Akai MPC 3.0 Public Beta is here! Maschine finally being left behind?

The track and pad mixers have been redesigned and not only look a lot like Maschine, but now also allow you to change the volume of several tracks and pads at the same time. Whereas previously you had to search for the returns and busses, all track types are now listed next to each other and can be accessed with a simple swipe. All the effects used are now also much easier to see.

Consider these five facts before updating!

• the update to version 3 is currently still a public beta.
• the update is currently only available for standalone MPCs
• MPC 3 projects cannot be opened with version 2.
• in controller mode the MPC works as usual with the software version 2.
• according to Akai, version 3 of the MPC software will not be released this year.

Here is a brief overview of the most important new features:

• Completely redesigned MAIN MODE
• Linear Arranger aka Ableton Live & FORCE
• Coloured track and pad mixer
• New XL Channel Strip
• Disk streaming for long samples & audio tracks
• Advanced automation
• Q-Link & X/Y Pad macro control
• MPC STEMS standalone compatible (sold separately)
• Direct sampling to pads from MAIN MODE
• Coloured drum grid
• 8 sample layers per pad (instead of 4 as before)
• Compatibility with all instruments and effect plug-ins
• Import of legacy projects

MPC 3 is compatible with the Live, Live II, One, One+, X, X SE, Key 37 and Key 61 models and is currently a public beta version, which you can register for here: www.akaipro.com/mpc3. Please note the five facts listed at the beginning.

We are already looking forward to the public version and will test it for you immediately!