Said to be their most powerful and advanced standalone offering to date, the latest arrival to Akai Pro’s legendary MPC range promises to introduce a new level of creative control. The MPC Live III features the company’s expressive MPCe pads, a dedicated 16-button step sequencer and a new Clip Matrix mode that focuses on real-time performance, as well as boasting a built-in mic and speakers and offering battery-powered operation.
MPCe, Sequencer & Clip Matrix
Building on the success of the MPC Live II, the new arrival packs in a whole host of new features and capabilities. Its MPCe pads employ a 3D-sensing technology that Akai Pro say goes beyond aftertouch, offering responsive X-Y control over one-shot layers and seamless sample blending along with dynamic note repeats and articulations per pad, delivering the most expressive MPC playing experience yet.
Other firsts include the introduction of dedicated 16-step sequencer controls, and the Clip Matrix system, a new real-time loop-creation and arrangement tool that that makes it possible for users to craft new beats and melodies on the fly by triggering audio and MIDI loops from the device’s touchscreen.
Standalone Operation
Powered by an 8-core CPU and 8GB of RAM and running Akai Pro’s MPC OS 3.6,, the MPC Live III can operate as a completely standalone device with no computer required. It supports up to 16 audio tracks and up to 32 simultaneous plug-in instances, as well as boasting some powerful built-in stem-separation and time-stretching tools, and also includes an enhanced set of CV Playground features.
There’s a built-in microphone and onboard speakers, along with a comprehensive selection of I/O, including stereo XLR/TRS combo inputs, six line-level outputs, MIDI and CV connectivity and 24 channels of audio and 32 channels of bi-directional MIDI via USB-C. As well as being able to operate without a computer, the device can also run without a power supply thanks to a rechargeable battery.
MPC3 Pro Pack
The MPC Live III includes Akai Pro’s new MPC3 Pro Pack, a comprehensive expansion that includes premium software effects and tools such as AIR Reverb Pro, AIR Visual EQ4, AIR Fabric Select and AIR Utility.
Along with its new MPCe pads, the latest iteration of the MPC Live includes a set of dedicated 16-step sequencer controls.
Key Features
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DAWless Power & Standalone Portability
- A standalone Music Production Center that eliminates computer or DAW dependency for creative freedom on the road, in hotels, outdoors or anywhere inspiration strikes.
- Built-in microphone, stereo monitors and rechargeable battery for a truly portable studio for capturing ideas, editing and performing anywhere.
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Expressive Performance Tools
- MPCe pad technology delivers ultra-responsive 3D-sensing with X-Y control of note repeat and articulations, sample manipulation and pad parameters.
- 16-step sequencer with function buttons for instant electronic-style programming and real-time pattern creation.
- Performance touch-strip with dynamic real-time control of live effects during performances, modulation, pitch-bending and Q-link parameters.
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Next-Gen Workflow & Software
- Seven-inch multi-touch display for intuitive visual feedback and easy workflow navigation.
- MPC3 OS 3.6 with MPC Pro Pack including Pro Stems Separation, new Clip Matrix arranging and advanced effects processing.
- Clip launch workflow transforms song arrangement into live, improvisational performances with seamless loop triggering and arrangement.
- New effects including Pro Reverb, Graphic EQ and a Mixing Utility.
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Seamless Connectivity
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity enables wireless collaboration, file sharing and direct sampling between smart devices.
Pricing & Availability
The MPC Live III is available now, priced at $1699£1399.99 including VAT / €1649.99.
