Akai’s MPC Sample is compact, $399 — let’s compare it to an original MPC60!

It’s real, it’s adorable, it’s an MPC you can hold in your hand, and it costs just $399. Tiny desks now accommodate whole studios. But now that Akai has shared the full specs for MPC Sample — why not compare it to the original 1988 MPC60, spec-for-spec?

Yep, Akai has a honkin’ huge new flagship MPC XL — gallery

It leaked, you saw it — it’s real, it’s huge. In addition to its recent MPC Live III, Akai has a big mama standalone called the MPC XL with more dedicated controls and a big 10.1” display — but mostly the same innards. Let’s explain.

Peter Kirn - January 20, 2026

These are the best summer deals on gear you can get right now

Summer sales are on, and even with more trade tariff uncertainty looming in the USA, that includes some surprising cut-rate deals on hardware synths. Here’s your guide to some favorites, including a great mini keyboard/Moog soft synth bundle.

Peter Kirn - August 4, 2025

Last chance: new AIR Multiband Filter for free through today

Peter Kirn - December 2, 2024

In the 90s, this astrophysicist made trippy pop from star sounds

Peter Kirn - April 10, 2024

Amigo Sampler, Amiga sampling in plug-in form for £10, plus skank music

Peter Kirn - March 22, 2024

Much-leaked MPC Key 37 arrives, and it’s likely to be a crowd-pleaser

Peter Kirn - February 6, 2024

There are some wild AI music LEGO sets – but this LEGO Neve studio is real

Peter Kirn - December 14, 2023

Free utility converts between multisample formats: ConvertWithMoss

Peter Kirn - November 20, 2023