Akai MPC One vs. Polyend Play: Which Music Machine Hits the Right Note for You?

Summary: In this post, we’ll explore two popular samplers, the Akai MPC One and the Polyend Play. These devices are designed to help you make music in different ways. We’ll look at how they are similar and different, and help you decide which one might be best for you!

Introduction

Music makers have a lot of choices when it comes to tools that can help them create new sounds and beats. Two popular options are the Akai MPC One and the Polyend Play. Each has its own special features and strengths. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned producer, these samplers offer unique ways to craft your music. But which one should you choose? Let’s dive in and find out!

Feature Comparisons

Build and Design

When you first look at the Akai MPC One, you’ll notice its compact design. Released in 2020 by Akai Professional, this standalone machine is built for serious music production. Its 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads light up in different colors, making it both fun and functional. The 7-inch multi-touch display is like having a mini computer screen right at your fingertips, allowing you to control everything with just a few taps.

The Polyend Play, on the other hand, is a groovebox made by Polyend and released in 2022. It also has 16 velocity-sensitive pads, but they aren’t RGB like the MPC One. Instead of a touchscreen, it features an LCD display. The Polyend Play is designed for a modern workflow, focusing on ease of use.

Sound and Polyphony

Both devices offer great sound quality with a sample rate of 44.1kHz, which is standard for professional audio. However, the Akai MPC One shines with its 128-voice polyphony. This means you can play many sounds at once without any drop in quality. If you like creating complex layers of music, this could be a big plus for you.

The Polyend Play offers 64-voice polyphony. While this is less than the MPC One, it’s still plenty for most music-making needs. The Polyend Play is perfect for groove-focused music, where you might not need as many layers.

Storage and Software

The Akai MPC One comes with an internal SSD, providing plenty of space for your samples and projects. Plus, it integrates seamlessly with MPC Software, giving you the power to expand your capabilities with a computer if you want.

The Polyend Play uses a MicroSD card for storage. This offers flexibility since you can easily swap out cards if you need more space. However, it doesn’t have any software integration, making it truly standalone. This could be a plus or minus depending on your workflow preferences.

Effects and Sequencer

Both samplers come equipped with a sequencer, allowing you to arrange your music in a timeline. The Akai MPC One boasts a wide array of effects including EQ, Reverb, Delay, and Compression. This suite of effects can be essential for adding that professional polish to your tracks.

The Polyend Play also includes multiple effects, though it doesn’t specify which ones. If you’re looking for a specific effect, you might want to check that it has what you need. Its effects are designed to support a modern workflow, which could be appealing if you’re looking for a fresh approach to music production.

Inputs, Outputs, and Price

In terms of connectivity, both devices are quite similar. They each have MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, making it easy to connect to other gear or a computer.

However, when it comes to price, there’s a noticeable difference. The Akai MPC One is priced at $700, making it a more budget-friendly option. The Polyend Play is priced at $1100, which might be a consideration if you’re on a tight budget.

Pros and Cons

Akai MPC One

Pros:

• Affordable at $700
• High polyphony with 128 voices
• Large 7-inch multi-touch display
• Comprehensive effects suite
• Seamless software integration with MPC Software

Cons:

• Standalone design might not appeal to those who prefer a groovebox feel
• Internal SSD is fixed, so you can’t swap it out like a MicroSD card

Polyend Play

Pros:

• Modern groovebox design
• Easy-to-use workflow
• Flexible MicroSD card storage
• Compact and portable

Cons:

• Higher price at $1100
• Lower polyphony at 64 voices
• No software integration

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Akai MPC One and the Polyend Play depends on your personal music-making needs. If you’re looking for an affordable, powerful, and versatile sampler with a high polyphony count and seamless software integration, the Akai MPC One is a fantastic choice. It’s especially great for those who want a standalone device that can do it all.

On the other hand, if you love the idea of a modern groovebox with a straightforward workflow and don’t mind spending a bit more, the Polyend Play might be the perfect fit for you. It’s ideal for musicians who appreciate the flexibility of MicroSD storage and prefer a device that focuses on a groove-oriented approach.

In conclusion, both samplers offer unique features that cater to different types of music producers. Whether you go for the Akai MPC One or the Polyend Play, you’re sure to have a tool that inspires your creativity and helps you create amazing music. Happy music-making!