Akai MPC Live vs Sonicware Liven Lofi-12: Which Sampler is Right for You?

Summary: In this blog post, we explore two popular samplers: the Akai MPC Live and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12. We will compare their features, discuss their pros and cons, and help you decide which one suits your music-making needs.

Introduction

Music is a universal language, and with the right tools, anyone can create their own musical masterpiece. Two exciting gadgets that help with this are the Akai MPC Live and the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12. These devices are samplers, which means they can record sounds and play them back in creative ways. Whether you’re a budding musician or an experienced producer, choosing the right sampler can make your music journey much more enjoyable. Let’s dive in and see what each of these devices has to offer!

Feature Comparison

Sounds and Polyphony

The number of sounds a sampler can play at once is called polyphony. The Akai MPC Live is quite impressive in this area, with a polyphony of 128. This means it can handle complex compositions with many layers of sound. In contrast, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 has a more modest polyphony of 10. This makes it better suited for simpler, more focused tracks.

Sampling Quality

Sampling quality is another important feature. The Akai MPC Live samples at 44.1kHz, which is the same quality as a CD. This ensures clear and crisp sound reproduction. On the other hand, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 offers 12kHz and 24kHz sampling rates. These lower rates give it a unique vintage sound, reminiscent of older samplers, perfect for those who love lo-fi textures.

Storage and Connectivity

When it comes to storing your creations, the Akai MPC Live includes an internal SSD, providing plenty of space for all your samples and projects. For connectivity, it offers MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, making it easy to connect to various devices.

The Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 uses an SD card for storage, which can be convenient for swapping samples between devices. It also includes Line In/Out, MIDI In/Out, Headphone, and USB connections. While it may not have as many connectivity options as the MPC Live, it still covers the basics for most users.

User Interface and Display

The Akai MPC Live features a large 7-inch multi-touch display that makes it easy to navigate through menus and adjust settings. This is great for users who like a visual interface.

In comparison, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 has a simpler LED display. While it’s not as flashy as the MPC Live’s screen, it provides essential information and is suitable for those who prefer a more straightforward setup.

Effects and Sequencer

Both devices come with built-in effects. The Akai MPC Live offers EQ, Reverb, Delay, and Compression. The Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 provides Delay, Reverb, Bit Crusher, and EQ. The Bit Crusher is a standout feature for those looking to add a gritty, lo-fi feel to their tracks.

In terms of sequencing, both samplers have a sequencer. The MPC Live includes a comprehensive sequencer, while the Lofi-12 features a 64-step sequencer, ideal for creating loops and beats.

Pros and Cons

Akai MPC Live

Pros:

• High polyphony (128) for complex compositions
• High sampling rate (44.1kHz) for clear sound
• Internal SSD for ample storage
• Large multi-touch display
• Extensive connectivity options
• Standalone functionality

Cons:

• Higher price point at $1299
• May be overwhelming for beginners

Sonicware Liven Lofi-12

Pros:

• Unique lo-fi sound with 12kHz/24kHz sampling
• Compact and portable
• Affordable price at $239
• Bit Crusher effect for retro vibes
• Intuitive and straightforward design

Cons:

• Lower polyphony (10)
• Limited storage options with SD card
• Basic LED display

Final Verdict

The Akai MPC Live is best suited for musicians who need a powerful, versatile tool that can handle complex projects. Its high-quality sound, extensive connectivity, and user-friendly interface make it ideal for serious music producers who are willing to invest more money for these advanced features.

On the other hand, the Sonicware Liven Lofi-12 is perfect for those who love the charm of lo-fi music and want a simple, affordable way to create it. Its compact design and easy-to-use interface make it a great choice for beginners or anyone looking to explore lo-fi sounds.

Ultimately, choosing the right sampler depends on your musical goals and budget. Whether you’re aiming for polished productions or gritty lo-fi beats, there’s a sampler out there for you. Happy music-making!