If all that’s not enough, the MPC Live also boasts Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It’s not the first in the MPC family to add CV ports (both the MPC One and X have them also), but it does round out its credentials. The addition of the CV outputs just makes it even more appealing. With plenty of MIDI connectivity, the original Live was already a great hub.

What really leaps out of me, compared to the Maschine for example, is how easy it would be to make the MPC Live II the center of your outboard setup. It’s what you’ll spy just above the MIDI ports that’s new: the four CV/Gate ports, giving the MPC Live II the ability to play nice with a host of analog gear, too. Along with the same USB connections (two type-A and one type-B for connecting to the desktop). Much like the original MPC Live, you’ll find six audio outputs, four MIDI ports (two in and two out) and four audio inputs. This is a great feature, and makes the non-touchscreen letterbox display on Native Instruments’ Maschine MK3 or Plus seem quaint.īeyond the new speakers, the other notable hardware upgrade is around the back. Then there’s the 7-inch touchscreen where you’ll find all your menus, modes and music-making tools. They are still a delight to use, feel nice and responsive and make it easy to tap out “human-feeling” beats and melodies. First of all, there are the 16 velocity-sensitive sample/trigger pads. That’s to say, the hardware features that carry over from the original. But is it worth the $1,119 price tag? Hardware I’ve had one on my desk for a while now, and it’s creatively invigorating the bright lights and large touchscreen almost beg you to use it.

The pitch is straightforward: It’s the same all-in-one music production device, just this time with built-in speakers, more connectivity and a slew of other tweaks.

The MPC Live II is the latest member of the family, and as the name suggests, it replaces the original MPC Live in the lineup. But it also means picking the right one for you can be a challenge. To be clear, It’s a good problem, as there’s basically an MPC for every type of electronic musician.

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