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?

Tom Oberheim turns 89 today; a conversation with Tom

Tom Oberheim may be in retirement, but the instruments and his legacy are just getting started. Artists are rediscovering vintage classics, and instruments like the new TEO-5 are taking off. So to celebrate his 89th birthday, here’s a recent conversation with the man behind that famous synth name.

Peter Kirn - July 7, 2025

Here’s Roger Linn with advice on developing expressive gestures

Roger Linn didn’t just develop the LinnStrument and then check out. He’s provided a steady stream of musical advice both of his own makings and from the device’s user community – all while being a driving force in MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE). The latest video is a must-watch addition to that ongoing series.

Peter Kirn - January 8, 2025

Learn music instrument design from Roger Linn and Sasha Leitman

Peter Kirn - June 8, 2024

Roger Linn shares hidden settings and more gems from the LinnStrument

Peter Kirn - December 2, 2022

MIDI Polyphonic Expression has been updated with one powerful feature: better documentation

Peter Kirn - May 17, 2022

Roger Linn’s LinnStrument is back in stock, for your expressive grid needs

Peter Kirn - August 3, 2021

Surge, awesome free soft synth, gets major 1.8 update

Peter Kirn - January 28, 2021

Here’s a free pack to get MIDI Polyphonic Expression under your fingertips

Peter Kirn - January 21, 2021