I’m not sure if you can do it on the Mikro hardware, but the Machine platform definitely lets you layer samples. In two ways, really: 1. You can use “Link” to layer to pads together. 2. The sampler plug-in allows for multi-sampling, so you can layer sounds in the sampler engine, too. Go to Sampling, then Zone on a sampler pad. Drag the colored box above the keyboard vertically to layer sounds or horizontally to key split multiple sounds.
@@kiujay Yeah, what I meant was I don’t know if there’s hands-on control from the Mikro controller for layering samples (because I use an MK3). But as you said, you can definitely do it mouse-and-keyboard style.
The MPC Studio Controller (2021) also lets you change scale and key from the hardware..Using the "16 Levels" button. "Press(16 Levels) and hold Shift and press this button(16 Levels) to cycle through editing the Pad Perform Notes Type, Root Note, and starting Octave. Use the data dial or -/+ buttons to adjust the parameter shown on the display."
I would like to also add a small detail that might've gone unnoticed: A big difference in the electronics of the user interface between the two is that the AKAI seems to be using PWM to modulate the brightness of the LED backlighting. What this means is that the buttons will have a super fast fluorescent-like blinking and the rate of that blinking changes with different brightness levels (This is how those brightness levels are achieved). This is a problem for some hardware users and is definitely a visual con in the AKAI.
very cool to watch for the first time a video of these two. On the retailers websites, without any item or hands to compare to, I was imagining they were way smaller! nice comparison. Thanks
Another great video Gabe! This may or may not be the same thing, but you can layer sounds in the Maschine software using link groups. I don't use an MPC, but it sounds like the same concept just handled differently.
Hi Gabe, on the manual of the Maschine Mikro MK3, there's an update talking about changing the start and end points of every chop. With this, we can do the lazy chop, right? Improvements to the MASCHINE MIKRO MK3 Controller ▪ You can now set sample Start and End points using the controller.
Excellent review, I've pulled the trigger on the MPC Studio MK2 based on your excellent reviews. If I outgrow it, I will move on to the MPC One. Not entirely sure if I will though, I like the integrated-in-the-DAW workflow, I just think its more efficient (I have a Korg Electribe 2 Sampler for when I need a break from my laptop!)
@@ItsBrightOne Sticking with the Studio for now. It does everything I need it to and I could use it with my laptop instead of my desktop if I really wanted to be mobile. I did pick up the Circuit Rhythm which is easily my favorite piece of gear right now. It is more limited in features but it really inspires you to make music being that it doesn't have a screen and you have to do these little weird workarounds. I went to guitar center recently and I looked at the MPC One but the pads are so small compared to the Studio Mk2. I much rather prefer the studio mk2 or the Live 2 if I had $1200 to burn lol. The Studio Mk2 does literally everything the Live and MPC One can do minus the mic/line in inputs and the caveat that you have to use it with a computer
Thank you soooooo much for this incredibly informative comparison of how each work. As a person that's never used a pads like these of any sort, your explanation of the nuisance differences was deeply helpful. Thanks again
You can use the MPC Studio with the Logic Pro Library. Just plug it into your computer. I like the Latin Kit on Logic Pro X, and if I plug the MPC Studio into my computer and select Latin Kit, then I can start drumming right away. I do this with my Push 2 as well.
I bought me an MPC Studio black and then i saw the software. It was really horrible for me and i struggled so much with this software and workflow that i sold this thing. I have seen now a video of the software und workflow of the Mikro and it looks waaaay better than the mpc software. So i will get the Mikro.
i like sections on MPC much more than Machine's approach .. it is good for making whole live set where each sequence is like one track, where you are turning on/off chanels, thweak stuff and then you jump to next scene which is next "track" with completely diferent tracks .. it reminds me digitakt/digitone workflow, where also one project is for me whole set not just 1 track and every pattern is like 1 track .. btw. again nice video, you are doing great job ;-)
This is timely and exactly the info I need. Will get the micro to augment my beat creation workflow of my mpc. New to the beats world. Going back to sequences to make changes on the fly slows my process quite a bit. I don’t sample at all, more of band musician who needs quick rhythm to build ideas and record. I lIke the mpc sounds though. Maybe should have gotten a maschine first. Thank you, young man.
Might be a fun challenge to see how far you can get making a track with these with your monitor off. I'm on day 2 with the Maschine Mikro MK3 and I'm able to get multiple scenes and patterns going, but haven't yet figured out if I can arrange patterns and scenes without looking at the screen.
I have a Mark II Mikro that I haven't used in a long while. I might have to get it out of its box for a revisit. The cheaper Maschine devices were the first hardware controllers I got for my DAW, but after getting them, I really struggled understanding how to use them and its workflow since I could just go into the DAW with mouse and keyboard and move through it. It made me wonder who they designed these tools for, perhaps for people that don't use computers, but I'm guessing the number of people who don't use computers in the first world is almost non-existent now.
or you simply cant comprehend, that using dedicated controls result in an more intuitive and fun way of producing music...and now the kicker...if you know your controller and if its a good one then the speed of your workflow can potentially increase up to the point that its double as quick as with your fastest mouse/ keyboard workflow.
@@PresbiterI’m pretty sure that is why and it’s actually crazy to think that this is an enlightening notion now. Actually using your HANDS to turn sounds into music.
Thank you for your videos. I am considering one of these or another. I want to be able to use these live with a band, and purely with iPad. Which would you recommend for the iPad?
I have a MPC Studio black mark I that I bought for fingerdrumming. There is no way to enter midi mode without the software. Despite having midi out/in ports, you can't use them stand-alone. It's pretty annoyting and I'm pretty pissed about it. I don't know if the mkII has the same sort of limitation, but I'm going to buy a Mikro mk3. The resell value of the studio black is very low as well now that they release the new version.
Ahh Ive been looking for how to get Midi Out option ... Is same in reverse (I beleive) Seems to be no Midi Out option in 'Software Only' either, must have AKAI hardware, Ive connected to an Alesis VI25 Controller but I can't acess MIDI Out (As I want to use extrenal Synths etc) Tried workaround, using MPC2 as a plugin, but still can't get Midi Out to be ackknowledged etc... Ordered a used MPC Studio, so hopefully this resloves the MIDI Out option ...
Hi Gab. May i know if the 2.10 softwarw compatible with windows i3 5th gen?Does mpc studio comes with 10gb sounds?I thought of buying this but might not work well with my laptop.Thanks
yes it would work, and yes the studio let's you have the full fledge standalone daw, which is the 2.10 MPC, add the huge 10 gig library is a download extra called _The Vault_ which will all be in your Akai profile once you register your product
Your a decent communicator. I own a 60mk2 and 5000. I just bought the MPC studio. It has the advantages of being already inside the box. No sound card etc. It is portable etc. I was ADAT light piping my 5000 into my laptop via a MOTU 24I/O. I have always wanted the ability to have multiple sequences playing at once and queue them up live like you would with the MPC 'next seq' feature. I have planned to use this as a way of being a live pattern changer when jamming with musicians. The MPC functioning similar to a drummer in that you can bring in the drum roll and pattern changes live so to speak. But the limitation on the MPC's is you have only one sequence at a time. So you can't just change the conga pattern independent of the main drum kit pattern. I believe Ableton and MOTU DP clips allow multiple sequences queued live which would allow you to change just the bassline independent of the drums say. Can the Maschine do the 'next seq' function, with independent multiple sequences allowing separate elements to change? I plan on using the MPC studio as a drum production tool along with MOTU DP handling everything else (audio and chromatic instruments linearly). So maybe I can still change the MPC studio patterns independent of the Digital Performer song? I have 204 pages of the manual to read and master.
As a complete beginner, I really love the studio and the mpc workflow, but the pad sensitivity is so bad compared to the maschine. The pads on the maschine are almost touch sensitive, while on the studio they just can ignore some light hits. No matter how I set the sensitivity in the mpc software, the pads still wont register soft touches as on the maschine. Will I get used to the stubborn pads of the mpc with time? or should I just go with the maschine? although I didn't find the software that intuitive as the mpc. I have also seen pad hacks with thick tape for other mpcs to increase the sensitivity. Anyone has experience with that?
Great video. How well does the mikro behave with komplete software? Like, can you easily load and control expansions (kits and/or individual samples) with it? I don't care much about synths specifically since I already use a midi keyboard for those
Regarding your bit on sample chopping: chopping while playing like you do on the mpc is definitely available in the MPC software. I don’t have a mikro though. Do you mean it is not accessible on this specific piece of hardware? If you’re not sure, go to the sample edit menu. There you can change the slicing mode to “manual”, I believe.
Yeah it's literally not available on the Mikro (if you want to do it hands on, that is), you have to do it in the Maschine software. It's a weird, unexpected omission, which is why I made sure to mention it.
Nice comparison of devices that were purposely made to compete with each other. Question though: How different is the MPC Studio workflow from that of the MPC One? As both have fairly different button layouts. Is the MPC Studio actually better in that regard? Or is the lack of q-link knobs not compensated enough for by the addition of the touch strip for instance?
The buttons are often in different places, but all of the actual windows and functions translate pretty well. The workflow feels similar even if the layout is different.
@Nathaniel Walker So basically you're confirming that hybrid is the way to go when it comes to music production workflow. But in that case, the endgame here is devices like the Maschine MK3 and Push 2 (I wonder which one has the better workflow), not standalone devices. You're not buying an MPC Studio so that you can one day toss your productivity out the door by "upgrading" to an MPC One, MPC Live 2 or MPC X. And the MPC software sucks. Seems to me the new MPC Studio is a dead end then.
The MPC Live/One/Touch also have the Touch-Screen which gives a different portal into controlling the software. Note as the Touch includes this, it is noted that the Desktop software _can_ render this screen... if you have a 2nd monitor on USB dock try renaming it (change 'product ID' with 'CRU utility' to 'THI1211'). This trick works with Touch, but is yet to be confirmed with Studio Mk2....
Solid video, I'm in the market for something in the $300 range and these are it. Question for anyone who's done this, I use Reason 9 now, and while I'm not against getting into either Maschine or the MPC software. Would there be any big reason to go with one of these over the other for using it in Reason?
Bro get rid of Reason honestly if you want to keep up with the power of modern production capabilities. Coming from someone who first learned to produce on Reason & used it SOLELY for years and years
Do the Studio and the Mikro both have full-sized pads (ie the Studio pads are as big as those on the Live 2 and X (and bigger than those on the One), and the Mikro’s pads are as big as those on the Maschine Mk3 and +) … ? 🙏🏼
Wich mpc's can be used standalone? I have a live but im looking for a second drumpad to play with 2 hands and preferable not at the cost of an mpc live... anyone some advice?
Live, Live 2, One, X, and Force are all standalone. Same software on everything except the Force, which is like MPC software on steroids (it adds a DAW style arranger, way more powerful)
I have a mpk49, and like to know what’s the best way to get the most options of sounds and sound packs…. Just downloading the software, buying the mpc studio, or buying the maschine?
First of all great VIDEOS! I’m here just to see your take on these two. I’m a heavy Maschine user (Maschine +) but I’m a week into my new MPC live II. Buy you said your can’t lazy chop on the Machine… THATS COMPLETELY INCORRECT!! 😂… unless you’re talking about on the micro without touching the software. If so I think you should clarify that. But lazy chop on Maschine is something I do almost every track it’s just as easy if not easier. I love both and I think the selling point for both comes down the software. MPC is closer to a DAW.. you can use midi VST like scaler as they’re intended, you can change bpm on each sequence, it’s overall more flexible. On Maschine its just faster to get started on a track (unless you’re coming from MPC world). Maschine is more optimized and that pro is what leads into the cons that I mentioned. We’re ultimately talking Android (MPC) and Apple (Maschine) here. BUT YOU CAN LAZY CHOP!!!(I admit I’m not sure about doing it on the MIkro itself)
You can lazy chop on the full sized Maschine units, but you can't do it hands on with the Mikro, you have to do it in the software. It's a hardware omission that doesn't make any sense and no one would expect, which is why I made sure to include it in the video.
@@GabeMillerMusic Exactly. And this was an important difference to highlight. I’m really struggling to choose … am considering getting a Studio and a Mikro, and depending on which I like best, maybe upgrading to either an MPC One or a Maschine Mk3 …
Which one do you think is better for live performances? My goal is to use one of these with my Alesis Strike Multupad to jam some techno house and hip hop
Great, but fairly typical review like most MPC vs Maschine videos. I stopped using Maschine Mikro due to it’s complicated workflow and I tried mpc live and it has an even more complicated workflow. However chords are massively limited to a few presets on Maschine whereas MPC allows you to customize and add your own chords. Feature wise the mpc studio does seem to me to include more sounds, instruments and punching above it’s weightclass and replaces the Maschine mk3. However SeratoStudio with any old used DJ controller replaces both with a much more intuitive interface and workflow. ….
@@artisans8521 Thanks, very interesting to hear actual in depth experiences. After trying an MPC live, I went and bought a Maschine Micro, but I don't like it too much and would consider a MPC One or so for a standalone device... but possibly a Roland Verselab would be better at making finished songs standalone. And if on a computer nothing beats SeratoStudio even if other stuff looks fancy :)
So , tell me, are these "machines" made to control your Daw and VSTs or mostly made for "Beatmaking", Is Akai more appropriate for Ableton vs NI Mikro... and finally :>) aren't controllers like the NI Komplete Kontrol and Arturia Keylab series doing more or less the same ? Thanks :>)
These both are meant to directly control the software they're built for (or that software in plugin form), and they don't really talk to software like Ableton. If you're down to treat them like self-contained devices, you can absolutely make full songs with either.
Not really (that goes for both devices as far as I know), you'd want to use the MPC software with the MPC Studio or Maschine software with the Maschine Mikro to get the most out of them.
You do, but not on the pads of the Mikro (you have to use mouse and keyboard). It's a weird omission that doesn't make sense, which is why I made sure to mention it.
Ima be real i love my mpc studio i chose it over the “live 2”… also i dont like that the controls are on the left of the maschine… the mpc studio is just more comfortable in that aspect
And The Winner is MPC STUDIO : because I/O midi . The End . P.S. A point of view out of the Chor: I just don't understand WHY those two Company does not create a Midi Pad Controller which is universally good to control multitrack midi systems , out of PC . I am so sure , but so so sure, they would sell a lot more ! Cheers :)
Hey guys I’m having trouble getting my mpc studio to work on my windows 10/11 . It keeps giving me an error👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻please help! “This program can only be installed On versions of windows design for the following processor architecture “. X64 What do I need to do ???
It seems your version of Windows is 32-bit. You can see if Akai has a 32-bit version of the software but if they only offer a 64-bit version, you'll have to upgrade Windows to the 64-bit version. Just make sure your CPU/motherboard/RAM supports the 64-bit version of Windows.
@Gabe nice overview, although 7.22 why don't you have that on Maschine? It's called manual slicing. If i'm correct it works exactly the same. The sample plays and you press the next pad each time you want it sliced. It can be done fully on the Maschine. Layering sounds and samples is also possible hands on, on Maschine. And the numer of layers you can stack (like everything on Maschine) is unlimited. Auto sampling on MPC beats Maschine indeed, this whould be a nice update for Maschine. Since it's sampling capabilities with zones, layers and levels are massive.
You have the lazy chop feature on the normal, large Maschine, but not on the Mikro. It's a really weird little omission, which is why I mad sure to include it. And yeah I wish I had gone into the sample layering on Maschine further. I edited a portion out for more clarity but it's still a bit vague.
@@GabeMillerMusic (sample) Layering on Maschine is mostly achieved by linking pads. Which is a very easy to use and intuitive mechanism. It allows you to layer everything upon everything with full control over each layer. Besides that the sampler itself also has layering capabilities. However in a normal workflow the link layering option is much faster and more intuitive IMHO
@@GabeMillerMusic They can't remove the lazy chop function from the software, so if i understand correctly. It is possible with the Micro but it does require a single mouse click, right?
@@hesingshesobs first lets clear the air, i don't insinuate anybody is lying. If this came across then this was not intentional and i'm sorry. I did not hear the phrase that this mode could however been accessed with a single mouse click from the software, and afterwards it functions exactly as on the MPC. But i'm also a mere human, so i can also miss things ;-).
Can you use the MPC just to control Ableton drum racks, or do I have to use their software? I'm looking for a drum pad for live performance exactly like the MPD218 and I don't want to use their software, I like my drum racks :)
Both the Maschine Mikro and the MPC Studio only really control their own software, unfortunately. It's a limitation that both have that I wish I had mentioned in the video.
The mpc studio will trigger abelton midi tracks but you need to have the mpc software running on one track In your session and send it to your abelton midi tracks . Mode and midi will get the maps
You don't need the units to do that, and they won't stop you either. You can use the units as controllers and use an audio interface for recording at the same time.
@@GabeMillerMusic I think my question was confusing. Sorry. Does either unit record audio tracks directly? Or is it necessary to record audio on separate software(e.g. Pro Tools) and then import it to one of these units?
Neither unit records audio directly, but the software that they control can. And to be clear, both units don't produce or contain sound of their own, they just control the software they come with. And you could connect an audio interface to your computer at the same time as the controller and record stuff into the MPC or Maschine software no problem.
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks, that's what I wanted to be certain about. And yes, I know this is a controller for the software. By the way, thanks for your review, it's very helpful.
They don't really control other software as far as I understand. You're probably best off using them with their own software (either by itself or as a plugin within your DAW). If you're an FL user, it might be worth checking out Novation's FL Key controller which was built specifically to control FL.
@@GabeMillerMusic thanks for that, I will check it out for sure. I’ve actually been looking into the Akai Fire FL controller recently(check it out if you haven’t yet). It’s pretty cool that it creates a hands on experience for FL, but it’s also not a “drum pad” in the traditional sense either, which is essentially what I’m looking for.
NGL, 80-90% of this went way over my head, but as these are only about 150 dollars more than say the Akai MPD218... might be nice to make oner purchase that will probably serve me the rest of my life ha. (Rather than regret the lack of features on a more basic entry level option.) Yeah, I keep flip flopping. I may never need any of the features on these two, so I probably should get the more basic one, but... these are cool lol. (Wish I could just borrow a friend's for a few months to get a feel for whether or not I'd even like using one.)
The full size Maschine has it, and the Maschine software has it, but the Mikro itself doesn't have it (you can't lazy chop with the Mikro pads, specifically). It's a really weird limitation that doesn't make any sense, which is why I made sure to mention it.
Boggles my mind that Maschine is basically better than Ableton for patterns/clips - would be very easy for Ableton to add a "linked clip" feature where there's one true source for a clip across Scenes... yet they don't. Sure it can be dangerous going the other way since you might change the clip across scenes you didn't mean to - but once you remember to create a copy when you want to keep it one way and change it only elsewhere, it's just so much better.
something id like to see form akai is like a dedicated tablet for making music that runs some version of mpc beats so it has support for say the mpk mini or the mpc studio and standalone full sized usb ports for say if i wanted to use it in like a studio space with a full sized keyboard or interface similar to a laptop but a dedicated smaller beatmaker
As far as I know, the standalone models didn't have that issue, and the new MPC Studio feels a lot like one of those. I haven't had any issues with the pads on mine.
@@GabeMillerMusic I don’t use mpc 2.10.1 … can you assign the button in abelton as a basic midi controller if not hope akai makes this as a universal mpd it’s not a mpc it’s a mpd with dedicated knobs.
Got a Maschine Mikro mk3 that I haven't used too often and I don't take it with me on the truck as I don't have a case for it. I use MPC more as I guess it was there before I ever even heard of Native Instruments, so I guess I'm biased by familiarity more than performance. Of course, If I find a Maschine "Bible" like the MPC "Bible I've been using to learn my MPC One, that could change. :)
Can anyone help me, I'm trying to track down a specific Synth machine but I cannot remember the name or where I saw it and it's been a *bitch* to try to track down with search engines.. What I remember is that it had an oscilloscope display which instead of drawing a 2d line, joins the beginning and end of the waveform to create "rings" - you can then add "particles" which orbit along the waveform rings, the "particles" themselves being your effects or sidechain or whatever and changing their velocity, orbit, randomness etc is how you mod the sound.. I know that probably sounds like the ravings of a lunatic but if anyone has any frikkin idea what the hell I might be talking about; please help a brother out! 😂😔 _much_ love - London UK ❤ x
@@GabeMillerMusic I’m sorry, I spoke from experience with the normal Maschine. I just figured out that you cannot do manual slicing on Mikro. Obviously a ripoff strategy of NI pushing you to upgrade.
I have a M1-max processor which is currently in testing phase at Akai, while almost entirely supported by Maschine. I think the Maschine has more software samples and plugins available Still don't know which one integrates better with Logic Pro X. I guess the Maschine. People I asked all uses the Akai, is it the defacto standard in the music industry? Hard choice to make.
Maschine is built by a musician to accommodate inspiration, you got more and better sounds packs and VST engines, you can add a m32 keyboard that's integrated with it. And you can score one used for cheap ;)
The Mpc is the standard on what all maschines are compared to. Akai sound packs are way better. Native instruments sounds are very thin sounding. What native instruments did get right is the implementation of vsts. There is a reason why Machine 2.0 was a big deal. Because it finally did what MPCs had been doing for years.
I’m not sure if you can do it on the Mikro hardware, but the Machine platform definitely lets you layer samples. In two ways, really:
1. You can use “Link” to layer to pads together.
2. The sampler plug-in allows for multi-sampling, so you can layer sounds in the sampler engine, too. Go to Sampling, then Zone on a sampler pad. Drag the colored box above the keyboard vertically to layer sounds or horizontally to key split multiple sounds.
And I forgot to say: great video as always. Definitely enjoy your channel and the focus on grooveboxen! Thanks for all you do, Gabe!
Yes you can. As the Mk3 is just a controller for the software.
@@kiujay Yeah, what I meant was I don’t know if there’s hands-on control from the Mikro controller for layering samples (because I use an MK3). But as you said, you can definitely do it mouse-and-keyboard style.
Studio > Mikro
Both are great though.
Very illuminating. Currently veering towards the Machine Mikro, particularly since it also currently comes with free KOMPLETE 14 SELECT
oh man, that one comment was game changing ! thank you so much for pointing it out !!
I've been waiting for this comparison.
The MPC Studio Controller (2021) also lets you change scale and key from the hardware..Using the "16 Levels" button. "Press(16 Levels) and hold Shift and press this button(16 Levels) to cycle through editing the Pad Perform Notes Type, Root Note, and
starting Octave. Use the data dial or -/+ buttons to adjust the parameter shown on the display."
Same on the NI Mikro
I would like to also add a small detail that might've gone unnoticed:
A big difference in the electronics of the user interface between the two is that the AKAI seems to be using PWM to modulate the brightness of the LED backlighting. What this means is that the buttons will have a super fast fluorescent-like blinking and the rate of that blinking changes with different brightness levels (This is how those brightness levels are achieved). This is a problem for some hardware users and is definitely a visual con in the AKAI.
very cool to watch for the first time a video of these two. On the retailers websites, without any item or hands to compare to, I was imagining they were way smaller! nice comparison. Thanks
Another great video Gabe! This may or may not be the same thing, but you can layer sounds in the Maschine software using link groups. I don't use an MPC, but it sounds like the same concept just handled differently.
was waiting for this. thank you.
:3 Studio > Mikro
Both are great though.
Hi Gabe, on the manual of the Maschine Mikro MK3, there's an update talking about changing the start and end points of every chop.
With this, we can do the lazy chop, right?
Improvements to the MASCHINE MIKRO MK3 Controller
▪ You can now set sample Start and End points using the controller.
Great comparison! It's awesome how powerful these entry-level devices really are.
Excellent review, I've pulled the trigger on the MPC Studio MK2 based on your excellent reviews. If I outgrow it, I will move on to the MPC One. Not entirely sure if I will though, I like the integrated-in-the-DAW workflow, I just think its more efficient (I have a Korg Electribe 2 Sampler for when I need a break from my laptop!)
I think the MPC standalones can still use the software on your computer
Still going strong with the Studio or did you upgrade?
@@ItsBrightOne Sticking with the Studio for now. It does everything I need it to and I could use it with my laptop instead of my desktop if I really wanted to be mobile. I did pick up the Circuit Rhythm which is easily my favorite piece of gear right now. It is more limited in features but it really inspires you to make music being that it doesn't have a screen and you have to do these little weird workarounds.
I went to guitar center recently and I looked at the MPC One but the pads are so small compared to the Studio Mk2. I much rather prefer the studio mk2 or the Live 2 if I had $1200 to burn lol.
The Studio Mk2 does literally everything the Live and MPC One can do minus the mic/line in inputs and the caveat that you have to use it with a computer
@@ItsBrightOne I came close to pulling the trigger on the MPC One, but still have the Studio. I think its scratched the MPC itch for me!
Superb comparison, Gabe. Loopop-level!
That's high praise!
Thank you soooooo much for this incredibly informative comparison of how each work.
As a person that's never used a pads like these of any sort, your explanation of the nuisance differences was deeply helpful.
Thanks again
Naturally I liked the video and subscribed to your channel.
You can use the MPC Studio with the Logic Pro Library. Just plug it into your computer. I like the Latin Kit on Logic Pro X, and if I plug the MPC Studio into my computer and select Latin Kit, then I can start drumming right away. I do this with my Push 2 as well.
I bought me an MPC Studio black and then i saw the software. It was really horrible for me and i struggled so much with this software and workflow that i sold this thing. I have seen now a video of the software und workflow of the Mikro and it looks waaaay better than the mpc software. So i will get the Mikro.
i like sections on MPC much more than Machine's approach .. it is good for making whole live set where each sequence is like one track, where you are turning on/off chanels, thweak stuff and then you jump to next scene which is next "track" with completely diferent tracks .. it reminds me digitakt/digitone workflow, where also one project is for me whole set not just 1 track and every pattern is like 1 track ..
btw. again nice video, you are doing great job ;-)
This is timely and exactly the info I need. Will get the micro to augment my beat creation workflow of my mpc. New to the beats world. Going back to sequences to make changes on the fly slows my process quite a bit. I don’t sample at all, more of band musician who needs quick rhythm to build ideas and record. I lIke the mpc sounds though. Maybe should have gotten a maschine first. Thank you, young man.
Very informative much appreciated
you make amazing videos man!!!!!
Might be a fun challenge to see how far you can get making a track with these with your monitor off. I'm on day 2 with the Maschine Mikro MK3 and I'm able to get multiple scenes and patterns going, but haven't yet figured out if I can arrange patterns and scenes without looking at the screen.
That's a cool idea, I'll have to at least try that out!
How far did you get with your challenge?
Somebody finally did this comparison
I have a Mark II Mikro that I haven't used in a long while. I might have to get it out of its box for a revisit. The cheaper Maschine devices were the first hardware controllers I got for my DAW, but after getting them, I really struggled understanding how to use them and its workflow since I could just go into the DAW with mouse and keyboard and move through it. It made me wonder who they designed these tools for, perhaps for people that don't use computers, but I'm guessing the number of people who don't use computers in the first world is almost non-existent now.
or you simply cant comprehend, that using dedicated controls result in an more intuitive and fun way of producing music...and now the kicker...if you know your controller and if its a good one then the speed of your workflow can potentially increase up to the point that its double as quick as with your fastest mouse/ keyboard workflow.
@@PresbiterI’m pretty sure that is why and it’s actually crazy to think that this is an enlightening notion now. Actually using your HANDS to turn sounds into music.
Thank you for your videos. I am considering one of these or another. I want to be able to use these live with a band, and purely with iPad. Which would you recommend for the iPad?
I was hoping you'd do this video 🤞
Gracias por la comparativa y los subtítulos
I have a MPC Studio black mark I that I bought for fingerdrumming. There is no way to enter midi mode without the software. Despite having midi out/in ports, you can't use them stand-alone.
It's pretty annoyting and I'm pretty pissed about it. I don't know if the mkII has the same sort of limitation, but I'm going to buy a Mikro mk3.
The resell value of the studio black is very low as well now that they release the new version.
Ahh Ive been looking for how to get Midi Out option ... Is same in reverse (I beleive) Seems to be no Midi Out option in 'Software Only' either, must have AKAI hardware, Ive connected to an Alesis VI25 Controller but I can't acess MIDI Out (As I want to use extrenal Synths etc) Tried workaround, using MPC2 as a plugin, but still can't get Midi Out to be ackknowledged etc... Ordered a used MPC Studio, so hopefully this resloves the MIDI Out option ...
Hi Gab. May i know if the 2.10 softwarw compatible with windows i3 5th gen?Does mpc studio comes with 10gb sounds?I thought of buying this but might not work well with my laptop.Thanks
yes it would work, and yes the studio let's you have the full fledge standalone daw, which is the 2.10 MPC, add the huge 10 gig library is a download extra called _The Vault_ which will all be in your Akai profile once you register your product
Best portable hardware channel on YT ♥️
Thx 4 the upload 😉 greatings from volca germoney 😎🇩🇪🎼🎵🎶
Thank you for helping me make a decision. I'm going for the mpc!!!
Your a decent communicator. I own a 60mk2 and 5000.
I just bought the MPC studio. It has the advantages of being already inside the box. No sound card etc. It is portable etc. I was ADAT light piping my 5000 into my laptop via a MOTU 24I/O.
I have always wanted the ability to have multiple sequences playing at once and queue them up live like you would with the MPC 'next seq' feature. I have planned to use this as a way of being a live pattern changer when jamming with musicians. The MPC functioning similar to a drummer in that you can bring in the drum roll and pattern changes live so to speak.
But the limitation on the MPC's is you have only one sequence at a time. So you can't just change the conga pattern independent of the main drum kit pattern. I believe Ableton and MOTU DP clips allow multiple sequences queued live which would allow you to change just the bassline independent of the drums say.
Can the Maschine do the 'next seq' function, with independent multiple sequences allowing separate elements to change?
I plan on using the MPC studio as a drum production tool along with MOTU DP handling everything else (audio and chromatic instruments linearly). So maybe I can still change the MPC studio patterns independent of the Digital Performer song?
I have 204 pages of the manual to read and master.
As a complete beginner, I really love the studio and the mpc workflow, but the pad sensitivity is so bad compared to the maschine. The pads on the maschine are almost touch sensitive, while on the studio they just can ignore some light hits. No matter how I set the sensitivity in the mpc software, the pads still wont register soft touches as on the maschine. Will I get used to the stubborn pads of the mpc with time? or should I just go with the maschine? although I didn't find the software that intuitive as the mpc. I have also seen pad hacks with thick tape for other mpcs to increase the sensitivity. Anyone has experience with that?
Thank U for what u do
i have them both and haven't use machine yet but it seems a lot easier to use mpc is so complicated had I known I would of never got it
What yu mean is too confusing..write proper englus are yu from saudi
You can get of some of its short comings (qlinks) mpc studio 2by getting a Beatstep and a controller that has 16 knobs.
Great video. How well does the mikro behave with komplete software? Like, can you easily load and control expansions (kits and/or individual samples) with it? I don't care much about synths specifically since I already use a midi keyboard for those
Regarding your bit on sample chopping: chopping while playing like you do on the mpc is definitely available in the MPC software. I don’t have a mikro though. Do you mean it is not accessible on this specific piece of hardware? If you’re not sure, go to the sample edit menu. There you can change the slicing mode to “manual”, I believe.
Yeah it's literally not available on the Mikro (if you want to do it hands on, that is), you have to do it in the Maschine software. It's a weird, unexpected omission, which is why I made sure to mention it.
Nice comparison of devices that were purposely made to compete with each other. Question though: How different is the MPC Studio workflow from that of the MPC One? As both have fairly different button layouts. Is the MPC Studio actually better in that regard? Or is the lack of q-link knobs not compensated enough for by the addition of the touch strip for instance?
The buttons are often in different places, but all of the actual windows and functions translate pretty well. The workflow feels similar even if the layout is different.
@Nathaniel Walker So basically you're confirming that hybrid is the way to go when it comes to music production workflow. But in that case, the endgame here is devices like the Maschine MK3 and Push 2 (I wonder which one has the better workflow), not standalone devices. You're not buying an MPC Studio so that you can one day toss your productivity out the door by "upgrading" to an MPC One, MPC Live 2 or MPC X. And the MPC software sucks. Seems to me the new MPC Studio is a dead end then.
Re Q-Links. These can be midi learn'ed by the software, if you have another controller you can run it along side the Studio Mk2.
The MPC Live/One/Touch also have the Touch-Screen which gives a different portal into controlling the software. Note as the Touch includes this, it is noted that the Desktop software _can_ render this screen... if you have a 2nd monitor on USB dock try renaming it (change 'product ID' with 'CRU utility' to 'THI1211'). This trick works with Touch, but is yet to be confirmed with Studio Mk2....
Solid video, I'm in the market for something in the $300 range and these are it. Question for anyone who's done this, I use Reason 9 now, and while I'm not against getting into either Maschine or the MPC software. Would there be any big reason to go with one of these over the other for using it in Reason?
Unless you're planning to use the Maschine or MPC software as a plugin inside of Reason, these controllers can't do a whole lot to control other DAWs.
Bro get rid of Reason honestly if you want to keep up with the power of modern production capabilities. Coming from someone who first learned to produce on Reason & used it SOLELY for years and years
Do the Studio and the Mikro both have full-sized pads (ie the Studio pads are as big as those on the Live 2 and X (and bigger than those on the One), and the Mikro’s pads are as big as those on the Maschine Mk3 and +) … ? 🙏🏼
Wich mpc's can be used standalone? I have a live but im looking for a second drumpad to play with 2 hands and preferable not at the cost of an mpc live... anyone some advice?
Live, Live 2, One, X, and Force are all standalone. Same software on everything except the Force, which is like MPC software on steroids (it adds a DAW style arranger, way more powerful)
Super, great video, I think I will go with the Maschine !
Glad to help!
I have a mpk49, and like to know what’s the best way to get the most options of sounds and sound packs…. Just downloading the software, buying the mpc studio, or buying the maschine?
First of all great VIDEOS! I’m here just to see your take on these two. I’m a heavy Maschine user (Maschine +) but I’m a week into my new MPC live II. Buy you said your can’t lazy chop on the Machine… THATS COMPLETELY INCORRECT!! 😂… unless you’re talking about on the micro without touching the software. If so I think you should clarify that. But lazy chop on Maschine is something I do almost every track it’s just as easy if not easier. I love both and I think the selling point for both comes down the software. MPC is closer to a DAW.. you can use midi VST like scaler as they’re intended, you can change bpm on each sequence, it’s overall more flexible. On Maschine its just faster to get started on a track (unless you’re coming from MPC world). Maschine is more optimized and that pro is what leads into the cons that I mentioned. We’re ultimately talking Android (MPC) and Apple (Maschine) here.
BUT YOU CAN LAZY CHOP!!!(I admit I’m not sure about doing it on the MIkro itself)
You can lazy chop on the full sized Maschine units, but you can't do it hands on with the Mikro, you have to do it in the software. It's a hardware omission that doesn't make any sense and no one would expect, which is why I made sure to include it in the video.
@@GabeMillerMusic gotcha!!! Again great video! You did a good job explaining the basic differentials between the two companies.
@@GabeMillerMusic Exactly. And this was an important difference to highlight. I’m really struggling to choose … am considering getting a Studio and a Mikro, and depending on which I like best, maybe upgrading to either an MPC One or a Maschine Mk3 …
Can't really compare any mashine besides the Maschine + or Studio to an MPC.
Watching in 2023 confused between the two. Leaning towards studio II because its newer. Does that matter?
Which one has better pads for three-finger roll drumming?
Which one do you think is better for live performances? My goal is to use one of these with my Alesis Strike Multupad to jam some techno house and hip hop
Probably the Maschine, although it depends on the specific setup
Which one has the most sensitive/best pads?
Great, but fairly typical review like most MPC vs Maschine videos. I stopped using Maschine Mikro due to it’s complicated workflow and I tried mpc live and it has an even more complicated workflow. However chords are massively limited to a few presets on Maschine whereas MPC allows you to customize and add your own chords. Feature wise the mpc studio does seem to me to include more sounds, instruments and punching above it’s weightclass and replaces the Maschine mk3. However SeratoStudio with any old used DJ controller replaces both with a much more intuitive interface and workflow. ….
@@artisans8521 Thanks, very interesting to hear actual in depth experiences. After trying an MPC live, I went and bought a Maschine Micro, but I don't like it too much and would consider a MPC One or so for a standalone device... but possibly a Roland Verselab would be better at making finished songs standalone. And if on a computer nothing beats SeratoStudio even if other stuff looks fancy :)
Hey Gabe. Can you program the pads as keyswitches for those of us with smaller keyboards?
I don't know off the top of my head, but I'm guessing no, you don't really get a lot of customization on either.
So , tell me, are these "machines" made to control your Daw and VSTs or mostly made for "Beatmaking", Is Akai more appropriate for Ableton vs NI Mikro... and finally :>) aren't controllers like the NI Komplete Kontrol and Arturia Keylab series doing more or less the same ? Thanks :>)
These both are meant to directly control the software they're built for (or that software in plugin form), and they don't really talk to software like Ableton. If you're down to treat them like self-contained devices, you can absolutely make full songs with either.
can this controller be used in studio strickly as a controller? without using the mpc software?
Not really (that goes for both devices as far as I know), you'd want to use the MPC software with the MPC Studio or Maschine software with the Maschine Mikro to get the most out of them.
you do have the latzy chop on the maschine!
You do, but not on the pads of the Mikro (you have to use mouse and keyboard). It's a weird omission that doesn't make sense, which is why I made sure to mention it.
Ima be real i love my mpc studio i chose it over the “live 2”… also i dont like that the controls are on the left of the maschine… the mpc studio is just more comfortable in that aspect
do they both have controller mode?? thanx
And The Winner is MPC STUDIO : because I/O midi .
The End .
P.S.
A point of view out of the Chor:
I just don't understand WHY those two Company does not create a Midi Pad Controller which is universally good to control multitrack midi systems , out of PC .
I am so sure , but so so sure, they would sell a lot more !
Cheers :)
Witch you prefer Akai or Maschine ?? For finger drumming ?
As far as the small controllers, Maschine. But I like the pads on the MPC One better than either, probably because the device is heavier/sturdier
i seen this new akia studio and I was like it looks like my Mikro 3....why would I change? i wouldn't
Hey guys I’m having trouble getting my mpc studio to work on my windows 10/11 . It keeps giving me an error👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻please help!
“This program can only be installed On versions of windows design for the following processor architecture “. X64
What do I need to do ???
It seems your version of Windows is 32-bit. You can see if Akai has a 32-bit version of the software but if they only offer a 64-bit version, you'll have to upgrade Windows to the 64-bit version. Just make sure your CPU/motherboard/RAM supports the 64-bit version of Windows.
Can I use the mpc with fpc on fl studio ? Or does it have to run through mpc studio? Can someone please help me
Yes
@Gabe nice overview, although 7.22 why don't you have that on Maschine? It's called manual slicing. If i'm correct it works exactly the same. The sample plays and you press the next pad each time you want it sliced. It can be done fully on the Maschine.
Layering sounds and samples is also possible hands on, on Maschine. And the numer of layers you can stack (like everything on Maschine) is unlimited.
Auto sampling on MPC beats Maschine indeed, this whould be a nice update for Maschine. Since it's sampling capabilities with zones, layers and levels are massive.
You have the lazy chop feature on the normal, large Maschine, but not on the Mikro. It's a really weird little omission, which is why I mad sure to include it.
And yeah I wish I had gone into the sample layering on Maschine further. I edited a portion out for more clarity but it's still a bit vague.
@@GabeMillerMusic (sample) Layering on Maschine is mostly achieved by linking pads. Which is a very easy to use and intuitive mechanism. It allows you to layer everything upon everything with full control over each layer. Besides that the sampler itself also has layering capabilities. However in a normal workflow the link layering option is much faster and more intuitive IMHO
@@GabeMillerMusic They can't remove the lazy chop function from the software, so if i understand correctly. It is possible with the Micro but it does require a single mouse click, right?
@@basgoossen This is what Gabe said in the video though so he was not lying.
@@hesingshesobs first lets clear the air, i don't insinuate anybody is lying. If this came across then this was not intentional and i'm sorry. I did not hear the phrase that this mode could however been accessed with a single mouse click from the software, and afterwards it functions exactly as on the MPC. But i'm also a mere human, so i can also miss things ;-).
Can you use the MPC just to control Ableton drum racks, or do I have to use their software? I'm looking for a drum pad for live performance exactly like the MPD218 and I don't want to use their software, I like my drum racks :)
Both the Maschine Mikro and the MPC Studio only really control their own software, unfortunately. It's a limitation that both have that I wish I had mentioned in the video.
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks for the reply, I'll shop around for something else.
The mpc studio will trigger abelton midi tracks but you need to have the mpc software running on one track In your session and send it to your abelton midi tracks . Mode and midi will get the maps
Sadly, the tiny screen makes it difficult for me to read because i wear glasses.
Gabe, do either of these units allow you to record vocals or acoustic guitar using a pc based audio interface and mic?
Thanks, Tom
You don't need the units to do that, and they won't stop you either. You can use the units as controllers and use an audio interface for recording at the same time.
@@GabeMillerMusic I think my question was confusing. Sorry. Does either unit record audio tracks directly? Or is it necessary to record audio on separate software(e.g. Pro Tools) and then import it to one of these units?
Neither unit records audio directly, but the software that they control can. And to be clear, both units don't produce or contain sound of their own, they just control the software they come with. And you could connect an audio interface to your computer at the same time as the controller and record stuff into the MPC or Maschine software no problem.
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks, that's what I wanted to be certain about. And yes, I know this is a controller for the software. By the way, thanks for your review, it's very helpful.
Which one would you recommend for someone starting making beats. Akai or native instruments
They're both good, but the Maschine is a bit more intuitive in my opinion.
@@GabeMillerMusic I appreciate your opinion. One more question? Does the Maschine comes with software already installed?
Do these work as midi controllers in other programs like FL or only their own software?
They don't really control other software as far as I understand. You're probably best off using them with their own software (either by itself or as a plugin within your DAW). If you're an FL user, it might be worth checking out Novation's FL Key controller which was built specifically to control FL.
@@GabeMillerMusic thanks for that, I will check it out for sure. I’ve actually been looking into the Akai Fire FL controller recently(check it out if you haven’t yet). It’s pretty cool that it creates a hands on experience for FL, but it’s also not a “drum pad” in the traditional sense either, which is essentially what I’m looking for.
NGL, 80-90% of this went way over my head, but as these are only about 150 dollars more than say the Akai MPD218... might be nice to make oner purchase that will probably serve me the rest of my life ha. (Rather than regret the lack of features on a more basic entry level option.)
Yeah, I keep flip flopping. I may never need any of the features on these two, so I probably should get the more basic one, but... these are cool lol. (Wish I could just borrow a friend's for a few months to get a feel for whether or not I'd even like using one.)
coped the mpc studio in jan, already feel ready to move on the Live II
Wow surprised the Mikro doesn't have lazy chop even though the MK3 and plus do???
MPC allows you to edit samples from the device, Mikro does not AT ALL.
Winner winner
Absolutely, the most important thing is that
:3 Studio > Mikro
Both are great though.
the maschine does have lazy chop. its called manual mode
The full size Maschine has it, and the Maschine software has it, but the Mikro itself doesn't have it (you can't lazy chop with the Mikro pads, specifically). It's a really weird limitation that doesn't make any sense, which is why I made sure to mention it.
@@GabeMillerMusic Is there a workaround for this through the software?
Boggles my mind that Maschine is basically better than Ableton for patterns/clips - would be very easy for Ableton to add a "linked clip" feature where there's one true source for a clip across Scenes... yet they don't. Sure it can be dangerous going the other way since you might change the clip across scenes you didn't mean to - but once you remember to create a copy when you want to keep it one way and change it only elsewhere, it's just so much better.
something id like to see form akai is like a dedicated tablet for making music that runs some version of mpc beats so it has support for say the mpk mini or the mpc studio and standalone full sized usb ports for say if i wanted to use it in like a studio space with a full sized keyboard or interface similar to a laptop but a dedicated smaller beatmaker
Did akai fix the deadly double tap plagued by their previous models if so it may be worth it but if not … hard pass
As far as I know, the standalone models didn't have that issue, and the new MPC Studio feels a lot like one of those. I haven't had any issues with the pads on mine.
@@GabeMillerMusic I don’t use mpc 2.10.1 … can you assign the button in abelton as a basic midi controller if not hope akai makes this as a universal mpd it’s not a mpc it’s a mpd with dedicated knobs.
It's not universal, unfortunately.
@@GabeMillerMusic i got it to work in midi mode and you can assign the button in abelton .took a second to setup rocking now
small hands for size comparison.
Got a Maschine Mikro mk3 that I haven't used too often and I don't take it with me on the truck as I don't have a case for it. I use MPC more as I guess it was there before I ever even heard of Native Instruments, so I guess I'm biased by familiarity more than performance.
Of course, If I find a Maschine "Bible" like the MPC "Bible I've been using to learn my MPC One, that could change. :)
Class compliant Mpc, non class compliant maschine… so forget about using the last with iPads and wait for M1 update drivers each time new OS comes…
Holly crap the mpc is much better
Rather grab the Presonus Atom SQ
Can anyone help me, I'm trying to track down a specific Synth machine but I cannot remember the name or where I saw it and it's been a *bitch* to try to track down with search engines..
What I remember is that it had an oscilloscope display which instead of drawing a 2d line, joins the beginning and end of the waveform to create "rings" - you can then add "particles" which orbit along the waveform rings, the "particles" themselves being your effects or sidechain or whatever and changing their velocity, orbit, randomness etc is how you mod the sound..
I know that probably sounds like the ravings of a lunatic but if anyone has any frikkin idea what the hell I might be talking about; please help a brother out! 😂😔
_much_ love - London UK ❤ x
korg kaossilators series sound familiar...
Manual slicing on Maschine = Lazy Chop
From everything I've seen though, you can't do that directly with the pads on the Maschine Mikro.
@@GabeMillerMusic I’m sorry, I spoke from experience with the normal Maschine. I just figured out that you cannot do manual slicing on Mikro. Obviously a ripoff strategy of NI pushing you to upgrade.
All good, it's a weird, unexpected downside, which is why I made sure to include it in the video.
You can do more that just the Manual Slice in MPC Studio, you can also edit sample which is not possible with the Mikro either.
Bro I'm in my 40s 🤣🤣🤣machine is were its at
The MPC software is the tiniest, most convoluted looking DAW I have ever seen. I can never find anything, it's so unintuitive and ugly.
This video is going to be outdated very soon. Some changes are coming…
What, a Maschine Mikro MK3?
@@sixteenlevel lol some feature that mpc has over maschine is going to change …
@@YosiOren ok mr beta… lol
@@sixteenlevel Haha. Yea it's probably auto sampler. Only other thing Maschine needs is a half time plugin.
so whats the update?
Ableton live is BETTER then then all.
That's more for live performances
I have a M1-max processor which is currently in testing phase at Akai, while almost entirely supported by Maschine.
I think the Maschine has more software samples and plugins available
Still don't know which one integrates better with Logic Pro X. I guess the Maschine.
People I asked all uses the Akai, is it the defacto standard in the music industry?
Hard choice to make.
Maschine is built by a musician to accommodate inspiration, you got more and better sounds packs and VST engines, you can add a m32 keyboard that's integrated with it. And you can score one used for cheap ;)
The Mpc is the standard on what all maschines are compared to. Akai sound packs are way better. Native instruments sounds are very thin sounding. What native instruments did get right is the implementation of vsts. There is a reason why Machine 2.0 was a big deal. Because it finally did what MPCs had been doing for years.