Published 9/2/09
Software update brings new features
New features in version two of the MPC5000’s operating system include the facility to create keygroups, so single or multiple samples can be automatically transposed and mapped to corresponding MIDI notes. Version two also brings backwards-compatibility with numerous S- and Z-series Akai samplers, including the facility to load sample libraries and keygroups in those formats, so users who so stoically stick by their rack of beloved S3000s can now fully migrate to the MPC format, should they wish to do so.
A software update for the Akai MPC5000 (which we reviewed in SOS December 2008, and on-line here), has been announced. The update is free, and can be downloaded from the Akai web site, then loaded on to a Compact Flash card, from where it can be installed on the sampling workstation.
New features in version two of the MPC5000’s operating system include the facility to create keygroups, so single or multiple samples can be automatically transposed and mapped to corresponding MIDI notes. Version two also brings backwards-compatibility with numerous S- and Z-series Akai samplers, including the facility to load sample libraries and keygroups in those formats, so users who so stoically stick by their rack of beloved S3000s can now fully migrate to the MPC format, should they wish to do so.
Other new features include MultiEdit, a function that enables users to apply parameters to multiple pads. This permits, for example, all pads in a patch to be panned hard left in one movement, instead of by navigating through the parameters of each pad and finding the pan control. Also, quantise can be applied on the fly, so users tapping in track mutes live on stage can be sure their pad punches will be on time.
At the time of writing, the update to OS v2 was still to be posted on-line. Keep your eyes on the MPC5000 page on Akai’s web site (www.akaipro.com/mpc5000) regularly to download it as soon as it becomes available.
