Akai MPC One —  VS  — Native Instruments Maschine+

Quick Summary

If you’re choosing between the Akai MPC One and Native Instruments Maschine+, you’ve got a tough decision to make. Both are powerful standalone samplers and music production centers, but each has its unique strengths and weaknesses. This guide will help you understand their differences and make the best choice for your music creation needs.

Introduction

Music gear enthusiasts often find themselves in a dilemma when choosing the right equipment. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which sampler or production center to invest in. Two popular choices among musicians are the Akai MPC One and the Native Instruments Maschine+. Both of these devices offer standalone functionality, meaning you can use them without needing a computer. This makes them perfect for live performances and on-the-go music production. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each device to help you make an informed decision.

Feature Comparisons

Design and Build

The Akai MPC One and Native Instruments Maschine+ are built for music producers who want to create beats and tracks without a computer. Both devices are standalone, which means they have everything you need built right in. But they do have some differences in how they’re designed.

The MPC One from Akai Professional comes with a 7-inch multi-touch display. This big screen makes it easy to see what you’re doing and helps you control the device with just a touch of your finger. It also has 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads, which light up and are great for playing beats. Its compact design makes it easy to fit into any music studio setup.

On the other hand, the Maschine+ by Native Instruments also features 16 large velocity-sensitive pads. However, instead of a touch screen, it offers a full-color display. This design choice might appeal to those who prefer using buttons and knobs rather than a touch interface. The Maschine+ is slightly larger and heavier, which could be a consideration if portability is important to you.

Sound and Effects

When it comes to sound, both devices offer rich, high-quality audio. They have a polyphony of 128, which means they can play 128 different notes at the same time. This is more than enough for most music producers.

The Akai MPC One boasts a variety of effects such as EQ, Reverb, Delay, and Compression. These effects allow you to shape your sound and add depth to your tracks. The MPC One is known for its powerful sound engine and flexibility when it comes to effects.

The Maschine+ also provides EQ, Reverb, and Delay effects but does not include Compression. However, Native Instruments is renowned for its high-quality sound libraries and effects, which can be a significant advantage if you are already invested in their ecosystem.

Storage and Software

Storage is another important factor to consider. The MPC One features an internal SSD, which means it has a solid-state disk inside for storing your music projects and samples. SSDs are usually faster and more reliable than other types of storage.

The Maschine+ also has internal storage, but the specifics aren’t as clear as the MPC One’s SSD. Both devices allow for expansion through external storage options, which is great if you have a large library of samples and projects.

In terms of software, the Akai MPC One integrates with MPC Software, while the Maschine+ uses the standalone Maschine Software. Both software platforms are powerful and capable, but they have different workflows. If you are used to one brand’s software, it might be easier to stick with that ecosystem.

Connectivity and Integration

Both the MPC One and Maschine+ offer MIDI In/Out and USB connectivity, allowing you to connect other devices such as keyboards and controllers. The MPC One also includes Audio In/Out, which can be a major advantage if you want to record external instruments or vocals directly into the device. The Maschine+ only offers Audio Out, which means you would need additional equipment to record audio directly into it.

Software integration is another critical aspect. The Akai MPC One works seamlessly with its MPC Software, allowing you to expand your production capabilities on a computer if you choose. The Maschine+ doesn’t require a computer, but it can integrate with Native Instruments’ ecosystem for additional flexibility.

Pros and Cons

Akai MPC One

Pros:

• Large 7-inch multi-touch display
• 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads
• Extensive effects including Compression
• Audio In/Out for recording external sources
• Internal SSD for fast and reliable storage
• More affordable price at $700

Cons:

• Touch interface may not appeal to everyone
• Requires familiarity with MPC Software for best results

Native Instruments Maschine+

Pros:

• 16 large velocity-sensitive pads
• Full-color display for clear navigation
• High-quality sound libraries and effects
• Seamless integration with Native Instruments ecosystem

Cons:

• No Compression effect included
• Limited Audio In/Out functionality
• Higher price point at $1400

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Akai MPC One and the Native Instruments Maschine+ depends largely on your specific needs and budget. The MPC One is a fantastic choice for those who want a powerful, all-in-one production center with a touchscreen interface and audio recording capabilities. It’s also more budget-friendly, making it accessible to a wider range of musicians.

On the other hand, the Maschine+ is perfect for those who prefer a more tactile approach with its full-color display and integration into the Native Instruments ecosystem. If you have a higher budget and are already invested in Native Instruments products, the Maschine+ could be the right choice for you.

Both devices are excellent in their own right, and either will serve music producers well. The decision ultimately comes down to what features are most important to you and how much you’re willing to invest in your music-making setup.