Akai MPC One+ —  VS  — Native Instruments Maschine Mk3

Sampler Showdown: Akai MPC One+ vs. Native Instruments Maschine Mk3

In this blog post, we dive into the details of two popular music production controllers: the Akai MPC One+ and the Native Instruments Maschine Mk3. We’ll explore their features, pros and cons, and help you decide which one might be the best fit for your music creation needs.

Introduction

When it comes to creating music, having the right tools can make all the difference. Two of the most popular tools for music producers are the Akai MPC One+ and the Native Instruments Maschine Mk3. Both are powerful devices that allow you to create beats and produce music in exciting ways. But how do they compare to each other? In this article, we’ll break down what makes each one special and help you choose the right one for you.

Feature Comparison

Build and Design

The Akai MPC One+ and the Native Instruments Maschine Mk3 both offer impressive designs, but they serve slightly different purposes.

• Akai MPC One+: The MPC One+ is a standalone device, which means you don’t need a computer to use it. It’s designed for portability and ease of use, making it great for musicians who want to create music anywhere. It has a 7-inch multi-touch display, which is big enough to easily control your music production.

• Native Instruments Maschine Mk3: The Maschine Mk3, on the other hand, is a controller. This means it needs to be connected to a computer to work. It has a smaller full-color display, but it’s still vibrant and easy to read. The Maschine Mk3 is built for those who prefer working in a studio environment where a computer is readily available.

Pads and Controls

Both devices come with 16 velocity-sensitive pads, but there are slight differences in their designs.

• Akai MPC One+: The MPC One+ has 16 RGB pads that change colors. This makes it easy to keep track of your beats and samples. The pads are also velocity-sensitive, meaning they can detect how hard you press them, which adds more dynamics to your music.

• Native Instruments Maschine Mk3: The Maschine Mk3 also has 16 large pads that are velocity-sensitive. While they don’t have the RGB lighting of the MPC One+, they are still responsive and provide a great feel for tapping out beats.

Sound and Effects

Both samplers are equipped with a variety of effects to shape your sound.

• Akai MPC One+: The MPC One+ includes effects like EQ, Reverb, Delay, and Compression. These effects allow you to tweak and perfect your sound right on the device.

• Native Instruments Maschine Mk3: The Maschine Mk3 offers EQ, Reverb, and Delay effects. While it doesn’t have Compression built-in like the MPC One+, its software integration provides access to a vast library of effects and instruments.

Software Integration

Software integration is where these two devices differ the most.

• Akai MPC One+: It integrates with MPC Software, which is known for its powerful features. This allows you to easily transfer your projects between the device and your computer, offering flexibility in how you work.

• Native Instruments Maschine Mk3: The Maschine Mk3 works seamlessly with Maschine Software. This software is highly regarded for its user-friendly interface and vast library of sounds, making it a favorite among producers who enjoy working with a computer.

Connectivity and Price

Both devices offer a variety of connectivity options, but they differ in terms of pricing and specific ports.

• Akai MPC One+: It includes MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out connections. Priced at $750, it’s slightly more expensive than the Maschine Mk3, but it offers the advantage of standalone operation.

• Native Instruments Maschine Mk3: It features MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio Out. With a price tag of $700, it’s a bit more affordable, especially if you plan to use it with a computer setup.

Pros and Cons

Akai MPC One+

Pros:

• Standalone operation allows for ultimate portability.
• Large 7-inch multi-touch display offers intuitive control.
• RGB pads enhance visual feedback.
• Built-in compression effect.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to Maschine Mk3.
• May require additional software purchases for expanded features.

Native Instruments Maschine Mk3

Pros:

• Seamless integration with Maschine Software and its extensive sound library.
• More affordable option for those who use a computer.
• Large, responsive pads for beat making.

Cons:

• Requires a computer to operate.
• Smaller display compared to MPC One+.

Conclusion

In summary, both the Akai MPC One+ and the Native Instruments Maschine Mk3 have their unique strengths. The MPC One+ is perfect for musicians who want a standalone device with a large touch display and the ability to create music on the go. On the other hand, the Maschine Mk3 is ideal for producers who work in a studio environment with a computer and want access to a vast library of sounds.

Final Verdict

• Best for On-the-Go Musicians: Akai MPC One+
• Best for Studio Producers: Native Instruments Maschine Mk3

Ultimately, the choice between these two samplers comes down to how you plan to make music. Whether you prefer the flexibility of a standalone device or the power of computer integration, both options are excellent choices for any music enthusiast.