Akai MPC Live II —  VS  — Korg Electribe Sampler 2

A Quick Look at the Akai MPC Live II and the Korg Electribe Sampler 2

Are you a music gear enthusiast on the hunt for the perfect sampler? Look no further! Today, we’re diving into the features of two popular samplers: the Akai MPC Live II and the Korg Electribe Sampler 2. We’ll explore how these two devices compare, helping you decide which one might be the right fit for your musical journey.

Introduction

Sampling is an exciting way to create music! Whether you’re a budding musician or a seasoned producer, having the right sampler can make all the difference. Samplers let you take sounds from the world around you, cut them up, and turn them into something brand new. Today, we’re comparing two standout samplers: the Akai MPC Live II and the Korg Electribe Sampler 2. These two machines have unique features that cater to different needs, so let’s dive in and see what each one offers!

The Akai MPC Live II: A Modern Music Powerhouse

The Akai MPC Live II is like having a whole studio in your backpack! Released by Akai Professional in 2020, this sampler is packed with features that make it a powerful tool for music creation.

Features and Design

The MPC Live II stands out with its sleek design and a large 7-inch multi-touch display. This screen makes navigating through its features a breeze. It has 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads that light up in different colors, which is super cool and helpful for playing beats and melodies. Plus, it has built-in speakers, so you can play your music anywhere, anytime. And with its extended battery life, you’re free to create music on the go without worrying about running out of juice.

Sound and Effects

With 128-voice polyphony, the MPC Live II can handle complex arrangements with ease. It also has a wide range of effects like EQ, reverb, delay, and compression, allowing you to shape your sound just the way you like it. The internal SSD storage means you have plenty of space to store your samples and projects.

Connectivity and Software

The MPC Live II offers plenty of connectivity options, including MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out. It also integrates seamlessly with MPC Software, providing an even more powerful platform for music production. Whether you’re working in a studio or performing live, the MPC Live II has you covered.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Large, responsive touch screen
• 16 colorful, velocity-sensitive pads
• Standalone functionality with built-in speakers
• Extensive connectivity options
• Powerful effects and software integration

Cons:

• Higher price point at $1400
• More complex interface that may be challenging for beginners

The Korg Electribe Sampler 2: A Compact Groovebox

The Korg Electribe Sampler 2, released in 2014 by Korg, is a fantastic choice for those who love making beats and grooves. It’s a compact groovebox that packs a punch despite its small size.

Features and Design

Unlike the MPC Live II, the Electribe Sampler 2 is a desktop unit. It doesn’t have pads but uses buttons for triggering samples. Its compact design makes it easy to fit on any desk or performance setup. The LCD display, while smaller, still provides all the information you need to control your music.

Sound and Effects

With 64-voice polyphony, the Electribe Sampler 2 might not handle as many simultaneous sounds as the MPC Live II, but it still offers plenty for most music-making needs. It comes with multiple effects that allow you to transform your sounds in creative ways. You store your sounds on an SD card, which makes it easy to swap out projects.

Connectivity and Flexibility

The Electribe Sampler 2 provides MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, offering plenty of ways to connect with other gear. However, it doesn’t integrate with specific software, so it’s more of a standalone experience. This can be a plus if you prefer focusing on the hardware itself.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable price at $600
• Compact and portable design
• Easy-to-use interface
• Multiple effects for sound shaping
• SD card storage for easy project swapping

Cons:

• No velocity-sensitive pads
• Lower polyphony compared to the MPC Live II
• No dedicated software integration

Comparing the Two: Which One is for You?

Now that we’ve covered the features of both the Akai MPC Live II and the Korg Electribe Sampler 2, let’s see how they stack up against each other.

Ease of Use

The Electribe Sampler 2 is known for its straightforward and easy-to-use interface, making it a great choice for beginners or those who prefer a more hands-on approach. On the other hand, the MPC Live II offers a more complex interface with a touchscreen, which might take some time to master but provides deeper control over your music.

Portability

Both devices are portable, but the MPC Live II takes the cake with its built-in speakers and battery, allowing you to create music anywhere. The Electribe Sampler 2 needs to be plugged in, but its small size makes it easy to carry around.

Sound and Flexibility

If you’re looking for more voices and the ability to create complex arrangements, the MPC Live II with its 128-voice polyphony is the way to go. However, if you’re into groove-making and want a simpler tool, the Electribe Sampler 2’s 64-voice polyphony should suffice.

Price

The MPC Live II is significantly more expensive at $1400, while the Electribe Sampler 2 is more budget-friendly at $600. If you’re looking for something that offers a lot of features at a lower price, the Electribe Sampler 2 might be the better option.

Final Verdict: Who Should Choose Which?

The Akai MPC Live II is perfect for musicians and producers who want a powerful, all-in-one device for creating music. Its rich features and software integration make it ideal for those who want to dive deep into music production and perform live without a computer.

On the other hand, the Korg Electribe Sampler 2 is great for beginners or those looking for a simpler, more affordable way to create grooves and beats. Its compact design and easy-to-use interface make it a fantastic choice for musicians who want to focus on the hardware and experiment with sound.

Whichever sampler you choose, both the Akai MPC Live II and the Korg Electribe Sampler 2 offer unique tools to help you unleash your musical creativity. Happy sampling!