Akai MPC Live II vs. Korg Volca Sample: Which Sampler is Right for You?

Summary: Discover the differences between the Akai MPC Live II and the Korg Volca Sample. We’ll explore their features, pros, and cons to help you decide which sampler suits your music production needs.

Introduction

Hello, music lovers! Are you looking to add some fresh beats to your musical creations? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Today, we’re diving into the world of samplers, comparing two popular options: the Akai MPC Live II and the Korg Volca Sample. Both of these instruments are great for making music, but they have different features. Let’s take a closer look to see which one is the best fit for you!

Feature Comparisons

Sound and Polyphony

First, let’s talk about sound. The Akai MPC Live II is like a powerhouse with a polyphony of 128, which means it can play many sounds at once. This is great if you want to create complex music with lots of layers. On the other hand, the Korg Volca Sample has a polyphony of 16. While it can’t play as many sounds at the same time, it’s still good for making simple and catchy tunes.

Sampling and Storage

Sampling is all about recording sounds and using them to create music. The Akai MPC Live II has an internal SSD, which means it can store lots of samples. You can keep all your favorite sounds in one place! The Korg Volca Sample has internal memory, but it doesn’t store as much as the Akai. It’s more for those who like to keep things simple and straightforward.

Pads and Controls

When it comes to playing your music, the Akai MPC Live II has 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads. These pads are colorful and respond to how hard you hit them, which can add a lot of expression to your music. The Korg Volca Sample doesn’t have pads; instead, it uses buttons. This makes it a bit different to play, but some people like its simple setup.

Effects and Sequencing

Both samplers have effects to make your music sound amazing. The Akai MPC Live II offers EQ, Reverb, Delay, and Compression. These effects can really polish your tracks. The Korg Volca Sample has Reverb and Delay, which are great for adding some echo and depth to your music. Both have sequencers, so you can easily arrange your beats and melodies.

Screen and Display

The Akai MPC Live II has a big 7-inch multi-touch display. This screen is like a mini-computer, making it easy to see everything you’re doing. The Korg Volca Sample uses LED indicators, which are small lights that show you what’s happening. It’s simpler but might take a bit longer to get used to.

Integration and Connectivity

Connecting your sampler to other devices can open up a world of possibilities. The Akai MPC Live II integrates with MPC Software, which means you can easily connect it to your computer. It also has MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, so you can connect it to lots of other gear. The Korg Volca Sample has MIDI In and Audio Out, which is enough for basic setups but not as versatile as the Akai.

Build and Portability

The Akai MPC Live II is a standalone device, which means you don’t need a computer to use it. It also has built-in speakers and extended battery life, so you can make music anywhere! The Korg Volca Sample is very portable, too. It’s small and easy to carry, making it perfect for musicians on the go.

Price

Price is important when choosing a new instrument. The Akai MPC Live II costs around $1400, which is a big investment but worth it if you want lots of features. The Korg Volca Sample is much cheaper at $180. It’s a great choice if you’re just starting out or on a budget.

Pros and Cons

Akai MPC Live II

Pros:

• High polyphony (128) for complex music
• Large internal SSD for storing samples
• 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads
• Extensive effects: EQ, Reverb, Delay, Compression
• 7-inch multi-touch display
• Integrates with MPC Software
• Standalone with built-in speakers

Cons:

• Expensive at $1400
• Might be more than needed for beginners

Korg Volca Sample

Pros:

• Affordable at $180
• Portable and easy to carry
• Simple setup with step sequencer
• Reverb and Delay effects

Cons:

• Lower polyphony (16)
• Limited storage
• No pads, uses buttons
• Basic connectivity options

Final Verdict

So, which sampler should you choose? If you’re a professional or serious hobbyist looking for a powerful and versatile sampler, the Akai MPC Live II is the right choice. It’s packed with features that will help you create complex and polished music.

However, if you’re new to music production or want something simple and affordable, the Korg Volca Sample is perfect. It’s easy to use and great for making fun, catchy tunes without breaking the bank.

No matter which sampler you choose, both will help you make amazing music. Happy sampling!