Watch this BEFORE buying MPC LIVE MK 2!! - 5 things to know
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 23 май 2020
- Hi guys, just wanted to share a few thoughts on the MPC Live MK II, as a former MPC Live and current MPC X user, wish you the best!
Check out my new Patreon page to get exclusive content and support this channel!
/ midlifesynthesist
Support the channel with affiliate links!
Keystep pro: amzn.to/2HFUKRz
Original Keystep: amzn.to/33jrk40
My synths:
The amazing OP-1: amzn.to/3l4xQ55
Op-1 Top Accessories
Awesome case for your OP-1: amzn.to/2GaPmW7
Decksaver: amzn.to/3cAudR3
Bigger Knobs + Antenna: amzn.to/3mTcucl
Legendary Maschine MK3: amzn.to/3ikIpyZ
The little MPC that could, the ONE: amzn.to/30oenUN
The portable battery packed powerhouse, MPC LIVE MK2: amzn.to/3jjNMji
The Mother ship, MPC X: amzn.to/2Sky0IR
Awesome polysynth Novation Peak: amzn.to/3kZO7bg
Moog Sub 37:amzn.to/3l2VOgK
Moog Subharmonicon: amzn.to/3ipo4J2
Moog Grandmother: amzn.to/3jk3Lh8
Studio Mic, Rode NT1: amzn.to/30jcF71
Audio interface: amzn.to/36jYt1t
COLOR AUDIO CABLES!!: amzn.to/2G53uk1
My RUclips Video GEAR:
Main Camera: amzn.to/3kSc8kE
B Cam: amzn.to/2HAw7G5
20mm Lens: amzn.to/30dXZ9v
Zoom lens: amzn.to/3kRVxx4
Monopod: amzn.to/30ajEPV
NTG Videomic: amzn.to/3ijXqRJ
Edited on Ipad pro 12.9: amzn.to/2G41Uyz
Macbook pro 16 inch: amzn.to/3cJHJSy
Magic Mouse 2: amzn.to/30mmqkS
follow me on instagram: @midlifesynthesist 
Видеоклипы
Thanks for watching! Since I got lots of comments about it I just wanted to clarify that in my alternative setup, I meant using the MPC ONE with a portable speaker hooked up via a 3.5mm jack (which in the example I refer to as a “bluetooth speaker”, sorry for the mixup)
UPDATE: myvolts confirmed there is a 19V ripcord in the works!
I was looking for this comment and confirmation on the Bluetooth speakers connecting to the mpc one! Because JBL flip5 (given as an example on your vid) does not have an aux input!
@@hk6838 So the MPC One doesn't have bluetooth?
@@LFiers no it doesn't
@@digitalkmultimedia Thanks. I bought an MPC Live 2 instead.
I use myvolts for sp 404 works great . I decided to get a xt power 200000qc3 power bank that has 19v for mpc one. And the jbl flip 4.
I recently purchased the MPC Live 2 and its by far the best machine I have ever owned (Ensoniq ASR-X, MPC 2000XL, Maschine mk3). I wish the battery would last longer. At first, I thought the built it speaker was more for show, but its pretty useful and surprisingly accurate. I do have kids I set up in the kitchen while they play (30-45minute sessions) and after a month of use I'm reaching a full album pretty soon. I definitely recommend the Live 2.
Just picked up a Live II last weekend as an impulse buy when I was visiting Seattle. Used it the whole flight back to NYC and had a blast. Got a few looks from the flight attendant but nothing crazy. At home I use it on the couch next to my wife while she watches Netflix. She’d rather that than me hide in the studio all day and night. I’d say the battery is as essential feature.
Regarding the speaker, maybe less essential but I think it’ll be fun to bust out in social situations. Friends jamming with a guitar? Now they just got a full rhythm section :)
I make trax on my mpc live every morning before work..and I also have a wife and kids. This is what I always dreamed of....making beats anywhere anytime. It's portable enough for me actually....but it's good to hear other people's perspective on it. By the way...ive made more trax and my best trax on the Live .....and I've been producing for over 30 years....the touch screen is what makes it great in my opinion👍
Hi Perry! That’s really cool! I have lots of friends who swear by the touch screen, maybe I’m just old fashioned🤣 Do you have a spotify or bandcamp link? Would love to hear your music bro, peace!
Agree, and if you want more keys and knobs, just hook up an MPK mini and/or a Midimix to it. This box is magic!
I've been making music for, damn, ~30 years now, and, without a doubt, the MPC Live is the most sophisticated and amazing piece of gear I've ever owned and used. I just wish I could master it faster! It could basically replaced every single piece of gear I own. Such an amazing thing.
I have a boat as my man cave and the MPC Live + an OP-1 are perfect for off grid jamming.
If the 'real' world gets too much I head to the boat, moor up in some isolated creek plug in my Mini Rig speakers and bust a groove without annoying anyone. Awesome channel by the way from another midlife synthesist
Thank you so much bro! That’s a powerful combo you got there! Would love rockin out on a boat ! Cheers!
You lucky bastard!!!
That's awesome. Would love to jam out on a boat.
Mpc live at the park playing through the car speakers is insane. 30 years after .5 sec samplers.... Lol I love it!!
im one of the oldschoolers. I had an MPC 1000, 4000... Portable or not, the Live2 has all the features and more than what im used in an mpc. It is still compact. Understand something...it is not a midi contoler, it's a complete workstation....if you find so many negative things about it then stick with the controler, no problem there. MPC always offered a different experience in the making of a beat. The work flow cannot be compared. At the end, it's all about making music, having fun, it's all about love.
Hi bro, first of all thanks for watching, but I think you misunderstood the point of my video, or rather, who it is meant for. I say that because I absolutely agree with everything you said in your comment lol😅 I made this video not to hate on MPC, I love it and have the X myself. I made it as a reality check for people like me who sometimes buy things for the wrong reasons or convince themselves that they will use them in made up fantasy situations, like the examples in the vid. Anyway, thanks for your perspective, which I largely share. Keep making those beats, and loving the art of music✌🏻
I have the X I got the Live for portable reasons I thought it was the II but with Head Phones I’m Happy
This is the first time I have heard a honest review regarding the realistic use of a piece of gear.
As a father, you just nailed this on the head. It is a fantasy, the couch producer. Best work for me remains the DAW, although, I can't stand sitting there anymore.
Thank you so much my friend! 100% same here
@Catholic Truth I would have to disagree that all DAW music sounds the same...most music in the world is recorded via DAW...is it all the same? I do like the workflow of hardware though, and being free of the mouse.
MPC Live is for controlled environment portability. College Campus, Homes with yards, planned meetings (dates, other home visits, staying at grandmas)
Sure most of these things you can do with an MPC One, but the fine line is what each device enables you to do.
more space + speaker + cv outs
@@HOLLASOUNDS speak for yourself
I listened to other people like you who advised the MPC X. I bought the X, it's a beautiful machine, but its too large for my little flat, and it sat in its box getting hardly any use for two years. Regretfully I had to sell it, losing over £500 in the process. Now with my MPC live I can sit on my couch making music again. I don't want to make music in a field or in the park, I only require a degree of portability, And the Live fits that role perfectly! BUT if I had a studio type setup then the MPC X is where its at.
You said "this, is portable". Busted out an OP1 lmao. Some great gear man
LOL, thanks bro! Glad someone gets my sense of humor! See you around!
...1100$ not a toy
...definitely not for camping
... definitely not for showing off in the hood..
I take camping. I take it up in the deer stand and make beats as the sun rises.
The Live 2 blows peoples minds when they see it. I think the integration is the thing that astounds people. I love the convenience of grabbing it no power cable, no bluetooth speaker to turn on, no external laptop or USB harddrive, just hitting the on button and as soon as the start up is done. I am away. I may buy an X too. I'm sure the second hand residuals will be v strong so if you need to switch up, it won't be a big hit.
finally someone to talk us down from irrational purchases
I have an sp 404a, I do now and again use it on the go or in bed but very rarely, my 2 year old niece helps me make beats on it all the time though she loves the lights and buttons
I really appreciated this video especially as a father and husband and part time musician. You have some really good things to consider. I have the MPC X and it’s amazing. However, after a year or two, I have a few people I can make music with, and taking the X around is possible but very difficult. I decided to buy the MPC Live II RETRO because of the speaker and portability as I go around and jam with other people.
"..while a drone films me.." hahahahaha
Personally having the option to unplug from the wall just to cut down on clutter for a bit is a nice option. Lot's of houses are terribly designed for outlets and being able to move and not have to rearrange furniture to reach the one outlet is valuable.
To be honest, the extra outputs of the live compared to the one are currently my main benefit while having it as part of my setup.
The only reason I consider the Force "portable" is because I don't have to use 3 or 4 synthesizers that it adequately replaces.
Love the fact I can get out the live 2 with no cables.
I've been at my wit's end trying to decide between a Deluge and an MPC. For days I've been sucking up information, exhausted with videos, unable to find an opinion that has swayed me one way or the other. This video finally convinced me. Thank you!
Wow why do I feel like the only one who takes the MPC live 2 outside at the park, or makes some beats on the couch ect...?The thing is that if you are a producer that has alot of clients the MPC live 2 is great for getting ideas down fast where ever you are without cables. For me is a game changer producer wise. There's alot of positive as well.
Absolutely! The thing is a beast. I just wanted to give a bit of reality perspective to people like me who bought it for the wrong reasons/expectations. It’s an awesome piece of gear in the right hands🤟🏻
I like your videos !!
You give honest perspectives and you know what you are talking about !!
You kept me smiling the whole time explaining different aspect of portable systems it's a great video keep up the good work
Thank you my friend! Makes me happy to know you enjoyed it🙌🏻
Good point about the difference between portable and transportable. Thanks for the analysis of the portability fantasy. Food for thought.
Wanted to thank you for this video and for being honest and real. It's refreshing to see real people who aren't sponsored by companies provide their personal thoughts. Your remarks about portability and using expensive hardware out in a park are spot on, and hilarious.
Now, I'm curious about your background. You have thousands and thousands of dollars worth of gear in your studio. What is your day job and how did you end up with all this gear? Is most of the gear just collecting dust? Which are your favorit pieces of gear? Lots of potential video content here! Thanks again.
Hi bro! That is great video content for sure! Thank you so much for your kind comments. I’ve been thinking about doing a sort of interview type of video where I talk about those things, but I thought maybe no one would be interested haha. looks like I’ll be making it anyway! See you then, cheers!
PS> in my last video I answer your question about my favorite gear, check it out!
@@MidlifeSynthesist Well you sure have at least one subscriber who looks forward to that video. 😊 I especially appreciated this particular video because I watched it (the first time) at a time when I was considering the MPC One vs Live 2 vs Machine+ and it was a sobering moment to hear you completely dismiss the illusion I had of making music on the go. No, that almost never happens and isn't a priority.
Thanks in part to your wisdom, after six months of groovebox research, I ended up getting the Digitone. I learned one important thing, which is that for me, it's not so much about finalizing songs without a DAW, as there is no groovebox in the world that can come close to it anyway. For me, it's about having fun, getting some inspiration and generating song ideas that would be difficult to achieve in the DAW. After two weeks of usage, I can happily confirm that I made a good choice based on my needs: the Digitone is just so much fun, and its way of blurring the lines between a synthesizer and a sequencer makes it so surprisingly musical in ways I would need months of training to achieve as quickly in the DAW. I've had this thing next to my work computer since I got it, and with an 8 second startup time, it's just begging me to jam a little between two consecutive meetings. No, I'd never do that kind of jamming session on a train, and if I started to have the urge to finalize a song, I'd just get frustrated with the interface of something more DAW-like-but-not-a-DAW, like the Machine+. The purpose of the Digitone isn't to finish songs, but to perform jams that may or may not turn into a real song - and where the journey is at least an order of magnitude more fun than the destination.
Anyway, I thought I'd share my story since you were a part of it. Long story short: I'm hooked and I'm getting the Digitakt sibling in a couple of days, and I really can't wait. 😎🎶
@@sinewaymusic dude that’s awesome and so wholesome! Thank you so much for sharing and making me feel a part of your journey! You are 100% right, it’s not about the perfect machine, just the one that gets the juices flowing! After much trial and error, I’ve been finding my groove by creating in hardware and finishing/arranging in the daw, a hybrid workflow. Keep me posted! I’d love to hear more when you get the digibros together! Peace!
Point number 2 was hilaroius! I was using my Digitakt on the couch while my wife was watching TV and it lasted about 30 seconds before she told me to go back downstairs :-) This was a really entertaining video and I'm looking forward to checking out the rest of your content.
🤣I can relate to that 100%, thanks for the feedback bro!
Good video for new buyers! My two cents on it is -> I do make beats on the couch (no kids) this was my intent when i bought it. I wanted a no compromise no computer thing to be able to start real tracks away from the computer. Totally works for me. But great video!
Thanks Carl! It’s really cool that you can do that, that’s what this beast is made for! You’re living my dream lol, rock that couch bro!
Thanks alot, man! You just answered all my doubts :)
So many good points!! I love that you're talking practically and not just being a yes man!
Thanks bro! Happy you enjoyed it👍🏼👍🏼
In your opinion which unit is more comfortable in terms of being ergonomic, the X or the live? Is reaching out constantly to the screen tiring after a while? Thank you
I appreciate you keeping it real. I dig your style.
Thank you so much my friend! Thanks for watching👍🏼
I needed to hear this. After a ton of research and watch time, I opted for the Maschine MK3 as I still like working with a computer. Then I watched (I really need to cut back on watch time) reviews on MPC Live I, II and One and started to get FOMO that I had made a mistake getting the Maschine. I have other options for portability (MC101, iPad and some small midi keyboards for example) if I want to get one with nature. Then again, living in Vegas...
This is not the first time one of your videos has helped me. Watch time on your channel is ok!
Lol! I truly appreciate it and will strive to make every minute of watchtime here absolutely worth it! FOMO is as real and powerful as GAS and I’ve fallen victim to it many times! Just remember there will ALWAYS be a new shiny music box that will promise you limitless creativity and features, but as someone who has explored waaay to many such boxes, usually there is nothing better than what you already love and master. And don’t worry, if any of these boxes are the real deal, I’ll be here to tell you😜 see you soon!
Totally agree, I had the MPC Live for over a year. Never had time to "play in the park", on the sofa its hard to place it right. Its heavy, has hard edges and the screen doesn't tilt. I am not a knobs person and like to see everything on one page. I found myself spending more time on the mpc2 software than the actual module. In the end I got rid of the MPC Live bought an Akai MPD 218 keypad and am using it perfectly with the software.
MPC 2 software $120
MPD 218 $ 100
l fantasize about getting an MPC One one day just for fun but right now I'm basically doing everything that an MPC does for less and more portability.
This is EXACTLY what I was wondering!!! Thanks for the video.
This is a great video, I have the X currently but was actually looking at purchasing the Live 2 for portability (for use in garden or on the sofa when my other half is watching a show I dont watch), but the point you made about muscle memory has made me rethink.
Hi bro! Maybe if you already have the X, it would be worth it to check out something with a different vibe to it for portability? I’m looking into the Deluge these days, I’ll let you know how that works out! Thank you very much for watching!
As an MPC and Deluge user I can say the MPC initially put me off as being very artificially compartmentalized in it's user interface, but I trudged through that, and I now realize MPC is super awesome. The Deluge (Like the OP-1) is very much it's own thing... as a sequencer/arranger it's pretty much the best machine ever made on earth. The Deluge factory synth presets do seem kind of meh... until you realize that they are more like starting points for developing your own sounds (really helps to get nerdy with the mod matrix.) The Deluge is very much geared toward the "muscle memory" and "by ear" user... it has all the basics covered and will stretch towards all the esoteric stuff. If the Deluge had a few velocity/pressure pads and more built in Scales and Modes it would trounce the MPC except amongst the most hardened MPC fans.
I like the Deluge because after a long time using it with my glasses on and the manual out... one day I realized I was playing it without my glasses on... this was the place I wanted to get to. I can't say that everybody can or will get to that point with the Deluge, if you do though it is completely worth it. I don't know yet if the MPC will ever have that same place the Deluge has, but it does have some great features and FX. The MPC Live basically just sounds great... and has some nice flow after you get going with it, post awkward first attempts.
The built in speaker on the Deluge is kind of cute, but don't imagine/pretend that it is giving you the full mix, my recommendation for couch composers is that you wear headphones or get a better than decent portable stereo boombox/speaker with a line in (if you need to make a show of it.) A good set of In-Ear monitors that have bass response will work as well... or the 3.5mm Aux input on your car stereo. Built in speakers always seem kind of nice and socially convenient, but also come off as disappointing when compared with even the most basic set of studio monitors.
Hello friend, I loved your video about the difference between mpc live 2 and its characteristics, but I still have a question and knowing more information than there is, I want to ask you, the akai mpc live version 2 has some difference (beyond the speaker and some other mimima) with the amount of buttons or physical functions that the live first version cannot have? Can live version 1 be updated to have those supposed special functions that version 2 has? If you can answer me with these questions, I am very interested in buying one but I do not know if it is convenient for me to spend more than 400 dollars in version 2 to have functions that the first version does not have, and that later it does not have support, you understand me, I would appreciate it your answer and I wait for it
Hey there, I know this is a bit of an old video but I hope you have a chance to shoot a quick reply: I’m considering getting the MPC One vs Live II, and after watching this I was actually gonna go for the One, but I noticed that Live II comes with a lot more GB of packs/instruments. Is that worth to consider in your opinion?
Thanks for making this video! I like your sense of humor.
Thank you so much! I’m glad you enjoyed it, hope to see you around these parts again! Have an awesome day👍🏼
Good honest review, subbed.
Thank you so much!! See you around!
I used to have an mpc one. But I sold it because, mpc live 2 fits my life much better. I can hardly use headphones because of my brain injury, the feeling of pressure in my head is already strong enough without it. I spend approx. 16 hours a day in my wonderful electric bed, I live alone, and have no children or girlfriend. I can easily take it with me, e.g. to the hospital or if I go to rehabilitation, etc. I hate working with the computer Daw, it is much more cognitively demanding. Of course, learning workflow was its own story with mpc, but I managed. Of course, I also have speakers at home, but Genelec's 8050b are far too powerful to be used in an apartment building, e.g. at night. The Live 2 integrated speakers were one of the main reasons for purchasing the aforementioned product. Although, I completely understand your point in the video. Our lives could hardly be more opposite. Still good content ✌️ peace and love.
Thule Subterra backpack can hold a MPC live ii and a laptop and fit under your airplane seat. The back pack isnt that big its just organized really well. I just flew with it west to east coast and back. I do use on my sofa while my wife watches tv. I also use outside in my fenced in backyard while my dogs play. inputting notes is a real concern but that comes down to making a choice between the MPC live ii or some portable synth keyboard (size) like the microfreak. I have owned the MPC one and after live ii I haven't used it since.
In my opinion - if you plan on getting the MPC One to make beats wherever or on your lap while on a couch, in bed, on balcony) its feels awkward. It didn't feel right to me, honestly. I hate being stuck at a desk as I work at one for my day job. So when I do music- i like to do it wherever the heck I want. Summing up, it only felt okay when it was sat on a desk platform. The Live II feels perfect, and not awkward in the least while on my lap. It's not heavy to me and I've never felt uncomfortable with it. As for portability, I think the Live II is not that big and can fit in a bag just fine. In Public use? Really depends where you live as it is very flashy. If you are looking to jam out wherever and not attract attention I suggest a MPC 500, or SP 404 etc. All the new gadgets going forward are going to have heavy LED lights - like a toy.
ProducedByDouglas Thanks for commenting and sharing your experience with the MPC One! I feel the same about the Digitakt, even though it’s pretty compact, the shape and size are a bit awkward (though not unusable) on your lap. I agree with you 100% on the sp404, it’s probably my favorite couch music machine, peace!
This is exactly the kind of stuff that Ive been wondering as I try and decide between the One, LiveII, or maybe even the X... really great video - subbed!
Spot on with the plane/couch fantasies haha! We all romanticise these moment with anything portable but when it comes to it we listen to Spotify and enjoy nuts and beer.
I think the most important thing this video does is serve as a reminder that when thinking about any gear purchase one must consider the reason for wanting that particular model? I agree with all your points about mobility and the fear of getting robbed or mugged. For me the reason why I'm still considering the Live/Live 2 is the ability to connect to Ableton. If the MPC One allowed this I wouldn't think twice about getting the One. After it's all said and done whether it's a DAW, MPC or any other piece of gear there will always be a missing feature and/or something that you wished was available to make the workflow better. Thanks for taking the time to make the video...knowledge is power and the more info or perspective we have the better equipped we are to make better choices!
Thanks for the information started with the MPC 2000 back in 97 bought my MPX back in 2018 and just picked up the gold edition live two from musicians Friend for $800 brand new
Great thoughts on MPC line up!
Thanks for watching!
What’s material is the casing of the MPC Live II made from? Plàstic or metal? Thanks!!
The Live 1 or 2 , excluding cv out, they are identical (monitors on the 2 are so so). I do recommend an external midi controller with sliders and cv out for recording.
Lifted noise sent me here. Great video! I agree 100%. Coming from the live,i just purchased the one and i love the workflow so far.
Thanks for commenting! I would love to hear your insights on the One, having actually played around with it! Drop me a line when you can! Peace!
This machine is a beast. with what this machine can do it is worth it. You can buy a bag for it that fits everything. I love the size.
@Akilleus nope.. I use my backpack for it.
This was a great discussion. I fit so many of those things. In my case, though, my kids are teens and doing their own thing. Wife and I sit together on the couch often, each reading or watching on our own tablets and using our own headphones. We have "parallel played" like this for 32 years, so it works for us. I can't use gear on a bus because I get motion sickness. Pre-pandemic, I took a Bay Area corporate bus to work every day. So many of my coworkers sat working on their laptops during the trips, but many others like me just close their eyes, turn the air jet on their faces, and listen to music or podcasts. I have some iPad music-making software but really it is not that great for me. Maybe the only thing is to make some samples via wireless.
Love your reality check on being a couch producer, lol. But you are right… no drones, wilderness…this is so right and a lot of us don’t take the time to really think about this fantasy of usage versus reality of being engaged with life around us. Just being able to sit down and have a conversation with you about gear could probably help a lot of us with making decisions since you have insight on aspects some of us never think about. Marketing for devices is an amazing tool! Lol What are your thoughts on the Elektron Octatrack Mk2 vs Teenage Engineering OP-1?
nice delivery,.I made it through the end. Thanks for the tips and for sharing your experience. ❤🎉
A bluetooth speaker will NEVER work for realtime fingerdrumming due to latency. I don't care what speaker you buy, as long as it's wireless (BT) it will have latency.
Latency is a Live play killer.
Furthermore the price of the Live 2 is MUCH better than the One.
- has more storage
- more storage expansion options (SDD !!!)
- more in and ouputs
- extra usb port
- bigger (regular sized) pads !!
- already has a battery instead of a powerdock with cables
- and the speakers that can always come in handy
Can be used as an audio interface for pcs with terrible audio cards. Audio comes out of live 2 speaker. Usb midi using Android phone is nice. Just made a beat using it. Looper may be better elsewhere but if you're only using this how would you know? I don't. I take my moc to job sites. Buffet restaurant. And anywhere else I'm able to take a weapon
nice realistic points. everyone keep talking about how the want to just "throw it in their backpack" and produce music in random places
LOL, exactly! This thing is a beast and certainly an awesome beatmaker, but I don’t see myself walking around with this thing in my backpack everyday, ouch! Just trying to help people manage their expectations with it. Thanks for watching bro, see you around!
I enjoy taking my live 2 into the woods out back or anywhere. Load it in my bookbag. Go hiking. And then pick a spot. The Moc one setup may cost less but is more cables. Less portable. More work setting up. Instead of instant creation. I sit in my deer stand and use the live 2. I use my phone via usb for midi keys.
Man! This was so practical and relatable! Thanks!!
Great job with the video! You make a lot of great points. The LIVE is a bit awkward to carry around. Not all back packs will work. My LIVE's edges are worn from taken it around. I do have that case now which goes in a backpack, once you start adding other things in the backpack the weight does start adding up. Adding a speaker did just make it a whole lot more awkward to take around. I've also had the same park bench, coach fantasies, definitely doesn't happen often or at all really. Thanks for this share 👌 video is on point.
Thanks dude! Glad you enjoyed it! Hope to see you around!🙌🏻
@@MidlifeSynthesist i subbed up for notifications 👊
These are all great GAS prevention thoughts, it's funny because I'm buying it in a hyper specific scenario: I have a lot of down time at my job and space to tinker with it, so it's just portable enough and the speaker is actually perfect because I couldn't use headphones in this situation.
But everything you said is totally spot on and some of it made me chuckle, especially the marketing bit about abandoned train stations etc lol like seriously. Like most people won't use it as portably as they're probably picturing
You’re very delightful and heart warming funny to listen to and see, you’re vlog and presentation is outstanding, fun, true and a joy to watch you more! Well done and congratulations for your talent and wonderful work. Thank you!
You made me giggle and laugh so many times, and I’m re playing your video again and again!
Your smile is contagious!
I believe you can very well be in comedy and be awesome as well in it.
Thank you so much for such kindness and generosity in your comment. I truly appreciate you choosing to take the time to watch my channel. It’s people like you who keep me going. Hope to hear from you again, have an awesome 2021!
You're completely right !
We need an MPCX with battery, speakers, at the MPC one size weight and price 😂
MPCX is what I'd like to buy. But very expensive and difficult to use outside the studio. Akai, like Elektron, are masters in creating gear that are must have. Each one can be a standalone, but you need all of them... 😆
I guess I'll end up with the live 2, it’s a middle of the road thing. Maybe later I will buy the MPCX ?... 😊
So I have alot of experience with beat making on reason 5 and garage band, I had a MPC Live and eventually was getting the hang of it but had bought the display version because that's all they had in store so I didn't get the software and downloads that come with it. Do you believe the MPC Live 2 is a good thing to start with ? What's your thoughts on this ?
Hi bro! If you liked the MPC LIVE mk1, you will probably really enjoy the mk2, but I don’t think there is much reason to upgrade if you already have the mk1. If, however, you don’t have the software and upgrades, and want to make the switch, I think it’s a great piece of gear. Personally I would still go try out the MPC ONE unless you need the rca inputs. Also, if you don’t need the portability, I’d definitely consider getting a second hand MPC X, believe me, that thing is a beast, and one of my all time favorite music making machines. Hope this helps, let me know how it all turned out! Happy beatmaking!
I read that you get the software with a 2nd hand purchase, it’s not required to transfer it when selling. So I would send them an email, I think you should get the software when you register the hardware. I could be wrong but I’m sure i read that on the Akai forum.
That's all great info , it's great to think about, those are the exact thoughts that people overlook because of excitement and find out it's just an expensive purchase to do the same thing you do with the mpc x all though they have a price tag problem with the mpc x to expensive!!!
Great videos. Logical and informative. What I'm looking for. I am married with children so I get what you are saying. I'd love your opinion on my setup. I have a Elektron Digitakt I use with a Moog Minitaur as well a Roland Jupiter XM. I sing through a TC Electronics Voicelive 3 Extreme all into a Rode Podcaster Pro for a podcast I am working on. I record in Logic X with an old laptop. I would like to do more live looping and jamming and have considered another synth or groove box to round things out. Your comments about the MPC products is helpful. I would prefer to stay away from the computer toward some stand alone solutions. I sing and write r&b Soul, gospel, electro, jazz. What do you think of the Roland MC 707? I thinking in terms of looping and maybe time stretching in real time. Would it be better to look into another Elektron product? I'd love to here your opinion. Peace.
I’m glad to see you have a Rev2. I’ve been using mine since 2016. My MPC One hasn’t really got any use yet, but I’m starting to figure it out.
I've been considering an MPC2 to use as a sequencer and voice paired with my Eurorack synth. This video makes me think I so go the other way and get a keystep pro to sequence and play my modules. I do love finger drumming tho.
7 lbs is definitely a hassle for something that’s portable. I can understand that. Hopefully they make a lighter one in the future.
I get where you're coming from on the whole portability thing but as someone who lugs around an Akai Force in a backpack with other devices (laptop, Liven 8Bit Warps, Korg Volca Drum, etc.) while it might not feel as portable to get a larger backpack, that is an option. But obviously it's heavier as such. Personally, for someone like me, an original Live would be a world of difference from lugging around the Force.
100%!!
real talk i dig it !!! you saved me some $$$
"This video is sponsored by my day job" 😄😄.. yeah sounds familiar. The struggle is real.
Lol, those who know, know!🤣 thanks for watching my friend!
I can not find the french gear you are talking about in the end of the video, could you please write the name for me...?
I guess he talks about deluge. synthstrom.com/
Loved your video and your take. I had the MPC One for a week. But went ahead and ordered the Live 2 anyway. Was the One enough? Perhaps. But to be honest I just feel better getting the Live 2. Its partially psychological, but also because I know that even though I might not need the extra functions today, I'm going to need them within a years time, and the hassle of upgrading then would only be a source of stress postponed.
Thank you so much bro! I think that the MPC live 2 is awesome if you have the right expectations, and wouldn’t mind having one if traveling ever becomes a thing again lol. For now, the MPC X is the centerpiece of my studio. Hope you enjoy the live 2, it’s an amazing machine!
Hi, What are your thoughts on having both? I'm still deciding on which one to get. The live ii is currently ahead but I'd love to hear how they've both been.
Never had an MPC until about 2 months ago. Now I have the one and X after using FL studio for over a year. I'm loving these machines! 💯
I like more dedicated buttons and less menu diving so the X and ONE was for me.
Awesome choices bro! I have the X and love it to death! Been thinking about getting a ONE for beatmaking in my lunch breaks at work😂 happy beatmaking!
Whatsup man, can you use omnisphere, nexus 3 and other big bank vsts alike on mpc live without having to use a laptop?
Hi bro! Unfortunately you can only use the 3 akai software synths in standalone. If you want to use 3rd party vsts you have to hook up to a laptop. If either mpc or maschine add standalone 3rd party vst support in a future firmware update, that would certainly be a killer feature !!
Bro made a lot of sense. I have mpc one and mpc 1000. I was feeling like I needed to sell them and get the mpc2 but I am good. Espesially after this.
Love your videos, your points make great sense. Here is my $.02 in case it helps people make a decision, GAS is a bi3t#h! :) Ultimately, I went with the Live 2, for me, it wasn't about bringing it on the bus, to a park or lugging it around in a backpack. If I were doing that on a regular basis, I would agree, it is pretty heavy, and large...not really all that portable (its still very possible though to take on the road if you wanted too). Instead, I wanted to be able to go to my kitchen on Saturday morning while I get breakfast for my kids, or just sit on our patio. The fact that I can just unplug it and carry around my house without a speaker or cords is Gold! I was considering the One, but I dont want to have to dig under my desk to unplug, grab a speaker, power brick (which may or may not be charged), etc...
The MPC has opened up so much for me creatively, sometimes I just want to get out of my office and into a more comfortable place and the Live 2 is the only piece of gear that I have that allows me this freedom!
I like your take on this. I didn't really understand 100% negative take in this video. Everyones lifestyle is not the same. I also don't live in fear. So I decided on the Live 2 and got it for $200 under retail from Guitar Center with a coupon they are currently giving out.
@@ThirstenUngerTV me too 👍🏻
Well said 🙏🏻
my live is like my laptop, it (almost) never leaves the house but i use its portability all the time to jam in different rooms, in bed etc. but yeah, it's definitely not something you can easily take on public transport
trak rekkid thanks for commenting! That was my experience as well and I think that’s probably the more “real everyday” use most people will get out of the live, and it’s an awesome music box for it! Happy trails and hope you stick around!
At first I thought oh no here we go; but then after I viewed it made sense to consider. Thanks 👍
Thank you for giving me a chance!
1:12 I didn’t get G.A.S. until I saw the “Retro Edition” Oh sweet baby Jesus 🤤
There are also some sweet looking custom skins available
I just ordered it 😂 sold my love I had to have it.
Actually the main reason I m considering for buying it is that I can have it in the living room as one unit so that I can immediately start practicing whenever I get the chance. I did it with circuit but was put off by the number of tracks it offered. I also tried with a synth which required an external speaker and it didn’t work out as I had to first set it up, so the instantaneousness was gone.
AliAusAachen that’s actually a great reason to get one👍🏼
Btw I bought it and it’s pretty heavy and not really portable but it does what I wanted from it which is to be able practice instantaneously.
thanks a lot, i needed this
Great video man. Just two questions: 1) Have you used Ableton Live Mode (where you can control launching clips and scenes from your MPC)? MPC One does not currently support this and I am researching if it is a good enough feature to consider upgrading. 2) Could you clarify what portable power bank/cord you recommend using with your MPC One? Thanks!
Hi bro! I currently use my MPC X in standalone most of the time, but the Ableton Live Mode is amazing, so if you are a heavy ableton user I would seriously consider the Live (mk1 or 2) or X. As to the cord, myvolts.co.uk is the brand that makes them. They haven’t launched MPC ONE compatible cord yet (it needs to be 19v and they only have up to 18v in their lineup), but in a recent instagram comment they said that they are working on it, so stay tuned👍🏼 pd: if you don’t need the portability and want the best midi controller/workstation/groovebox/sampler/ableton/vst integration on this planet, make the stretch and go for the X, hands down the best piece of gear I have ever owned and my desert island kit (and I’ve gone through alot of gear😅)
@@MidlifeSynthesist That is incredible feedback; thank you so much. I currently have a Push 2 that I use along with Ableton for live performances. Adding an MPC to my lineup was awesome yet tricky, as I am trying to figure out if it belongs in my workflow or if it is its own tangent. If I didn't record audio (gtr, keys and vocals) for live performances (looping) I would prob not use Ableton at all and just the MPC.
This is why I bring up the Ableton Link question, as I am loving the MPC but want it to complement my Ableton workflow, not conflict with it. The X is definitely on my mind, as my setup combining audio loops and midi is more complicated. Any other suggestions there are super welcome.
Thanks again for the feedback and sorry for the long post; it is just great to dialogue with a fellow of the music community.
Great post
My iPad with MPD226 gives me that feel of the pads and buttons. I had the Live and like you said it became less portable. The weight and the size was wear and tear on my backpack.
Thats awesome! What app are you using? Been looking to dive into ipad beatmaking for a while...
I think this is a great point. An iPad is such a great portable device that there’s really no reason to go to a park or something w an mpc. An iPad is ridiculously portable and koala alone is a powerhouse. Korg gadget sounds fantastic too. The battery life is unbeatable and the touch screen is great. No reason to travel anywhere other than a gig or studio w an mpc.
@@MidlifeSynthesist koala is like an SP-404 but way more user friendly. It’s worth buying an iPad for that alone.
Is it true that you can’t transfer projects from a laptop to the MPC One via USB? Forum posts suggest that you can only transfer projects to the MPC One via the SD card..
Usb doest show internal mpc hard drive. Only sd or other connected drives. Internal is used for storing samples and expansions. Files should be saved on external for safety reasons.
Damn this came up on my feed about 12 hours too late.. lol
Lol, been there! Thanks for watching, and if you ended up buying the MPC LIVE II, I truly wish it leads you to some epic music making moments! Stay safe brother!
@@MidlifeSynthesist it's all good and I absolutely love it. Thanks man
Watched your vid yesterday. need to come back again to say thank you. You saved me some $$$ and you made me laugh throughout the hole evening: this video is sponsored by my day job hahahaha
lol, thanks bro! Really glad you enjoyed it!
I would posit that the One the Live and the X are aimed at 3 different types of users. The MPC X is a studio workstation and it’s priced as such. Like a workstation synth, it’s not designed to be portable but for rapid workflow. It’s a pro tool.
I suspect the clue to the live is in the name. It’s a performance instrument which is portable enough to gig with. It’s the sampler equivalent of a guitar and combo amp.
The one seems like Akai trying to split the difference between Maschine and a stand-alone MPC experience. I note that it is priced to compete with Digitakt. It’s for hobbiests and bedroom producers.
Christopher Gerardy I couldn’t agree more!🤟🏻
one thing i want to know(and it might slightly be off topic)is... would the MPC Live MKII work well with a Maschine MK3? i have Maschine, and i really like it. i was curious about the MPC Live MKII(the One doesn't do it for me), but i'm wondering if it would just really be overkill having both units.
xiaoxia5 hi, thanks for commenting! That’s a tough one🤔 I think if you plan to use them both in the studio, then they might be too similar in terms of what they do to justify the purchase. You probably would benefit more using that money purchasing something that gives you a different workflow (like an Elektron box or deluge) or maybe a unique sound source (like an O-Coast or Subharmonicon). However, it could make sense to have them both if you have your Maschine stationary and and the Mpc as a “mobile” workstation. All in all, if you really want it, I say give it a shot and see for yourself. In my experience, with most gear you never really know if it’s “for you” until you can actually take it for a spin. Hope that helps! See you around!
I think I like this one. I don't make as many beats anymore (MPC 1000 owner) but I kinda like this one. I might start saving for this one. Thanks for posting!!
Thank you for watching! I really like it as well! If you know what to expect from it, it’s an amazing machine!
The mpc one with a power bank and a jbl flip fit perfectly in a laptop bag. They usually have that 12 inch section that it seems like it was made for it.
Would you recommend for a person wants to make who wants to make beats for the first time ever to buy a MPC Live 2? Or no?
Jonathan Harvey hi! I personally love the MPC environment for beatmaking, and I think an MPC Live 2 can make you very happy. However, if you are just starting out in the world of beatmaking, then you will need to invest in other stuff to get going, so I wouldn’t advise blowing it all on just one piece of gear. You might get more bang for your buck with an MPC ONE and buying a midi keyboard and Studio monitors or studio quality headphones. The speaker on the MPC LIVE 2 is a nice addition, but you won’t get very far with it when you want to mix your tracks to get them sounding they way you want them to. Hope that helps and if you need more advice I’m happy to help! Happy beatmaking, it’s a hell of a ride!
Good advice, for the price of Live 2, you can get a Mpc One, a decent monitors, studio headphones and some small midi keyboard and that’s pretty much all that you need. Mpc One has just the same functionality as the Live.
Also take a look at the second hand market, MPC Live MK 1 are going for about half the price of a MK2.
I hope I’m not to late but I would recommend
Buy the arturia mini lab come with ableton lite also some good free sounds
With that you’ll probably spend atleast a little more than half
Instead of purchasing an MPC one
I have an MPC one and the learning curve is more difficult IMO than a daw but your money your choice you won’t regret either
But my first option good for beginners
I think it's dependant on person but I do seem to build up muscle memory with a touchscreen, I'm very excited to get my one
I use to commute by Bus to my day job for many years. The bus was generally 1 hour in and 1 hour back unless their was a lot of Snow then the bus could be as long as 2-3 hours one way. I like Ableton so I purchased a MacBook Air. I managed to do a whole album on the bus that year. I used the MacBook Air's keys to input notes. When I got home I took my ideas and updated/mixed tracks. Then Mastered them in Logic Pro X. In the bus it was just me, my Air and some high quality Earbuds.
Great video, you keep it real!
The only MPC I have ever used in my lifetime so far was the MPC Renaissance. I used to use it as a sampler/drum machine but since I updated the Mac to 10.15.7, The drivers are out of date. I’m debating between MPC One, MPC Live, or older MPCs.
Great reviews! Now I kind of want to get one, but am afraid of getting mugged. LOL JK
Your reviews are very intuitive. 👍 Thanks!
Lol, I kind of overdid it with the mugging😅 thanks for watching! Hope to see you around!