Akai has released new versions of its MPC One sampler and MPC Key 37 workstation, featuring improved specs such as better processors, additional RAM, and more storage.
These refreshes bring in new 8-core processors that should speed up operations and allow for larger projects, along with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage.
The company promises dramatically faster load times, larger project capacity, and smoother standalone sessions, with both machines supporting up to 32 simultaneous virtual instruments and 16 concurrent stereo tracks in standalone mode.
This is a significant upgrade from the original MPC One and Key 37, which could handle around eight simultaneous virtual instruments and eight stereo tracks.
Having 16 stereo tracks is more than enough for making a full song, as 8 tracks can be limiting in some cases.
Both machines run Akai’s latest MPC 3.9 operating system, which provides a standalone production platform with a full linear arranger, expanded arrangement workflows, and a new synth engine.
This operating system, combined with a 7-inch multitouch color display, gives creators just about everything they need to make a full song.
The devices also integrate with most DAWs, for projects that exceed standalone capacity, and connect to a computer via a single USB-C cable, which can be used for USB connections.
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This cable can also be used to capture audio for samples from external sources like phones, tablets, and even record players.
Both machines ship with a good amount of software to get started, including free access to the Native Instruments Analog Dreams virtual instrument.
Given that Native Instruments and Akai are now under the same corporate umbrella, they can expect even more Native Instruments content in the future.
The Akai MPC One G2 costs $800 and the Key 37 G2 costs $1,000, with both available for purchase now.
The primary difference between the two is that the Key 37 has a keyboard, making it a good choice for traditional songwriters, while the MPC One is a fantastic machine for sample-based music.
According to the filing, these new versions of the MPC One and Key 37 are designed to provide a more seamless music production experience.
New Features and Upgrades
The new 8-core processors and 4GB of RAM provide a significant boost to the devices’ performance, allowing for faster load times and larger project capacity.
The 64GB of internal storage also provides ample space for storing samples, projects, and other data.
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Additionally, the MPC 3.9 operating system provides a range of new features and improvements, including a new synth engine and expanded arrangement workflows.
For example, the 7-inch multitouch color display makes it easy to handle and control the devices, while the USB-C connection provides a convenient way to connect to a computer or other devices.
Comparison to Previous Models
Compared to the original MPC One and Key 37, the new versions offer a significant upgrade in terms of performance and features.
The ability to handle up to 32 simultaneous virtual instruments and 16 concurrent stereo tracks makes the new devices much more capable than their predecessors.
Overall, the new MPC One G2 and Key 37 G2 offer a powerful and flexible music production solution for musicians and producers.
One music producer noted that the ability to integrate with most DAWs and capture audio from external sources makes the devices extremely versatile.
For more information on the Akai MPC One G2 and Key 37 G2, including pricing and availability, visit the Akai website.
They are available now.
