***MPC v2.13 dropped today, mainly for Key 61/ 37, but it does add 2 new features to us regular MPC users. 1. You can now set a specific project to load everytime you turn on MPC. 2. You can now download directly to the INTERNAL drive on the MPC. The new v2.13 manual is available on your account
At this price point, with what this unit does, it's in another level... I have a novation control XL, I made a template program for it. Briefly, I routed first 8 tracks to the 8 internal busses, and just assigned the faders to control bus levels, so I always have direct fader control of 8 tracks (which I can expand with the knobs, etc) and this makes this a powerhouse for my modular / synth setup. If you use a midi > cv interface, you have plenty of CV control for your modular. If you use an external sound card with multiple inputs, you can even insert effects for individual external instruments and use each, separately, in realtime. MPCs are just beasts at this moment. And this one, with the amount of features it has, and at this price point, is a must buy.
I’m doing the the same with with an SL mkIII and my Live. Did you get yours setup with all the transport controls working? I’d definitely be curious to see what one of the keyboard MPC feel and flow like.
Akai needs to put the modulation matrix from the MPC 4000 in this new MPC range, its miles better than whats in there currently. As a Key 61 owner, it would be a godsend in these machines for those of us who enjoy creating and shaping sampled sounds.
I've been on the fence for a MPC for awhile now, and this one is exactly what I've been waiting for. When the Key 61 came out, a lot of people wanted an 88 model. I'd much rather have a 37 key model since I already have a great 88 key midi controller.
@@Tommass79 I think a 37 MINI keys wouldve been better, then you dont have to reach across the width of a full keybed everytime you use the screen knobs or pads, I think Konatkt Kontrol S should make a 37mni key too with the nice screen
Be careful, the user interface is dogsh*t. Everything is multiple screens away from where you need it, and good luck copying notes in the piano roll. Try before you buy imho
@@bengalinsky4300 Thanks, I think they shouldve put some knobs above the screen too so they can be easier to match up with the screen, Maybe Akai shoudl make a 37 mini key with a MINI Intel PC inside and a 2nd screen so then we can run windows, a daw and all our fave VSTs :)
Thanks to AKAI for more mobile musical production & playing gadget and thank you, @loopop for your excellent presentation with comparison giving us more vivid ideas and understanding. Cheers!
@mikehoncho I had a similar approach but then I left Force for a standalne Push 3. Push does a lot of things differently that I can't wrap my head around.
I'm coming to Akai from MV-8000 workflow which is ssssoooo super intuitive and easy and straight forward. Had my MPC Live 2 for almost a year now and still struggling with the workflow. I literally look at my MV-8000 sitting on a shelf now not even hooked up and debate going back constantly. I really don't use the Sampler part of these machines, and stick with an Emu Emax II or Akai S5000 for my samples as they don't eat up the machine's ram or processing and add texture to the sounds, so they're basically fancy midi sequencers for me...but the workflow. It's so bad on MPC's. Especially for long-format (5+ minute songs) that don't use a ton of loops.
Akai Force? This is The Way. The workflow is soooo much better than MPC. I love mine, but it'd be nice to have a smaller version with keys and a tilted screen and a battery.
Really wished they would've added 8 knobs and/or faders. Wouldn't made it feel more like a synth with sampling capabilities as opposed to a sampler with synth capabilities. Guess I'll just keep rocking with my Force until then. It's a shame they haven't added the mixer screen from the Force to the MPCs too.
The 16 Q-Links on my MPC X make a world of difference when editing samples, etc. I have previously owned an MPC Live , MPC One and Key 61 as well, and working with 4 Q-Links is awful by comparison. Having at least 8 would make sample editing much easier as at least you could have 4 each for start and end point editing.
For those who may be turned off by the 8GB limitation and use that as a deterrent to buying the 37, my experience in the past three days of using mine says you may be missing out on a very unique and fun workstation. Everyone creates their music differently and that may determine the amount of RAM one uses. Judging by its size and compactness I’m guessing that AKAI was looking at it from a portability perspective especially when on can always connect the device to their computer and continue on with a project if needed. This device is definitely a “go between” and not necessarily a stand alone. There’s nothing else like it on the market right now. Personally I hate working in the studio. And, in my opinion a larger RAM construction would imply that the device would be geared for that studio musician market. Making music is becoming more simple now, just look at music production apps as proof. Also, more RAM also means additional processing to store/read it at an effective speed which may mean higher production cost as additional requirements for what started out as a cheap dollar for data are added. Personally, everything I create is from a mobile/portable setup. I find the 2GB build inconsequential when considering what I get in the total package.
Wow there's so much new amazing stuff out there its mind boggling...thanks for your review on the Mpk Mini Plus ..👍🏻 Always a pleasure to watch your videos even if I am not interested in buying the product... Jim
red makes it hard to skin, as most skins dont cover the side ported area, so you have to choose something that looks good w/ red (not much from experience). Black or retro white is much more flexible.
I completely agree that. MPC needs a proper clip launching workflow. Using it like a DAW with Audio tracks is not a good experience. Come on Akai, you have some really great hardware now, you just need the final push... merge the Force features into the MPC.... Clip launching, Macros, Arranger etc...
I've fallen hard for the Akai ecosystem the last couple of years. Just love what they are doing -- I think they are hitting it on all cylinders. If this had a battery and that awesome MPC Live II speaker, I'd be so in. Great form factor.
I think the Mpc key 37 is the most bang for the buck out there. I just think Akai should release other colorways. Thank you Lopoop, for your detailed comparison ❤
MPC one is still the best option IMO. 61 Key has 4 gb of ram if you need a keyboard version. This seems like AKAI is just milking the line of MPC's till the last drop lol.
I have wanted a true full workstation in this form-factor for a long time. Not a bad price either. There are a few limitations that concern me though. Primarily the 8 plug-in track limit and the low amount of RAM. What I REALLY want is for Roland to make a Fantom-0 37 key synth.
@@vjfxtheory it could be a subset. I actually think it could be done. It wouldn’t be to replace my full sized Fantom but as a portable to work on stuff when I can’t take my Fantom
I came so close to buying a Fantom-06 at the end of the year but ultimately passed. If there was a 49 or 37 key version, I would have purchased. I think the big difference between F-06 and Key 61 is there is a lot of unused panel space on Key 61 and almost none on F-06. To make a 49 key version would be to almost make a completely different instrument (although I think it would be painless enough to lose the pads.)
I love the idea of the MPCs. I wanted to get out of the box and bought the One. I just can't seem to click with the MPC software: it just feels convoluted compared to a DAW. Even though this looks like a minor improvement, it keeps on going in that -at least to me- counter intuitive workflow. I sold my MPC one and started my Eurorack with the money I got from that, never looked back. This definitely won't change my mind.
I was a bit disapointed for the same reasons but now I think that, if an mpc is a very bad daw, it's still a killer sampler, a great sequencer, a multitimbral sound module with a multitude of great sounds in every genres, a midi controller, an audio interface, a midi hub, a submixer, a recorder, etc...
they are latching on to the cheaper MPC One concept like a precious child. The sweet middle between XOne is where future innovation will happen IMO. Probably why everyone gravitates to MPC Live 2 as the standard in hiphop geartube channels, even when they got every kind. But mostly everyone is waiting for MPC 3.0 software...
Thank you we need a flagship mpc that sounds amazing like a Moog,Roland,Korg etc…We need something new to sound better these same ole products just different color and size is blasphemous.
Well explained and elaborate enough! Akai means red so the color suits the instrument. I have owned an X for several years and although the firmware has some serious limitations not mentioned here, like the impossibility of recording sysex, it has become one of my main sequencers, thanks to its USB connectivity. I like the form factor and accept the compromises made.
One comment, one remark, one question. 1. apart from your reviews I am really digging your intro and outro plays. 2. played the MPC 37 Keys in a store yesterday: instant love 3. As this would be the perfect form factor for midi keys for peps with tight studios: how is the DAW integration? I know this is supposed to be self-contained but most peps do run DAWs as well…thanks Loopop!
1. Thanks! 2. Cool. 3. DAW integration is a big topic - first you can use the MPC as a generic MIDI controller if that's what you mean? Then you can use the MPC plugin in your DAW too - there's a lot of documentation about this. There's also an Ableton Live control mode in many MPCs but I don't remember if it's there in this one...
Thanks! Afaik the manual does not cover DAW integration. Simple controller mode of course should be doable. On MpC61 it is >menu>click MPC logo>enter controller mode. I missed to check this on the MPC37 yesterday but I guess it’s the same. Formfactor of 37keys with decent, normal size keys is underrepresented for Midi controllers. Unfortunately! Got me a Akai Mini Plus yesterday, based on your review ;-)
The ability to controll and or Interact with a mixer midi Interface is what makes it pretty wild as a learning tool and small space production. Curse them if you want I do to but at the end of the day it's a new qwik and skick way to crank out nasty tracks of any genre and for that I'll always have respect for them....that one MIDI box company comes to mind...had built in arp made a few other units with hi i/o counts with lots of usb Intergration.
I like how it's tilted up over the keyboard, looks nice I dont like MPC One+'s hard plastic buttons though, nor the layout of the helper white buttons in different places the MPC Live 2 has much nicer button feel and the layout makes more sense IMO (using shift-pads for menu > random small buttons everywhere)
idk why they dont logically grouping buttons in the same area, why put them all around the jog wheel? It never felt right. Now 37 put the keys in 3x different places making it even more complicated
I'm still waiting for Akai's ultimate instrument -- the Force Keys Mini. I hope they'll make it some day. For now though, I get along just fine with a Force and Keystep.
Hi, the new mpc key 37 is out and here is a thought. When it comes to the key modells there is virtually no beginner tutorials out there and i different groups new users are screaming for information and tutorials. I know you use the akai products ao wouldnt this be a perfect series for you to make tutorials on? I really love your way of teaching us stuff and think this would be great for your followers and all new to the mpc key.
Not because of your review, as it's informative as usual and spot on! Its duration says it all… nothing really special or exiting to mention. I was hoping Akai would release some great new MPCs including some kind of next-gen software early 2024. But these kind of ‘same old same old’ releases could mean it will take a bit longer.
Hi, Do you think this would be good for live performances too, in terms of triggering sequences and samples and being able to be expressive, improvising too? I'm looking to get completely new kit this year.. Samplers, Drum machines, Synths, Fun Gadgets etc.. I'm exploring what's out there atm. Have a limited budget, initially a couple of grand to see how I get on. I want to make experimental, cross genre..electronic, ambient, dance, jazz..but a whole load of other influences.. Eg: FSOL, Aphex Twin, The Orb, Mouse on Mars..
Thank you for another solid review. I think this will be a successful product. The MPC platform is perfectly suitable for keyboard based composition and this makes that accessible for those with a smaller budget or desk. What I don’t like is the lack of XLR input and fantom power and the missing Ableton control. Especially the latter seems a bit of a stingy move by AKAI. The only thing that still stops me from jumping from Maschine is the lack of clip launching and arrangement functionality. Perhaps this is linked to the lack of disk streaming making those features too demanding on the CPU and memory management ? I do think this is the kind of device NI should have launched after the Maschine+ but I somehow have the feeling that NI isn’t that invested in Maschine any more.
Akai uses a cheap old single-board computer which comes with 1, 2, or 4 GiB of RAM. They should use the biggest one on every product, but for marketing reasons, they only use it on their top-tier products. :(
I bought a MPC ONE + 100 days ago. Wish I was smart enough to figure out how to work together with my Yamaha Modx6. I just can't figure it out. Love the sound quality on Akai. Maybe I will sell both and just buy this
love you ve chosen Olson for the demo. As as soon as the chord progression hit, I knew it's an hommage to BOC. Couldn't it play the piano in the background, and not only at the end?
Thanks! I live record the piano while the bass/lead are still playing. It's very subtle in the mix to be like the original (though perhaps a bit quieter). The point was to live loop more than refine a production and mix - I didn't spend much time on it...
@@loopop This one is on me, I was talking to my missus and haven''t seen the piano recorded, sorry mate. Great work as always. And yeah , the pad eats up that DX piano, in the original the pad has more drastic mod and lots of ring mod, which lets piano be heard barely tho. I must admit I missed it first few times.
Would be great to have this, could learn how to play keyboard and also make some cool stuff along the way to use and reuse how ever I want, nice product
I've never owned an NPC before but this device has increased my gas level right up there. I just wish AKAI would have made this unit in different colors. Most likely there are 3rd party stickers for that. Otherwise, I'm on board. Thanks, loopop.
Akai uses an old single-board computer from 2014, and they cannot upgrade the CPU without moving to an entirely new platform. Anyway, I'd personally use a Force plus controller, because the Force workflow is so much nicer for writing songs. Or wait and hope for a Force Keys.
@@ToyKeeper I don't believe it, the 4-core Renesas CPU is just another low-cost ARM SoC, no? If they claim otherwise, I'd wager it is bs excuses. Understandably, if it is dirt cheap enough and it is good enough for most buyers, why change? Hence the userbase is stuck with that SoC's middling horsepower for the foreseeable future.
@@Jason75913 It's a Radxa Rock2, which has a rk3288 and a bunch of other stuff onboard. A newer board would definitely be nice, but it already works well as-is.
I really like Denon/Akai/SoundSwitch (just check my LED-mask DJ mixes) but still using that underpowered CPU from 2014 with 2GB of RAM is unforgiving. Why, inMusic? :(
same entry-level CPU, no better than cheap Amazon Fire tablets, because it is inexpensive and good enough for most folks, I don't know why they won't upgrade to a more modern CPU, at least 8-core? but I can tell that all instrument makers need/prefer bigger profit margins than Lenovo tablets and Asus laptops, and undoubtedly do not sell anywhere near the quantities that those companies do, everything in pro audio is super low-cost and lower spec as far as circuitry versus everyday electronics, ignoring sound circuitry
Samples bit-depth? 24\48 or what? Any special sequencer\loop capabilities? If you record a track with different instruments, can it be transfered to PC in same 24\48 WAV? Any half-deep exploring of synths etc? What plugins it works with? Vst3 or proprietary? So many questions. Official site doesn't help also.
Hello! Can this synthesizer be used as a full-fledged instrument at a concert with a band? In particular, I am wondering if it is possible to launch playback from it and separately display a click for the drummer?
It only has two outputs, and is more designed for production that performance, however people have been performing with less for years, and you could get a click out using another MIDI device or audio interface with more outputs
Thanks Loopop. I have a couple of questions - can you only load plugins from Akai or can you load your own, as well? Also, I believe you said no Ableton Live integration, like being able to control it, correct?
Another nice ‘rundown,’ thank you. But, Mr. Pop, do you have a sense/opinion about whether it’s possible for Akai to put a Live II-type battery in a later version of this? Same form factor? I’m sorta stuck-I bought the Live II on the basis of it having a battery and therefore being portable in a real, practical way. This is being touted as “portable,” but… it just seems like a 61 for people who have… _less horizontal space_ in a static setup. While I’m here, I will also register my objection to the Red, which makes it look cheap. I’m frankly surprised. Wonder if it was too late for Akai to see that Behringer is now heavily discounting its red MS-1, which I assumed was due to poor sales.
Thanks! I have no idea if they're planning a battery version and even if I did I couldn't say. However, Live II is probably the most keyboard friendly MPC out there because of its layout, why not just connect a keyboard to it and voila! you have a battery powered Live II Keys with speakers!
@@loopop Hey. Thanks for the reply. I understand you wouldn't be able to talk about future plans-i was more wondering if you ever open these things up, or had a sense that there's actually *space* for a battery. re: the Live II plus a controller-i had that with the MPK Mini Plus. But, i struggle with issues like _motivation_ and energy over the last few years, and dealing with the clumsiness of having/connecting the cable between the two, and then having either the MPC or the keyboard on my lap, etc. just took me out of wanting to even turn it on and get started. Might seem like a minor inconvenience, but in my current state of mind, the little things are quite large : ( Maybe more important, though, i just find that if i'm going to deal with two components like that, i'd rather just use that controller with my Macbook Air and Logic Pro. The full-fledged DAW is just easier for me to work with. I was hoping, with the Key 37, to have the ultimate in convenience as well as simplicity. I'll just carry on with the computer/controller scenario until Akai moves this to the next stage, which i have to believe is inevitable-just a matter of how long i'll have to wait and whether or not i get more comfortable with what i have.
Thanks for this great video! However, the way you show the memory expansion slot bay on the bottom of the MPC 61 makes it look like the 37 has it too . . . which of course it doesn't as you say. Perhaps that point could be made a little more clearly?
![Gunna - HIM ALL ALONG [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/w7Wf0h1Q8a4/mqdefault.jpg)
Rocking the BoC in the opening. ❤
Honestly nearly gave me a heart attack.
What a sweet BoC surprise indeed
Yeah, got the goosebumps as soon as he started playing
i stopped listening to what he is saying haha
What is the BoC?
I know I've said this before, but you are the BEST reviewer on planet earth
***MPC v2.13 dropped today, mainly for Key 61/ 37, but it does add 2 new features to us regular MPC users.
1. You can now set a specific project to load everytime you turn on MPC.
2. You can now download directly to the INTERNAL drive on the MPC.
The new v2.13 manual is available on your account
At this price point, with what this unit does, it's in another level... I have a novation control XL, I made a template program for it. Briefly, I routed first 8 tracks to the 8 internal busses, and just assigned the faders to control bus levels, so I always have direct fader control of 8 tracks (which I can expand with the knobs, etc) and this makes this a powerhouse for my modular / synth setup. If you use a midi > cv interface, you have plenty of CV control for your modular. If you use an external sound card with multiple inputs, you can even insert effects for individual external instruments and use each, separately, in realtime. MPCs are just beasts at this moment. And this one, with the amount of features it has, and at this price point, is a must buy.
I’m doing the the same with with an SL mkIII and my Live. Did you get yours setup with all the transport controls working?
I’d definitely be curious to see what one of the keyboard MPC feel and flow like.
Akai needs to put the modulation matrix from the MPC 4000 in this new MPC range, its miles better than whats in there currently. As a Key 61 owner, it would be a godsend in these machines for those of us who enjoy creating and shaping sampled sounds.
That Olson Intro 🫶🏼
I love the way Akai embrace the concept known as a multi-touch display.
Thank you for the deep dive and mentioning the need for sequencer/arranging improvements and still needed disk streaming!
Great video! I would like to see this in retro MPC color.
I've been on the fence for a MPC for awhile now, and this one is exactly what I've been waiting for. When the Key 61 came out, a lot of people wanted an 88 model. I'd much rather have a 37 key model since I already have a great 88 key midi controller.
Same here 💯
@@Tommass79 I think a 37 MINI keys wouldve been better, then you dont have to reach across the width of a full keybed everytime you use the screen knobs or pads, I think Konatkt Kontrol S should make a 37mni key too with the nice screen
Be careful, the user interface is dogsh*t. Everything is multiple screens away from where you need it, and good luck copying notes in the piano roll. Try before you buy imho
@@bengalinsky4300 Thanks, I think they shouldve put some knobs above the screen too so they can be easier to match up with the screen, Maybe Akai shoudl make a 37 mini key with a MINI Intel PC inside and a 2nd screen so then we can run windows, a daw and all our fave VSTs :)
What 88 key midi controller do you use?
Boards Of Canada nice demo
Exactly my thoughts and so lovely that intro
Thanks to AKAI for more mobile musical production & playing gadget and thank you, @loopop for your excellent presentation with comparison giving us more vivid ideas and understanding. Cheers!
I've had an MPC One for a little and never realized you could double-press buttons instead of using the shift key!
Yep sorry cuz
I gave up on the MPC workflow and went with the Force. My mind flows with it. I still have my MPC but it never gets touched and is going on reverb.
@mikehoncho I had a similar approach but then I left Force for a standalne Push 3. Push does a lot of things differently that I can't wrap my head around.
I'm coming to Akai from MV-8000 workflow which is ssssoooo super intuitive and easy and straight forward. Had my MPC Live 2 for almost a year now and still struggling with the workflow. I literally look at my MV-8000 sitting on a shelf now not even hooked up and debate going back constantly. I really don't use the Sampler part of these machines, and stick with an Emu Emax II or Akai S5000 for my samples as they don't eat up the machine's ram or processing and add texture to the sounds, so they're basically fancy midi sequencers for me...but the workflow. It's so bad on MPC's. Especially for long-format (5+ minute songs) that don't use a ton of loops.
Akai Force? This is The Way. The workflow is soooo much better than MPC. I love mine, but it'd be nice to have a smaller version with keys and a tilted screen and a battery.
@@ToyKeepertop will be with battery and sound reproductors inside
Really wished they would've added 8 knobs and/or faders. Wouldn't made it feel more like a synth with sampling capabilities as opposed to a sampler with synth capabilities. Guess I'll just keep rocking with my Force until then. It's a shame they haven't added the mixer screen from the Force to the MPCs too.
The 16 Q-Links on my MPC X make a world of difference when editing samples, etc. I have previously owned an MPC Live , MPC One and Key 61 as well, and working with 4 Q-Links is awful by comparison. Having at least 8 would make sample editing much easier as at least you could have 4 each for start and end point editing.
For those who may be turned off by the 8GB limitation and use that as a deterrent to buying the 37, my experience in the past three days of using mine says you may be missing out on a very unique and fun workstation. Everyone creates their music differently and that may determine the amount of RAM one uses. Judging by its size and compactness I’m guessing that AKAI was looking at it from a portability perspective especially when on can always connect the device to their computer and continue on with a project if needed. This device is definitely a “go between” and not necessarily a stand alone. There’s nothing else like it on the market right now. Personally I hate working in the studio. And, in my opinion a larger RAM construction would imply that the device would be geared for that studio musician market. Making music is becoming more simple now, just look at music production apps as proof. Also, more RAM also means additional processing to store/read it at an effective speed which may mean higher production cost as additional requirements for what started out as a cheap dollar for data are added. Personally, everything I create is from a mobile/portable setup. I find the 2GB build inconsequential when considering what I get in the total package.
I would love a hybrid of this and the Force 😵💫
If you are adventurous, the DIY community has shown that the Force FW can run on the MPC hardware.
+1 to all of that. I love my Force but want some keys built in instead of needing a separate keyboard.
You’re just the best, honestly. Thanks man.
Still waiting for the Force Keys🔥😂
Yes please
Wow there's so much new amazing stuff out there its mind boggling...thanks for your review on the Mpk Mini Plus ..👍🏻
Always a pleasure to watch your videos even if I am not interested in buying the product...
Jim
Love the BoC intro
Really love the layout, hope the Chord mode comes to other MPC units. Was hoping for a Locate button but oh well. Thank you! 💞
Real MPC users know those locate buttons epitomize workflow
what's locate button? do you need it?
the red is kinda growing on me 👀 looks good, thanks for the review!
red makes it hard to skin, as most skins dont cover the side ported area, so you have to choose something that looks good w/ red (not much from experience). Black or retro white is much more flexible.
@@daniel_dumile I’ve worried about that as well - my black MPC One has a skin but I’d keep the key 37 stock, since red is actually my favorite color 😅
I completely agree that. MPC needs a proper clip launching workflow. Using it like a DAW with Audio tracks is not a good experience. Come on Akai, you have some really great hardware now, you just need the final push... merge the Force features into the MPC.... Clip launching, Macros, Arranger etc...
That is accomplished by the Force. Buy that of you want clip launching. They make a device just for that purpose.
+1 on finally merging Force and MPC to make something even better.
I've fallen hard for the Akai ecosystem the last couple of years. Just love what they are doing -- I think they are hitting it on all cylinders. If this had a battery and that awesome MPC Live II speaker, I'd be so in. Great form factor.
I think the Mpc key 37 is the most bang for the buck out there. I just think Akai should release other colorways.
Thank you Lopoop, for your detailed comparison ❤
MPC one is still the best option IMO. 61 Key has 4 gb of ram if you need a keyboard version. This seems like AKAI is just milking the line of MPC's till the last drop lol.
milking it as much as possible, as always
I have wanted a true full workstation in this form-factor for a long time. Not a bad price either. There are a few limitations that concern me though. Primarily the 8 plug-in track limit and the low amount of RAM. What I REALLY want is for Roland to make a Fantom-0 37 key synth.
@@vjfxtheory it could be a subset. I actually think it could be done. It wouldn’t be to replace my full sized Fantom but as a portable to work on stuff when I can’t take my Fantom
I came so close to buying a Fantom-06 at the end of the year but ultimately passed. If there was a 49 or 37 key version, I would have purchased. I think the big difference between F-06 and Key 61 is there is a lot of unused panel space on Key 61 and almost none on F-06. To make a 49 key version would be to almost make a completely different instrument (although I think it would be painless enough to lose the pads.)
I need to use the gear I have and stop looking at all the new products. 😂 Seriously though, great video as always.
Thanks for the demo. This looks pretty cool!
I love the idea of the MPCs. I wanted to get out of the box and bought the One. I just can't seem to click with the MPC software: it just feels convoluted compared to a DAW. Even though this looks like a minor improvement, it keeps on going in that -at least to me- counter intuitive workflow.
I sold my MPC one and started my Eurorack with the money I got from that, never looked back. This definitely won't change my mind.
I was a bit disapointed for the same reasons but now I think that, if an mpc is a very bad daw, it's still a killer sampler, a great sequencer, a multitimbral sound module with a multitude of great sounds in every genres, a midi controller, an audio interface, a midi hub, a submixer, a recorder, etc...
Same here. Loved the hardware of the mpc X, hated the software. Came back to my mpc 1000.
Pretty nice and another great review, Pop!
And I agree...why oh why can't more hardware include an "undo" button?
One day Akai will actually make a new MPC that is a genuine improvement over their existing products
they are latching on to the cheaper MPC One concept like a precious child. The sweet middle between XOne is where future innovation will happen IMO. Probably why everyone gravitates to MPC Live 2 as the standard in hiphop geartube channels, even when they got every kind.
But mostly everyone is waiting for MPC 3.0 software...
One day lol
or hopefully another company 😜
Thank you we need a flagship mpc that sounds amazing like a Moog,Roland,Korg etc…We need something new to sound better these same ole products just different color and size is blasphemous.
yup@@kenzoblytheproducertv4934
Color aside, I love the form factor here. Very inviting.
I suppose this is a way to sell other colours in the future editions...
Well explained and elaborate enough! Akai means red so the color suits the instrument. I have owned an X for several years and although the firmware has some serious limitations not mentioned here, like the impossibility of recording sysex, it has become one of my main sequencers, thanks to its USB connectivity. I like the form factor and accept the compromises made.
Thanks Loopop for another great review.
One comment, one remark, one question. 1. apart from your reviews I am really digging your intro and outro plays. 2. played the MPC 37 Keys in a store yesterday: instant love 3. As this would be the perfect form factor for midi keys for peps with tight studios: how is the DAW integration? I know this is supposed to be self-contained but most peps do run DAWs as well…thanks Loopop!
1. Thanks! 2. Cool. 3. DAW integration is a big topic - first you can use the MPC as a generic MIDI controller if that's what you mean? Then you can use the MPC plugin in your DAW too - there's a lot of documentation about this. There's also an Ableton Live control mode in many MPCs but I don't remember if it's there in this one...
Thanks! Afaik the manual does not cover DAW integration. Simple controller mode of course should be doable. On MpC61 it is >menu>click MPC logo>enter controller mode. I missed to check this on the MPC37 yesterday but I guess it’s the same. Formfactor of 37keys with decent, normal size keys is underrepresented for Midi controllers. Unfortunately! Got me a Akai Mini Plus yesterday, based on your review ;-)
Good concept but very UNDERPOWERED.
I would love a black version....
The red color makes me feel trippy
The ability to controll and or Interact with a mixer midi Interface is what makes it pretty wild as a learning tool and small space production. Curse them if you want I do to but at the end of the day it's a new qwik and skick way to crank out nasty tracks of any genre and for that I'll always have respect for them....that one MIDI box company comes to mind...had built in arp made a few other units with hi i/o counts with lots of usb Intergration.
Yet another phenomenal rundown by loopop. Great analysis on your part!
Are we gonna mention just how awkward/distinctive this thing looks?
Just that could make the thing iconic XD
I like how it's tilted up over the keyboard, looks nice
I dont like MPC One+'s hard plastic buttons though, nor the layout of the helper white buttons in different places
the MPC Live 2 has much nicer button feel and the layout makes more sense IMO (using shift-pads for menu > random small buttons everywhere)
idk why they dont logically grouping buttons in the same area, why put them all around the jog wheel? It never felt right. Now 37 put the keys in 3x different places making it even more complicated
Looks like the MAX49, it's cool.
Missed the boat with no poly aftertouch. Hate the color but love the concept.
Yeah....hate the color but...love everything else.
Loopop is the only person I have ever Patreoned to. Love you man
Much appreciated!!
Tight and professional.... your trademarks. Thanks!
FINALLY, midi over usb is a thing for the MPC platform! (Currently, it's exclusive to the MPC Key 37 )
Cant wait to use this with Ipad Apps
Can you explain? What apps and for what purposes?
I have an MPC One+.. I LOVE the red. Something tells me I need this.
EDIT: I wrote this before seeing the two side by side. Why would the do that? 😆
might be a different material and it reacted differently to the dye and they couldn't be bothered to compensate? idk, seems kinda silly!
@@alexanderlane I suppose there are a bunch of reasons why it's like that eh? Too weird. Bad part is makes me want my MPC One+ to be brighter 😁
uhh... perfect size!
I'm still waiting for Akai's ultimate instrument -- the Force Keys Mini. I hope they'll make it some day. For now though, I get along just fine with a Force and Keystep.
I'm waiting for the Space Force Keys Live X + SE, obviously in red 😂
Does it have a virtual analogue, fm, or wavetable engine that allows you to create your own sounds from scratch?
The plugins include a few types of virtual analog and some basic FM, fully editable, and there are additional plugins available.
The force is an MPC with a different user inter face made to attract ableton users.
It makes a big difference.
The Force's workflow is a huge upgrade... enough that I wouldn't even consider getting a MPC until/unless they finally merge in Force's features.
Not so much
@@Lofilegacybeats Thanks for posting your beats to your channel so people can judge for themselves whether to take you seriously.
Why bother going to anyone else to learn about new hardware releases?? Loopop is the official Ambassador of music hardware!
Hi, the new mpc key 37 is out and here is a thought. When it comes to the key modells there is virtually no beginner tutorials out there and i different groups new users are screaming for information and tutorials. I know you use the akai products ao wouldnt this be a perfect series for you to make tutorials on? I really love your way of teaching us stuff and think this would be great for your followers and all new to the mpc key.
I cannot wait for these to be back in stock
Not because of your review, as it's informative as usual and spot on! Its duration says it all… nothing really special or exiting to mention. I was hoping Akai would release some great new MPCs including some kind of next-gen software early 2024. But these kind of ‘same old same old’ releases could mean it will take a bit longer.
Hi,
Do you think this would be good for live performances too, in terms of triggering sequences and samples and being able to be expressive, improvising too?
I'm looking to get completely new kit this year..
Samplers, Drum machines, Synths, Fun Gadgets etc..
I'm exploring what's out there atm.
Have a limited budget, initially a couple of grand to see how I get on.
I want to make experimental, cross genre..electronic, ambient, dance, jazz..but a whole load of other influences..
Eg: FSOL, Aphex Twin, The Orb, Mouse on Mars..
Thanks for this review also it was informative and well put together : )
Thank you for another solid review. I think this will be a successful product. The MPC platform is perfectly suitable for keyboard based composition and this makes that accessible for those with a smaller budget or desk. What I don’t like is the lack of XLR input and fantom power and the missing Ableton control. Especially the latter seems a bit of a stingy move by AKAI.
The only thing that still stops me from jumping from Maschine is the lack of clip launching and arrangement functionality. Perhaps this is linked to the lack of disk streaming making those features too demanding on the CPU and memory management ?
I do think this is the kind of device NI should have launched after the Maschine+ but I somehow have the feeling that NI isn’t that invested in Maschine any more.
I was considering but wow why not 4gigs or RAM?
Akai uses a cheap old single-board computer which comes with 1, 2, or 4 GiB of RAM. They should use the biggest one on every product, but for marketing reasons, they only use it on their top-tier products. :(
This is my dream gear❤
I bought a MPC ONE + 100 days ago. Wish I was smart enough to figure out how to work together with my Yamaha Modx6. I just can't figure it out. Love the sound quality on Akai. Maybe I will sell both and just buy this
BTW, really nice music at beginning. Sounds like Boards of Canada.
Thanks! I say it's them in the beginning :)
@@loopop Sorry, I didn't notice.
Thank you for full-sized keys, Akai!
love you ve chosen Olson for the demo. As as soon as the chord progression hit, I knew it's an hommage to BOC. Couldn't it play the piano in the background, and not only at the end?
Thanks! I live record the piano while the bass/lead are still playing. It's very subtle in the mix to be like the original (though perhaps a bit quieter). The point was to live loop more than refine a production and mix - I didn't spend much time on it...
@@loopop This one is on me, I was talking to my missus and haven''t seen the piano recorded, sorry mate. Great work as always. And yeah , the pad eats up that DX piano, in the original the pad has more drastic mod and lots of ring mod, which lets piano be heard barely tho. I must admit I missed it first few times.
That sleepy circuits sneaky cameo 👀 I hope this means there's a loopop review of the mezzz! Really interested
organized and articulate - nicely done
Excellent fuc@$ing review! Bravo!👏👏👏👏
1 Akai Force, they got that right, how many MPCs and still getting them wrong?
Got goosebumps hearing Olson BoC
Just noticed
Track- Smash like
Program- Ring the bell
😂👍🏻🔔
Thanks!
Wish they put the octave switch buttons bellow the mod wheels for easier reach during performance.
2 questions - Should I get a mpc live 2 or force for making edm and hi hop beats? Should I get a MacBook Pro m2 and daw before buying a drum machine?
There's no right answer, it's about where and how you want to spend your time
I'm gonna write my next album on this.
Just reccomended this to my son as I have the key 61. It looks great.
Hi mate
I have a question...
Can you select what goes out through the mains and select what you hear on the headphones ?
Cheers 🤙
no, you can't (unless you connect an audio interface to this)
@@loopop thanks have a good day
Would be great to have this, could learn how to play keyboard and also make some cool stuff along the way to use and reuse how ever I want, nice product
I've never owned an NPC before but this device has increased my gas level right up there. I just wish AKAI would have made this unit in different colors. Most likely there are 3rd party stickers for that. Otherwise, I'm on board. Thanks, loopop.
Very cool. I didn’t like the look of the red MPC One+ ( it actually deterred me from buying one ) but it’s a nice look for the Key 37.
Excellent and concise review. When is MPC going to up the CPU horsepower though. Debating between this and a Force with a Controller.
Akai uses an old single-board computer from 2014, and they cannot upgrade the CPU without moving to an entirely new platform. Anyway, I'd personally use a Force plus controller, because the Force workflow is so much nicer for writing songs. Or wait and hope for a Force Keys.
@@ToyKeeper I don't believe it, the 4-core Renesas CPU is just another low-cost ARM SoC, no? If they claim otherwise, I'd wager it is bs excuses. Understandably, if it is dirt cheap enough and it is good enough for most buyers, why change? Hence the userbase is stuck with that SoC's middling horsepower for the foreseeable future.
@@Jason75913 It's a Radxa Rock2, which has a rk3288 and a bunch of other stuff onboard. A newer board would definitely be nice, but it already works well as-is.
Thanks for that intro, amazing!!!
Waiting vor MPC Guitar 6 String
I really like Denon/Akai/SoundSwitch (just check my LED-mask DJ mixes) but still using that underpowered CPU from 2014 with 2GB of RAM is unforgiving. Why, inMusic? :(
same entry-level CPU, no better than cheap Amazon Fire tablets, because it is inexpensive and good enough for most folks, I don't know why they won't upgrade to a more modern CPU, at least 8-core?
but I can tell that all instrument makers need/prefer bigger profit margins than Lenovo tablets and Asus laptops, and undoubtedly do not sell anywhere near the quantities that those companies do, everything in pro audio is super low-cost and lower spec as far as circuitry versus everyday electronics, ignoring sound circuitry
Is there going to be MPE support for poly aftertouch?
The Olson cover almost convinced me to buy a MPC.
Samples bit-depth? 24\48 or what? Any special sequencer\loop capabilities? If you record a track with different instruments, can it be transfered to PC in same 24\48 WAV? Any half-deep exploring of synths etc? What plugins it works with? Vst3 or proprietary? So many questions. Official site doesn't help also.
HD, Touchstrip, Battery so you can take it around like the Live mk2 would be ideal
Mpc One and a midi keyboard = still king!!
Very good video. Thank's for that !
I have a NI 25 keyboard controller. Does it work in usb with the mpc key 37 as an extra keybord to have 62 keys ?
I've not tried it but it should work
Hello! Can this synthesizer be used as a full-fledged instrument at a concert with a band? In particular, I am wondering if it is possible to launch playback from it and separately display a click for the drummer?
It only has two outputs, and is more designed for production that performance, however people have been performing with less for years, and you could get a click out using another MIDI device or audio interface with more outputs
Serious GAS. Could replace alot of my other gear
Thanks Loopop. I have a couple of questions - can you only load plugins from Akai or can you load your own, as well? Also, I believe you said no Ableton Live integration, like being able to control it, correct?
No live integration, and you can only load Akai plugins (though you could multisample any plugin and move that over here)
Another nice ‘rundown,’ thank you. But, Mr. Pop, do you have a sense/opinion about whether it’s possible for Akai to put a Live II-type battery in a later version of this? Same form factor? I’m sorta stuck-I bought the Live II on the basis of it having a battery and therefore being portable in a real, practical way. This is being touted as “portable,” but… it just seems like a 61 for people who have… _less horizontal space_ in a static setup. While I’m here, I will also register my objection to the Red, which makes it look cheap. I’m frankly surprised. Wonder if it was too late for Akai to see that Behringer is now heavily discounting its red MS-1, which I assumed was due to poor sales.
Thanks! I have no idea if they're planning a battery version and even if I did I couldn't say. However, Live II is probably the most keyboard friendly MPC out there because of its layout, why not just connect a keyboard to it and voila! you have a battery powered Live II Keys with speakers!
@@loopop Hey. Thanks for the reply. I understand you wouldn't be able to talk about future plans-i was more wondering if you ever open these things up, or had a sense that there's actually *space* for a battery. re: the Live II plus a controller-i had that with the MPK Mini Plus. But, i struggle with issues like _motivation_ and energy over the last few years, and dealing with the clumsiness of having/connecting the cable between the two, and then having either the MPC or the keyboard on my lap, etc. just took me out of wanting to even turn it on and get started. Might seem like a minor inconvenience, but in my current state of mind, the little things are quite large : (
Maybe more important, though, i just find that if i'm going to deal with two components like that, i'd rather just use that controller with my Macbook Air and Logic Pro. The full-fledged DAW is just easier for me to work with. I was hoping, with the Key 37, to have the ultimate in convenience as well as simplicity. I'll just carry on with the computer/controller scenario until Akai moves this to the next stage, which i have to believe is inevitable-just a matter of how long i'll have to wait and whether or not i get more comfortable with what i have.
I still wish I could sequence the new MPCs via MIDI with an external sequencer or DAW, like the old samplers.
yes you can just set the master and slave
@@miscmisc1023 there's no MIDI programmer's guide for the new MPCs, you might be talking about simple MIDI notes input
I just found this ruclips.net/video/t7qcYCxeUX4/видео.html, there might be a way around for what I need
@@SynthfulDuck yup that’s it
Three chords and we're already in space. Thank you boards of canada
Thanks for this great video! However, the way you show the memory expansion slot bay on the bottom of the MPC 61 makes it look like the 37 has it too . . . which of course it doesn't as you say. Perhaps that point could be made a little more clearly?
Damn them, I love my MPC one, but this would be the perfect machine for me.
If this releases in other colors, I will buy one.