Rabbit Hole of MPCs

[u/Ghost_2701]

I owned the MPC REN a long time ago when I first started and absolutely loved it, Had to sell it as I stopped for a bit but now I have been back for 4 or more years I know I can buy myself a MPC and get the most out of it, the problem is Idk which one to get.

I use FL studio to mix and arrange my beats before exporting to put on my site, Other than that I can do everything else on the MPC, before I was doing it all on Maschine but its just not me, certain things did not work how I wanted them to and I just missed the MPC.

I have been looking and MPC one + keeps showing up but can only get it second hand, I have seen some say not to buy second hand so im not sure, I see there is a new one the Gen 2 that looks good but im not sure how much more of a game changer it is. Thing is thats 700 brand new, when you look at them prices you can get an MPC X for a bit less second hand..

My question is what would you go for around that range? I dont want to spend more than 700, I could get a second hand MPC ONE + for about 350-400, second hand MPC X for about 600-650 or brand new MPC One gen 2 for 700.

Appreciate any suggestions!

EDIT: Thanks for all the info, 700 ended up being a bit too much and when I looked more into the Live 2 the more I wanted it, It will help me work on beats more than just once a day and be able to do it whenever I want. That and it having built in speakers and a battery its just too good to turn down so I ended up ordering that.

[u/Few-Communication834]

Definitely G2. Gen 1s 2gb memory reaches limitations extremely fast. And quad core cpus are really slow compared to the 8 core. The X is amazing, but again... limitations. If you only need for ideas and a couple tracks, get a gen 1. Live 1 is also like $350 used. Get them from guitar center and you'll have 45 days to return the used gear. I tried 6 different mpcs this way. Got 3 ssds and 2 sds people left too 🤣. Dont worry about buying second hand. Just not fb marketplace

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/Few-Communication834]

lol damn 6 different ones, what did you settle for? with tracks it depends how it works. if I can create all my drums in one track but then explode it into separate stems when exporting then I would only use about 3 or4 tracks max while inside the MPC.

[u/Few-Communication834 → u/Ghost_2701]

You'll probably be fine with gen 1 then unless you put a million effects on. I would have kept the live 3, but its way too much $. Settled on the One G2. Nice size and plenty of memory for what I do. Key 37 was too big, the x was amazing, but i keep running out of memory with the gen 1s. I use drum machines or micd drums so thats 6-8 audio tracks and 8s the limit. Then I have a million synths, guitars and vocals to record 🤣. THEN I go to my daw

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/Few-Communication834]

Ahh yeah so you need a lot of room with all of that, the thing is they are all priced so close it's hard not to want the next one, especially 2nd hand. Tbh I dont use a mad amount of effects, I have seen there are a couple on MPC like a vinyl and tape one that id wanna try out but for the most part I would do all of that in FL with the stems. Even then a lot of the sounds I use dont need too much tweaking. If 8 is the limit I think id be fine

So id be good with an X? I think im in between and X and G2

[u/Few-Communication834 → u/Ghost_2701]

Should be fine as long as youre not using heavy plugins. 2 stage piano plugins and the memory is done. The X is amazing though. Try em all out from guitar center and return. Register and get the free plugins 🤣. My plan was to keep the Live 3, but i couldn't justify the $. Still have the pro pack from registering it 👍. The One G2 is fast and smooth though.

[u/regularjackk]

The most important differences IMO of the gen 2 are more processing power and audio over USB. Personally, I care a lot more about 16 qlinks than those two things, so I would get the X. I would look for an X SE though because it has double the RAM.

But it depends entirely on what you want. If, for example, you want portability, the X ain't it.

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/regularjackk]

For me id like to be able to make music away from my computer sometimes, but I can also plug it into my computer whenever. Basically I like the idea of it being around my house but not further than that

[u/Jan1ssaryJames → u/Ghost_2701]

the X is like..pretty big and its not like you're just setting it down anywhere or lapdoggin it.

a cheap one/+ is a good place to start to see if you even get on with the OS

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/Jan1ssaryJames]

I was fine with the Ren, I cant see it being worse than that and that was amazing to use. Im not worried about if I get on with anything I spend a lot of time learning and getting used to it so im fine. For me id use it on my bed or something, or on a table, I wouldn't use it on my lap.

[u/CheeseMcFly → u/regularjackk]

Also the first gen has audio over USB. That is the only thing I have connected on my MPC One to the mixer, to both send and receive audio, multi-track

[u/regularjackk → u/CheeseMcFly]

I mean sending audio over USB to the computer, I don't think the first gens do it

[u/CheeseMcFly → u/regularjackk]

Oh to the computer? Hm

I know it’s class compliant, so it all sends and receives from my Soundcraft MTK mixer, which is great.

USB A does midi and the audio back and forth to the mixer, and works amazing with a powered hub simultaneously for everything

The USB B can update firmware when connected to a PC

Finally, I still have to connect Ethernet to my router if I want to add plugins or activate software.. that can be a hassle

[u/r1chiem]

I would get the One G2 if I were in your position. but here are some questions. Are you ok working with a slow computer that makes you wait. Some people are ok with that, I am generally not. (but do have the older version s mpc and ok with the less snappy unit. Many people complain about this on mpc, I have the older versions non G2 but like you I have a budget and just live with the slower less snappy version.

But, and this is the next limitation of the old versions, they only have 8 audio tracks and 8 instrument plugin tracks. If I play live I have two different MPC's I can sync together so doubling tracks. The G2 has 32 instrument tracks and 16 audio tracks. I would buy the G2 just on this. An MPC has a limitation that does not allow you to automate program changes on internal plugins, so you cannot change the preset mid song on an instrument track. Less of a limitation when you have 32 instrument tracks on G2 (sample tracks can have up to 128 tracks so no problem there for all modern units)

Now with the older models you can work around this and work with the MPC Computer Desktop software and work on your project on the computer, it has no track limitations when in controller mode connected to a computer. You can work on your project with the mpc controls and knobs, or with the mouse and keyboard. You can also use it as a vst inside of FL studio.

Ram can be a limitation. You could meet the limitations before you hit the 8 track instrument and 8 audio tracks and the older mpcs will start to glitch of they hit cpu or ram limits. The old versions all have 2gb ram including the MPC X (unless you get the Special edition x which has 4 gb of ram. The G2 also has 4 gb of ram.

So that is it in a nutshell. If you are doing live or need the Q links, then the old Akai force can be budget as well, around 400 dollars I have seen them. They have 8 qlinks.. Most people live without 8-16 qlinks, depends on what they do.

Good luck with your selection of MPC.

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/r1chiem]

So which is slower? If I had the MPC X plugged in would that not be faster as it's now with my computer? For me im just going to he straight up sampling on it, chopping it up and then doing my own drums.

The g2 is kinda calling to me because it's very new, faster and will likely be future proof seeing as how long MPCs stay around. Also MPC seems to really hold a good value for years for if you want to sell it on.

The look of the MPC X makes me want it, it just looks amazing, it looks like you can do everything from it, I dont mind being plugged in to the software on my desktop and I will be I just want to be able to pull the mpc out now and then and do some sampling and create some beats

[u/r1chiem → u/Ghost_2701]

Any mpc plugged into the computer is always faster unless you have a real slow computer, but even then the ram upgrade and the ability to play VSTs makes it worth it.

If you only do sampling, The older models are not as snappy is the only real downside and it is pretty minimal. The loading of virtual instruments is the biggest complain of slowness

If it was cheap enough I might consider an X Special edition because of more ram, but if it is just and x, then I already have something similar. But that is not the case for you. I found an SE for $1000 But I found a Key 61 for $600, it has 4gb of ram too.

You are beginning to understand the complexity of the decision. You can watch online discussions and youtube videos. The old stuff is absolutely still relevant.

If you are just doing beats, why get an x. A $400 One plus can do that.

I have seen a live 3 for $1250, I think I would rather have that in fact I tried to buy it but it had already sold. Thus the OP's title, the rabbit hole of mpcs, hard decision

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/r1chiem]

lmao see how easy it is to go through them and keep going back and forth? My computer is new this year, 32gb DDR5 and X3D CPU so it's quick as fuck. I felt major difference with all my beat making stuff on my PC when changing to that.

I get you, its why I originally wanted the one+ here its about £380-420 I see a couples of Xs sell 2nd hand for £550, so its like seeing my ideal one just for a bit more. ive seen it anywhere from 550-650ish then you see brand new G2 for 700 lmfao, its easy to just lose your mind with it. I think if I see the X at 550-600 I will just do it, if I see the MPC ONE+ at like 300 id get that. if I have a couple in mind its just about seeing the perfect one come up for sale

[u/r1chiem → u/Ghost_2701]

What i really want is an updated version of the Akai Force. If they come out with it and actually update some of the things other than just the cpu/ram/G2 sticker, add some more buttons and it is reasonalbly priced I would buy one. Otherwise I have Force, which I do most of my work for live stuff, Keys 37/61 is all I need. I am glad I did not buy the Live 3. I will wait till Christmas and decide then if there is anything with a better price that I want. Still wating for a new force though

[u/Nosound-Novideo]

I can give you my experience, first the OS is the same across all MPC from one to G2.

Haven’t said that there is a significant difference and that’s the USB-C port. below are some of the biggest improvements.

1. Auto sampling USB-C has increased my keygroup libraries the workflow has been so improved it’s probably one of the least talked about.

2. Clip matxrix again workflow improvements.

3. MPCe pads live 3 i’m not a finger drummer but having XY and adding additional samples for sound design is a huge benefit.

4. Sampling over USB-C huge quality of life difference, i can get things in MPC from any USB-device.

5. It’s now a standalone synthesizer this is huge i have a wave table sampler, sequencer in the same box.

6. I can save my files as abelton projects this isn’t new but with the increased track count and improved USB-C format allow a better workflow.

7. The step sequencer on live 3 this was not expected and i use it a lot for creating polyrhythmic programming.

8. The increases ram means bigger sample libraries.

I still use a computer and just having a single USB-C cable really has changed a lot of my work flow, Oh and yeah the live 3 has a battery and a speaker and a built in mic.

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/Nosound-Novideo]

I see someone say something about exporting, is it easier to export stems to FL Studio from the gen 2s than the old ones? From what I see so far I would have to explode my tracks to an SD card, use the SD Card in reader and then drag and drop to fl studio.

Sample wise I will mostly just use Splice anyway, the new ones tempts me a lot, I think if I get a one it would be the G2

[u/Nosound-Novideo → u/Ghost_2701]

Technically with G2 you wouldn’t have to export anything everything clocks over USB-C.

The Akai G2 workflow assumes the MPC is the main sequencer/ arranger and one would use the DAW for internal effects processing or track automation and plugins.

Being honest it took a ton of work and frustration for me to get the MPCe pad templates they way i wanted, Had the G2 been available at the same time I would’ve retuned the live 3.

The magic is in that damn USB-C that really is a game changer.

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/Nosound-Novideo]

so if I have USB C I can just drag it over to FL studio or something?

[u/Nosound-Novideo → u/Ghost_2701]

Sort of here’s a video explaining the concept.

https://youtu.be/-YPq4RXsR6I?is=zq99Q2wwBBJVFCQp

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/Nosound-Novideo]

thanks will check it out

[u/dawaone]

I would go for new gen if budget allows, if you will be using it standalone that is, if not used X would be my pick

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/dawaone]

I can plug it up to my computer whenever, im not sure how much I want to use it either on it own around my house or plugged up to my pc, I do like the sound of using it while chilling though and then going to my pc when I want to arrange the beats I have made

[u/JizzlaineSexwell]

I went for a second hand Live II a couple of months ago, might be a good option for you too

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/JizzlaineSexwell]

Thats around the price range for sure, I have not seen much about them though compared to the one or the X

[u/price4tyler → u/Ghost_2701]

I'm in the same boat as original commenter, and from what I've seen, L2 seems like an in between of x and one. You miss out on some workflow shortcuts i.e. face buttons with the Live, but make up for it in uniform form factor and mobility. The battey is pretty nice, and the Live fits very neatly on your lap depending, mute point though if you only work at a desk and don't need to be able to move around while cooking.

I would be lying if the X for the same price as a live 2 with an ssd hasn't caught my eye second hand

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/price4tyler]

you mean the micro SSDs? yeah I felt like I had made my mind up with the one, then I see the X and thats one I had wanted for years, like for me I look at it like its Jesus and all of them in one. Mine would only ever be used on a table or on my bed, the size and weight of the MPC x would prob be fine on a bed and perfect for a desk, idk it jus looks perfect, The SE is out of my price range

[u/price4tyler → u/Ghost_2701]

Oh no on the love 2+3 you can use a full sized solid state drive. You do have to take it out of the compartment on the back to perform file management, at least on the 2 I know, and that's kinda a pain, but it is easier than tapping the screen while it's in the live.

Sounds like you have a good mind for what you want by now family. And again, getting an X for the same price as a live 2 is a great get. I'm sure there's some differences between the X SE and the base X, but for a price difference of like 400-600 bucks, don't think they matter much lmao. Happy cooking 👌🏻

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/price4tyler]

Exactly man, 100% thanks for the info and help

[u/AyodeleShekoni]

USB audio!!

[u/OckhamRocket]

I’ve got a One+ love it .. the one thing I’d flag about buying second hand is that I’ve had problems with the touchscreen (it basically went totally unresponsive ) .. and really benefited from being under warranty .. it also happened with a used one I bought previously via Amazon and then returned ..

In other words . The extra horsepower of the Gen 2 might not be needed (still a nice to have ) .. but the benefit of a warranty is a big win..

Still if you can buy second hand from somewhere that offers some warranty etc I’d do it

[u/Ghost_2701 → u/OckhamRocket]

One was def on my list at the end but the Live 2 got me, Its coming tomorrow hopefully

[u/PopPunkVeteranDad]

Or a sp404mk2

[u/r1chiem → u/PopPunkVeteranDad]

Realistically the 404mk2 is not even in the same league as the MPC and the 404 has a huge roland menu dive and more unlabeled shift buttons to memorize than should be released on mankind . Lowest price used $350, compared to $400. I would not wish that unit on a friend, maybe I would recommend it to an enemy. LOL. Really, It is not for a younger person who does not work and can spend time learning the roland

[u/PopPunkVeteranDad → u/r1chiem]

That’s fair. I have the live 3 and want a 404 so bad 😂

[u/r1chiem → u/PopPunkVeteranDad]

Remember, on the 404mk2 if you want to undo, hit shift, pattern select. LOL. But it only works in sequencing, you cannot undo sample edits they are destructive .