Akai MPC Live II —  VS  — Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3

Quick Summary

Choosing the right sampler or groovebox can be a tough decision for music enthusiasts. Today, we’re comparing two popular choices: the Akai MPC Live II and the Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3. Both are great tools for making music, but they have some key differences. Let’s dive in to see which one might be the best fit for you!

Introduction

For anyone looking to dive into music production, picking the right gear is crucial. The world of music samplers is vast, and two standout options on the market are the Akai MPC Live II and the Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3. Both of these devices are beloved by musicians and producers alike, but they cater to different needs. In this blog post, we’ll explore their features, pros and cons, and who each device is best suited for. Whether you’re a budding beatmaker or an experienced producer, there’s something here for you.

Feature Comparison

Build and Design

The Akai MPC Live II is a standalone device, meaning it doesn’t need a computer to create music. This makes it a wonderful choice for those who want to make music on the go. It has a sturdy build with 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads that light up in different colors, making it visually appealing and fun to use. Plus, it comes with built-in speakers and a rechargeable battery, so you can make beats anytime, anywhere.

On the other hand, the Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3 is a controller, which means it needs to be connected to a computer. It’s smaller and lighter, making it easy to carry around. It also has 16 large velocity-sensitive pads, though they’re not RGB like the MPC. The Mikro Mk3 is powered by USB, so you don’t have to worry about keeping it charged.

Sound and Performance

Both samplers offer impressive sound capabilities with a polyphony of 128, allowing for rich and layered compositions. The Akai MPC Live II has an internal SSD for storage, which means you can store a lot of your samples and projects right on the device. It has a variety of effects like EQ, Reverb, Delay, and Compression to help you shape your sound.

The Maschine Mikro Mk3 also offers great sound quality with internal storage for your samples. It includes EQ, Reverb, and Delay effects. While it doesn’t have as many built-in effects as the MPC Live II, it integrates seamlessly with Maschine Software, giving you access to a vast library of sounds and effects.

Screen and Interface

The MPC Live II features a 7-inch multi-touch display, making it easy to navigate and control your music projects. The touchscreen is intuitive and responsive, similar to using a tablet. This makes editing and arranging your music straightforward and enjoyable.

The Maschine Mikro Mk3 comes with a full-color display, which is smaller but still vibrant and clear. While it may not be as large or touch-responsive as the MPC Live II’s screen, it provides all the essential information you need while working with the device.

Connectivity and Integration

In terms of connectivity, the MPC Live II has the advantage with MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, offering more flexibility for connecting to other devices. It also supports Wi-Fi, which means you can easily download samples or control Ableton Live wirelessly.

The Maschine Mikro Mk3 connects to your computer via USB and offers MIDI In/Out and Audio Out. It integrates smoothly with major music software programs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio, making it a versatile tool in a digital music setup.

Pros and Cons

Akai MPC Live II

Pros:

• Standalone operation with built-in speakers and battery
• Large, intuitive 7-inch multi-touch display
• Extensive connectivity options
• Built-in storage for samples and projects
• Wide array of effects

Cons:

• Higher price point ($1,299)
• Bulkier than the Maschine Mikro Mk3
• Might be overkill for simple beatmaking needs

Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design
• Affordable price ($269)
• Seamless integration with Maschine Software
• USB-powered, no need for charging
• Compatible with major music software

Cons:

• Requires a computer to function
• Smaller screen with no touch capability
• Limited onboard effects compared to MPC Live II

Final Verdict

In summary, both the Akai MPC Live II and the Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3 are excellent devices, each catering to different needs. The MPC Live II is ideal for those who value portability and standalone functionality, making it great for musicians who want to create music anywhere without being tethered to a computer. On the other hand, the Maschine Mikro Mk3 is perfect for those who prefer working within a digital setup and want an affordable, compact controller that integrates effortlessly with their existing software.

If you’re a music enthusiast who loves the idea of making music on the go with no strings attached, the Akai MPC Live II might be your best bet. However, if you are budget-conscious, work primarily on a computer, and want a tool that seamlessly fits into your digital workflow, the Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3 is a fantastic choice.

Explore more about these samplers by visiting their dedicated pages: Akai MPC Live II and Native Instruments Maschine Mikro Mk3.