These feature better processors, additional RAM and more storage.
Akai has recently released new versions of its MPC One Sampler and MPC Key 37 Workstations. Both of these gadgets were already extremely useful, but these updates bring better specifications.
For that purpose, they have new 8-core processors that will speed things up and allow for larger projects. It now has 4GB RAM instead of 2GB and 64GB internal storage instead of 32GB.
The company promises “dramatically faster load times, larger project capacity, and easier standalone sessions.” Both machines support up to 32 virtual instruments and 16 concurrent stereo tracks simultaneously in standalone mode. For comparison, the original MPC One and Key 37 can handle approximately eight virtual instruments and eight stereo tracks simultaneously. Eight tracks can be limiting when creating a complete song but 16 is more than enough (in my experience).
They both run Akai’s latest MPC 3.9 operating system, which is a standalone production platform with a full linear arranger, expanded arrangement workflow and a new synth engine. It provides creators with everything they need to create a complete song, aided by a 7-inch multitouch color display.
They also integrate with most DAWs for more projects than standalone capability. The devices connect to the computer via a single USB-C. This cable can also be used to capture audio for sampling from external sources such as phones, tablets, and even record players.
Both machines come with a good amount of software to get started and there’s also a store to purchase more. Includes free access to Native Instruments’ Analog Dreams virtual instrument. We should expect even more Native Instruments content moving forward, as NI and Akai are now under the same corporate umbrella.
The Akai MPC One G2 is priced at $800 and the Ki 37 G2 is priced at $1,000. Both are available now. The primary difference between the two is that the Key 37 has a keyboard, making it a good choice for traditional songwriters. The MPC One is a fantastic machine for sample-based music.
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