Akai MPC Live III: expressive pads come to the MPC grid; $1699 with new core

Akai’s MPC Live III hits the same week as Roland’s new analog-digital flagship. This new standalone box has an updated 8-core processor and specs, enabling new features — but the biggest story here is expressive pads with 3D sensing.

Last chance: new AIR Multiband Filter for free through today

Even I can’t keep up with Black Friday. AIR Music Tech is making their new Multiband Filter free for its intro only – you have through tonight, December 2, midnight Eastern to grab yours.

Peter Kirn - December 2, 2024

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

Akai’s MPC Key 37 is now official – a standalone MPC/synth with onboard sampling and effects, all in a compact package with pads and 37 keys. That combination is likely to make this a hit at $899 list.

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

New MPC One+ standalone: wireless and more storage, $699 – and runs AIR’s new Juno plugin

Peter Kirn - May 30, 2023

MPC standalone updates look tasty: retro and vinyl FX and amps, probability, ratcheting, workflow

Peter Kirn - June 13, 2022

That new MPC 2.10 update proves to be a big hit with users, packed full of features

Peter Kirn - July 26, 2021

Akai’s current MPC matures as gear hub, with new MPC Live II hardware and 2.8 software

Peter Kirn - May 14, 2020

Free software lets you recreate the MPC2000XL drum machine

Peter Kirn - April 20, 2020

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