

So choosing the right tools can be a daunting process with all the options out there. The landscape of beat-making and music production continues to evolve at a high pace. These newer additions to the family stand testimony to the spirit of innovation that got this brand that status. Akai’s branding has evolved into the very personification of a drum machine over the years.

Your MPC will ask if you want to enter Controller Mode, or cancel and go back to standalone mode. KAI Professional MPC Live II Battery Powered Drum Machine and Sampler With Built in Speakers, Beat Pads, Synth Engines and Touch Display. Press the microchip icon on the top-right-hand side of the screen (displayed below). But the latter is more expansive and offers a host of other features like Mic preamps and clip-launch-type keypads. Before you can use your MPC Live or X with your computer, put your MPC into Controller Mode. The Akai MPC Live comes with more conventional MIDI capabilities, which the Force doesn't offer. Both come with their own onboard production software. The main difference between the two is price and weight. In summary, both the Akai Force and the Akai MPC Live offer good value to add to your music-production workflow. Akai MPC X and MPC One have the same operating system and software. If you are looking for a simple MIDI controller with the sole purpose of controlling your laptop, take a look at the Akai MPD218 Pad Controller or Akai APC40 MKII instead. Before you read any further, you should know that these are both pricey, hybrid gadgets that are meant to work as standalone instruments. If you are a beatmaker, DJ, or music producer looking for an inspiring tool to add to your arsenal, Akai Force and Akai MPC Live are both viable options to look at.
