Akai MPC Sample: The Future of Portable Beatmaking
For nearly 40 years, the MPC has been the heartbeat of music production, shaping genres from hip-hop to electronic music. With the release of the Akai MPC Sample, Akai Professional has distilled that legendary workflow into its most portable and accessible form yet. This compact powerhouse is designed for creators who want the “MPC feel” without being tethered to a desk or a laptop.
Overview: Iconic Workflow, Anywhere
The MPC Sample is a standalone, battery-powered groovebox that prioritizes speed and inspiration. It isn’t just a smaller MPC; it’s a refined version of the classic workflow. Whether you’re on a plane, in a park, or backstage, you can sample, sequence, and finish tracks using a tactile interface centered around 16 RGB velocity-sensitive pads with polyphonic aftertouch.
With a built-in speaker, internal microphone, and up to five hours of battery life, it is a truly self-contained creative tool.
Key Features
- Legendary Performance Pads: 16 RGB backlit pads with polyphonic aftertouch for expressive beatmaking.
- Comprehensive Sampling: Record via the internal mic, stereo 1/4″ TRS inputs, or directly from your phone via USB-C.
- Advanced Editing: High-resolution 2.4-inch color LCD for precise waveform editing and sample chopping.
- Powerful Sound Engine: 32-voice polyphony with disk streaming and 2GB of RAM.
- Extensive Effects: 4 internal effects processors with over 60 effect types, including the new “Retro Color” master compressor.
- Standalone Portability: Built-in 3W speaker and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (approx. 5 hours of use).
- Connectivity: USB-C (Audio/MIDI), MIDI In/Out (3.5mm), Sync Out, and microSD slot for expandable storage (8GB internal).
Pricing Guide
The MPC Sample is positioned as one of the most affordable entry points into the MPC ecosystem. Prices may vary by retailer, but the standard launch pricing is as follows:
| Currency | Estimated Price |
| USD | $399 |
| EURO | €399 |
| UK (GBP) | £349 |
| AUD | $699 |
Technical Summary Table
| Feature | Specification |
| Pads | 16 RGB-lit, velocity-sensitive with Poly Aftertouch |
| Display | 2.4-inch Full-Color LCD |
| Polyphony | 32 Stereo Voices (with disk streaming) |
| Storage | 8GB Internal (expandable via microSD) |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 Hours (Rechargeable via USB-C) |
| I/O | 2x 1/4″ TRS In/Out, 1/8″ Headphone, MIDI In/Out, Sync Out |
| Weight/Size | 23.6 x 19.4 x 5.0 cm |
🛒 Get it at Thomann
You can purchase the new Akai MPC Sample directly from Thomann, one of the world’s leading music retailers.
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