Excellent review, as always! I picked up an MPC One in January at the same price as this, but I’m happy. The memory upgrade is more desirable than wifi but I haven’t really pushed it very hard yet anyhow. Its a great platform, regardless!
@thesesmallboxes607 the WIFI is essential for the Plugins. I bought the full range of Akai Plugins and now I need an internet connection for my MPC One every 30 days to activate the plugins again. This sucks on stage without WiFi. I think the plugins are to expensive to be activated every 30 days. But Akai think WIFI has more priority for the user experience than the every day leak of memory or longer activation times of the plugins. Akai, please spend more memory and longer plugin activations times when you want to sell more Akai MPC Plugins.
A bit better than the original One, and priced really competitively. Of course, I'd love a battery, but I guess a Live 3 might be on the horizon. Wifi and Bluetooth very welcome additions. Great video as always.
Ryobi makes a 110v inverter adapter for their 18v power tool line. A guy on RUclips uses it to power his MPC X and says he gets about 4 hours with headphones out of one battery. So if he can to that on the X, you should get at least that much on the One.
Great overview as always. As a frustrated current MPC One user though i couldn't recommend buying into the platform until about they spend some more time and resources fixing the current software instead of shipping the same jank in a different colour box.
@@loopop Hi. "Jank" was probably a bit harsh but i'd come to the video straight after a series of frustrating mid session crashes. The issues i experience are for the most part when using the MPC in controller mode. Different things get better/worse with each update. Recent highlights are glitching and unresponsive q link knobs when attempting to record automation, seemingly random midi drop outs from my controller keyboard, (Launchkey61) and the aforementioned crashes. I'm not an Akai hater. My first hardware was an s2000. I want to love my MPC but i also regularly want to throw it out of the window.
I bought this 2 months ago I'm in love all over again. My Touch had run it's course and it was time for something new. I run the MPC in controller mode mainly in Reason as a VST. I'm considering starting a hybrid setup of which the One Plus will be the centerpiece of
Thank you for an excellent review , again , I consider this a marginal evolutionary improvement on the original MPC One. The Ableton Live control is the same functionality that has been available on the Force for a few years, I believe. The elephant in the room remains the absence of a song arranger. Maybe AKAI wants to keep that for the Force, which would be understandable: MPC for beats and loops, Force for songwriting? Not being able to arrange a song and for example record audio across the loop (sequence) boundaries just makes this device of little value to me. Maschine+ does it, and doesn’t cost that much more…
The sustain pedal on that teeny tiny, adorable, wee li'l baby keyboard is absolutely hilarious and brilliant, especially when played with dynamics and with that huge concert grand patch. I just love it so much!
I would prefer wired connection. Wifi is too laggy for realtime midi- I actually use usb dongle for my oldie MPC live;) oh well, it’s progress, I guess…
I have the MPC One+. This thing unleashes massive creativity for me as a musician who is fully adept at making beats, but also an instrumentalist. Despite the creative boost, I can confirm that MPC software is broken. So broken that I almost cannot use it professionally. For one, the MPC ignores start and end points in long sequences if the start point isn't bar one. This is most evident when trying to string sequences together, which is integral to the workflow, that do not have start bars on the first bar. For instance in a 99 bar sequence with audio tracks, I may sequence copy and use bars 8-12 in one copied sequence, and bars 24-32 in another copied sequence. This does not work, and the alternative of tying to edit within the software to copy tracks to a new sequence so that the ranges start on the one is so tedious--the software sucks for traditional audio editing. The "delete bars" in a sequence function does absolutely nothing, as well. That's my main workflow issue. But I have experienced a ton of other bugs, as well. I really wish Akai would stop adding features and would just deliver what they are currently promising their users.
@@xALK1984x Stand alone only and beta. Right now I am using MPC in controller mode. I make loops with lots of audio tracks. I must say the workflow has grown on me but he same issues were never addressed by inMusic. MPC 3.0 is stand-alone only and beta; it looks great, but I haven't jumped in because of those reasons.
Hello Loopop, my 3 year old is by my side as I was watching this video, and he said that he can hear PEPPA PIG. I got confused then realised your voice sounded like the cartoon character PEPPA PIG (the father). 😃. I think he got it spot on🤣🤣
Aw hell I just got an sp404 mk2 recently. This isn't that much more expensive, I had no idea they were upping the ram and dropping the price... I just can't keep up anymore.. It's pretty nice, and if it didn't so strongly overlap my 404 with ipad workflow I'd have been allllll over this
Good Video I think that I’m gonna order mine this week since I’m a beginner learning Ableton live lite plus I want to hear how it will sound connected to my Roland JV-1080 midi Sound Module however if….. I decide to buy any MPC expansion it will be the Quest Neo Soul & the Neo Soul sunset 🌅 other than that the rest of them are not worth the $39 price but I will be using the free Spitfire Labs Vintage Keys 🎹 VST so even if Akai gives me the option to get the free Juno Plugin I don’t want it because my 1080 is fully loaded with four expansion boards
I just got the mpc one + two weeks ago but my samsung phone connect for 2 or 3 secobds then it disconnect and tells me to check my device. Do i need to change a setting in midi/sync or something
In the pros and cons section is stated, "at this price nothing comes close." Well, from a certain point of view IF willing to go used a live 2 (live 2+ may be on the way?) can be had for less than $100 more...
New subscriber I love your content. I just purchased my MPC one plus and I am a newbie. I do wrap and I’m excited to see what kind of beats and music I can make to put on top of. I do have studio monitors and a Rode mic I just need to purchase an interface and some good headphones. Do you have any suggestions as far as a small little set up? And I have a laptop as well.
Thanks! Do you mean suggestions for headphones and interface? I think Arturia and Focusrite interfaces are good and inexpensive, but check out Julian Krause's channel of ratings of others. I like Beyerdynamic headphones but there are plenty of others
Loopop will soon be able to open his own MPC Museum of how many MPCs he has already reviewed ;) thanks for vid :) According to the Sweetwater video, they upgraded the CPU to the unit available in the MPC X and Live 2
very-very-very-very weird decision - memory cards or sticks are so cheap nowadays so i literally never heard any complains about internal memory space on mpc one. what really would be a good upgrade is: 1) normal q-links like on X or Force, 2) and potentially more RAM (so they could sell those new optional heavy plugins to more people ;) )
I don't think the qlinks are ever going to happen at the price point that device is going for. I do think that Akai could do better design wise so that the interface doesn't feel as clunky as it does without the oled screens. I think the way they work is just badly designed on the MPC Live or One.
@@ActionlessLoveless You have to think about the manufacturing cost at scale. OLEDs might be cheap overall but if Akai is looking for specific margins that dollar or less starts to add up when you are manufacturing devices in the thousands. It’s why you see some manufacturers cheap out on pots. Look at Roland. They’ve pretty much given up adding decent displays on their devices and go with a 2 line display. It’s cheap, probably readily available and it keeps their margins high. The issue is not the OLED displays anyway, there is already a high quality LCD on the MPC One, Akai just needs to use it better.
@@apoclypse the most annoying thing in UI is that XYFX require shift or double-press for opening - i wish they could just making it configurable via hidden config file on the memory card, to be able to re-assign the buttons - that would like a really several minutes to implement, but help a lot
The network midi driver for windows (probably Mac too) is totally flawed for control mode (even worse with only Wi-Fi option). I had an akai force and logged a ticket with akai about the network driver knocking out all of my numerous usb midi devices from Ableton detection due to a bugged akai audio device monitor service. Still have an open ticket today. Don’t waste your time with control mode until it’s fixed.😂
I don’t think anyone who recently purchased an MPC One is going to be upset by this, especially if they bought the Retro Edition which is still the best looking MPC.
ram and 8 plugin limit per project is still the biggest bummer of mpc, the workflow and possibilities you could have with lets say even only 8 plugin per SEQUENCE, would litterally transform the mpc in the ultimate standalone production machine i would love to have.
Just got the Mac one plus., I’m new to it. I have a question for the experienced. I’m able to upload sounds etc via Wi-Fi ., Do I also have to upload the sounds from the website in order to use with the software and computer? Also if I do some uploading all those pack from the site, when I connect the Mpc to my computer will I be able to use those sounds from my hardware? Thanks
How is it compared to the Polyend Tracker. They are approximately the same price. Are they close and would you recommend what would you recommend for who? Thanks for your great vids…always helpful.
Thanks! It's best to just watch my Tracker video and full MPC One video to compare - it's hard to sum up in a comment. Feature-wise MPC One has a longer list and is more flexible, Tracker has some unique quirks and a tracker style workflow if that's something you prefer
@Loopop - you need to duck the music under your vocals - they’re frequently drowned out over your jams. Very difficult to hear your voice sometimes (not just this video - it’s a common theme in all your reviews). Otherwise, nice review as always!
I hope Akai implement the Mixer and the Sequence Editor of the Akai Force into the MPC standalone workflow. Together with more RAM it will be an Investment into the future of the MPC lineup. As only Ableton controller the MPC is to pricy and there are much better Ableton Controllers out there. That's the reason why the Akai Force isn't the huge successor. It's not a full functional MPC and it's not a very good Ableton controller. An MPC must be the best standalone solution with the best user experience to be on the market for the next years.
Who said Force was supposed to be a huge successor to MPC? I remember Akai marketing it as a separate fork better suited to stage performance. And I keep getting told that Force is the best "DAW-in-a-box" on the market, ironically, despite MPC One's whole thing being a standalone DAW. But the MPC line, especially the One, probably prints money, contrary to your hopes and dreams.
People still banging on about ram,meanwhile multi million dollar platinum hip hop tracks were produced on MPC’s with 32MB ram if they were lucky most were probably 8MB 🤡🤡
Ok how do I get Jura to run without pc connection works brilliantly if I use it via pc mode. can I use a external ssd plugged in usb or sd card. Don’t shoot me down I’m new to mpc 😅
Before you buy an MPC, please read this text. Two minutes and you may save yourself a big disappointment. Be sure to check this before purchasing an MPC. I noticed it too late and couldn't cancel the purchase. You cannot use the MIDI (in) on the MPC in the way you know from other multitimbral (16 MIDI channels) hardware. You can’t control the MPC as hardware multitimbrally via your DAW. BUG description: The MPCs can't receive the same note on two different MIDI channels on its physical MIDI (in) without one choking the other. This means that if notes arrive at the same time, only one note length is possible. The shortest note on one channel silences the longer note on the other channel. A “Note Off” is broadcast on all 16 channels. It is not possible to play a short 1/32 bass note (c2) on midi channel (1) and a sustained violin (c2) on midi channel (2) at the same time with your DAW. In the MPC, the violin mutes along with the bass note. The shortest note decides the length of all notes of the same pitch that arrive at the same time - on all MIDI channels! Global Note Off! In the case of the short bass note 1/32. There is a RUclips video about it: 'MPC X / Live Two Bugs'. The video is from 'Creative Spiral'. The current MPC series with its various models has existed since 2018. Akai has still not managed to fix the weirdest midibug since the development of multitimbral samplers, synthesizers and workstations. We now have 2024 and software version 2.13. and it is still not possible to integrate the MPC as hardware into a DAW environment. Do not be fooled. Akai claims on RUclips that this bug has been fixed since MPC version 2.8. That's wrong! What is demonstrated in the video refers to three different physical MIDI (in) on the MPC, which are controlled via MIDI via three different hardware components. This has nothing to do with control the MPC multimbral (16 MIDI channels) via a selected physical MPC MIDI (in) port This would also work on a single physical MIDI input and would therefore also be DAW compatible. The use of such wonderful tools like Keystep Pro is also not possible. There are also videos on RUclips that demonstrate the unbelievable MPC MIDI bug with a Keystep Pro. See also MPC Forum: MPC MAJOR MIDI ISSUE : "MULTICHANNEL NOTE OFF" MIDI BUG In my opinion, MPCs are not suitable for studio use. The possible workflow is simply too one-dimensional. You can only work with the limited sequencer from the MPC. This is completely crazy. I have been working with multimbral musical instruments since the early 90s. I've actually never seen anything like it. Akai consistently ignores complaints. A Midi (in) should already correspond to the standard. Even a Korg M1 or Akai S6000 from the nineties can do that.
Can Akai please do something new instead of just making incremental improvements? Like I wouldn’t be annoyed if they were also making generational improvements in at least some of their products but this is just getting frustrating
Did your current MPC stop working or something? I'm not sure what people want. Half want their current stuff to just keep getting updates from Akai, the other half want Akai to make something new. Maybe people should focus on what they have instead.
Nice review. Anyone know if they made Jura incompatible with the original MPC One? AIR site says compatible with MPC Hardware running firmware 2.11.9. But AKAI firmware download page says latest firmware is 2.11. But when you click the download it says 2.12. I assume it should work, seems like no reason they would, apart from maybe trying to force people to 'upgrade'. I'd like a Juno style synth to go with OP-X. Hate the new colour. Since they were changing the connectivity, wouldn't have killed them to make it 2-in, 2-out. And at least doubled the number of q-links, and RAM. I don't know why Akai don't pick up on the fact that they are really starting to pi55 off their user base. At the same time as Ableton have leapfrogged them with a next generation product. Maybe now Akai will finally wake up and smell the competition.
@@loopop Seems so. Btw, reading around seems I'm not the only one who finds the process of purchasing, installing and authorising MPC One plugins tedious and doesn't inspire confidence. The setup between Akai, AIR and the transaction system FastSpring is pretty janky. People are having transactions go through, and the actual plugin purchase not registering. Seems another instance of InMusic / AKAI not rolling out the most robust and well tested technology system.
I Love my Live 2 retro to death. It has been the source of my most satisfying creations. The workflow is hands down the fastest once you learn the system. It has also been the source of my biggest frustrations and absolutely halting workflow. Though mine seems to be working well for the most part currently I still get volume drops that sometimes last for minutes and still the occasional crash. I also seem to not have to even enable a midi keyboard for it to work. But if I don’t want it to work the only way is to disconnect. I would have sent it back but with the way it’s presented and the info in the streets a fix is always an update away. I’m still waiting on the one update that will give me the professional machine I paid for. If we don’t get what we paid for I think we should consider a class action lawsuit.
On the release of the MPC One +, firmware update 2.12 was released. Its only purpose is to incorporate the MPC One +. It makes me wonder if the new plugin looks for this firmware?
I’d also take a serious look at the SP-404 MK2. I’ve been shocked by how good it is: 5 effect busses (2 assignable, 2 on the master, 1 on input) designed to be hands on and played live. Add a knobby midi controller like the Launchcontrol and you can access the control knobs for all 5 at the same time plus assign buttons to toggle between your favorite FX on each bus. In DJ mode you can play loops, stems, sequence patterns, etc. and everything stays in sync including the FX.
SP404 is more immediate and portable, MPCs are not in any way preferable to anything from Elektron. You will be lucky to even get this thing to work cuz they are expecting you to be connected to wifi 24/7 to check that you are not running cracked software. This wifi is for them not you.
yes I had a look at the SP404. what I would need it to have is a jog-wheel to "scratch" over the sound (like Denon SC5000): for live improvisation it's good to "have the sound in the hands" and have the device reliably respond as an instrument to your feel of the groove.
Take less RAM than keygroups. They are dynamic. They load really quickly for the most part, not a lot of storage requirements (except for hype). Setting multilayered key groups with round robin is a pita on an MPC.
All they've done here is use the same unit as Mpc one just a hardware and software upgrade so they can discontinue the Mpc one and just have MPC OnePlus
It's kinda strange that some of the synths use "0%" of your resources. What if you start playing some notes on them? Edit: that sounded passive aggressive but wasn't the intention at all
yes - a CPU test wasn't the focus of this video since the CPU is the same across all hardware MPC products - the point was more to explore how 2GB vs 4GB of RAM impacts what you can do with these. What I meant to say and could have phrased better was that memory-heavy plugins don't seem to use particularly more CPU than the others. Indeed all plugins use more CPU the more voices you play
I had the original MPC one and was never satisfied with the sound, it sounded like something was over the instruments, muffled and impure, with a strange distance and no proper separation once you stack instruments. I hear it again in this demonstration listening on really good headphones. It’s definitely a fun device for making loops and beats but in terms of sound quality it sounds toy(ish) (IMHO).
you're right, what I meant to say was that the memory-heavy plugins don't seem to use particularly more CPU than the others - but I could have phrased it better. Indeed all plugins use more CPU the more voices you play
this and the other updated MPC are some of the worst most milquetoast "upgrades" possible. they made it red, they gave you $10 worth of memory, they added wifi (thanks?) and ignored everything important about the device. Not boding well for the future of Akai.
What's important about the device that they ignored? If someone is looking for the best bang for buck groovebox in the market, Akai MPC One is really the only real game in town.
@@apoclypse because its a marginal update. no cpu or ram upgrades. they stuck a wireless card in it and increased the memory to the amount phones had in the early 2000s. Its insulting to call this a plus, its just "MPC One, with wifi and bluetooth".
@@randommcranderson5155 It's an MPC one plus wifi and bluetooth. People are getting too hung up on the name. It's not an MPC One MK2 and it was never marketed as such. Also no one is forcing you to buy it. If you have an MPC One then there is nothing to see here. People should focus less on GAS and more on what they can actually do with the device(s) they already have.
The actual audio quality sounds tinny and crap listen to a roland 404 sample the sound output kills all akai new products. Im not selling roland but audio just sound better.
Yeah but the experience of using it has never been great for me. Each to their own, but I'd much rather sit down with my novation Circuit or Elektron machine to get some ideas going quickly.
@@strangersun7721 Elektron's famous workflow is what finally motivated me to switch to an Akai Force. I tried and tried for years to get by with a Digitakt and a bunch of synths, but eventually had to admit to myself it was simply not the right tool for me. Then I got a Force, and things mostly "just work" how I wanted all along. MPC isn't as good as Force, for me, but I still prefer it over almost anything else. MPC really needs the clips + scenes + arranger concept from the Force (or from Ableton). Because what I'm really wanting is, basically, Ableton in standalone hardware form. And at the moment, Force is the best option for that. Push 3 has a standalone version, but TBH it's not as good. It lacks many of the best features of the Force, particularly the arranger. And it's weirdly expensive. A Push 3 is about $2600, which is about how much I paid for a Force, a Sequential Pro 3, two Decksavers, some gear stands, a mic, a small mixer, a Keystep, a table, a big power strip, a SD card, and a nice SSD drive. All brand new. Elektron's gear makes some great sounds, but it heavily pushes the user to use short 4-bar / 64-step loops with parameters which are programmed instead of performed. And that's precisely what I don't want. I don't like being stuck in loops.
@@apoclypse Yeah, it would be nice if there was a smaller one... ideally with a battery. It wouldn't even need fewer pads... just smaller. They're too big as-is.
This might have been a very informative video if the music hadn't been so loud in the mix that I wanted to kill someone. If you want people to listen to what you've got to say, how about not drowning your vocals with the music!?
This planned obsolescence is a massive slap in the face for us folks who trusted Akai. I will never buy or use an Akai product again. I use my own custom sounds and samples anyhow cuz I am not a clone.
Get that wireless in there so they can start data collection, subscriptions and copyright scans. And its a weird red to celebrate the coming enslavement of the techno-satanic hive mind. Just kidding... Pretty crazy right... I wish everything was wireless.. And BLOOD RED... lol..
Don't buy this rubbish - may seem like the best bit of gear at the start - then it just becomes unusable, nearly threw mine out the window and I haven't felt like that with my other bits of kit. I've persevered - the discussion forums are unfriendly, and Akai never respond when you raise an issue. MPC Studio is bug ridden and will hog all the resources on your computer. There are much cheaper better options.
@gridus5380 What do you mean, it becomes “unusable”? The more you use anything, the more usable it becomes because you’re starting to master it; the mpc software workflow is decades in the making and hundreds of producers and artists have used it to make huge records. Personally I’ve not had to use support forums once, my mpc is just usb linked to pro tools; the artist arrives at the studio, and we start making music with it. It’s actually quite easy to master if you put dedicated time into it….just sayin….
@@loopop I get it I used to only use an MPC. It's cool that there are options. But these are basically over priced and under powered computers. I'd like to see Akai develop there controllers. Create MPE pianos and midi controllers etc. Instead of re-creating MPC's. They really should just have one MPC in their lineup. They all pretty much do the same thing.
You can send Midi to Ableton over wifi. I wouldn't though, as there is a lot latency last I checked, you can do it. You can't do it in Live mode. I looked at the Ableton script and there are midi messages being sent from the pads to the device. There is no real reason why it couldn't let you play instruments as well. It's more than capable of sending midi in Live mode (it's actually already doing it to control Live), but the script itself doesn't do anything else with the or buttons on the Force/MPC.
i seriously dont understand why there is only 2gb of ram..... they could've easily added at least 8gb without raising the cost too much. a music making product that is 800 euros has 2gb of ram. jesus christ
@@simcax6087 The next CPU bottlenecks are the Plugins and new features. But the memory was a problem since Akai launches the MPC One. But more CPU Power is welcome everytime. Good point
Have been a massive fan of my MPC One since I got it three years ago. The firmware updates really have made it worth sticking to the AKAI platform- audio interface support has literally changed how I've revolved my studio around the One. That being said, the One+ seems like a real missed opportunity for a proper "special edition" of this model, given that so many of the updates seem to merely revolve around wireless connectivity (which I've always found to just be headache inducing). Was hoping for some additional connections on the back panel, some backlit text, additional RAM, MPC X-like Qlink descriptors, an overhaul to automation functionality, and perhaps even an onboard battery, but alas. Hard not to recommend given its price relative to other products on the market, and the additional storage is nice, but can't help but feel that they could've really done more with this one. The One feels like the "jack-of-all-trades" in the current AKAI lineup that was really due for some special treatment. That being said, great review as always
Yup, all electronic companies do just like with cell phones, especially Apple. They always make small little increment updates and tweaks. It’s all the same.
I've had my MPC one for about 1,5 years now, and I was a little worried when I saw this video pop up, that the MPC one+ would be a huge improvement, and would leave me unhappy with my lame old obsolete version. Luckily, that doesn't seem to be the case at all. Bluetooth and Wifi are nice-to-have extra options, but I can do without. I don't use ableton, so I don't care about the new linking options for MPC One+. More internal storage is nice, but I've got a 128gb memory card which is only about half full at the moment, and I've got a lot of crap on there I'm never going to use anyway, so that's never been an issue for me either. There's no added audio I/O, which would have surely made me sigh and reach for my wallet, because that is currently the only real limitation that I regularly run in to. But I'll solve that with a cheap and suitable external audio interface.*** *** Important note for potential buyers of the MPC one though: there's a thread I follow on the MPC forums where users report on audio interfaces that work or don't work with the MPC. Please be aware that a lot of them don't, or give all sorts of bugs and audio artifacts when you use them with the MPC, so if you're thinking "Great, I'll just plug in my old Focusrite audio interface, and I'll have all the I/O I could ever wish for", you might be disappointed. My trusty old RME Babyface certainly didn't work with it. ****Also: external audio interfaces don't expand the existing audio in/outputs on your MPC, they replace them, so if you want 2 stereo inputs, you'll need to buy an audio interface which has 2 stereo inputs. You can't use the onboard in and outputs alongside the ones on your audio interface. Or at least that's what I've been told, because I haven't been able to test this, as I currently don't have an audio interface lying around that works with the MPC. Other than the new connectivity features, everything that's available on the MPC One+ is already available for the OG MPC One, including the option of extra plugins you may choose to buy. (The standard ones included are Odyssey, Hype, Electric, Bassline, Mellotron, Tubesynth, and Drumsynth). As far as I can tell from the review, this will still be the case with the One+, apart from the option to choose a free extra one, but considering inflation, I expect the unit will ship at about a hundred dollars/euros more than the OG, and I believe these plugins are about 100-150 euros a piece, so that works out pretty similar to the original, at least when I bought it. So, this is mainly just good news for new MPC users. If you're a first time buyer, I can highly recommend it, it's an amazing machine, and it has been a great experience from the moment the unit came out of the box. Once I get that cheap and suitable audio interface with more ins and outs, it'll be an absolute powerhouse of a centre piece. For me, as an MPC One owner and synth player/knobtwiddler/weird fx guy in a band, who doesn't use ableton and does very little with wifi or bluetooth, this upgraded version doesn't scream "come and buy me" at me, and I think that is actually a good thing. Akai in this case chose not to saddle their existing customers with an almost obligatory new purchase to keep up with the Joneses, and instead chose to just add some minor improvements to incentivise the people who haven't got an MPC yet. Good on them. Plus, I like my gear to be black, so I'm quite happy with my non-red paintjob.
I just read your comment and it is a great one. I just purchased my MPC one plus and I am a newbie so I’m very excited to learn and see what kind of great music I can make. I also rap so I need to get a mic I guess an interface and I have some studio monitors so I should be good to go right?
@@keyski100 good quality monitors are a must for anyone producing electronic music (or any type of music to be fair). I use Adam Ax7's but you can get away with cheaper ones. Yamaha and Mackie have some good options in a more reasonable price range. I'd avoid Behringer if I were you. There's an old saying "only rich people can afford to buy cheap stuff." If you buy too cheaply, chances are you'll end up dissatisfied and having to spend money again to buy something better. If you spend slightly more you'll get something you'll happily use for a longer period of time. You can stick a mic directly into the mpc, i've recorded vocals on it. Quality could be better, but it totally works. So if you're not intending to have some other live stereo audio source (turntables, a synth) you might get by without an external interface initially. I use two mono analogue synths with it for live jamming and it's perfectly useable that way. My rig has some other digital synths that have stereo outs so in order to use them live, I would need an external interface with multiple ins and outs. But I get by without, so you might as well initially. Just requires a little bit of rewiring while working in the studio, to sample some stuff from one device, then unplug it, plug in a mic or another device and do it again. Once you recorded your sample or clip, you dont need the device plugged in anymore. The limitations only become an issue when you want to play multiple instruments live along with the MPC and use the MPC as your mixer. Have fun with it. It's really a great instrument once you get familiar with its workflow.
@@keyski100 Sorry, I replied to you earlier, but RUclips ate my comment. Yeah, get a decent mic and you're good to go. The interface you might be able to do without, depending on what you´re going to do with the device. You can plug the mic straight into the device and amplify it in there. I´ve recorded some vocals on it, and while I´ve heard better, the quality was fine for the purpose. Personally I use it either paired with a synth plugged into the stereo inputs, using the MPC as a mixer and FX unit, or alternatively I can set up two mono channels and have two synths coming in mono on the "Left" and "Right" channels (which are completely independent). I still haven't pulled the trigger on buying an external audio interface for it, because I don't do that much live stuff, so I can get away with just using the one stereo input to record one sample or clip, and then unplug the device I've sampled, plug in the next device and repeat the process. Once you've recorded your samples/clips, you don't need the device attached, and you can just jam away with it on the MPC. There's plenty of FX, filters and modulation sources in there to keep it interesting. If you do want let's say the output of a DJ-mixer for your turntable-stuff and a vocal mic coming in for live performance, you might need the interface straight off the bat, but try to find some info on how the interface you're buying pairs with the MPC. I think MPC has worked on the compatibility in recent updates, so the range of interfaces compatible with it has expanded a bit since the last time I looked into it, but it's still smart to check beforehand about any known issues with the interface when used with the MPC. Have fun. It's a great device. You're going to love it, I'm sure.
It's a good improvement, but I still think adding an extra 2 gigs of ram would've made it a pretty killer product; especially with folks looking at the X SE with "mixed" reactions.
The looper interface, the sequencer layout, the song mode could be improve ...using the mpc on a live situation request a logistic strategy to make it work. A proper arrangement interface is now needed
Weirdly limited changes, unless they're planning on releasing an MPC Two soon - you'd think they'd have at least made it lighter and more ergonomic, like a PS4 Slim edition.
I think that is more of a supply chain issue, they have to use old chassis and pcb boards. It would be poor inventory management from the perspective of executives to scrap hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of inventory instead of performing incremental improvements that liquidates old stock. I’ve worked in supply chain for the electrical utility for 10 years and this is exactly how manufacturers think.
I just purchased the Akai MPC One + (always wanted a MPC). For me the best part was to connect a USB controller at the back on the MPC...great idea. I have the MPK Mini Plus. Good review loopop. I forgot to mention on boot up my MPC One + keeps saying ...Download directory can not be found. Am i missing something here in which i need to setup in the pref menu?
Excellent review, as always! I picked up an MPC One in January at the same price as this, but I’m happy. The memory upgrade is more desirable than wifi but I haven’t really pushed it very hard yet anyhow. Its a great platform, regardless!
@thesesmallboxes607 the WIFI is essential for the Plugins. I bought the full range of Akai Plugins and now I need an internet connection for my MPC One every 30 days to activate the plugins again. This sucks on stage without WiFi. I think the plugins are to expensive to be activated every 30 days. But Akai think WIFI has more priority for the user experience than the every day leak of memory or longer activation times of the plugins. Akai, please spend more memory and longer plugin activations times when you want to sell more Akai MPC Plugins.
@@christian_blass USB tether from phone USB port and you will have Internet.
I do this on my mpc one black.
@@christian_blasshow much was the plug ins buddy?
Your music has been on repeat recently. Each track is better than the last. Can't wait for more. 💞
Glad you enjoy it - inspires me to find time to release more!
A bit better than the original One, and priced really competitively. Of course, I'd love a battery, but I guess a Live 3 might be on the horizon. Wifi and Bluetooth very welcome additions. Great video as always.
Live II+
As long as you can connect a battery pack via USB, I prefer not having an internal battery.
@@kaarefestvog6540 True true - since you dont want to have one that isnt useful after some time
SP2400 or SP404mk2 kills this. I get like 5 hours on the 404.
Ryobi makes a 110v inverter adapter for their 18v power tool line. A guy on RUclips uses it to power his MPC X and says he gets about 4 hours with headphones out of one battery. So if he can to that on the X, you should get at least that much on the One.
Great overview as always. As a frustrated current MPC One user though i couldn't recommend buying into the platform until about they spend some more time and resources fixing the current software instead of shipping the same jank in a different colour box.
Thanks! Which specific issues need to be fixed?
@@loopop Hi. "Jank" was probably a bit harsh but i'd come to the video straight after a series of frustrating mid session crashes. The issues i experience are for the most part when using the MPC in controller mode. Different things get better/worse with each update. Recent highlights are glitching and unresponsive q link knobs when attempting to record automation, seemingly random midi drop outs from my controller keyboard, (Launchkey61) and the aforementioned crashes. I'm not an Akai hater. My first hardware was an s2000. I want to love my MPC but i also regularly want to throw it out of the window.
@@MrTanukiD bummer. Did customer support not respond? I had a Ableton Live crash a lot until they helped me figure out what the offending plug-in was.
I bought this 2 months ago I'm in love all over again. My Touch had run it's course and it was time for something new. I run the MPC in controller mode mainly in Reason as a VST. I'm considering starting a hybrid setup of which the One Plus will be the centerpiece of
Thank you for an excellent review , again ,
I consider this a marginal evolutionary improvement on the original MPC One.
The Ableton Live control is the same functionality that has been available on the Force for a few years, I believe.
The elephant in the room remains the absence of a song arranger. Maybe AKAI wants to keep that for the Force, which would be understandable: MPC for beats and loops, Force for songwriting?
Not being able to arrange a song and for example record audio across the loop (sequence) boundaries just makes this device of little value to me. Maschine+ does it, and doesn’t cost that much more…
For the Q Links, there is an alternative image which allows mapping of an EC4 from Faderfox.
The sustain pedal on that teeny tiny, adorable, wee li'l baby keyboard is absolutely hilarious and brilliant, especially when played with dynamics and with that huge concert grand patch. I just love it so much!
I would prefer wired connection. Wifi is too laggy for realtime midi- I actually use usb dongle for my oldie MPC live;) oh well, it’s progress, I guess…
At least Myvolts will be happy with the no battery situation!
I have the MPC One+. This thing unleashes massive creativity for me as a musician who is fully adept at making beats, but also an instrumentalist. Despite the creative boost, I can confirm that MPC software is broken. So broken that I almost cannot use it professionally. For one, the MPC ignores start and end points in long sequences if the start point isn't bar one. This is most evident when trying to string sequences together, which is integral to the workflow, that do not have start bars on the first bar. For instance in a 99 bar sequence with audio tracks, I may sequence copy and use bars 8-12 in one copied sequence, and bars 24-32 in another copied sequence. This does not work, and the alternative of tying to edit within the software to copy tracks to a new sequence so that the ranges start on the one is so tedious--the software sucks for traditional audio editing. The "delete bars" in a sequence function does absolutely nothing, as well. That's my main workflow issue. But I have experienced a ton of other bugs, as well. I really wish Akai would stop adding features and would just deliver what they are currently promising their users.
MPC3
@@xALK1984x Stand alone only and beta. Right now I am using MPC in controller mode. I make loops with lots of audio tracks. I must say the workflow has grown on me but he same issues were never addressed by inMusic. MPC 3.0 is stand-alone only and beta; it looks great, but I haven't jumped in because of those reasons.
@@xALK1984x MPC3 doesn't have time signature changes, which is really limiting for me.
Hello Loopop, my 3 year old is by my side as I was watching this video, and he said that he can hear PEPPA PIG. I got confused then realised your voice sounded like the cartoon character PEPPA PIG (the father). 😃. I think he got it spot on🤣🤣
Still good value but more ram would be nice
Finally catching up with what an OG MPC Live can do... since 2018 :)
Aw hell I just got an sp404 mk2 recently. This isn't that much more expensive, I had no idea they were upping the ram and dropping the price... I just can't keep up anymore.. It's pretty nice, and if it didn't so strongly overlap my 404 with ipad workflow I'd have been allllll over this
Good Video
I think that I’m gonna order mine this week since I’m a beginner learning Ableton live lite plus I want to hear how it will sound connected to my Roland JV-1080 midi Sound Module however if….. I decide to buy any MPC expansion it will be the Quest Neo Soul & the Neo Soul sunset 🌅 other than that the rest of them are not worth the $39 price but I will be using the free Spitfire Labs Vintage Keys 🎹 VST so even if Akai gives me the option to get the free Juno Plugin I don’t want it because my 1080 is fully loaded with four expansion boards
I just got the mpc one + two weeks ago but my samsung phone connect for 2 or 3 secobds then it disconnect and tells me to check my device. Do i need to change a setting in midi/sync or something
Excellent!!! Thanks for sharing WIDI #bluetoothmidi
Hello, is MPC software capable of running VST3 natively? Considering the purchase, thank you very much
In the pros and cons section is stated, "at this price nothing comes close." Well, from a certain point of view IF willing to go used a live 2 (live 2+ may be on the way?) can be had for less than $100 more...
Live 2 currently retails at $1299 which is close to double - $600 more. If you’re willing to go used, a used OG MPC one is even cheaper
New subscriber I love your content. I just purchased my MPC one plus and I am a newbie. I do wrap and I’m excited to see what kind of beats and music I can make to put on top of. I do have studio monitors and a Rode mic I just need to purchase an interface and some good headphones. Do you have any suggestions as far as a small little set up? And I have a laptop as well.
Thanks! Do you mean suggestions for headphones and interface? I think Arturia and Focusrite interfaces are good and inexpensive, but check out Julian Krause's channel of ratings of others. I like Beyerdynamic headphones but there are plenty of others
Being as AKAI means Red, I’m not surprised by the new paint job….
Haha I thought they were just trying to appeal to wanna be bloods and piss off everyone else.
@@_c_y_p_3 surprised they didn’t drop this colour way when they brought out the MPC 2000XL LE
Loopop will soon be able to open his own MPC Museum of how many MPCs he has already reviewed ;) thanks for vid :) According to the Sweetwater video, they upgraded the CPU to the unit available in the MPC X and Live 2
Yeah I have quite a few… Re CPU, I believe sweetwater is mistaken. I asked Akai specifically and they said it’s the same CPU across the line
@@loopop Okay thanks, good to know :)
@@synthanatomy I will ask again to make sure
@@synthanatomy Just heard back from Andy after asking specifically - the Sweetwater video is mistaken
@@loopop thanks :)
I have wished for years Akai would make a stand alone Q-Link controller
The Akai Midimix would be perfect for this, if you could map the Q-links to an external midi controller
very-very-very-very weird decision - memory cards or sticks are so cheap nowadays so i literally never heard any complains about internal memory space on mpc one.
what really would be a good upgrade is:
1) normal q-links like on X or Force,
2) and potentially more RAM (so they could sell those new optional heavy plugins to more people ;) )
I don't think the qlinks are ever going to happen at the price point that device is going for. I do think that Akai could do better design wise so that the interface doesn't feel as clunky as it does without the oled screens. I think the way they work is just badly designed on the MPC Live or One.
@@apoclypse those OLEDs cost less than a bucks on retail, and oem price is like really marginal
and also some cheaper mpk's also have them
@@ActionlessLoveless You have to think about the manufacturing cost at scale. OLEDs might be cheap overall but if Akai is looking for specific margins that dollar or less starts to add up when you are manufacturing devices in the thousands. It’s why you see some manufacturers cheap out on pots. Look at Roland. They’ve pretty much given up adding decent displays on their devices and go with a 2 line display. It’s cheap, probably readily available and it keeps their margins high. The issue is not the OLED displays anyway, there is already a high quality LCD on the MPC One, Akai just needs to use it better.
@@apoclypse the most annoying thing in UI is that XYFX require shift or double-press for opening - i wish they could just making it configurable via hidden config file on the memory card, to be able to re-assign the buttons - that would like a really several minutes to implement, but help a lot
Hi Loopop you can map an external midi device however it stopped working over usb after 2.10 but still works over din 😉
The network midi driver for windows (probably Mac too) is totally flawed for control mode (even worse with only Wi-Fi option). I had an akai force and logged a ticket with akai about the network driver knocking out all of my numerous usb midi devices from Ableton detection due to a bugged akai audio device monitor service. Still have an open ticket today. Don’t waste your time with control mode until it’s fixed.😂
I don’t think anyone who recently purchased an MPC One is going to be upset by this, especially if they bought the Retro Edition which is still the best looking MPC.
@loopop great reviev and you are right. Akai can make an external Q-Link Controller. I would by one for my MPC One. Please tell it Akai.
I think I just did!
Can you please check if the warping is improved? Can we pitch down complex melodic samples like in Ableton and have it sound good?
Seems like something bigger is coming..
ram and 8 plugin limit per project is still the biggest bummer of mpc, the workflow and possibilities you could have with lets say even only 8 plugin per SEQUENCE, would litterally transform the mpc in the ultimate standalone production machine i would love to have.
Great review! Feels a bit Underwhelming to me.
Thanks - I think it’s quite a capable box but indeed the changes are incremental
Just got the Mac one plus., I’m new to it. I have a question for the experienced. I’m able to upload sounds etc via Wi-Fi ., Do I also have to upload the sounds from the website in order to use with the software and computer? Also if I do some uploading all those pack from the site, when I connect the Mpc to my computer will I be able to use those sounds from my hardware? Thanks
How is it compared to the Polyend Tracker. They are approximately the same price. Are they close and would you recommend what would you recommend for who? Thanks for your great vids…always helpful.
Thanks! It's best to just watch my Tracker video and full MPC One video to compare - it's hard to sum up in a comment. Feature-wise MPC One has a longer list and is more flexible, Tracker has some unique quirks and a tracker style workflow if that's something you prefer
What app was that on your iPad when you were showing the Bluetooth options?
See description
@Loopop - you need to duck the music under your vocals - they’re frequently drowned out over your jams. Very difficult to hear your voice sometimes (not just this video - it’s a common theme in all your reviews). Otherwise, nice review as always!
Thanks and noted yes it’s a fine balance, will try and do better
I hope Akai implement the Mixer and the Sequence Editor of the Akai Force into the MPC standalone workflow. Together with more RAM it will be an Investment into the future of the MPC lineup. As only Ableton controller the MPC is to pricy and there are much better Ableton Controllers out there. That's the reason why the Akai Force isn't the huge successor. It's not a full functional MPC and it's not a very good Ableton controller. An MPC must be the best standalone solution with the best user experience to be on the market for the next years.
Who said Force was supposed to be a huge successor to MPC? I remember Akai marketing it as a separate fork better suited to stage performance. And I keep getting told that Force is the best "DAW-in-a-box" on the market, ironically, despite MPC One's whole thing being a standalone DAW.
But the MPC line, especially the One, probably prints money, contrary to your hopes and dreams.
I'm unable to install plugins into the onboard internal storage, it says drive not located. Everything else works fine. Is something borked?
you’ve got to use either a usb drive or sd card. I recommend sd so that you leave the usb port free
@@loopop thank you! And thanks for the comprehensive videos, you're an absolute resource!
People still banging on about ram,meanwhile multi million dollar platinum hip hop tracks were produced on MPC’s with 32MB ram if they were lucky most were probably 8MB 🤡🤡
Can you record audio from your phone or tablet over bluetooth?
No
I miss all the default rhythms like walz, pop, rock, 5/4... don't want to re-invent the wheel. Not my product. :-(
Can I browse the web with this unit / download sounds from the web ??
No, except syncing with Splice
Ok how do I get Jura to run without pc connection works brilliantly if I use it via pc mode. can I use a external ssd plugged in usb or sd card. Don’t shoot me down I’m new to mpc 😅
if you mean on standalone, you need to activate it on the MPC separately in the settings. otherwise I'll shoot you off to tech support ;)
Can the MPC One+ work wirelessly with a Korg Microkey Air?
I don’t have one to try, maybe someone else can comment
Does splice work well with this? I heard they had problems
seemed to work fine for me but I'm not a big user, I just opened a test account
Before you buy an MPC, please read this text. Two minutes and you may save yourself a big disappointment. Be sure to check this before purchasing an MPC. I noticed it too late and couldn't cancel the purchase. You cannot use the MIDI (in) on the MPC in the way you know from other multitimbral (16 MIDI channels) hardware. You can’t control the MPC as hardware multitimbrally via your DAW.
BUG description:
The MPCs can't receive the same note on two different MIDI channels on its physical MIDI (in) without one choking the other. This means that if notes arrive at the same time, only one note length is possible. The shortest note on one channel silences the longer note on the other channel. A “Note Off” is broadcast on all 16 channels.
It is not possible to play a short 1/32 bass note (c2) on midi channel (1) and a sustained violin (c2) on midi channel (2) at the same time with your DAW. In the MPC, the violin mutes along with the bass note. The shortest note decides the length of all notes of the same pitch that arrive at the same time - on all MIDI channels! Global Note Off! In the case of the short bass note 1/32.
There is a RUclips video about it: 'MPC X / Live Two Bugs'. The video is from 'Creative Spiral'.
The current MPC series with its various models has existed since 2018. Akai has still not managed to fix the weirdest midibug since the development of multitimbral samplers, synthesizers and workstations. We now have 2024 and software version 2.13. and it is still not possible to integrate the MPC as hardware into a DAW environment.
Do not be fooled. Akai claims on RUclips that this bug has been fixed since MPC version 2.8. That's wrong! What is demonstrated in the video refers to three different physical MIDI (in) on the MPC, which are controlled via MIDI via three different hardware components. This has nothing to do with control the MPC multimbral (16 MIDI channels) via a selected physical MPC MIDI (in) port This would also work on a single physical MIDI input and would therefore also be DAW compatible.
The use of such wonderful tools like Keystep Pro is also not possible. There are also videos on RUclips that demonstrate the unbelievable MPC MIDI bug with a Keystep Pro.
See also MPC Forum: MPC MAJOR MIDI ISSUE : "MULTICHANNEL NOTE OFF" MIDI BUG
In my opinion, MPCs are not suitable for studio use. The possible workflow is simply too one-dimensional. You can only work with the limited sequencer from the MPC. This is completely crazy.
I have been working with multimbral musical instruments since the early 90s. I've actually never seen anything like it. Akai consistently ignores complaints. A Midi (in) should already correspond to the standard. Even a Korg M1 or Akai S6000 from the nineties can do that.
but why is the background music so loud while you're taling 👀
because I got too excited about it sorry. it's only the intro, then it goes away
Can Akai please do something new instead of just making incremental improvements? Like I wouldn’t be annoyed if they were also making generational improvements in at least some of their products but this is just getting frustrating
Did your current MPC stop working or something? I'm not sure what people want. Half want their current stuff to just keep getting updates from Akai, the other half want Akai to make something new. Maybe people should focus on what they have instead.
Nice review. Anyone know if they made Jura incompatible with the original MPC One? AIR site says compatible with MPC Hardware running firmware 2.11.9. But AKAI firmware download page says latest firmware is 2.11. But when you click the download it says 2.12. I assume it should work, seems like no reason they would, apart from maybe trying to force people to 'upgrade'. I'd like a Juno style synth to go with OP-X. Hate the new colour. Since they were changing the connectivity, wouldn't have killed them to make it 2-in, 2-out. And at least doubled the number of q-links, and RAM. I don't know why Akai don't pick up on the fact that they are really starting to pi55 off their user base. At the same time as Ableton have leapfrogged them with a next generation product. Maybe now Akai will finally wake up and smell the competition.
Thanks! Jura should work just fine on MPC One
@@loopop Seems so. Btw, reading around seems I'm not the only one who finds the process of purchasing, installing and authorising MPC One plugins tedious and doesn't inspire confidence. The setup between Akai, AIR and the transaction system FastSpring is pretty janky. People are having transactions go through, and the actual plugin purchase not registering. Seems another instance of InMusic / AKAI not rolling out the most robust and well tested technology system.
Bummer to hear people are having issues with this :/
I Love my Live 2 retro to death. It has been the source of my most satisfying creations. The workflow is hands down the fastest once you learn the system.
It has also been the source of my biggest frustrations and absolutely halting workflow.
Though mine seems to be working well for the most part currently I still get volume drops that sometimes last for minutes and still the occasional crash.
I also seem to not have to even enable a midi keyboard for it to work. But if I don’t want it to work the only way is to disconnect. I would have sent it back but with the way it’s presented and the info in the streets a fix is always an update away. I’m still waiting on the one update that will give me the professional machine I paid for. If we don’t get what we paid for I think we should consider a class action lawsuit.
On the release of the MPC One +, firmware update 2.12 was released. Its only purpose is to incorporate the MPC One +. It makes me wonder if the new plugin looks for this firmware?
Man, where is my force one with battery? Lol yea it's nice to dream
What’s that Juno style synth your using on the mpc?
I have an original mpc one and never saw that synth
It's new - called Jura - launched today
what program is that on the ipad?
see description
is this more preferable for live sample mangling than the Octatrack?
I wouldn't say that, there's overlap, with each capable of doing things the other can't
I’d also take a serious look at the SP-404 MK2. I’ve been shocked by how good it is: 5 effect busses (2 assignable, 2 on the master, 1 on input) designed to be hands on and played live. Add a knobby midi controller like the Launchcontrol and you can access the control knobs for all 5 at the same time plus assign buttons to toggle between your favorite FX on each bus. In DJ mode you can play loops, stems, sequence patterns, etc. and everything stays in sync including the FX.
@@coolo73 That's a good idea, thank you 🙂
SP404 is more immediate and portable, MPCs are not in any way preferable to anything from Elektron. You will be lucky to even get this thing to work cuz they are expecting you to be connected to wifi 24/7 to check that you are not running cracked software. This wifi is for them not you.
yes I had a look at the SP404. what I would need it to have is a jog-wheel to "scratch" over the sound (like Denon SC5000): for live improvisation it's good to "have the sound in the hands" and have the device reliably respond as an instrument to your feel of the groove.
I would prefer to get a removable battery under PLUS rather than WiFi and Bluetooth.
What plugin was that… looked like a juno
Looks like it's the Jura, it's created by Air (parent company of Akai) and available as a standalone product.
Why r plugins better than key groups??
Take less RAM than keygroups. They are dynamic. They load really quickly for the most part, not a lot of storage requirements (except for hype). Setting multilayered key groups with round robin is a pita on an MPC.
The red is a really bad idea. What were they thinking?
The Techno-Satanic WiFi Hive Mind.
2GB RAM remained? why?
All they've done here is use the same unit as Mpc one just a hardware and software upgrade so they can discontinue the Mpc one and just have MPC OnePlus
while someone release push3, akai present this again😅
Wait for the MPC One+ SE in grey... For just 200 bucks more 🤣
@@ickebins6948
😅
@@ickebins6948 yes that is exactly how the akai engineers think and act 😅
This is better though, for a lot cheaper. Look at the music people are making with the $2k+ Push 3, pretty abysmal.
@@heffe4257 What kind of music are they making exactly? Since when does the tool make "good" or "bad" music.
It's kinda strange that some of the synths use "0%" of your resources. What if you start playing some notes on them?
Edit: that sounded passive aggressive but wasn't the intention at all
yes - a CPU test wasn't the focus of this video since the CPU is the same across all hardware MPC products - the point was more to explore how 2GB vs 4GB of RAM impacts what you can do with these. What I meant to say and could have phrased better was that memory-heavy plugins don't seem to use particularly more CPU than the others. Indeed all plugins use more CPU the more voices you play
I had the original MPC one and was never satisfied with the sound, it sounded like something was over the instruments, muffled and impure, with a strange distance and no proper separation once you stack instruments. I hear it again in this demonstration listening on really good headphones. It’s definitely a fun device for making loops and beats but in terms of sound quality it sounds toy(ish) (IMHO).
Is there any time left for actually making music??
Pretty sure you need to be generating sound with the plugins before they consume CPU...
you're right, what I meant to say was that the memory-heavy plugins don't seem to use particularly more CPU than the others - but I could have phrased it better. Indeed all plugins use more CPU the more voices you play
this and the other updated MPC are some of the worst most milquetoast "upgrades" possible. they made it red, they gave you $10 worth of memory, they added wifi (thanks?) and ignored everything important about the device. Not boding well for the future of Akai.
What's important about the device that they ignored? If someone is looking for the best bang for buck groovebox in the market, Akai MPC One is really the only real game in town.
@@apoclypse because its a marginal update. no cpu or ram upgrades. they stuck a wireless card in it and increased the memory to the amount phones had in the early 2000s. Its insulting to call this a plus, its just "MPC One, with wifi and bluetooth".
@@randommcranderson5155 It's an MPC one plus wifi and bluetooth. People are getting too hung up on the name. It's not an MPC One MK2 and it was never marketed as such. Also no one is forcing you to buy it. If you have an MPC One then there is nothing to see here. People should focus less on GAS and more on what they can actually do with the device(s) they already have.
The actual audio quality sounds tinny and crap listen to a roland 404 sample the sound output kills all akai new products. Im not selling roland but audio just sound better.
Pointless why don't they just make a new unit something like an mpc500 just a little bigger
2 GB RAM ....pfffff
It's hard to justify almost any other groovebox in a world where MPC One exists. It just does so much more than anything else in its price class.
Yeah but the experience of using it has never been great for me. Each to their own, but I'd much rather sit down with my novation Circuit or Elektron machine to get some ideas going quickly.
@@strangersun7721 Elektron's famous workflow is what finally motivated me to switch to an Akai Force. I tried and tried for years to get by with a Digitakt and a bunch of synths, but eventually had to admit to myself it was simply not the right tool for me. Then I got a Force, and things mostly "just work" how I wanted all along.
MPC isn't as good as Force, for me, but I still prefer it over almost anything else. MPC really needs the clips + scenes + arranger concept from the Force (or from Ableton). Because what I'm really wanting is, basically, Ableton in standalone hardware form. And at the moment, Force is the best option for that.
Push 3 has a standalone version, but TBH it's not as good. It lacks many of the best features of the Force, particularly the arranger. And it's weirdly expensive. A Push 3 is about $2600, which is about how much I paid for a Force, a Sequential Pro 3, two Decksavers, some gear stands, a mic, a small mixer, a Keystep, a table, a big power strip, a SD card, and a nice SSD drive. All brand new.
Elektron's gear makes some great sounds, but it heavily pushes the user to use short 4-bar / 64-step loops with parameters which are programmed instead of performed. And that's precisely what I don't want. I don't like being stuck in loops.
@@ToyKeeper Akai should really make a smaller Force with maybe 32 pads. I think it would do well.
@@apoclypse Yeah, it would be nice if there was a smaller one... ideally with a battery. It wouldn't even need fewer pads... just smaller. They're too big as-is.
This might have been a very informative video if the music hadn't been so loud in the mix that I wanted to kill someone. If you want people to listen to what you've got to say, how about not drowning your vocals with the music!?
How about this, I promise to try and do better, if you promise to seek professional help about that killing someone business
This planned obsolescence is a massive slap in the face for us folks who trusted Akai. I will never buy or use an Akai product again. I use my own custom sounds and samples anyhow cuz I am not a clone.
Sure u do…
Get that wireless in there so they can start data collection, subscriptions and copyright scans. And its a weird red to celebrate the coming enslavement of the techno-satanic hive mind. Just kidding... Pretty crazy right... I wish everything was wireless.. And BLOOD RED... lol..
RIP AKAI the writing is on the wall the epitaphs have been engraved
The only reason I ll buy it is coz of the color.
O inmusic brand smh 🤦♂️
2gb of ram😂 no reason up upgrade🐯
looks great but wish that it have cv control
It has 8 CV outputs (4 pairs)
Why does this instrument look like a toy for 12 year old humans?
What would you do to make it look more "adult"
@@neonblack211 take out most of the colors from the screen interface for a start
Don't buy this rubbish - may seem like the best bit of gear at the start - then it just becomes unusable, nearly threw mine out the window and I haven't felt like that with my other bits of kit. I've persevered - the discussion forums are unfriendly, and Akai never respond when you raise an issue. MPC Studio is bug ridden and will hog all the resources on your computer. There are much cheaper better options.
Which ones?
@gridus5380 What do you mean, it becomes “unusable”? The more you use anything, the more usable it becomes because you’re starting to master it; the mpc software workflow is decades in the making and hundreds of producers and artists have used it to make huge records. Personally I’ve not had to use support forums once, my mpc is just usb linked to pro tools; the artist arrives at the studio, and we start making music with it. It’s actually quite easy to master if you put dedicated time into it….just sayin….
i cant stand this color 😢😢
None of these beatbox maschined make sense. MacBook air M2 plus a controller and whatever program is so much more powerful
It's not about power it's about a fast workflow, I/O and being standalone. But for sure a Mac even without a controller can do way more
@@loopop workflow is fast with any DAW really
@@westwalnutrecords for you I’m sure, not for people who are interested in this. There’s no right answer and of course many people make music in DAWs
@@loopop I get it I used to only use an MPC. It's cool that there are options. But these are basically over priced and under powered computers. I'd like to see Akai develop there controllers. Create MPE pianos and midi controllers etc. Instead of re-creating MPC's. They really should just have one MPC in their lineup. They all pretty much do the same thing.
Can the pads trigger the drum rack in Ableton mode?
I haven’t tried but it should work (outside of the live control screen)
You can send Midi to Ableton over wifi. I wouldn't though, as there is a lot latency last I checked, you can do it. You can't do it in Live mode. I looked at the Ableton script and there are midi messages being sent from the pads to the device. There is no real reason why it couldn't let you play instruments as well. It's more than capable of sending midi in Live mode (it's actually already doing it to control Live), but the script itself doesn't do anything else with the or buttons on the Force/MPC.
i seriously dont understand why there is only 2gb of ram..... they could've easily added at least 8gb without raising the cost too much. a music making product that is 800 euros has 2gb of ram. jesus christ
MPC one is a great machine love mine bought from your review back 3 years ago, but updating it and not giving it 4gb ram is a missed opportunity
Well, it’s akai, so missed opportunities is the name of the game. MPC X SE for over $2000 in 2023? 😂
I would have bought a One+ if it had 4GB of RAM. So I'm sticking with my old MPC One. Sorry Akai.
I think with 4GB of ram the cpu becomes the next bottleneck.
@@simcax6087 The next CPU bottlenecks are the Plugins and new features. But the memory was a problem since Akai launches the MPC One. But more CPU Power is welcome everytime. Good point
@@simcax6087 MPC X SE and MPC Keys both have 4GB of RAM. 4GB is also nothing by todays standards.
Have been a massive fan of my MPC One since I got it three years ago. The firmware updates really have made it worth sticking to the AKAI platform- audio interface support has literally changed how I've revolved my studio around the One. That being said, the One+ seems like a real missed opportunity for a proper "special edition" of this model, given that so many of the updates seem to merely revolve around wireless connectivity (which I've always found to just be headache inducing). Was hoping for some additional connections on the back panel, some backlit text, additional RAM, MPC X-like Qlink descriptors, an overhaul to automation functionality, and perhaps even an onboard battery, but alas. Hard not to recommend given its price relative to other products on the market, and the additional storage is nice, but can't help but feel that they could've really done more with this one. The One feels like the "jack-of-all-trades" in the current AKAI lineup that was really due for some special treatment. That being said, great review as always
They only do the minimum required to compete. ‘MPC fam’ is just a phrase to get your money.
Yup, all electronic companies do just like with cell phones, especially Apple. They always make small little increment updates and tweaks. It’s all the same.
Not touching one until there is a session block view for arranging and playing!
This is exactly why mine hasn’t been plugged in for many months
I've had my MPC one for about 1,5 years now, and I was a little worried when I saw this video pop up, that the MPC one+ would be a huge improvement, and would leave me unhappy with my lame old obsolete version. Luckily, that doesn't seem to be the case at all. Bluetooth and Wifi are nice-to-have extra options, but I can do without. I don't use ableton, so I don't care about the new linking options for MPC One+. More internal storage is nice, but I've got a 128gb memory card which is only about half full at the moment, and I've got a lot of crap on there I'm never going to use anyway, so that's never been an issue for me either.
There's no added audio I/O, which would have surely made me sigh and reach for my wallet, because that is currently the only real limitation that I regularly run in to. But I'll solve that with a cheap and suitable external audio interface.***
*** Important note for potential buyers of the MPC one though: there's a thread I follow on the MPC forums where users report on audio interfaces that work or don't work with the MPC. Please be aware that a lot of them don't, or give all sorts of bugs and audio artifacts when you use them with the MPC, so if you're thinking "Great, I'll just plug in my old Focusrite audio interface, and I'll have all the I/O I could ever wish for", you might be disappointed. My trusty old RME Babyface certainly didn't work with it.
****Also: external audio interfaces don't expand the existing audio in/outputs on your MPC, they replace them, so if you want 2 stereo inputs, you'll need to buy an audio interface which has 2 stereo inputs. You can't use the onboard in and outputs alongside the ones on your audio interface. Or at least that's what I've been told, because I haven't been able to test this, as I currently don't have an audio interface lying around that works with the MPC.
Other than the new connectivity features, everything that's available on the MPC One+ is already available for the OG MPC One, including the option of extra plugins you may choose to buy. (The standard ones included are Odyssey, Hype, Electric, Bassline, Mellotron, Tubesynth, and Drumsynth).
As far as I can tell from the review, this will still be the case with the One+, apart from the option to choose a free extra one, but considering inflation, I expect the unit will ship at about a hundred dollars/euros more than the OG, and I believe these plugins are about 100-150 euros a piece, so that works out pretty similar to the original, at least when I bought it.
So, this is mainly just good news for new MPC users. If you're a first time buyer, I can highly recommend it, it's an amazing machine, and it has been a great experience from the moment the unit came out of the box. Once I get that cheap and suitable audio interface with more ins and outs, it'll be an absolute powerhouse of a centre piece.
For me, as an MPC One owner and synth player/knobtwiddler/weird fx guy in a band, who doesn't use ableton and does very little with wifi or bluetooth, this upgraded version doesn't scream "come and buy me" at me, and I think that is actually a good thing. Akai in this case chose not to saddle their existing customers with an almost obligatory new purchase to keep up with the Joneses, and instead chose to just add some minor improvements to incentivise the people who haven't got an MPC yet. Good on them.
Plus, I like my gear to be black, so I'm quite happy with my non-red paintjob.
I just read your comment and it is a great one. I just purchased my MPC one plus and I am a newbie so I’m very excited to learn and see what kind of great music I can make. I also rap so I need to get a mic I guess an interface and I have some studio monitors so I should be good to go right?
@@keyski100 good quality monitors are a must for anyone producing electronic music (or any type of music to be fair). I use Adam Ax7's but you can get away with cheaper ones. Yamaha and Mackie have some good options in a more reasonable price range. I'd avoid Behringer if I were you. There's an old saying "only rich people can afford to buy cheap stuff." If you buy too cheaply, chances are you'll end up dissatisfied and having to spend money again to buy something better. If you spend slightly more you'll get something you'll happily use for a longer period of time.
You can stick a mic directly into the mpc, i've recorded vocals on it. Quality could be better, but it totally works. So if you're not intending to have some other live stereo audio source (turntables, a synth) you might get by without an external interface initially.
I use two mono analogue synths with it for live jamming and it's perfectly useable that way. My rig has some other digital synths that have stereo outs so in order to use them live, I would need an external interface with multiple ins and outs.
But I get by without, so you might as well initially. Just requires a little bit of rewiring while working in the studio, to sample some stuff from one device, then unplug it, plug in a mic or another device and do it again. Once you recorded your sample or clip, you dont need the device plugged in anymore. The limitations only become an issue when you want to play multiple instruments live along with the MPC and use the MPC as your mixer.
Have fun with it. It's really a great instrument once you get familiar with its workflow.
@@keyski100 Sorry, I replied to you earlier, but RUclips ate my comment. Yeah, get a decent mic and you're good to go. The interface you might be able to do without, depending on what you´re going to do with the device. You can plug the mic straight into the device and amplify it in there. I´ve recorded some vocals on it, and while I´ve heard better, the quality was fine for the purpose.
Personally I use it either paired with a synth plugged into the stereo inputs, using the MPC as a mixer and FX unit, or alternatively I can set up two mono channels and have two synths coming in mono on the "Left" and "Right" channels (which are completely independent).
I still haven't pulled the trigger on buying an external audio interface for it, because I don't do that much live stuff, so I can get away with just using the one stereo input to record one sample or clip, and then unplug the device I've sampled, plug in the next device and repeat the process. Once you've recorded your samples/clips, you don't need the device attached, and you can just jam away with it on the MPC. There's plenty of FX, filters and modulation sources in there to keep it interesting.
If you do want let's say the output of a DJ-mixer for your turntable-stuff and a vocal mic coming in for live performance, you might need the interface straight off the bat, but try to find some info on how the interface you're buying pairs with the MPC. I think MPC has worked on the compatibility in recent updates, so the range of interfaces compatible with it has expanded a bit since the last time I looked into it, but it's still smart to check beforehand about any known issues with the interface when used with the MPC.
Have fun. It's a great device. You're going to love it, I'm sure.
Is Nord involved?
The colour is stylish , tired of black,white and silver
"We want more RAM.
Wifi? :)
NO MORE RAM.
Okay we will give you Wifi and make it red. 🥰
NOOOO MORE RAM."
Exactly, now I think you're a Spion 😂😅
Additional LINE outputs would have been nice
just attache a usb audiointerface …
Thank you
It's a good improvement, but I still think adding an extra 2 gigs of ram would've made it a pretty killer product; especially with folks looking at the X SE with "mixed" reactions.
The looper interface, the sequencer layout, the song mode could be improve ...using the mpc on a live situation request a logistic strategy to make it work. A proper arrangement interface is now needed
My mpc 2500 have 128MB Memory 😅😅😅
What was the Juno synth plugin?
Looks like it's the Jura, it's created by Air (parent company of Akai) and available as a standalone product.
@@_mickmccarthy Thanks
These kids just have no idea how good they have it. You can get this for 600 bucks ?!?!?! 🤦♂️
Weirdly limited changes, unless they're planning on releasing an MPC Two soon - you'd think they'd have at least made it lighter and more ergonomic, like a PS4 Slim edition.
Loopop did mention that it was a bit lighter. I don't know if it needs to be slimmer.
I think that is more of a supply chain issue, they have to use old chassis and pcb boards. It would be poor inventory management from the perspective of executives to scrap hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of inventory instead of performing incremental improvements that liquidates old stock. I’ve worked in supply chain for the electrical utility for 10 years and this is exactly how manufacturers think.
Terrible idea for IN/OUTs. this isn't a gaming console
They wanna copyright scan your unit... Or get you on a subscription... Or both.. Probly both.
@@kashdro85 that makes sense. Still, not ideal from a consumer perspective!
I just purchased the Akai MPC One + (always wanted a MPC). For me the best part was to connect a USB controller at the back on the MPC...great idea. I have the MPK Mini Plus. Good review loopop. I forgot to mention on boot up my MPC One + keeps saying ...Download directory can not be found. Am i missing something here in which i need to setup in the pref menu?
finally someone adressing the Hardware resources with comparisons to the X SE 👍👍👍👍👍👍
AKAI, take note...
"AKAI maybe sell one with little oled screen, so we can have a little mini MPC_X here" loopop said it here first. 😁😁😁