Akai MPC Live — VS — Native Instruments Maschine+
Akai MPC Live
The MPC Live is a powerful, portable music-making machine you can use anywhere. It runs on a built-in battery, has tons of pro features, and works without a computer. You can plug in speakers, instruments, turntables, and more. With its bright screen, easy-to-use pads, and lots of ways to connect, the MPC Live is perfect for making music at home, in the studio, or on stage.
Native Instruments Maschine+
MASCHINE+ is a powerful music-making tool that lets you create beats, melodies, and full songs—no computer needed. It's a sampler, drum machine, and synth all in one, packed with built-in sounds, instruments, and effects.</p><p class='text-gray-700 mb-4'>Whether you're at home or on stage, MASCHINE+ gives you everything you need to make music quickly. Just turn it on, plug in your gear, and start creating. It's built tough for travel, has a fast processor for smooth performance, and includes pro-level audio connections. With MASCHINE+, you get the classic MASCHINE experience—now with more freedom and less hassle.
| Spec | Akai MPC Live | Native Instruments Maschine+ |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Akai Professional | Native Instruments |
| Year Released | 2017 | 2020 |
| Polyphony | 128 | 128 |
| Sample Rate | 44.1kHz | 44.1kHz |
| Storage | Internal SSD | Internal storage |
| Pads | 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads | 16 large velocity-sensitive pads |
| Sequencer | Yes | Yes |
| Effects | EQ, Reverb, Delay, Compression | EQ, Reverb, Delay |
| I/O | MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio In/Out | MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio Out |
| Screen | 7-inch multi-touch display | Full color display |
| Software Integration | MPC Software | Standalone Maschine Software |
| Build | Standalone | Standalone |
| Price | $1299 | $1400 |
| More about | Details | Details |
Buy the Akai MPC Live on Amazon.com
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Buy Now On AmazonSummary
If you’re looking for a standalone music production center, both the Akai MPC Live and the Native Instruments Maschine+ stand out as top contenders. Each offers unique features and strengths, making it essential to understand the differences to choose the right one for your music production needs.
Discovering the Best Standalone Sampler for You
Welcome to the world of music production! Choosing the right tools can make a huge difference in how you create and enjoy making music. Today, we’re diving into two popular standalone samplers: the Akai MPC Live and the Native Instruments Maschine+. Whether you’re a budding producer or a seasoned beatmaker, understanding the ins and outs of these machines will help you decide which one fits your style the best.
Meet the Contenders
Before diving into the specifics, let’s introduce our two main players.
- Akai MPC Live: Released in 2017 by Akai Professional, this device is known for its standalone capabilities and user-friendly touch screen.
- Native Instruments Maschine+: Launched in 2020, this device offers the power of Maschine software without needing a computer, thanks to its standalone design.
Features Face-Off
Both samplers are packed with features that make music production seamless and fun, but they have their own unique strengths.
Polyphony and Sample Rate
Both the Akai MPC Live and the Native Instruments Maschine+ offer a polyphony of 128 voices and a sample rate of 44.1kHz. This means that you can play many sounds at once, and the sound quality is top-notch on both devices. Whether you’re layering complex beats or creating lush soundscapes, both machines handle it with ease.
Storage and Build
The Akai MPC Live comes with an internal SSD, while the Maschine+ offers internal storage. Both are standalone, meaning you don’t need a computer to use them. This makes them perfect for music production on the go. The Akai MPC Live’s internal SSD might be appealing if you need extra space for your samples and projects.
Pads and Screens
Pads are where the magic happens! The Akai MPC Live features 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads, while the Maschine+ offers 16 large velocity-sensitive pads. Both are responsive and fun to play, allowing you to tap out beats with ease. When it comes to screens, the Akai MPC Live boasts a 7-inch multi-touch display, which is great for navigating menus and editing samples. The Maschine+ features a full-color display, providing clear visuals for all your production needs.
Sequencer and Software Integration
Both devices come with built-in sequencers, allowing you to arrange your beats and songs directly on the hardware. The Akai MPC Live integrates with MPC Software, while the Maschine+ uses standalone Maschine Software. Each software has its own ecosystem and workflow, so your choice might depend on which one you’re more comfortable with.
Effects and Connectivity
Both devices come equipped with essential effects like EQ, Reverb, and Delay. The Akai MPC Live adds Compression to the mix, which might be useful for some producers. In terms of connectivity, the Akai MPC Live includes MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, making it versatile for different studio setups. The Maschine+ offers MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio Out, which should cover most of your connection needs.
Pros and Cons
Akai MPC Live
Pros:
- Touch Screen: The 7-inch multi-touch display is intuitive and easy to use.
- Internal SSD: Offers ample storage space for samples and projects.
- Additional Effects: Includes compression for dynamic control.
Cons:
- Price: At $1200, it might be a bit pricey for beginners.
- Year of Release: Released in 2017, it might not have the latest features compared to newer models.
Native Instruments Maschine+
Pros:
- Standalone Power: No need for a computer, making it highly portable.
- Recent Release: Being newer, it might have more up-to-date features.
- Full Color Display: Offers clear and vibrant visuals.
Cons:
- Price: Even more expensive at $1400, which could be a hurdle for some.
- Limited Effects: Missing compression, which some producers might find limiting.
Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?
Both the Akai MPC Live and the Native Instruments Maschine+ are excellent choices for music producers looking for standalone samplers. Your decision will likely come down to personal preference and specific needs.
If you value a touch screen and extra storage, the Akai MPC Live might be the better choice. It’s great for producers who need a reliable, standalone solution and are comfortable with Akai’s workflow.
On the other hand, if you prefer a newer model with a vibrant display and don’t mind the higher price, the Maschine+ could be the perfect fit. It’s ideal for those who want the power of Maschine software without being tethered to a computer.
In the end, both samplers offer powerful features and the freedom to create music wherever you go. Happy music making!