Akai might as well lean their focus in making a MPC Live 3. 8gbs of ram, longer battery life, USB C charging port, ADAT output, and better converters. All for the price of..$1299 😁
I bought one for 1/3 of the price to see how a Akai MPC would fit into my workflow. It wasn't a failure. I paired it with a Beatstep for Qlink control. Maybe one day, I may upgrade.
@@RickRijuanaProfacts I love my studio black it’s my first and only mpc ❤️ I seen the studio 2 before I got the studio black and I was like wtf is that 😂 doesn’t have the traditional look of the mpc no q links and that tiny ass screen 😂 it’s not terrible but not for me they went left with the mpc studio 2
The Touch was a genius design, it was the prototype for the Live which is a best seller, keeping the form factor but making it a simple controller seems like a no brainer to me. perfect for beginers, back up for pros and also perfect for setting the ground for more of those who want to go pro and get the X or Live2 as there would be no muscle memory learning curve when they upgrade to Pro gear. it would be great for setting up music production classes using the MPC too. I really hope they do this. Akai please give us a controller like the Live 2 without audio hardware because anyone seriously interested in the MPC most likely already has a laptop and audio interface. I think this would be the game changer that will draw thousands of new MPC users. I'll buy one too or about 12 of them when I start the MPC workshops
@@gregserenade6653 I think we all need to put pressure on Akai to not leave us for dead with the "controller" only based Hardware. Last time i was vocal about this on one of their social media posts they deleted it and i wasn't even being rude about it. Just questioning why are we still waiting on the 3.0 Software when it seems like all their competitors are moving way faster on the Software front.
Man I loved the MPC Studio Black. I fell in love with the workflow on that thing. It even looks better than the Studio mkII all these years later! Only thing I really liked about the new one was the touch strip. Returned it though.
I definitely feel where you're coming from as far as it being an update to a product that actually had more options, it's definitely a strange choice by Akai. On the other hand I actually love mine A LOT. Im not new to the MPC. I've owned the 60II, had a 3000, a 1000, and a few 2000XL's. After the 2000XL I moved to mostly software and controllers, mainly Ableton and a Novation Launchpad which was great, but I always missed the MPC workflow, so I tried ever MPD made and never got the experience I wanted. Then I got this and it put a smile on my face the second I started messing with it. I guess I got so used to using the Mouse and keyboard, that the few times I have use it with this didn't make me mad at all. Anyways great video fam! 1
I've been saying this ever since the Live came out. if they rereleased the Touch without the Audio I/O mirroring the buttons Live2 that would've been the perfect entry level option and back up travel option for those with the X or ONE at home. still think it would a be killer device today
Yeah I did the same, way to much mouse clicking. My studio one silver no longer works. So I’m looking forward to what the new mini MPC might look like.
As you know I have the MPC Studio and since that’s only MPC I own I can only speak from that perspective. I love my Studio and learned a lot about the software. Back in 90s my friend showed me how to use the 3000 so when I hear your criticism of MPC I understand your why. Based on your experience I wonder how you would feel about Maschine Mikro. I have that two. I’m looking forward to upgrading to Maschine MK3 and The Live 2.
There's a technology phrase called " Planned Obsolescence ". It means what they sell us already has a date in which it WILL be phased out. Akai are Master's of planned obsolescence ! That's why they SLOWLY upgrade the software with features that should've been there since day one. Planned Obsolescence is why they have a color way that's Classic...l and then later one thats FIRE!!!! Planned Obsolescence is why they kept selling us midi keyboard controllers over a decade.... when they already knew the MPK61 and the MPC LIVE 2 should've BEEN merged into one piece of equipment.... Planned Obsolescence is why it took so long to get the MPC KEY 61. I personally think its a poor business model, but AKAI is paying people much smarter then i am to make business decisions. Still.... Im riding with the Mpc no matter what. Love your music bro! Keep up the good work. GOD BLESS AND PEACE.
Good talk as always bolo keeping it real! Here is my observation after having for 14 months: The good: Excellent build quality and light weight. The pads feels very good and big. The buttons are rubberized but has a nice quite click. Sample start/end and tune are golden for quick manipulation I like the zoom function Touch strip is a nice touch ;) The bad: Studio mk2 has very little control over the software and you will need mouse 70% of the time. Counterintuitive = studio mk2 You can enter every possible mode via mode+pads but can't control any! Some buttons have double function without labeling: 16 Levels (Pad perform) - Play (Metronome) - Quntazie (Selection) - Record (Retrospective recording) Sequence: No loop control - No control over the sequence whatsoever no copy/delete/new/double. Just moving between sequences already exist No OK button for on screen messages. You guessed it you need a mouse Touch Strip FX cannot be recorded aa automation Touch Strip functions cannot be reordred/removed but I can add custom FX No Browsing filter (project - kits -sample) No fast scroll for sample start/end. Normal MPCs with Qlink have x1/x10/x100/x1000 scrolling No dedicated Qlinks Can't change Qlink mode (Screen-Project-..) Small screen: reading not a problem it's clear but functionality is very limited and browsing is the worst. show only 1 parameter on screen -+ doesn't have hold feature so you have to keep clicking No playback time, BPM, program on screen You don't know what is on touch strip unless you click on it or touch the strip and figure it out Some button can switch to the secondary function without pressing shift and some don't which is weird No track arming Can't activate Note repeat/Arp if Touch FX is on. You can only choose one No mixer control or inserts. Shift+Touch Strip will hold Qlink mode so you can hit any pad to change between Qlinks and adjust parameters using touch strip. There goes away your pads :) Missed opportunity to make it work with other daws. At least pads with lights, banks, and transport control. It is really just a brick. There are people on the Internet who made advanced scripts for it to work but at this point I will not waste my time diving into programming. No brightness settings (akai is notorious for it) Step Seq is good for one bar to move to the next bar you have to use your mouse. Rotary Encoder is Loud IMO even with all the negatives its still great way to start your MPC journey. I will not sell mine because I love its form factor. But I'm still very disappointed. Its really an Unfinished copy of Maschine Mikro. Good job akai
I got the MPC Studio Mk II and the MPC Live 2. I like them both for different reasons. I'm not getting rid of my MPC Studio Mk II though. Other than the small screen, I do like the build quality. But I actually like the MPC Software, So I would be fine with any Midi controller or even if all i had was my computer keyboard.
I bought one used for $50. Its really not that bad when you go into it knowing its limitations. I'd say this is for the person with a low budget who has never worked on any other mpc or the mpc vet who just wants something small to travel with. Im gonna keep it. I'l, just add it to my mpc collection. I think the MPC Black is a better option.
I’ve been considering it as a low cost way to try out the MPC workflow. I’m curious as to how similar it is to the stand alone stuff. I’ve been using drum machines since 89, past unc status, mostly Roland stuff and got into DAWs in the 90s. I’ve never used a MPC tho and now I want to try it but don’t want to drop too much on it. I’m pretty into the Roland work flow but I’m not stuck on it. I see used ones of these for like $169. At that price, if I try it and don’t like it, I can at least get most of my $$$ back.
Fair enough. I'm not really a MPC guy, the only experience I have with them is with the 500, which a friend of mine let me use years ago. It was fun. I think for someone that uses "normal" DAWs and just wants to switch up the way things work a bit this is not bad. The cheapest deal I can find on this now is 135€, and the prices have dropped considerably in general. Maybe Mk3 is right around the corner. Maybe I'll regret it soon. The thing that turned me off the MPC One is that I don't think you should have to be online to authorize your plugins on a standalone unit like those, even more so because these apparently can deauthorize again from I've seen and read. If I spend a good amount of money on hardware, I want to own it and not have to ask for permission to use what I paid for.
Oh I wish there was a new Touch. I would buy a Touch on used market for the I/O and bigger screen. When I watch others used hybrid MPC the controller mode is better than my Studio but I love my studio
great video bolo, i have the studio black also. I love it. I wish they would have an midi Editor like the mpk so i could use it with other daw's easy without midi script and all that bs. The new studio 2 doesnt compare for me at all with the black.
Great video.Thank's a lot for your review. Do you think Native Instruments Maschine Mikro MK3 it's better choice for beginner's ? I heard you mentioned him in the video
I use Maschine but envied the dope kits Akai was putting out. So I bought the MPC Studio 2 bundle to get access to the MPC Software and sounds; the controller was just icing. If there was a tool like Kit Maker that could've converted Akai MPC expansions to Maschine Kits, I would've just bought the sounds and skipped the controller.
If you are going to be working on Apple m1 the older versions of mpc studio don’t work research to make sure but they did not work on my m1 but worked fine on my intel macs and if you like the ability to color pads and organize your drum kits you will like the newer one and the newer one pads are a lot better and more sensitive
@@BeatzByDuvv i had the silver too, bout it like 4 months before the black dropped. Only thing i hated about the silver was the “q links” i prefer the knobs
All akai had to do was update the pads and screen on the mpc studio black and it would have been a hit they should stick to it hat layout as minimum for all mpc units those feel like a real mpc not the live format the live format I way prefer the studio black layout over the live
IDC what nobody say the MPC Studio 2 Controller is hard asf, you gotta watch the MPC Studio Masterclass video, ya know the one everybody skip over 🤦♂🤣 If this is your first MPC like me, then you will love it, if it's not your first MPC of course your going to hate it
I was just about to ask you whether or not you meant to say Touch:) Yeah, the Touch was my first MPC. I really liked it. It brought me to the One, and then to where I am now: the Live II Retro. So, much love for the Touch.
Making something standalone vs just a controller is a huge difference in technology. The price point would be way different. Everyone has a laptop and the studio models are tiny. A 15" macbook and one of those is probably still smaller and lighter weight and fits in a backpack easier than a standalone mpc.
The studio 2 works great when you use it as a midi controller connected to your live 2, X, or one. When you layer midi tracks, you can't hear the layer simultaneously unless you use some type of midi controller.
You can't connect a Studio 1 directly to a Live, X or One though, right? At least I still can't figure out how to get mine to work. It only works with the software and crashed my One when I try to connect it. (I haven't tried since the last few updates, though...)
Being fully vested in the NI ecosystem. Starting from v1.xx Maschine to having the MK3, the Kontroller S-61 and the full software suite I was interested in the MPC software only after seeing the lazy chip feature. If there’s one thing I hate about Maschine is it way of handling sample chopping. I had started using Serato. Then I downloaded MPC beats and it felt strange. It felt backwards. Set your sequence. Set your track. Set your bars. Set this. Set that then start recording. But I really wanted to see what all the hype was about so I got ready to buy the MOC software and use my mk3 as a controller. Then I realize the Studio came with software at the same cost as the software solo. So I bought it and it put me I. The mind of the mikro. It reminded me of why I returned the mikro and went forward with the mk3. Workflow!!! It’s just too simple with larger real estate to navigate the product. I still think MPC software vs Maschine software is were the advantage really lies (except for its chopping). I’m actually getting more and more better at utilizing my MK3 with the MPC software… except for the lazy chop which doesn’t seem to work with the MK3 controller.
My touch just been sitting here for years smh... i traded my 2000 to guitar center for it and now its just a paper weight... I do got a live2 and the XSE but this joint should still work in 2023... Crazy...
I have the mpc studio, the first one you referenced, and the latest one, the one that came out earlier this year is alright, like you said the window I don't even use. But of course the window on the Mac Pro laptop is the true real estate. It's in my surplus, I will use it , I'm a Full Sail student, I just bought the mpc one + , it's cool, but again I long for the real estate of the bigger one. Keep banging it out bolo sha don saying peace...
I got that same one in may and from my personal experience i would say get it if you are new to the mpc world once you figure it out its really chill after that. ima college student so buying a controller over 800$ is not the best idea for me right now i really want the x or the renaissance just as a collectors item 😂
The MPC Touch is where it was at tbh they should’ve just made that and integrated more things/features, at least you’d get a screen to look at instead of having to look at the computer.
@@BoloDaProducer overall tho this is a good beginner product to anybody that wants the features of an mpc one but at a quarter of the budget! With that ur giving up stand alone features. Picked one up at guitar center for $200 with a discount brand new.
whats the point in mpc standalone the advantages you can travel with it but do people like the mpc plug ins, are the plug ins worth spending that amount to get get a standalone?what are the best mpc plug ins honestly or are they overated? peace
I wanted to slowly move back the the MPCs, bought a used Studio2, lasted only a couple months before getting the Live 2 Retro. The Live 2 works much much better as a front end for the software.
The Studio Mk2 works great for me. It’s rare that I tether an MPC to the software. It’s either standalone or Studio Mk2. It has the Maschine Micro form factor. It wasn’t targeted to traditional MPC users but the Micro crowd.
No Q-Links was a big misstep. 4 is the minimum, imo. Good point on the Touch, and nobody really talks about the Touch it seems? Oh, I didn't know it was no longer supported with the newest software?? Now I'm thinking of the MPC Studio Black, and then looking at the One. That's it right there. Gut the One and sell it for half the price as a Studio On-... Studio 3 lol. Can't call it the Studio One XD But they're basically the same X/Y dimensions. Do it, Akai. You have it all right there, make it a bit thinner and chop the price. Done.
I upgraded to the X when the Special edition X came out(price was reasonable), but still have my Touch. That device gave me almost 5 great years of vibes.
I think that was a prototype to see how people would respond if they drop a mini. Sort like when you give out the blue tops to junkies to see the response lol
Studio 2 has been an excellent entry point into MPC ecosystem because I've only invested $199 and have the full MPC software and the real deal 16 MPC pads. Worst case if I'm not feeling the MPC software, I have a legit 16 pad controller that will work in other daw's / software and not be useless... best case, I fall in love with the MPC ecosystem and I can buy a used Live 2 or MPC X and I'll already have the full MPC software and save more than enough money buying used to offset the initial $199 to get started. The only truly bad thing I can say so far is the first time setup experience absolutely SUCKS... the registration is normal, iLOK sure I already have that... but then you get the MPC software manager / downloader and have to manually download and install like 15 things one at a time?! I spent over an hour on that alone... totally killed my excitement from taking my MPC Studio out of the box and then having to grind through that nonsense! I feel for people who aren't highly technical like myself, that process must be so painful, what the hell are they thinking with that?! It should see everything you're entitled to and you just click "download and install everything?" and come back when it's done!
I think Aakai mpc studio 2 workflow is not as horrible after you learn it but Akai should never make an Mpc without a real mpc screen and they should make the hardware workflow standard across all platforms with 16. Qlinks even if they have to make smaller q link knobs I totally think with all the buttons and all the knobs standard will keep the Mpc’s stand alone feel 4 qlinks feels like a toy and discourages users from banking through layers. It will also be nice to incorporate a song mode button and quantize button on the newer versions to speed up workflow Also on the keyboard side i notice after working on it I’m missing the navigation buttons for up down left and right like the mpc x it’s actually slower to move from the digital wheel to touch the screen and move back to the digital dial wheel and press to click Great videos and great vibes Bolo
Gotta Keep it Real about The MPC Studio 2 Controller: Well Bolo in my opinion this by far is not Akai"s flagship device, thats for sure, but on the flip side of that comment its solid, and it built really well. my reason for buying the MPC 2 was price. Back in the day I owned the 2000 so after Fruity loop, Abbleton, etc. I decided to come back home to Akai. The pros are I can use the same sounds etc as the X, I can use any Akai sound etc. I have loop capabilities etc, and because the work flow depends solely on that computer for function, I have had to really began to learn the software, but some may say thats a turn off. Those are some of the pros. Now the cons, that lil small ass screen, more functions should have been on the controller, you do have it but its all on the screen in the software, in my opinion there's to much time spent clicking around on a computer, it kinda kills the creativity some days. Theres more I could probably say that I did'nt like but again the price was right, and its allowing me to get the job done. 1 to 10 id probably give it a 7.5 but I have an extensive sound library and that helps. I want the key 61, whats ur thoughts on that?
Yeah mpc could make a standalone controller very easily in 2023 all they would have to do is put a usb type a and type c port on the back and allow it to do data transfer then you just connect it to a portable ssd and basically you have a mpc like you do in the 90s but without floppy disks
Yo im kinda new to the mpc and production hardware i use logic alot so im looking into a mpc or other brand what would u recommend? I was looking into the mpc studio II but mixed reviews
We are still waiting on MPC Software 3.0. Why is Akai dragging with this when it seems like every DAW out there is doing major upgrades/updates releases right now. Seems like InMusic is just focused on pushing expansions and small hardware refreshes instead of major Software/Firmware upgrades.
Yea I got The MPC Studio2......its NOT a True MPC.... But it does work great with the MPC software and if Thats your thing (for me it is) shit works.... but ya find yourself clicking alot....if Ya Use FL studios ya know what it is.....If Your a True MPC head this Joint isn't for you.....if ya commin from other software based Music.... its a good introduction to MPC software...I've been messin with it for a bit now and it can make some Bangers....ill be putin out some shit soon....instead of that ribbon strip they should of Put 4 to 6 Q link Knobs on it like the studio 1 and I think it would have been a hit...this My First MPC so I don't know shit bout the other ones but one day ill get a MPC live or something ...Thanks for the honesty Bolo💯💯
I think it’s impossible to hit the price point with a proper screen, but they could definitely do better with the buttons and the overall layout. I got a Studio Black for 110 euros instead of a Studio mkii for 80 still on the second hand market. Even tho it’s dated in some ways, it’s just a better layout.
Since they already had the MPC Touch, which is the closest you can get to a modern MPC standalone experience, I never really understood the MPC Studio 2. If they wanted an even more entry-level MPC experience than the MPC Touch they should have gone for the MPC Studio Black route. Not for a software controller that steps away from it and is basically useless to midi control anything else.
Oh you talking about the MPC Touch. I remember the backlash Akai got from that cause it wasn’t a standalone device. Then they instantly came out with the MPC Live
@@BeatzByDuvv I don’t blame you. The Touch was a good product then and it’s still a good product now. It was just the timing Akai decided to release the Touch. They already had released 2 controllers back to back (Renaissance, Studio). Then when they released the Touch right after those two, that’s when folks really got pissed off. Everbody wanted Akai to come out with a new standalone at that time
Fast forward since I learned the software it’s really not that bad. It’s actually great. It will take a little effort to learn rather than FL Studio or Maschine or Abelton etc I think that’s where most of my biasness came from. Once you learn it it’s actually fairly simple and really good. I think the controller is perfect for the software. Looking to grab one ( I have the MPC Live 2) for traveling and if I want to work out of the software. Saw a comment earlier I’m just hoping that you can automate the touch strip (what’s the point if you can’t) if I was at home or my own studio space I would def use the Live 2 so I can see if someone who has space would defer the studio over the standalone machines
I came close to getting the MPC Studio a few times, but I ended up just getting the MPD216 controller instead. I didnt care for the MPC software at the time, and the MPD just integrates with FL Studio pretty good.
Whatever they do, they need to go ahead and dump that lil TicTac screen on all their products. I like the screen on the Akai Advance keyboard range, even though it's not touch screen. It's still a good size and you could probably edit samples or whatever else pretty well without the computer.
2 months ago I bought the mpc studio 2 for my first mpc to see whats the hype all about and try it out the software SUCKS. I think its way to much clicking going on, im better off using my maschine studio, its way faster and the software is easier to use. If I would've none that I would've got studio 1 or something else 😢
I don't see the point, at least for me. Most. People like mpc for the sound. I'd rather have my dum processing done on the actual MPC so it hits harder.
Sorry y’all I meant to say the “MPC Touch”! Not the MPC Live 😂😂😂
It was a business decision. They chose to sell more MPC LIVEs
Ok cuz that threw me off 😂
Thought so lol
I was just saying to myself..........
Bro i thought i was bugging cause i have the Live😂😂😂😂 Good shit as usual Bolo.
Akai might as well lean their focus in making a MPC Live 3. 8gbs of ram, longer battery life, USB C charging port, ADAT output, and better converters. All for the price of..$1299 😁
I bought one for 1/3 of the price to see how a Akai MPC would fit into my workflow. It wasn't a failure. I paired it with a Beatstep for Qlink control. Maybe one day, I may upgrade.
The Studio 2 was a huge step back from the MPC Studio Silver and Black
I currently use the Studio Black & that's that's same thing I said.
I feel like it should've be called the MPC Element 2
@@RickRijuanaPro wow the element didn’t mpc beats replaced it
@@RickRijuanaProfacts I love my studio black it’s my first and only mpc ❤️ I seen the studio 2 before I got the studio black and I was like wtf is that 😂 doesn’t have the traditional look of the mpc no q links and that tiny ass screen 😂 it’s not terrible but not for me they went left with the mpc studio 2
The Touch was a genius design, it was the prototype for the Live which is a best seller, keeping the form factor but making it a simple controller seems like a no brainer to me. perfect for beginers, back up for pros and also perfect for setting the ground for more of those who want to go pro and get the X or Live2 as there would be no muscle memory learning curve when they upgrade to Pro gear. it would be great for setting up music production classes using the MPC too. I really hope they do this. Akai please give us a controller like the Live 2 without audio hardware because anyone seriously interested in the MPC most likely already has a laptop and audio interface. I think this would be the game changer that will draw thousands of new MPC users. I'll buy one too or about 12 of them when I start the MPC workshops
My main workhorse. I love the Touch
@@ThaRebeliouZ I love mine too.
@@gregserenade6653 I think we all need to put pressure on Akai to not leave us for dead with the "controller" only based Hardware. Last time i was vocal about this on one of their social media posts they deleted it and i wasn't even being rude about it. Just questioning why are we still waiting on the 3.0 Software when it seems like all their competitors are moving way faster on the Software front.
From what you are saying the should updated the MPC Touch
Man I loved the MPC Studio Black. I fell in love with the workflow on that thing. It even looks better than the Studio mkII all these years later! Only thing I really liked about the new one was the touch strip. Returned it though.
I think you meant the MPC Touch controller. The MPC Live is pretty much the Live 2 without the battery and speaker.
Yep! You are Right! It was the Touch!!!!
Glad you make videos like this. I know they listen and implement necessary changes! 💯
I definitely feel where you're coming from as far as it being an update to a product that actually had more options, it's definitely a strange choice by Akai. On the other hand I actually love mine A LOT. Im not new to the MPC. I've owned the 60II, had a 3000, a 1000, and a few 2000XL's. After the 2000XL I moved to mostly software and controllers, mainly Ableton and a Novation Launchpad which was great, but I always missed the MPC workflow, so I tried ever MPD made and never got the experience I wanted. Then I got this and it put a smile on my face the second I started messing with it. I guess I got so used to using the Mouse and keyboard, that the few times I have use it with this didn't make me mad at all. Anyways great video fam! 1
I've been saying this ever since the Live came out. if they rereleased the Touch without the Audio I/O mirroring the buttons Live2 that would've been the perfect entry level option and back up travel option for those with the X or ONE at home. still think it would a be killer device today
True!!!
That 1st mpc studio was fire! The second one.....I returned it a day after getting it.
Yeah I did the same, way to much mouse clicking. My studio one silver no longer works. So I’m looking forward to what the new mini MPC might look like.
That would be dope if they made the new mini like they OG MPC Studio
As you know I have the MPC Studio and since that’s only MPC I own I can only speak from that perspective. I love my Studio and learned a lot about the software. Back in 90s my friend showed me how to use the 3000 so when I hear your criticism of MPC I understand your why. Based on your experience I wonder how you would feel about Maschine Mikro. I have that two. I’m looking forward to upgrading to Maschine MK3 and The Live 2.
The Studio black with a live 2 screen would’ve be the answer.
That would be nice
Indeed!
the MPC Touch still works with the newest update that's what i've been using no problems over here
Yup, i need a Mpc Touch mk2!
Bolo...seems like your setting up the Stage of the Next MPC LIVE III, For Real-For Real 😅😅😅
There's a technology phrase called " Planned Obsolescence ". It means what they sell us already has a date in which it WILL be phased out. Akai are Master's of planned obsolescence ! That's why they SLOWLY upgrade the software with features that should've been there since day one. Planned Obsolescence is why they have a color way that's Classic...l and then later one thats FIRE!!!! Planned Obsolescence is why they kept selling us midi keyboard controllers over a decade.... when they already knew the MPK61 and the MPC LIVE 2 should've BEEN merged into one piece of equipment.... Planned Obsolescence is why it took so long to get the MPC KEY 61. I personally think its a poor business model, but AKAI is paying people much smarter then i am to make business decisions. Still.... Im riding with the Mpc no matter what. Love your music bro! Keep up the good work. GOD BLESS AND PEACE.
Good talk as always bolo keeping it real! Here is my observation after having for 14 months:
The good:
Excellent build quality and light weight. The pads feels very good and big. The buttons are rubberized but has a nice quite click.
Sample start/end and tune are golden for quick manipulation
I like the zoom function
Touch strip is a nice touch ;)
The bad:
Studio mk2 has very little control over the software and you will need mouse 70% of the time. Counterintuitive = studio mk2
You can enter every possible mode via mode+pads but can't control any!
Some buttons have double function without labeling: 16 Levels (Pad perform) - Play (Metronome) - Quntazie (Selection) - Record (Retrospective recording)
Sequence: No loop control - No control over the sequence whatsoever no copy/delete/new/double. Just moving between sequences already exist
No OK button for on screen messages. You guessed it you need a mouse
Touch Strip FX cannot be recorded aa automation
Touch Strip functions cannot be reordred/removed but I can add custom FX
No Browsing filter (project - kits -sample)
No fast scroll for sample start/end. Normal MPCs with Qlink have x1/x10/x100/x1000 scrolling
No dedicated Qlinks
Can't change Qlink mode (Screen-Project-..)
Small screen: reading not a problem it's clear but functionality is very limited and browsing is the worst.
show only 1 parameter on screen
-+ doesn't have hold feature so you have to keep clicking
No playback time, BPM, program on screen
You don't know what is on touch strip unless you click on it or touch the strip and figure it out
Some button can switch to the secondary function without pressing shift and some don't which is weird
No track arming
Can't activate Note repeat/Arp if Touch FX is on. You can only choose one
No mixer control or inserts.
Shift+Touch Strip will hold Qlink mode so you can hit any pad to change between Qlinks and adjust parameters using touch strip. There goes away your pads :)
Missed opportunity to make it work with other daws. At least pads with lights, banks, and transport control. It is really just a brick. There are people on the Internet who made advanced scripts for it to work but at this point I will not waste my time diving into programming.
No brightness settings (akai is notorious for it)
Step Seq is good for one bar to move to the next bar you have to use your mouse.
Rotary Encoder is Loud
IMO even with all the negatives its still great way to start your MPC journey. I will not sell mine because I love its form factor. But I'm still very disappointed.
Its really an Unfinished copy of Maschine Mikro. Good job akai
As of Today The MPC Touch works well with 2.12 on Windows 10.
Correct
I got the MPC Studio Mk II and the MPC Live 2. I like them both for different reasons. I'm not getting rid of my MPC Studio Mk II though. Other than the small screen, I do like the build quality. But I actually like the MPC Software, So I would be fine with any Midi controller or even if all i had was my computer keyboard.
I'm running mine on Ableton with a custom script and it's awesome! The mpc software wasn't what I was looking for.
I still like the studio black.
I bought one used for $50. Its really not that bad when you go into it knowing its limitations. I'd say this is for the person with a low budget who has never worked on any other mpc or the mpc vet who just wants something small to travel with. Im gonna keep it. I'l, just add it to my mpc collection. I think the MPC Black is a better option.
I’ve been considering it as a low cost way to try out the MPC workflow. I’m curious as to how similar it is to the stand alone stuff. I’ve been using drum machines since 89, past unc status, mostly Roland stuff and got into DAWs in the 90s. I’ve never used a MPC tho and now I want to try it but don’t want to drop too much on it. I’m pretty into the Roland work flow but I’m not stuck on it. I see used ones of these for like $169. At that price, if I try it and don’t like it, I can at least get most of my $$$ back.
Fair enough. I'm not really a MPC guy, the only experience I have with them is with the 500, which a friend of mine let me use years ago. It was fun. I think for someone that uses "normal" DAWs and just wants to switch up the way things work a bit this is not bad. The cheapest deal I can find on this now is 135€, and the prices have dropped considerably in general. Maybe Mk3 is right around the corner. Maybe I'll regret it soon.
The thing that turned me off the MPC One is that I don't think you should have to be online to authorize your plugins on a standalone unit like those, even more so because these apparently can deauthorize again from I've seen and read. If I spend a good amount of money on hardware, I want to own it and not have to ask for permission to use what I paid for.
Oh I wish there was a new Touch. I would buy a Touch on used market for the I/O and bigger screen. When I watch others used hybrid MPC the controller mode is better than my Studio but I love my studio
I still have mine if you're in the market to purchase one.
great video bolo, i have the studio black also. I love it. I wish they would have an midi Editor like the mpk so i could use it with other daw's easy without midi script and all that bs. The new studio 2 doesnt compare for me at all with the black.
Great video.Thank's a lot for your review. Do you think Native Instruments Maschine Mikro MK3 it's better choice for beginner's ? I heard you mentioned him in the video
Bruh, I still have and use the MPC Studio Black. As a matter or fact that is the only MPC I currently own. I may upgrade to the X at some point.
I use Maschine but envied the dope kits Akai was putting out. So I bought the MPC Studio 2 bundle to get access to the MPC Software and sounds; the controller was just icing. If there was a tool like Kit Maker that could've converted Akai MPC expansions to Maschine Kits, I would've just bought the sounds and skipped the controller.
That's where I am now
Bro! Thank you so much for this video, I was about to grab one. Imma just grab the older version.
If you are going to be working on Apple m1 the older versions of mpc studio don’t work research to make sure but they did not work on my m1 but worked fine on my intel macs and if you like the ability to color pads and organize your drum kits you will like the newer one and the newer one pads are a lot better and more sensitive
Studio black the greatest form factor of all the MPC’s would love it in a standalone version, old screen and everything!
Yep!
I had the silver one, but Mos def agree with everything you said.
@@BeatzByDuvv i had the silver too, bout it like 4 months before the black dropped. Only thing i hated about the silver was the “q links” i prefer the knobs
All akai had to do was update the pads and screen on the mpc studio black and it would have been a hit they should stick to it hat layout as minimum for all mpc units those feel like a real mpc not the live format the live format I way prefer the studio black layout over the live
IDC what nobody say the MPC Studio 2 Controller is hard asf, you gotta watch the MPC Studio Masterclass video, ya know the one everybody skip over 🤦♂🤣 If this is your first MPC like me, then you will love it, if it's not your first MPC of course your going to hate it
I love my studio II
I was just about to ask you whether or not you meant to say Touch:) Yeah, the Touch was my first MPC. I really liked it. It brought me to the One, and then to where I am now: the Live II Retro. So, much love for the Touch.
Which mpc drum pads would y’all recommend?
Making something standalone vs just a controller is a huge difference in technology. The price point would be way different. Everyone has a laptop and the studio models are tiny. A 15" macbook and one of those is probably still smaller and lighter weight and fits in a backpack easier than a standalone mpc.
The studio 2 works great when you use it as a midi controller connected to your live 2, X, or one. When you layer midi tracks, you can't hear the layer simultaneously unless you use some type of midi controller.
You can't connect a Studio 1 directly to a Live, X or One though, right? At least I still can't figure out how to get mine to work. It only works with the software and crashed my One when I try to connect it. (I haven't tried since the last few updates, though...)
@oflittleconsequence I don't own a studio 1, so I'm not sure. But you might since updates.
Being fully vested in the NI ecosystem. Starting from v1.xx Maschine to having the MK3, the Kontroller S-61 and the full software suite I was interested in the MPC software only after seeing the lazy chip feature. If there’s one thing I hate about Maschine is it way of handling sample chopping. I had started using Serato. Then I downloaded MPC beats and it felt strange. It felt backwards. Set your sequence. Set your track. Set your bars. Set this. Set that then start recording. But I really wanted to see what all the hype was about so I got ready to buy the MOC software and use my mk3 as a controller. Then I realize the Studio came with software at the same cost as the software solo. So I bought it and it put me I. The mind of the mikro. It reminded me of why I returned the mikro and went forward with the mk3. Workflow!!! It’s just too simple with larger real estate to navigate the product. I still think MPC software vs Maschine software is were the advantage really lies (except for its chopping). I’m actually getting more and more better at utilizing my MK3 with the MPC software… except for the lazy chop which doesn’t seem to work with the MK3 controller.
My touch just been sitting here for years smh... i traded my 2000 to guitar center for it and now its just a paper weight... I do got a live2 and the XSE but this joint should still work in 2023... Crazy...
I have the mpc studio, the first one you referenced, and the latest one, the one that came out earlier this year is alright, like you said the window I don't even use. But of course the window on the Mac Pro laptop is the true real estate. It's in my surplus, I will use it , I'm a Full Sail student, I just bought the mpc one + , it's cool, but again I long for the real estate of the bigger one. Keep banging it out bolo sha don saying peace...
I love the MPC Studio 2 Controller. It's great for beginners
I got that same one in may and from my personal experience i would say get it if you are new to the mpc world once you figure it out its really chill after that. ima college student so buying a controller over 800$ is not the best idea for me right now i really want the x or the renaissance just as a collectors item 😂
🔥🔥🔥🔥
The MPC Touch is where it was at tbh they should’ve just made that and integrated more things/features, at least you’d get a screen to look at instead of having to look at the computer.
Yes!!!
@@BoloDaProducer overall tho this is a good beginner product to anybody that wants the features of an mpc one but at a quarter of the budget! With that ur giving up stand alone features. Picked one up at guitar center for $200 with a discount brand new.
You can do everything on the touch. With out touch the. Mouse.
whats the point in mpc standalone the advantages you can travel with it but do people like the mpc plug ins, are the plug ins worth spending that amount to get get a standalone?what are the best mpc plug ins honestly or are they overated? peace
I make all of my beats in Standalone… I love it!
I wanted to slowly move back the the MPCs, bought a used Studio2, lasted only a couple months before getting the Live 2 Retro. The Live 2 works much much better as a front end for the software.
They should have came with 1st generation design and made it software and standalone. The push 3 tried 😮best of both worlds
The Studio Mk2 works great for me. It’s rare that I tether an MPC to the software. It’s either standalone or Studio Mk2.
It has the Maschine Micro form factor. It wasn’t targeted to traditional MPC users but the Micro crowd.
i still use my mpc touch and it still rocks
No Q-Links was a big misstep. 4 is the minimum, imo. Good point on the Touch, and nobody really talks about the Touch it seems? Oh, I didn't know it was no longer supported with the newest software??
Now I'm thinking of the MPC Studio Black, and then looking at the One. That's it right there. Gut the One and sell it for half the price as a Studio On-... Studio 3 lol. Can't call it the Studio One XD But they're basically the same X/Y dimensions. Do it, Akai. You have it all right there, make it a bit thinner and chop the price. Done.
I upgraded to the X when the Special edition X came out(price was reasonable), but still have my Touch. That device gave me almost 5 great years of vibes.
Kid 1 - You gonna try it?
Kid 2 - I’m not gonna try it. You try it!
Kid 1 - Let’s get Bolo!
Kid 2 - YEEAAAHHHHH! Let’s get Bolo. He loves everything!! 😂😂😂
#BOOOLOOOOOO
#LifeCerealCommercial
Lol that was a good one! Bolo’ s Crunchy Crunch 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
@@BoloDaProducer 😂😂😂
Thanks for this, I'll wait for the new controller
I think that was a prototype to see how people would respond if they drop a mini. Sort like when you give out the blue tops to junkies to see the response lol
I still have a touch and it works fine with the new software
I’m really thinking about going MPC with my Fantom getting either the Live or Studio
Studio 2 has been an excellent entry point into MPC ecosystem because I've only invested $199 and have the full MPC software and the real deal 16 MPC pads. Worst case if I'm not feeling the MPC software, I have a legit 16 pad controller that will work in other daw's / software and not be useless... best case, I fall in love with the MPC ecosystem and I can buy a used Live 2 or MPC X and I'll already have the full MPC software and save more than enough money buying used to offset the initial $199 to get started.
The only truly bad thing I can say so far is the first time setup experience absolutely SUCKS... the registration is normal, iLOK sure I already have that... but then you get the MPC software manager / downloader and have to manually download and install like 15 things one at a time?! I spent over an hour on that alone... totally killed my excitement from taking my MPC Studio out of the box and then having to grind through that nonsense!
I feel for people who aren't highly technical like myself, that process must be so painful, what the hell are they thinking with that?! It should see everything you're entitled to and you just click "download and install everything?" and come back when it's done!
I think Aakai mpc studio 2 workflow is not as horrible after you learn it but Akai should never make an Mpc without a real mpc screen and they should make the hardware workflow standard across all platforms with 16. Qlinks even if they have to make smaller q link knobs
I totally think with all the buttons and all the knobs standard will keep the Mpc’s stand alone feel 4 qlinks feels like a toy and discourages users from banking through layers.
It will also be nice to incorporate a song mode button and quantize button on the newer versions to speed up workflow
Also on the keyboard side i notice after working on it I’m missing the navigation buttons for up down left and right like the mpc x it’s actually slower to move from the digital wheel to touch the screen and move back to the digital dial wheel and press to click
Great videos and great vibes Bolo
Gotta Keep it Real about The MPC Studio 2 Controller: Well Bolo in my opinion this by far is not Akai"s flagship device, thats for sure, but on the flip side of that comment its solid, and it built really well. my reason for buying the MPC 2 was price. Back in the day I owned the 2000 so after Fruity loop, Abbleton, etc. I decided to come back home to Akai. The pros are I can use the same sounds etc as the X, I can use any Akai sound etc. I have loop capabilities etc, and because the work flow depends solely on that computer for function, I have had to really began to learn the software, but some may say thats a turn off. Those are some of the pros. Now the cons, that lil small ass screen, more functions should have been on the controller, you do have it but its all on the screen in the software, in my opinion there's to much time spent clicking around on a computer, it kinda kills the creativity some days. Theres more I could probably say that I did'nt like but again the price was right, and its allowing me to get the job done. 1 to 10 id probably give it a 7.5 but I have an extensive sound library and that helps. I want the key 61, whats ur thoughts on that?
Hold upp… the studio black now works for the newest MPC update??
So, re: Rumor of "MPC Mini"? could be similar shape
Yeah mpc could make a standalone controller very easily in 2023 all they would have to do is put a usb type a and type c port on the back and allow it to do data transfer then you just connect it to a portable ssd and basically you have a mpc like you do in the 90s but without floppy disks
Is this a prelude hint to say there is a new one coming Bolo?
Nah… just speaking my mind and still found a way to confuse the Live with the Touch 😂
The old Mpc studio works on m1 macs now?
Maschine alllllll damn day. I still want to get the next live 3 if they make one though for akai and give it a go !
Yo im kinda new to the mpc and production hardware i use logic alot so im looking into a mpc or other brand what would u recommend? I was looking into the mpc studio II but mixed reviews
I just seen a mpc studio 2 in guitar center today.. for $100 bucks. I should go back and get it!
whats so bad about the studio mk2 they do they same thing basically as any other mpc with the software right? peace
The Studio Black has a more familiar MPC form factor
We are still waiting on MPC Software 3.0. Why is Akai dragging with this when it seems like every DAW out there is doing major upgrades/updates releases right now.
Seems like InMusic is just focused on pushing expansions and small hardware refreshes instead of major Software/Firmware upgrades.
Yea I got The MPC Studio2......its NOT a True MPC.... But it does work great with the MPC software and if Thats your thing (for me it is) shit works.... but ya find yourself clicking alot....if
Ya Use FL studios ya know what it is.....If Your a True MPC head this Joint isn't for you.....if ya commin from other software based Music.... its a good introduction to MPC software...I've been messin with it for a bit now and it can make some Bangers....ill be putin out some shit soon....instead of that ribbon strip they should of Put 4 to 6 Q link Knobs on it like the studio 1 and I think it would have been a hit...this My First MPC so I don't know shit bout the other ones but one day ill get a MPC live or something ...Thanks for the honesty Bolo💯💯
Wait so will the new software work on mpc studio silver ?
I agree they should just do an “mpc touch Mk2”….I figured u meant “touch”😂
I think it’s impossible to hit the price point with a proper screen, but they could definitely do better with the buttons and the overall layout. I got a Studio Black for 110 euros instead of a Studio mkii for 80 still on the second hand market. Even tho it’s dated in some ways, it’s just a better layout.
Great video
So Akai updated the drivers for the Studio 1 to actually work on Mac M chips?
The downside about both MPC Studios is that it don't work with iPad
The Mpc Live is a Stand Alone Machine as well
Its looks like the Maschine Mikro 3 controller with the small lcd screen
Bingo!
Being an MPC Studio 2 owner, it could have been better. Missing features like at least 4 Q Links, a screen the size of the 2000XL to name a couple.
Think this was about the buget. Bolo🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
They’re going to drop an Mpc Studio touch soon😅 (I’m guessing)
Since they already had the MPC Touch, which is the closest you can get to a modern MPC standalone experience, I never really understood the MPC Studio 2. If they wanted an even more entry-level MPC experience than the MPC Touch they should have gone for the MPC Studio Black route. Not for a software controller that steps away from it and is basically useless to midi control anything else.
Oh you talking about the MPC Touch. I remember the backlash Akai got from that cause it wasn’t a standalone device. Then they instantly came out with the MPC Live
Yeah I meant the Touch lol
I still have my Touch. It worked just fine for me.
@@BeatzByDuvv I don’t blame you. The Touch was a good product then and it’s still a good product now. It was just the timing Akai decided to release the Touch. They already had released 2 controllers back to back (Renaissance, Studio). Then when they released the Touch right after those two, that’s when folks really got pissed off. Everbody wanted Akai to come out with a new standalone at that time
@@BoloDaProducer it’s all good. I saw your pinned comment right after I was done writing my paragraph comment lol
Seems like you know something about mpc live mini
prooooblyy going with 404mk2
Tune in Next month when the Live mini enters the chat 😂😅😂
I hope lol
I think you're reffering to the MPC Touch bro because I have the Live and it's complete standalone.
I think it’s an indictment to the software as opposed to the controller 🤷🏾♂️
I can definitely see that
Fast forward since I learned the software it’s really not that bad. It’s actually great. It will take a little effort to learn rather than FL Studio or Maschine or Abelton etc I think that’s where most of my biasness came from. Once you learn it it’s actually fairly simple and really good.
I think the controller is perfect for the software. Looking to grab one ( I have the MPC Live 2) for traveling and if I want to work out of the software. Saw a comment earlier I’m just hoping that you can automate the touch strip (what’s the point if you can’t) if I was at home or my own studio space I would def use the Live 2 so I can see if someone who has space would defer the studio over the standalone machines
I came close to getting the MPC Studio a few times, but I ended up just getting the MPD216 controller instead. I didnt care for the MPC software at the time, and the MPD just integrates with FL Studio pretty good.
Whatever they do, they need to go ahead and dump that lil TicTac screen on all their products. I like the screen on the Akai Advance keyboard range, even though it's not touch screen. It's still a good size and you could probably edit samples or whatever else pretty well without the computer.
like some companies before them, they refused to evolve thinking they will forever remain the top dawg..
I’d love to work with you! Here in Tampa let’s link🙏🏾🎶
It was called MPC TOUCH, but then they would not have sold as many Lives.
I stand correct, I notice I messed up after uploading lol
yeah i was about to say ! lol lol
The Ren is still useless unless you have an older Mac.
2 months ago I bought the mpc studio 2 for my first mpc to see whats the hype all about and try it out the software SUCKS. I think its way to much clicking going on, im better off using my maschine studio, its way faster and the software is easier to use. If I would've none that I would've got studio 1 or something else 😢
I want me a mpc studio.
I don't see the point, at least for me. Most. People like mpc for the sound. I'd rather have my dum processing done on the actual MPC so it hits harder.
works fine for me all the stuff you think is missing is not...... learn it
mpc studio 2 shouldve been the MPD 3