![]() Naturally, the MPC 16 Levels function becomes 12 Levels here too. Fewer pads means that you only get 48 independent samples in an MPC500 Program, and it's also reflected in the reduced 48-track sequencer capability - the number of pads and sequencer tracks are linked by the pad-based Track Mute function. Like those on the MPC1000, they're only 75 percent of the 'classic' height, but I actually quite like this, as I've always found the traditional MPC pad spacing a bit too wide. The first thing anyone with any knowledge of the MPC series will spot is that the MPC500 only has 12 pads. Does 'Diet MPC' have the same great taste? Hardware Choices Instead I'll look at what differentiates the smallest MPC from its larger siblings. This slot can be accessed from a PC for file-transfer purposes via a rear-panel USB socket.Ī lot of the basic MPC functionality was covered in the SOS reviews of the MPC2000 (April 1997) and MPC2000XL (December 1999), and I dealt with more recent updates in my recent MPC2500 review, so I won't go over the same ground again here. All files must be backed up to the Flash ROM or a Compact Flash card, via a slot on the front edge of the unit, if they are not to be lost on power-down. Internal sample memory is 16MB RAM as standard (although you can upgrade to 128MB as a cost option) plus a further 5MB of internal Flash ROM which, although loaded with preset sounds by default, can usefully be overwritten with your own data instead. Some of the more recent refinements are also included, such as the Q-Link real-time controller slider, two basic multi-effects blocks (offering EQ, compressor, tremolo, phaser, chorus, flanger, auto-pan, reverb, delay, or lo-fi processor) and a master stereo effect providing simultaneous EQ and compression for the main audio outputs. ![]() The core MPC features are all present and correct: drum sampler, MIDI sequencer, rubber velocity-sensitive pads, and audio and MIDI I/O. Uniquely for the range, power comes via an external supply rather than an IEC mains lead, and as a nice side-effect of this cost-cutting measure you can also stick six AA batteries in the back if you want to 'keep it real' on the 6.55 to Peterborough. The subject of this review is the new baby of the family, the MPC500, which, although roughly a quarter of the size and weight of the MPC2500, still exudes a reassuring sense of robustness. To this end the MPC4000 developed the concept way beyond the original MPC brief, using top-flight sampling technology from the company's Z-Series rack monsters, while the MPC1000 cut down the hardware and software options to hit a more entry-level price point. With interest in hip-hop at an all-time high, Akai understandably want to reach out to new customers. In SOS January 2007 I looked at the latest update on the 'classic' MPC feature set, the MPC2500, and was delighted to find that Akai had managed to introduce a set of important improvements without compromising the streamlined operation central to the unit's appeal. ![]() The MPC series of hardware sequencing and sampling workstations have an undeniable cachet in the field of hip-hop production, and the enormous success of this style of music in recent years has ensured their continued development well into an age otherwise dominated by computer-based MIDI + Audio sequencers. For a rhodes, I would say you'll be fine with a sampled keygroup instrument.Akai's famed Music Production Centre goes mini. Try loading up an instrument in the MPC and see how it works, you can have your VST working like that in standalone, but you can't have the ACTUAL VST interface in standalone. Just know that you will not be able to use the VSTs options such as glide/portamento or change its sound directly, you'll have to rely on the MPCs plugins to do that.īasically, when sampled, your rhodes piano VST will behave like all the keygroup instruments that come with your MPC One. Nonetheless, you can use the VST in controller mode while hooked up to your computer inside the MPC software, as you would in any DAW.Ĭurrently the MPC line is not capable of loading VSTs in standalone mode but as mentioned above you can use the autosampler (search youtube) to transform your VST into a Keygroup Instrument which you can then use in standalone mode. Open up your expansions menu in the MPC browser, open the essential instruments expansion pack and look for a keygroup called "Rhodes" (cant recall the exact name). There is already a sampled Rhodes piano in the MPC.
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