Akai MPC Live II —  VS  — EMU SP-1200 (reissued in 2021)

A Tale of Two Samplers: Akai MPC Live II vs. EMU SP-1200 (Reissued in 2021)

When it comes to music samplers, the Akai MPC Live II and the EMU SP-1200 are two exciting options. Each has its own style and strengths. But which one is right for you? Let’s dig into what makes these samplers unique and find out.

Introduction

Music is like magic. It can make us feel happy, sad, or excited. And just like a magician needs tools, musicians need instruments. Samplers are special tools that help musicians create their magical sounds. Today, we’re going to explore two very different samplers: the Akai MPC Live II and the EMU SP-1200 (reissued in 2021). One is modern and powerful, while the other is a classic with a lo-fi charm. Let’s see what makes each of them special.

Meet the Akai MPC Live II

The Akai MPC Live II is like a spaceship of sound. It was made by Akai Professional in 2020. This sampler is packed with features that make it a favorite among modern musicians. It has 128-note polyphony, which means it can play many notes at the same time. This is great for creating complex music. The sample rate is 44.1kHz, giving it clear and high-quality sound. Plus, it has 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads that light up and can be played like drums.

The MPC Live II also has a large 7-inch multi-touch display. This screen is like a mini-computer, making it easy to see what you’re doing. The sampler is standalone, meaning it doesn’t need a computer to work. It even has a built-in solid-state drive (SSD) for storing lots of music. And with built-in speakers and a long-lasting battery, you can make music anywhere.

Pros of the Akai MPC Live II

• High Polyphony: Can handle complex tracks.
• Clear Sound: 44.1kHz sample rate.
• Portable: Built-in speakers and battery.
• User-Friendly: Large touch display.
• Versatile Connectivity: MIDI, USB, and Audio In/Out options.

Cons of the Akai MPC Live II

• Pricey: At $1400, it’s a significant investment.
• Complexity: The many features can be overwhelming for beginners.

Say Hello to the EMU SP-1200 (Reissued in 2021)

The EMU SP-1200 is like a time machine. Originally made in the 1980s, it was reissued in 2021. This sampler is famous for its lo-fi sound, which gives music a warm and gritty feel. It has 12-note polyphony, so it can play fewer notes at once compared to the MPC Live II. The sample rate is 26.04kHz, which is lower and adds to its unique sound character.

Unlike the MPC Live II, the SP-1200 doesn’t have pads or a screen. It’s a classic hardware reissue that stays true to its roots. This makes it a favorite for musicians who love vintage gear. It has internal memory for storing samples, but no software integration. It’s pure hardware, which some musicians find charming.

Pros of the EMU SP-1200

• Distinctive Sound: Lo-fi character beloved by many.
• Nostalgic Appeal: Classic design and feel.
• Simple Design: No screens or pads to complicate things.

Cons of the EMU SP-1200

• Limited Polyphony: Only 12 notes at a time.
• No Display or Pads: Less interactive.
• Pricey for Features: Costs $1500 despite fewer features.

Features Compared

Polyphony and Sound Quality

The Akai MPC Live II shines with its 128-note polyphony and high sample rate. This makes it ideal for creating rich and full compositions. You can layer sounds without worrying about running out of notes. In contrast, the EMU SP-1200 offers 12-note polyphony and a lower sample rate. This might seem like a disadvantage, but it contributes to its lo-fi magic. Musicians who love hip-hop and gritty sounds often prefer this.

User Interface

The MPC Live II features a 7-inch multi-touch display, making it user-friendly and dynamic. It’s like having a mini studio at your fingertips. You can easily navigate through menus, edit samples, and control effects with a swipe. On the other hand, the SP-1200 is for those who enjoy a simpler setup. With no screen or pads, it encourages you to focus on the sound.

Connectivity and Integration

Akai’s sampler offers a range of connectivity options, including MIDI, USB, and audio inputs and outputs. This makes it versatile and easy to integrate into modern setups. The MPC Live II also supports MPC Software, adding another layer of functionality. The SP-1200, however, is more about the raw experience. It doesn’t integrate with software, appealing to purists who want to keep things simple.

Build and Portability

Both samplers have their strengths. The MPC Live II is a powerhouse that you can take anywhere, thanks to its built-in battery and speakers. It’s standalone, so you don’t need a computer to make music. The SP-1200 sticks to its classic hardware roots, making it less portable but more nostalgic. It’s like holding a piece of music history.

Who Are They Best For?

The Akai MPC Live II is perfect for modern musicians who want a versatile and powerful tool. If you love technology and want a sampler that can do it all, this is for you. The large screen and wide range of effects make it great for electronic music producers and beatmakers.

The EMU SP-1200 is best for those who love vintage vibes and lo-fi sounds. If you’re a hip-hop producer or someone who appreciates the charm of older gear, you’ll love this sampler. Its simplicity and unique sound make it a favorite for creating gritty, nostalgic tracks.

Conclusion

In the end, both the Akai MPC Live II and the EMU SP-1200 are incredible samplers, each with its own strengths. The MPC Live II is a modern marvel, packed with features and flexibility. The SP-1200 brings a piece of history back to life, offering a distinctive lo-fi sound. Depending on your style and needs, one of these samplers will surely help you make your own musical magic.

For more details, check out the complete pages on the Akai MPC Live II and the EMU SP-1200 (reissued in 2021).