MUSIC TECH: AKAI Introduces The Next Generation MPC Renaissance

Today Akai introduced the new MPC Renaissance Music Production Controller which fuses the best of their legacy hardware with full software integration. Since the arrival of Native Instruments' Maschine many were wondering how Akai would respond. Its a bit early to call it a Maschine killer but it does have some amazing features: MPC Renaissance Hardware Fuses legendary MPC production with the processing power of your computer Vintage Mode changes output sound character to MPC3000, MPC60 and more 16 backlit genuine MPC pads, 16 Q-Link controls, and adjustable backlit LCD screen Classic MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing and MPC transport controls MPC SOFTWARE for Mac or PC with 64-track sequencing capability Two XLR-1/4” combo inputs and dedicated turntable input Four-channel US B 2.0 audio interface and two-port US B 2.0 hub built in Up to eight pad banks―more than any other MPC ever Two MIDI inputs and four MIDI outputs Stereo 1/4” out, stereo assignable mix 1/4” out & S/PDIF I/O MPC Software 64-track sequencing capability Massive 6GB+ sound library, including all of the sounds of the classic MPC3000 Instant mapping and real-time adjustment of VST plug-ins Record each track as an MPC drum program, Keygroup program or VST plug-in Runs standalone and as VST, AU or RTAS plug-in Supports WAV, MP3, AIFF, REX and SND Supports samples and sequences from any MPC ever made Mac and PC-compatible Read more HERE

MUSIC TECH: AKAI to release iPhone/iPod Touch Software & iPhone/Ipod Touch Compatible Keyboard Controller

WTF?? This is bananas. Read on...

Transform your iPhone into a music production studio.

The iPK25 transforms iPhone or iPod touch into a portable music production studio for mobile music creation. This MIDI keyboard controller gives your handheld device a two-octave set of piano keys and professional audio outputs, and it works with the Akai Professional SynthStation Studio app. The iPK25 is powerful enough for professional musicians, yet virtually anyone can use is to easily create music.

This 25-key synth keyboard features a built-in dock for iPhone or iPod touch. The iPK25 gives you two octaves of velocity-sensitive, synth-action keys, pitch and modulation wheels, and octave up and down and sound-bank buttons. The iPK25 has a stereo pair of RCA line outputs and a headphone output for connection to recording and sound reinforcement systems.

You can use the iPK25 with Akai's SynthStation Studio app as well as virtually any MIDI music software on your computer or with MIDI hardware devices such as sound modules, samplers, and MPCs using its USB/MIDI output. Available exclusively through the Apple App Store, SynthStation Studio gives you three powerful synthesizers for creating and modifying sonic textures used for melodies, chords, and bass lines. Built around Akai Professional’s history in synthesis and drawing on the newest MINIAK synth, the SynthStation Studio app sounds great and offers wide-ranging sonic flexibility with its virtual analog synthesis.



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MUSIC TECH: AKAI Blows It Out With New MPC 5000

AKAI's MPC drum machine/sequencer/sampler is known as one of the key instruments that have revolutionized music and Hip Hop production specifically. AKAI introduced the Midi Production Center with the ROGER LINN designed MPC 60. Through the years, improvements have been made to the kit and we have seen the MPC morph from the 60 to the 60II to the 3000, 2000, 4000, 1000, 2500 and the portable battery operated MPC 500. Now in 2008, AKAI has introduced the MPC 5000. It feels like it is in direct response to ROLAND's MV-8800 sampling workstation. The MV-8800 was seen as a potential MPC killer due to its inclusion of a built in analogue synth and flexible sequencing capabilities. Well AKAI has answered the call and has introduced a slew of new features including a built in synthesizer, arpeggiator and larger screen. Below is a great video outlining all the new features and capabilities of this new beast-