Akai MPC5000 —  VS  — Sonicware SmplTrek

A Quick Look at Two Samplers: Akai MPC5000 vs. Sonicware SmplTrek

The Akai MPC5000 and the Sonicware SmplTrek are two exciting tools for music makers, each with its own unique features. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or a newbie, understanding what each has to offer can help you pick the right one for your musical journey.

Introduction

When it comes to making music, having the right tools can make all the difference. Two popular options for music producers are the Akai MPC5000 and the Sonicware SmplTrek. Both of these devices are samplers, but they’re aimed at different kinds of musicians. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes each one special.

A Walk Through Features

To start, let’s dive into the features of each sampler, so you can see what makes them tick.

Akai MPC5000: A Classic Powerhouse

The Akai MPC5000, released in 2006, is known for its high-end features. It has a whopping 128 voices of polyphony, which means you can layer a lot of sounds at once. This is more than enough for most music producers, especially those who like to create complex tracks.

The MPC5000 comes with a 44.1kHz sample rate, ensuring clear and crisp audio. It also has an internal hard drive and supports CompactFlash cards for storage. This is great for producers who need a lot of space to store their samples.

One of the standout features of the MPC5000 is its 16 velocity-sensitive pads. These pads are perfect for drumming out beats or triggering samples. Plus, it has a built-in sequencer, so you can arrange your tracks right on the device.

The effects on the MPC5000 are quite robust, including EQ, compression, reverb, delay, and filtering. These effects can help shape your sound and add depth to your music. It also has MIDI In/Out and Audio In/Out, making it easy to connect to other gear.

With its color LCD screen and integration with MPC Software, the MPC5000 is a powerful standalone unit. However, it comes with a hefty price tag of around $1200 on the used market.

Sonicware SmplTrek: Portable and Modern

The Sonicware SmplTrek is a fresh face in the music world, released in 2023. It’s a compact, all-in-one sampler workstation that’s perfect for music producers on the go.

With 10 voices of polyphony, it might not match the MPC5000, but it’s still enough for many musical applications. The SmplTrek records at a 16-bit, 44.1kHz sample rate, providing quality sound in a portable package.

Storage on the SmplTrek is flexible, with internal memory and support for microSD cards. This makes it easy to swap out samples or expand your storage as needed.

Instead of pads, the SmplTrek features 10 buttons that double as performance and transport controls. It also includes a song-based and pattern-based sequencer, giving you different ways to arrange your music.

The effects on the SmplTrek are versatile, featuring EQ, delay, reverb, and master effects. It has line inputs and outputs, USB-C, MIDI In/Out, and a mic input, making it a versatile tool for different recording situations.

The SmplTrek’s color screen and USB file transfer capabilities make it easy to integrate with your computer. Best of all, it’s priced at an affordable $429, making it accessible for musicians at all levels.

Pros and Cons

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each sampler to help you make an informed decision.

Akai MPC5000

Pros:

• High Polyphony: With 128 voices, you can create complex tracks without running out of sound layers.
• Robust Effects: The MPC5000 offers a wide range of effects for shaping your sound.
• Large Storage: Internal hard drive and CompactFlash support offer ample space for samples.
• MPC Software Integration: Seamlessly works with Akai’s software for expanded functionality.

Cons:

• Price: At $1200 used, it’s a significant investment.
• Size and Weight: Being a standalone unit, it’s less portable than newer devices.

Sonicware SmplTrek

Pros:

• Portability: Its compact design makes it easy to take anywhere.
• Affordable: At $429, it’s a great option for beginners and budget-conscious musicians.
• Flexible Storage: Internal memory and microSD support allow for easy expansion.
• User-Friendly: Intuitive workflow and USB file transfer make it easy to use.

Cons:

• Lower Polyphony: With 10 voices, it’s more limited for complex compositions.
• Fewer Pads: The button-based interface might not appeal to those used to pad-heavy setups.

Conclusion: Which Sampler is Right for You?

Both the Akai MPC5000 and the Sonicware SmplTrek have a lot to offer, but they’re designed with different users in mind.

If you’re a professional producer looking for a high-end, standalone sampler, the Akai MPC5000 is a fantastic choice. Its robust features and extensive polyphony make it ideal for complex music production.

On the other hand, if you’re a musician who values portability and affordability, the Sonicware SmplTrek is perfect. Its compact design and intuitive interface are great for on-the-go production and live performances.

In the end, the best sampler for you depends on your specific needs and how you plan to use it. Whether you choose the powerhouse MPC5000 or the portable SmplTrek, you’re sure to have a great time making music!