Akai Pro MPC Live III Retro — a sampler and drum machine

Akai Professional has released the MPC Live III in a vintage style inspired by 1980s equipment.

Photo: official website akaipro

The new model uses classic Akai colours inspired by its well-known retro drum machines. It runs MPC3 OS with MPC3 Pro Pack, including AIR Reverb Pro, AIR Visual EQ4, AIR Fabric Select and AIR Utility. Clip launching supports Matrix and Clip Edit modes, Follow Actions, Row Launch, Tempo and Snapshots. Other features include Ableton Live set import, expanded CV functions with Q-Link envelopes and LFOs, Super Timestretch and Pro Stems Separation. An Ableton control mode works over USB-C.

Photo: official website akaipro

Other features include a Gen 2 eight-core processor, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB internal storage, up to 32 simultaneous plugins and 16 audio tracks. MPCe pads use 3D sensing for expressive X/Y control, sample blending and dynamic note repeat. There is a 16-step sequencer with function buttons, a clip matrix for live loop creation and arrangement, a touch strip for real-time control, a 7-inch colour multitouch display and four touch-sensitive knobs. A rechargeable battery provides up to four hours of use. Stereo speakers, a high-quality microphone and direct USB-C sampling from an iPhone are built in.

Photo: official website akaipro

Connections include two XLR/TRS combo inputs, six line outputs, eight CV/Gate outputs, two bidirectional MIDI ports and USB-C with 24 input/output audio channels and 32 bidirectional MIDI channels. Class-compliant operation, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are supported.

Photo: official website akaipro

Akai Pro MPC Live III Retro will be available for $1,700.