Akai has unveiled refreshed versions of its MPC One sampler and MPC Key 37 workstation. Both units now house an 8‑core processor, 4 GB of RAM (up from 2 GB) and 64 GB of internal storage, which the company says will deliver dramatically faster load times and larger project capacity.
In standalone mode the upgraded gear can run up to 32 simultaneous virtual instruments and 16 concurrent stereo tracks, a notable jump from the roughly eight instruments and eight tracks the original models handled. They operate on the latest MPC 3.9 operating system, featuring a full linear arranger, expanded workflow tools and a new synth engine, all displayed on a 7‑inch multitouch color screen. A single USB‑C connection provides DAW integration and lets users capture audio from phones, tablets or turntables.
Both machines ship with a suite of starter software and access to a store for additional plugins, including free use of Native Instruments’ Analog Dreams. With Akai and Native Instruments now under the same corporate umbrella, further NI content is expected. The MPC One G2 retails for $800, while the Key 37 G2, which adds a keyboard for traditional songwriting, is priced at $1,000.
