AKAI opens up MPC 2 for use with third-party controllers with 2.2 update
Big news from AKAI! With the release of MPC 2.2, owners of non-MPC hardware keyboards and controllers will be able to use the MPC 2 software natively. The update includes pre-made templates for popular third-party controllers alongside a MIDI Learn feature.
Both global software functions and automatable parameters (like volume, pan, etc) can be mapped to and controlled from external control surfaces like faders, rotary knobs, touch strips and such.
Additionally, AKAI has updated the MIDI sequencer with Humanize and Random Events Generation. Humanize lets users randomize the timing or velocity of MIDI events, while the generator creates random melodic and drum patterns. The update also includes the usual workflow and stability enhancements.
Will this be a game-changer for beatmaking platforms? Well, the opportunity to grab AKAI’s fully-featured MPC software and use it with your favourite controller that’s not an MPC certainly isn’t one to miss out on. Version 2 of the MPC software has been highly praised for its ability to take a production from idea to finished product, with ample DAW functionality across the board.
We wonder if Native Instruments will respond by opening up the Maschine software for third-party controllers. Given the tight level of integration between the the controller and software, that’s probably a no-go, but AKAI’s move is certainly interesting and spells a bright future for the platform.
Price and availability
The latest MPC 2.2 update is free for MPC 2 software owners. Upgrades from version 1 start at USD 100, and new purchases start at USD 200. A full 7-day trial is available for users.
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