Akai MPC X —  VS  — Native Instruments Maschine+

Akai MPC X vs. Native Instruments Maschine+: A Sampler Showdown

Summary: The Akai MPC X and Native Instruments Maschine+ are two popular standalone music production devices. Both offer unique features and capabilities that cater to different needs. Let’s see what makes each special and decide which might be best for you.

Introduction

If you love making music, you’ve probably heard about the Akai MPC X and the Native Instruments Maschine+. These two devices are like magical music boxes that let you create beats and tunes without needing a computer. They’re both packed with features and are used by many musicians around the world. But which one is right for you? Today, we’ll explore what each has to offer, compare their features, and figure out who they’re best for.

Getting to Know the Akai MPC X

The Akai MPC X is like a powerhouse in the world of music production. Made by Akai Professional in 2017, this device is known for its big 10.1-inch multi-touch screen. It’s super easy to use, and it feels like you’re using a giant tablet that makes music. The MPC X has 16 colorful, velocity-sensitive pads. These pads are great for tapping out rhythms and melodies.

Inside the MPC X, you’ll find professional-quality effects like EQ, reverb, delay, and compression. These effects help you shape your sounds and make them just right. The device has lots of places to plug in other gear, like MIDI and USB connections, and audio inputs and outputs. It even has an internal SSD for storing all your music files.

The MPC X is built to work all by itself, which means you don’t need a computer to make music. However, it also integrates with MPC Software if you want to use it with a computer. It’s like having the best of both worlds.

Pros of the Akai MPC X

• Big Screen: The large 10.1-inch multi-touch display makes it easy to navigate and create music.
• Professional Effects: Comes with EQ, reverb, delay, and compression for better sound shaping.
• Lots of Connections: Offers MIDI In/Out, USB, and audio inputs/outputs for flexibility.
• Standalone Power: No computer needed, but can still integrate with software if desired.

Cons of the Akai MPC X

• Pricey: At $2500, it’s quite an investment.
• Complexity: Might be overwhelming for beginners due to its many features.

Exploring the Native Instruments Maschine+

The Native Instruments Maschine+ is another cool device for making music. Released in 2020, it’s a bit newer than the MPC X. This device also works on its own, so you don’t need a computer to use it. The Maschine+ has 16 large, velocity-sensitive pads that are perfect for playing beats and creating music.

The Maschine+ includes effects like EQ, reverb, and delay to help you craft your sounds. It has MIDI In/Out and USB connections, but note that it only has audio outputs, not inputs. This might be something to consider if you plan to record external audio.

The Maschine+ features a vibrant full-color display that makes it easy to see what you’re doing. It runs the Maschine Software independently, which gives you lots of options for creating music.

Pros of the Native Instruments Maschine+

• Standalone Capabilities: No computer required for operation.
• Great Display: Full-color display helps with navigation and creativity.
• Affordable: Priced at $1400, it’s more budget-friendly than the MPC X.
• User-Friendly: Easier for beginners to get started with music production.

Cons of the Native Instruments Maschine+

• Limited Audio I/O: Only has audio outputs, which might limit recording flexibility.
• Fewer Effects: Offers fewer built-in effects compared to the MPC X.

Feature Face-Off

Both the Akai MPC X and Maschine+ have a lot in common, but they also have their differences. Let’s compare their key features:

• Pads: Both devices have 16 velocity-sensitive pads, but the MPC X uses RGB lighting to make the pads colorful, which some users might prefer.
• Screen: The MPC X has a larger 10.1-inch screen, while the Maschine+ has a full-color display. Both screens are excellent for different reasons.
• Effects: The MPC X offers more effects, including compression, which the Maschine+ lacks.
• Connections: The MPC X has more audio connectivity options, including inputs, while the Maschine+ focuses on outputs.
• Storage: The MPC X comes with an internal SSD, which is generally faster and more reliable than the internal storage of the Maschine+.

Final Verdict

So, who should choose the Akai MPC X and who should opt for the Native Instruments Maschine+?

• Akai MPC X: Best for professional musicians and producers who need a robust, all-in-one solution with advanced features and connectivity options. If you’re looking to invest in a high-end device with a large screen and lots of effects, the MPC X is a great choice.

• Native Instruments Maschine+: Ideal for beginners or those on a budget who still want a standalone music production experience. It’s user-friendly and offers a good balance of features at a lower price point.

Both devices are amazing in their own right, and your choice will depend on your specific needs and budget. Whether you go for the Akai MPC X or the Maschine+, you’ll have a powerful tool to start creating your musical masterpieces.