Akai MPC Live II — VS — Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler
Akai MPC Live II
The MPC Live II is a portable, all-in-one music maker with built-in speakers and a rechargeable battery. You can make music anywhere, hear your beats clearly, and connect to Wi-Fi to grab samples or control Ableton Live. It's powerful, easy to use, and ready whenever inspiration strikes.
Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler
The Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler is a concept sampler built around a playful and whimsical medieval theme. While details are limited, it appears to be a creative tool for experimental sound design and live fun, as part of TE's quirky product line.
| Spec | Akai MPC Live II | Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Akai Professional | Teenage Engineering |
| Year Released | 2020 | 2024 |
| Polyphony | 128 | Unknown |
| Sample Rate | 44.1kHz | Unknown |
| Storage | Internal SSD | Unknown |
| Pads | 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads | Keys + knobs |
| Sequencer | Yes | Yes |
| Effects | EQ, Reverb, Delay, Compression | Yes |
| I/O | MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio In/Out | Unknown |
| Screen | 7-inch multi-touch display | Unknown |
| Software Integration | MPC Software | Likely USB or companion app |
| Build | Standalone | Boutique novelty sampler |
| Price | $1,299 | $499 (est.) |
| More about | Details | Details |
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Buy Now On AmazonComparing the Akai MPC Live II and Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler
Are you ready to dive into the world of samplers? Today, we’re exploring two exciting options: the Akai MPC Live II and the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler. These two samplers are both unique and offer something special for music makers. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting your musical journey, let’s discover which one might be the best fit for you!
Introduction
Music is an incredible way to express yourself, and with the right tools, you can create magic. Samplers are one of these amazing tools that let you capture, manipulate, and play sounds in a way that’s uniquely yours. Today, we have two samplers that cater to different styles and needs: the Akai MPC Live II and the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler. Each brings its own charm and capabilities to the table, so let’s dive into their features and see how they stack up against each other.
Features of the Akai MPC Live II
The Akai MPC Live II is a powerhouse in the world of samplers. It’s built for serious music makers who want a comprehensive tool to create beats, loops, and entire songs. Released in 2020 by Akai Professional, it’s a standalone device, meaning it doesn’t need to be connected to a computer to work.
Design and Build
The MPC Live II sports a solid build with a sleek design. It comes with 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads that are perfect for finger drumming and triggering samples. The 7-inch multi-touch display adds an intuitive interface for navigating through menus and manipulating sounds.
Sound and Connectivity
With a polyphony of 128 voices, the MPC Live II allows for rich and complex arrangements. It offers a sample rate of 44.1kHz, ensuring high-quality audio playback. The device also boasts an internal SSD for ample storage, so you can keep all your projects and samples right at your fingertips.
On the connectivity front, this sampler is well-equipped. It includes MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out ports, making it easy to integrate with other gear in your studio setup. Plus, it has built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, letting you download samples and connect with software like Ableton Live.
Effects and Sequencing
The MPC Live II is loaded with effects such as EQ, Reverb, Delay, and Compression. These tools are essential for shaping the sound of your music. Additionally, it features a powerful sequencer, allowing you to arrange and layer your sounds effortlessly.
Portability
One of the standout features of the MPC Live II is its portability. It has built-in speakers and a rechargeable battery, making it perfect for on-the-go music creation. Whether you’re in your studio or out on the road, you can make music anywhere with ease.
Features of the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler
The Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler is quite different from the MPC Live II. Released in 2024, this sampler is more of a creative and playful tool. It’s perfect for those who love to experiment with sound design and have fun with their music.
Design and Build
The EP-1320 Medieval Sampler is designed with a whimsical medieval theme, making it a unique addition to any music creator’s toolkit. It features keys and knobs instead of traditional pads, which adds to its quirky charm.
Sound and Connectivity
Details on the EP-1320’s sound capabilities are sparse. Information on its polyphony, sample rate, and storage is unknown, making it a bit of a mystery. However, it is likely to connect via USB or through a companion app, which is common with Teenage Engineering products.
Effects and Sequencing
While specific effects are not detailed, the sampler does come with built-in effects and sequencing capabilities. This suggests it’s designed for creative sound exploration and live performance fun.
Portability
This sampler is a boutique novelty product, and its estimated price of $499 makes it more accessible than the MPC Live II. While it’s not designed for serious music production, it’s perfect for those who love to experiment and play with sounds.
Pros and Cons
Akai MPC Live II
Pros:
- High polyphony of 128 voices
- 7-inch multi-touch display for easy navigation
- Built-in speakers and rechargeable battery for portability
- Comprehensive connectivity options
- Loaded with professional-grade effects
Cons:
- Higher price point at $1,299
- More features may be overwhelming for beginners
Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler
Pros:
- Unique and playful design
- More affordable at an estimated $499
- Great for experimental sound design
- Simple keys and knobs interface
Cons:
- Limited information on technical specifications
- Designed more for fun than serious music production
Who Are These Samplers Best For?
The Akai MPC Live II is ideal for professional musicians and producers who need a robust, all-in-one music-making machine. Its comprehensive features and connectivity options make it perfect for those who want to create music anywhere, anytime.
On the other hand, the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler is best for hobbyists and those who enjoy experimenting with sounds in a playful way. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to add a unique and fun tool to their music-making arsenal.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Akai MPC Live II and the Teenage Engineering EP-1320 Medieval Sampler comes down to what you need in a sampler. If you’re after a powerful, portable, and professional music-making device, the MPC Live II is your go-to. But if you’re seeking a fun and creative tool that doesn’t break the bank, the EP-1320 Medieval Sampler might just be the perfect fit. Whatever your choice, both samplers open up a world of musical possibilities!