AKAI MPC XL – flagship groovebox

Akai Professional is announcing a professional standalone workstation that expands its popular MPC range of grooveboxes and samplers.

Photo: official website akaipro

The device has an improved second-generation eight-core processor and 16 GB of RAM. The system can run up to 32 instrument plug-ins, 16 audio tracks and 256 samples at once, handle complex sessions and manage projects more efficiently. The instrument has a 256 GB internal SSD, 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads with new 3D touch technology, an assignable touch controller, 16 Q-Link encoders with OLED displays and 16 RGB-backlit buttons. The new model has a 10.1-inch multitouch display with an adjustable viewing angle and supports audio sampling from smart devices. The product provides up to 24 channels of DAW input/output.

Photo: official website akaipro

Connections include 16 CV/Gate outputs on four 3.5 mm TRS connectors; two MIDI inputs and four MIDI outputs; two line/microphone inputs on XLR/TRS combo connectors with switchable phantom power; two line inputs on 6.3 mm/RCA connectors, switchable to phono input mode; two instrument inputs on jack connectors; two headphone outputs (3.5 mm and 6.3 mm); eight 6.3 mm line outputs; three USB-A ports for storage or MIDI controllers; an SD card slot; and a USB-C port for connection to Mac/PC, iOS and Android.

Photo: official website akaipro

The AKAI MPC XL will be available for about $3000.