Recent models may come in black, but as far as we’re concerned the MPC color is gray, so we’re glad to see Akai have returned to that retro scheme for their MPC X Special Edition. Launched to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Music Production Center, this takes the meat of the norm MPC Xwhich was released in 2017, and adds a 2023 trim.
• Read the full Akai Pro MPC X Special Edition review
Actually, garnish probably isn’t the word, because the enhancements here are so much more than decorative. In fact, there are some very handy additions: RAM has been doubled from 2GB to 4GB, and internal storage capacity has been increased to 48GB from 16GB.
The extra memory should mean faster load times and better performance, while the extra space lets you store more large projects. That said, some of the hard drive space is taken up by an expanded roster of instruments, including the Fabric XL Synth, Stage Piano, and OPx4 FM Synth that were previously seen in the MPC 61 key. Over 100 insert effects from AIR Music Tech are also included.
Of course, you also get all the features that MPC X fans know, such as a 10.1-inch multi-gesture touchscreen, 16 assignable Q Link buttons with OLEDs, and that iconic bank of 16 velocity-sensitive pads. velocity and pressure. .
There’s plenty of connectivity too – audio, MIDI and CV/Gate, for example – as well as WiFi, Bluetooth and Ableton Link 3 support. MPC 2 Desktop software for PC and Mac is also included.
“The journey for MPC has been a labor of love,” said Dan Gill, Akai Professional Senior Product Manager. “We strive every day to provide the tools that will empower all music creators, from our long-time MPC users who trust and rely on their MPCs to keep up with their daily musical beat, to new members of the MPC community. who’s watching the MPC legend as they embark on their budding musical endeavors.
“MPC X Special Edition is a tribute to our origins, to what we have achieved, and marks the next chapter in the development of innovative and groundbreaking music products.”
The MPC X Special Edition is available now for $2,499. If you want to stick with the “special edition” board but fancy a smaller, more affordable MPC, check out the MPC Live 2 Beatclub “Timbaland Edition”which was announced earlier this month.
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