Akai MPC Live II —  VS  — Elektron Digitakt

Summary

In this blog post, we compare two popular music samplers: the Akai MPC Live II and the Elektron Digitakt. Both have unique features that make them special, but they also cater to different types of musicians. Read on to find out which sampler might be the best fit for you!

Introduction

Are you someone who loves to make music? If so, you probably know how important it is to have the right gear. Today, we’re going to talk about two exciting music samplers: the Akai MPC Live II and the Elektron Digitakt. These nifty devices can help you create amazing sounds and beats. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned music producer, there’s something for everyone in these two samplers. Let’s jump right in and see what they’re all about!

Feature Comparisons

Sound and Polyphony

When it comes to sound, both the Akai MPC Live II and Elektron Digitakt have their own styles. The Akai MPC Live II offers a whopping 128 voices of polyphony. This means you can play many sounds at the same time, which is great if you like to make complex music with lots of layers. On the other hand, the Elektron Digitakt has 8 voices of polyphony. While this might seem less, it can be perfect for simpler beats and rhythms where each sound stands out.

Sample Rate and Storage

The Akai MPC Live II has a sample rate of 44.1kHz, which is the standard for most music production. It also comes with an internal SSD for storage. This means you have plenty of space to store your sounds and projects. Meanwhile, the Elektron Digitakt works at a slightly higher sample rate of 48kHz, which can capture more detail in your audio. It also has internal storage, though not as vast as the MPC Live II. Both devices let you store your musical creations, but the Akai MPC Live II offers more room to grow.

Pads and Controls

Are you someone who likes tapping pads to create beats? If yes, the Akai MPC Live II might be your choice. It has 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads that light up and respond to how hard you hit them. This can make playing and creating music a lot of fun. In contrast, the Elektron Digitakt doesn’t have pads. Instead, it uses buttons for control. This might appeal to musicians who prefer precision and a different kind of tactile feedback.

Sequencer and Effects

Both devices come with powerful sequencers. These help you arrange and order your sounds to create songs. The Akai MPC Live II includes effects like EQ, Reverb, Delay, and Compression. These can be used to shape your sound and give it more depth. The Elektron Digitakt also offers Reverb and Delay effects, which can add spaciousness and echo to your music. While both devices have great effects, the MPC Live II provides a bit more variety.

Connectivity and Screen

Connectivity is key when integrating samplers with other music equipment. The Akai MPC Live II offers MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, making it versatile for various setups. It also boasts a 7-inch multi-touch display, which is large and intuitive. This screen can make navigating your projects easy and enjoyable. The Elektron Digitakt has MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, and Audio Out, making it slightly less versatile in terms of audio inputs. It features an OLED display, which is bright and clear, though smaller than the MPC’s screen.

Build and Price

The build of these devices is quite different. The Akai MPC Live II is a standalone unit, meaning it can operate without needing a computer. This makes it portable and convenient for on-the-go music making. Its built-in speakers and extended battery life are a big plus. The Elektron Digitakt is a desktop unit, designed to be used in studios or at home. It’s compact and easy to fit into tight spaces. In terms of price, the MPC Live II is higher at $1400, while the Digitakt is more budget-friendly at $700.

Pros and Cons

Akai MPC Live II

Pros:

• Large polyphony (128 voices) for complex music.
• 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads.
• Wide range of effects (EQ, Reverb, Delay, Compression).
• Large 7-inch multi-touch display.
• Standalone operation with built-in speakers.

Cons:

• Higher price point ($1400).
• Larger and potentially less portable than desktop units.

Elektron Digitakt

Pros:

• Compact and desktop-friendly build.
• Higher sample rate of 48kHz.
• Budget-friendly price ($700).
• Bright OLED display.
• Deep sequencing capabilities.

Cons:

• Limited polyphony (8 voices).
• No pads, uses buttons instead.
• Fewer effects compared to MPC Live II.

Final Verdict

Both the Akai MPC Live II and Elektron Digitakt are fantastic samplers, but they serve different needs. The Akai MPC Live II is best for musicians who want a feature-rich, standalone unit that can handle complex compositions with ease. It’s great for performers and producers who need a comprehensive tool with built-in speakers and a large touch screen. On the other hand, the Elektron Digitakt is perfect for those who are looking for a compact and affordable option with deep sequencing power. It’s ideal for electronic music producers who love buttons and want a desktop-friendly device.

Choosing between these two depends on your budget, space, and specific music-making needs. Happy music making!