between this and the 1000. A plus of this model is the smaller size, simplicity and easy-to-use chopping software. One of the most popular MPC’s on the market made by Akai, the 2500 is stated to be fast and have powerful software similar to the 1000 but without certain buttons and menus (so it is easier to use). Pretty available as Akai still makes these, you can find one slightly used for around 1,000$. It is worth the money if you are able to afford it, and is stated by some to be the best bang for your buck considering the more expensive models have features that aren’t absolutely necessary.
Main features: 32-voice drum/phrase sampler with up to 128MB of RAM, twin on-board effects processors, four Q-link controllers, 10 analog outputs, USB port, chop-shop for sample editing, supports up to 2GB card or an external hard drive with the capacity of your choice
Why you should get it:
- Easy to use, is compatible with Akai’s JJ OS
- A step up from the 2000XL
- If you’re very serious about your music and consider yourself to be decently “big time”, and still need an affordable MPC. It is just below the higher models but is professional.
Why you shouldn’t:
- The price is a bit steep in terms of its capabilities. If you can’t afford this, the 1000 is your next best bet.
[Related Article: Akai Professional MPC Element Review]
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Akai MPC3000
This bad boy was introduced in 1994, just hitting the 20-year mark. The 3000 has a great thick sound, some say to be the absolute best in terms of feel. If that’s your preference, I’d stick with this one. You can always go for the 60 if you absolutely need a warmer, some say old-school sound, but the 3000 is stated to have a sound that is “crunchy and hot”, not very “digital” like some of the newer models. Manipulating the samples are stated be a bit more on the tedious end, but once you do learn how to do so, the capabilities are endless. This isn’t necessarily for a beginner. It has 16-bit stereo 44.1Khz sample rates, and the on-board memory is 32 MB (not a lot). It’s a great machine if you want an all-in-one analog type of equipment setup. The pads are dynamic like most MPC’s, giving you a velocity and aftertouch type of feel (legendary pads). Gives you 16 pads but 4 pad banks for a total of 64 possible sounds. You can attach it to MIDI, MTC or SMPTE.
Main features: Lowpass filter with resonance and envelope, 16 velocity and aftertouch pads, a solid on-board operating system for all-in-one music production, included sequencer, 4 pad banks, 2MB RAM (22 second sampling time).
Why you should get it:
- If you want an older, warmer feel.
- Want an all-in-one analog setup (although it is MIDI capable, but don’t buy it just for that)
Why you shouldn’t:
- Editing and overall working with it is a bit more advanced (but that means it has more capabilities if you learn it well)
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Akai MPC4000
A huge plus for this MPC is it having a hard drive to quickly load your sounds as well as having four MIDI outs to control all of your rack mounts. Stated to have “too many options” (is this even possible?), this is what we were speaking about when we stated that the 2500 is your best bet in terms of professional music if you can’t afford these higher models. If you’re buying an MPC that you need to do everything and have more all-in-one capabilities, this is a great model to buy. It’s a bit more on the traditional analog end, and as the years go by people are switching to mostly digital setups. But hey, if you buy this, you will not be disappointed, and you probably know what you’re doing.
Not recommended for only computer supplementation, as the features would go to waste, hence not being worth your money. Stated to be heavy and easy to use. Used by Just Blaze and the like, the sequencer can be a bit confusing at first but once you’re able to get a hang of it you can do some great things. This is for serious producers.
Main features: 44.1kHz, 48kHz or 96kHz sample rate, 128 sequences, 16 velocity and pressure sensitive drum pads, 6 drum pad banks, MID capable, dimensions: 526 mm (W) x 170 mm (H) x 453 mm.
Why you should get it:
- You want to be pretty professional with your music
- Want to learn some serious capabilities Akai offers with their MPC’s
- Want an all-analog setup
Why you shouldn’t:
- A bit pricey and you can suffice with the 2000XL if you want a cheaper, all-in-one machine
- Are a beginner, unless you’re prepared to really spend some time learning the operating system
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Akai MPC5000
This is Akai’s most advanced MPC ever created, and will probably stay that way for good. As we’ve seen Akai stay afloat in the music equipment realm by going digital with the Studio and Renaissance, this is basically the last of a dying breed in terms of all-in-one analog MPC stations. Don’t get me wrong, this thing can go crazy if you supplement it with your setup, but it would probably be a waste of money if you bought it for that. The sequencing engine is a lot more advanced in the 5000 and it comes with some virtual analog synths. 64MB on-board memory is a lot, and it has a huge screen size (twice the size of a 2500). If you can think of something a drum machine needs, the MPC 5000 has it.
If you have the money, and you want the absolute best MPC in terms of features capability, and just an overall beast, buy this. We don’t get recommend it if you want something to go along with your computer setup. Also, always remember you’re going to have to learn the operating system built-in, and with the 5000 that’s going to take some time. But once you do, you are literally at the top of the food chain in terms of MPC’s. Definitely check this out, unless you want something a bit more up-to-speed with the rest of the game, continue reading to the Studio and Renaissance.
Main features: Three-oscillator synth engines with arpeggiator, 14-voice drum/phrase sampler, 64MB built-in memory (expand up to 192MB), built-in hard drive, CD-R/DVD drive, USB 2.0 port, master compressor, equalizer, 40 new effects, direct-to-hard disk recording, preset 300 virtual synths, huge LCD screen (240 x 128), 12 Q-link controllers.
Why you should get it:
- If you want an MPC that does it all
- You’re a bit more advanced (or willing to invest some serious time in learning if you’re a beginner)
Why you shouldn’t:
- You aren’t sure if you’ll be using all of the crazy features
- You’re just looking for a computer supplementation of the MPC (although the 5000 can, there are cheaper versions of this)
We’ve seen them on all three channels both used and new. Best pricing usually on Amazon.
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Akai MPC Studio
The MPC Studio is one of Akai’s newest and most advanced MPC’s today, albeit not recommended as a standalone drum machine. First of all, the MPC Studio is super sleek. It’s under one inch thin and has a really nice aluminium body. This is a newer version of the MPC, which aims to incorporate the drum machine into a computer-based setup. The pads are MPC-quality (as always by Akai), so they’re the best in the biz in terms of feel. Portability is great with this since its thin size. The LCD screen is nice as well. Users around the net have stated that the Studio is great for price and DAW software incorporation since it’s only $400. Some have compared it to the MPC Element since they both incorporated an MPC pad type of rig with computer integration, but it’s a bit more expensive (the Element is only $150). The Studio has some more software and sounds that come with it, as well as a few more capabilities in terms of DAW integration.
Main features: Simple computer integration to act as a MIDI pad controller or other MPC production tasks with your tech-based setup, 1″ thin, includes MPC software, 128-track sequencing, 16 backlit MPC pads, USB-powered (no adapter hassle), big LCD screen, four knobs that are touch-sensitive for control in the MPC software, 8 pad banks, 7GB sound library, mapping and real-time fiddling with VST’s.
Why you should get it: You want a step up from the MPC Element and really want an MPC to supplement your computer-based setup.
Why you shouldn’t: If you’re looking for a more vintage type of MPC with a warm sound. This is more digital, and is made specifically for computers. Also, if you don’t need the MPC software, it doesn’t seem worth it, plus it isn’t standalone but merely something supplemental.
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Akai MPC Renaissance
The Renaissance is MPC’s newest, most powerful machine available. They describe it as their fusing of the MPC layout and workflow with computer incorporation. It’s the newest and more tech-friendly MPC, as Akai has felt pressure to start making products (including their MPC’s) to pertain to the computer movement of the digital music world. They also include a huge 9 GB sample library with sounds from the 3000 and other expansions. Pro Tools Express is also included in the box, so if you’re looking for some software to make your music, this is definitely a great package for some money-saving. Reviews around the net have talked about the “MPC Ren”‘s construction being sturdy as well as the pads having that legendary MPC feel. Edit functioning is relatively simple for looping. The step mode’s a plus and as we spoke about previously, the software bundle is killer if you’re going to be using it. Buy the MPC Ren if you want the newest MPC out there that’ll keep you satisfied, especially if you need the software.
Main features: Incorporates computer and MPC collaboration, 16 backlit MPC pads, 16 Q-Link controls, clear LCD screen, Pro Tools Express included, four channel USB 2.0 ports, up to 8 pad banks (most of any MPC), MIDI ins and outs (2 in and 4 out), 128-track sequencing, 9GB sound library included, works with both Mac and PC.
Why you should get one: If you want the newest MPC, are serious about your music, or want to incorporate this with a computer-based rig. Perfect supplement for your setup.
Why you shouldn’t: If you’re looking for a more vintage, traditional drum machine. The earlier versions aren’t nearly as digital. That’s based on your preference.
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MPC Touch
Akai continues to keep up with the times and with the touch, you can guess — have implemented touchscreen capabilities and more. The MPC Touch brings us a 7″ multi-color display to include this feature, which also allows you to grab and pinch waveforms, adjust envelopes, mess with samples, add FX, draw some MIDI events, and more. This is one of the main reasons we’d recommend this one — if you aren’t really into the fancy touch screen stuff, there are more capable models out there. However, aside from the touch screen, you have included MPC Software 2.0 and 20,000 sounds (from AIR, CR2, Toolroom, Sonivox, MVP Loops and Prime Loops).
Don’t forget those lovely drum pads (is it an MPC without them?). It acts as a 2in-2-out audio interface to supplement with your existing setup in case you don’t have an AI yet.
Main features: 7″ color multi-touch display, 16 velocity-sensitive MPC pads (with RBG back lights), step sequencer, phrase looper, pad mixer, sample edit control, 4 touch-sensitive controls, MPC software 2.0 and 20GB of sounds
Why you should get one: If you want a side piece of gear to grab some MPC-quality drums and touch-compatible creativity to supplement your current home studio setup, or if you want a flair of MPC added with both new capabilities and (a few) old.
Why you shouldn’t: If you wanted a standalone drum machine with an old school feel.
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MPC Live
Now we’re moving back to standalone MPCs, and the MPC Live in particular caught our eye when it first came out for quite a few reasons. it’s standalone with no computer needed, is portable, like the Touch has the same 7″ touch display, battery-powered (Li-Ion charged via USB), brings us MIDI ins and outs, 2 GB of AM, and 16GB of on-board storage (it can support a full-sized SD as well). This is essentially the MPC 1000 of the 2010’s. Considering it runs off batteries, we’re only getting up to 6 hours of play time but to us that’s relatively high considering it’s an entire standalone drum machine. A trend we’ve seen with pretty much all recording equipment brands (especially InMusic) is including sound packages in their products. This particular MPC does this pretty well — 10GB of sounds called The Vault 2.0. You can get a lot of sample sounds in here that allows us to make some tunes right out of the box, although you can always add your own on top of it all. Lastly, this is supportive of some MIDI gear in case you have a keyboard or two to play with — there are two USB 3.0 slots in the rear.
Main features: Portable, 16 velocity-sensitive pressure-sensitive drum pads (RGB lit), 8 banks for the pads, 4 360 degree touch-sensitive Q-Link Knobs, 4 Q-Link Knob columns (get to it via Q-Link buttons), 1 360 degree encoder, 22 function buttons, 2 GB Ram, 16 GB on-board storage, Ableton Link over WiFi, supports Bluetooth 4.0 MIDI
Why you should get one:
- If you want the newest and best MPC drum machine that’s portable and standalone.
- This for those who are into (we are one of these!) keeping the environment of your music making different — coffee shops, parks, the balcony (we used to go out when it rained to catch the mood), or another home studio to collaborate with other friends and artists
Why you shouldn’t:
- If you want a standalone to stay put in your studio. There are more solutions out there with more features and specifications to give you a more complete drum machine, such as the X next listed.
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MPC X
We’re glad Akai is still staying true to their roots when it comes to creating beastly standalone drum machines. If you want the newest, baddest, most complete MPC that keeps in mind that vintage MPC signature as well as all of the current technologically advanced trends, here’s your answer. With a mixture of both vintage MPC features and new technology, we have 10.1″ touch display (full-color), 16 touch Q-Link controls (with OLED displays), RCA inputs for turntables, 16GB of on-board sounds, expandable SATA drive bay (for an SSD or HDD drive), USB slots for MIDI, and more.
If you want even more standalone power, there are some CV ports for traditional synthesizers, drum machines, or really anything you want to (or know how to) use the VC gate for. This feature alone helps give the X drum machine a name for itself as a modular sequencer for advanced users. It also comes with The Vault 2.0 (a trend with the past few models) in 10 GB of sounds to get going as soon as it arrives on your door step.
Main features: 63 dedicated-function buttons, 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads with 8 banks, 2 GB RAM, 16 GB on-board storage, 10″ touch-screen, numerous connections (such as RCA, 1/4″, XLR, MIDI, USB, and more).
Why you should get one:
- You want the newest of the new, best of the best
- Those who want the most power-packed MPC available to date
- A standalone without the need of a computer
Why you shouldn’t:
- Are looking to supplement an existing digital-based setup — it would be a waste of money if you aren’t looking for strictly a standalone MPC drum machine, although be our guest if you have the cash and just want to switch it up sometimes
- Want a portable MPC
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Conclusion
- Want a warm, vintage sound? Go with the 60.
- What a thick, solid sound that’s more advanced than others? Go with the 3000.
- An MPC that isn’t overloaded with features you may not need, but is still capable of professional sounding music? The 2500 or even the 1000.
- Want an MPC that’s easy to use? Go with the 1000 or 2500 due to their compatibility with a nice third-party operating system, the JJ OS.
- Want a portable MPC to make beats on the beach or subway? The 500 and 1000 are your best bet.
- Want the newest of the new that blends both new technology and classic MPC feel as standalone? Check out the X or even Live.
- Need an MPC to accompany your existing setup and don’t need a standalone? The Studio or Touch are great.
Some other aspects to remember:
- Do you want to keep up with the times? Or keep it old school with a vintage drum machine by Akai? Perhaps both? Some say they grab old school machines for fun now. However, you may be of the smaller percent who just don’t care for new-age technology. Do you.
- Which MPC do you see yourself using the longest?
- It’s always possible to upgrade later – a la selling your current MPC to invest in upgrading to another model.
- Remain patient if you can’t find the MPC you’re looking for (especially older models) at a good price. The prices on eBay, Amazon and even Guitar Center vary frequently as people list their MPC’s randomly here and there. Scour and research for a week or two before you make a decision (unless you find a sweet deal, jump on it ASAP).
- Did this help? Let us know in the comments!
You can also always take a look at MIDI keyboard controllers or MIDI drum pads if you’re looking for something to accommodate your current setup. Regardless of which route you go, Akai gear in general has been prestige since they first came out and will continue to dominate the music equipment market for times to come. I just miss the old school MPC’s, but that may be the vintage side of me…I wish I still had my 1000 to play around with from time to time to bring me back to the good ol days. Maybe I’ll grab one for fun if I can find it for cheap. Thanks for reading.
