A rotary encoder located just below the screen helps you to dial in various parameters one at a time and displays them on the screen.ĪKAI has replaced most of the functionality of the Q Link rotary encoders found in more expensive MPC units with a new multifunction velocity-sensitive touch strip. Yes, you get a screen on the MPC Studio Controller (it is about the size of a postage stamp), and it has some obvious limitations because of its size. The first and most obvious tradeoff over the more expensive MPC standalone hardware samplers is the lack of a touch screen. Overall, the interface is very straightforward, and is designed for easy workflow. It has enough buttons, knobs, and functionality to allow you access just about any parameter on the MPC2 Studio software without touching your mouse. The MPC Studio Controller is extremely well integrated with the included full license to MPC2 Studio software. The build quality of the MPC Studio Hardware Controller is, in a word, excellent.

The only connections on the back of the MPC Studio are two eighth-inch MIDI in and out (full-size MIDI breakout cables are included) for connecting a keyboard or other MIDI devices and a USB 2.0 port. The MPC Studio Controller has full-size velocity and pressure sensitive RGB-backlit pads. The MPC Studio Controller connects to your computer via USB and needs to be authorized with your iLok account. Unlike the more expensive MPC ONE sampler, which is the next step up in the in the MPC hardware sampler ecosystem, the MPC Studio is a controller––not a standalone hardware sampler––and requires a MAC or PC and preferably an audio interface to operate. The just released MPC Studio Controller from AKAI Professional is designed to seamlessly integrate with AKAI’s MPC2 digital audio workstation software.

Akai professional mpc studio reviews