Akai MPC Live II — VS — Akai MPC X
Akai MPC Live II
The MPC Live II is a portable, all-in-one music maker with built-in speakers and a rechargeable battery. You can make music anywhere, hear your beats clearly, and connect to Wi-Fi to grab samples or control Ableton Live. It's powerful, easy to use, and ready whenever inspiration strikes.
Akai MPC X
The MPC X is a powerful music-making machine that works with or without a computer. It has a big touchscreen, colorful pads, and tons of sounds built in. You can plug in microphones, turntables, and instruments, or add even more music with USB drives and SD cards. It's great for making beats, recording songs, and controlling other music gear. The MPC X is made for serious creators who want everything in one place.
| Spec | Akai MPC Live II | Akai MPC X |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Akai Professional | Akai Professional |
| Year Released | 2020 | 2017 |
| Polyphony | 128 | 128 |
| Sample Rate | 44.1kHz | 44.1kHz |
| Storage | Internal SSD | Internal SSD |
| Pads | 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads | 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads |
| Sequencer | Yes | Yes |
| Effects | EQ, Reverb, Delay, Compression | EQ, Reverb, Delay, Compression |
| I/O | MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio In/Out | MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio In/Out |
| Screen | 7-inch multi-touch display | 10.1-inch multi-touch display |
| Software Integration | MPC Software | MPC Software |
| Build | Standalone | Standalone |
| Price | $1,299 | $2500 |
| More about | Details | Details |
Buy the Akai MPC Live II on Amazon.com
Buy Now On AmazonBuy the Akai MPC X on Amazon.com
Buy Now On AmazonA Quick Look at the Akai MPC Live II and Akai MPC X
If you’re a music enthusiast deciding between the Akai MPC Live II and the Akai MPC X, you’re in for a treat! Both of these music production centers come loaded with features that can take your music-making to the next level. In this blog post, we’ll break down what makes each of these samplers unique and help you choose the right one for your creative needs.
Introduction
Welcome to the world of Akai Professional, where beats come alive and music production becomes a seamless experience. Here, we’re diving into two powerhouse samplers: the Akai MPC Live II and the Akai MPC X. Both are stellar standalone devices, but they cater to different musicians with varying needs. Whether you’re crafting beats in your bedroom or performing live on stage, choosing the right sampler is crucial. Let’s see which one fits your groove!
Features Face-Off: MPC Live II vs. MPC X
Design and Build
The Akai MPC Live II and the Akai MPC X are both designed to be standalone devices, meaning you don’t need a computer to create music. The MPC Live II offers a sleeker and more portable design, making it ideal for musicians on the go. It even has built-in speakers and an extended battery life, allowing you to make music anywhere without needing external power or amplification.
On the other hand, the MPC X is the flagship model. It’s larger and features a bigger 10.1-inch multi-touch display compared to the 7-inch screen on the MPC Live II. This makes navigating through your projects more comfortable and gives you more room to work, though it comes at the cost of portability.
Performance Features
Both samplers boast 128-note polyphony and a sample rate of 44.1kHz, ensuring high-quality sound production. They are equipped with 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads, which are perfect for drum programming and triggering samples. These pads are a staple of the MPC line, known for their responsive feel and durability.
The built-in sequencer on both devices allows you to arrange your music seamlessly, while the effects section, including EQ, Reverb, Delay, and Compression, provides all the tools you need to polish your tracks.
Connectivity and Integration
When it comes to connectivity, both devices offer MIDI In/Out, USB, and audio In/Out options, ensuring they can easily integrate into any studio setup. They also support Akai’s MPC Software for seamless integration with your computer, should you choose to extend your production capabilities further.
However, the defining factor in this category is the MPC Live II’s portability, with its built-in speakers and battery, which make it the perfect companion for mobile music production.
Price and Value
Price is a significant factor when choosing between these two samplers. The MPC Live II is priced at $1400, making it a more affordable choice for musicians who need a versatile and portable production unit. The MPC X, priced at $2500, reflects its status as Akai’s flagship model, offering a larger screen and more professional features, which might justify the higher cost for some users.
Pros and Cons
Akai MPC Live II
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight
- Built-in speakers and extended battery life
- Affordable price point
- Versatile connectivity options
Cons:
- Smaller screen compared to the MPC X
- May lack some advanced features for professional studio use
Akai MPC X
Pros:
- Large 10.1-inch multi-touch display
- Professional-grade features
- Highly versatile and capable of handling complex projects
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Bulky and less portable
- No built-in speakers or battery
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Akai MPC Live II and the Akai MPC X are excellent choices for music producers, but they serve different needs. The MPC Live II is perfect for musicians who value portability and convenience without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who like to create on the move and need a reliable all-in-one solution.
Meanwhile, the MPC X stands out for its professional features and larger screen, making it better suited for studio work where space and portability are less of a concern. Its higher price is justified by the advanced capabilities it offers, making it a worthwhile investment for serious producers.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy Which?
For the traveling artist or bedroom producer looking for a portable yet powerful production tool, the Akai MPC Live II is your best bet. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to make beats anywhere, thanks to its built-in speakers and battery.
If you’re a professional looking for the ultimate MPC experience with a bigger workspace and don’t mind the higher price tag, the Akai MPC X will meet your needs. Its expansive features and larger screen make it perfect for complex studio projects.
Happy music-making, and may your beats always be fresh!