The newly announced MPC Sample from Akai is priced at $400, a competitive figure considering its features and design. This portable sampler and groovebox closely resembles both the Teenage Engineering EP series and iconic Akai models like the MPC3000 and MPC60.
Equipped with 16 velocity-sensitive MPC pads and a sequencer, the device supports 32 stereo voices of polyphony, making it suitable for beat creation. It features a full-color LCD display for waveform editing and includes a chop mode alongside time-stretching and repitching functionalities. Users can access four effects engines with 60 types of effects, enhancing their soundscapes.
The MPC Sample comes with 8GB of internal storage and a microSD slot for expansion. Although its 2GB RAM is on the lower side, it aligns with some higher-end models. Battery life is about five hours, while the built-in speaker may not offer the best audio experience, suggesting users should opt for headphones for optimal sound quality. The device is available for purchase immediately.