Akai MPC1000 —  VS  — Elektron Octatrack MKII

Elektron Octatrack MKII vs. Akai MPC1000: A Battle of Samplers

Summary

Looking for the perfect sampler to add to your music setup? Today, we’re exploring two popular options: the Elektron Octatrack MKII and the Akai MPC1000. Both are powerful devices with unique features, but which one is right for you? Let’s dive in and find out!

Introduction

Samplers are magical machines that help musicians create, manipulate, and perform music in exciting ways. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting to explore electronic music, choosing the right sampler can greatly impact your creativity. Today, we’re comparing two fantastic samplers: the Elektron Octatrack MKII and the Akai MPC1000. These devices have been loved by artists all over the world for their unique qualities and capabilities. Let’s see what makes each of them special!

Feature Comparisons

Design and Build

The Elektron Octatrack MKII has a sleek, modern design. It’s a desktop unit, meaning it sits nicely on your studio desk. The build quality feels solid, with a robust metal chassis that can withstand the rigors of performance. It doesn’t have traditional pads; instead, it uses encoders and buttons. This might take some getting used to, but it offers precision and control.

On the other hand, the Akai MPC1000 is a classic standalone unit known for its portability. It’s smaller and lighter, making it great for musicians on the go. The build is sturdy, with a classic Akai look. It features 16 velocity-sensitive pads, which are great for finger drumming and playing samples expressively.

Polyphony and Performance

Polyphony refers to the number of sounds a sampler can play at once. The Elektron Octatrack MKII has 8 voices of polyphony, which is decent for most uses. However, the Akai MPC1000 boasts 64 voices of polyphony, offering much more flexibility for layering sounds and creating complex tracks.

Sampling and Storage

Sampling is at the heart of what these devices do. The Elektron Octatrack MKII samples at 48kHz, providing crisp and clear audio quality. It uses an SD card for storage, which is convenient and allows for easy file management. The Akai MPC1000 samples at 44.1kHz, which is standard for many musical applications. It uses CompactFlash cards for storage, a bit older technology but still effective.

Pads and Controls

As mentioned earlier, the Elektron Octatrack MKII doesn’t have pads. Instead, it features encoders and buttons for control. This setup is great for those who love tweaking and manipulating sounds in real-time. The Akai MPC1000, with its 16 pads, is perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile approach to music-making. The pads are responsive and allow for dynamic playing.

Sequencing and Effects

Both samplers come with powerful sequencers. The Elektron Octatrack MKII is known for its performance sequencer, which allows for real-time manipulation of sounds. It also includes effects like filters, delay, and reverb, offering plenty of creative options.

The Akai MPC1000 has a classic Akai sequencer, which is straightforward and effective for creating beats and arrangements. It features effects like EQ, compression, and reverb, giving users the tools to shape their sound.

Connectivity and Integration

When it comes to connectivity, the Elektron Octatrack MKII offers MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, and Audio In/Out. It also integrates with Elektron Transfer software, making it easy to manage and transfer files.

The Akai MPC1000 features MIDI In/Out and Audio In/Out. It can be integrated with MPC Software, offering a seamless transition between hardware and computer-based music production.

Pros and Cons

Elektron Octatrack MKII

Pros:

• Modern design with robust build quality
• High sample rate for excellent audio quality
• Powerful real-time performance sequencer
• Versatile effects
• Excellent software integration

Cons:

• Higher price point ($1400)
• Steeper learning curve for beginners
• No traditional pads

Akai MPC1000

Pros:

• Classic design with durable build
• 16 velocity-sensitive pads for expressive playing
• High polyphony (64 voices)
• Affordable price on the used market ($700)
• Easy-to-use sequencer

Cons:

• Older storage technology (CompactFlash)
• Lower sample rate compared to Octatrack
• Limited effects compared to newer models

Conclusion

So, which sampler should you choose? The Elektron Octatrack MKII is perfect for musicians who love detailed sound manipulation and real-time performance. It’s a powerful tool for those who want to push the boundaries of sampling and sequencing. However, it comes with a higher price tag and a steeper learning curve.

The Akai MPC1000 is ideal for those who love the classic MPC workflow and need a device that’s portable and easy to use. It’s a great choice for beatmakers who want to create complex tracks with ease and enjoy the feel of playing on pads.

Both samplers have their strengths and are beloved by musicians for different reasons. Whether you choose the modern versatility of the Octatrack or the classic charm of the MPC1000, you’re sure to find a powerful ally in your music-making journey.