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Description

Step into the world of music production with the Akai MPC 2000, a timeless classic that has shaped the soundscapes of hip-hop and electronic music for decades. This iconic Music Production Center, co-designed by the legendary Roger Linn, is revered for its signature rubber pads, offering an intuitive and tactile experience for beat-makers and producers. With its streamlined design, the MPC 2000 is a masterful blend of simplicity and power, providing you with the tools to craft complex rhythms and sequences.

The MPC 2000 is equipped with robust sampling capabilities and a user-friendly interface that caters to both seasoned professionals and aspiring artists. Its ability to handle 64-track sequencing, paired with a floppy disk drive, makes it a versatile instrument that bridges the gap between vintage charm and modern production needs.

Whether you're laying down the foundation for a track or adding intricate layers to your compositions, the MPC 2000 delivers precision and creativity at your fingertips. Join the ranks of renowned artists like Trent Reznor and The xx, who have harnessed the power of this legendary device to create unforgettable music.

Key Features:

  • 16 responsive rubber touch pads for dynamic beat-making
  • 2 MB sampling memory, expandable for more extensive sampling
  • 16-bit, 44.1 kHz sampling rate for high-quality sound
  • Two MIDI inputs and outputs for seamless integration with other gear
  • 64-track sequencing capability, perfect for complex arrangements
  • Built-in floppy disk drive for sample storage and retrieval

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model MPC2000 MIDI Production Center
Finish Grey
Year 1997 - 2001
Categories Drum Machines, Samplers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Pads 16 Pads
Polyphony 32 Voices

FAQs

What are the key features of the Akai MPC 2000 for music production?

The Akai MPC 2000 features 16 velocity-sensitive pads, 32-voice polyphony, and robust sampling capabilities, making it ideal for beat-making and sample-based music production. It also includes MIDI input and output for integration with other gear.

How does the Akai MPC 2000 compare to the MPC 2000XL?

The MPC 2000 and MPC 2000XL are similar in many respects, but the XL includes additional features such as a larger screen and more advanced sequencing capabilities due to hardware revisions.

Is the Akai MPC 2000 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Akai MPC 2000 can be used for live performances, thanks to its intuitive pad layout and real-time control options, allowing for dynamic beat creation and sample triggering.

Can the Akai MPC 2000 be integrated with modern DAWs?

The Akai MPC 2000 can be integrated with modern DAWs using its MIDI input and output, though it may require additional adapters or interfaces for seamless connectivity with newer systems.

What type of music genres is the Akai MPC 2000 best suited for?

The Akai MPC 2000 is highly versatile and well-suited for genres that rely heavily on sampling and beat-making, such as hip hop, electronic, and R&B. Its powerful sampling engine allows for creative manipulation of sounds.

Mikromix Studio, DMV

Mikromix Studio, DMV

Can YOU hear the difference between the MPC Live and the MPC 2000?

Video thumbnail for Can YOU hear the difference between the MPC Live and the MPC 2000? by Mikromix Studio, DMV

Can YOU hear the difference between the MPC Live and the MPC 2000?

Mikromix Studio, DMV

Mikromix Studio, DMV

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC 2000 Test Drive by The Daydream Sound by The Daydream Sound

Akai MPC 2000 Test Drive by The Daydream Sound

The Daydream Sound

The Daydream Sound

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC 2000 Sampler - My Opinion by vintagestereos

Akai MPC 2000 Sampler - My Opinion

vintagestereos

vintagestereos

Video thumbnail for Akai mpc 2000 - Sample Tutorial For Beginners | how to sample by Tommy Vamoz

Akai mpc 2000 - Sample Tutorial For Beginners | how to sample

Tommy Vamoz

Tommy Vamoz

Reviews

PROS

  • Classic, iconic sampler with a unique sound

  • Great for sparking creativity with its limitations

  • Versatile options for sound production and recording

  • Excellent timing and shuffle features for sequencing

  • Durable and reliable over the years

  • Expanded memory and output options available

CONS

  • Learning curve to fully utilize its features

  • Floppy disk storage is outdated and inconvenient

  • Trimming samples can be difficult and frustrating

  • The jog wheel is poorly designed and unresponsive

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPC 2000.

Features and functionality

  • The MPC 2000's sound is credited to its compression based on the S1000 series samplers, distinct from later Z series engines.

    Source
  • Overloading the MPC 2000's analog output can produce a desirable distortion that many users appreciate for its unique character.

    Source
  • The MPC 2000 only supports 16-bit files, necessitating conversion for users with 24-bit audio files.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to Maschine, the MPC 2000 offers a more "live" sound with less latency, appealing to those seeking traditional hardware workflow.

    Source
  • The MPC One has smaller pads compared to the classic MPC 2000, which may affect playability for users accustomed to larger pads.

    Source
  • Consider MPC 2500 for similar pricing but potential jjOS inclusion, offering a modern alternative to the 2000XL.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Using the MPC 2000 as a MIDI controller requires a USB/firewire interface, highlighting its limited connectivity options.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MPC 2000 excels in live performance and jamming but may not be as efficient for production compared to modern MIDI controllers.

    Source
  • Some users prefer the MPC 2000 for its tactile feel and iconic 1990s sound, despite its older technology.

    Source
  • Excels in sample-heavy hip hop production, pairing well with newer samplers like Digitakt for extended capabilities.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The MPC 2000 requires a boot disk for startup, which is a unique requirement compared to other MPC models.

    Source
  • Check for screen lines; replacements exist but are costly. Ensure RAM is upgraded for optimal performance, similar to upgrading PC RAM.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend upgrading the MPC 2000 from floppy to CF card storage to avoid the hassle of floppy disks and benefit from increased capacity.

    Source
  • Upgrade pad sensors for improved accuracy and durability; stock pads are less reliable over time.

    Source

User experience

  • The MPC 2000 takes up significant space in a workspace, a factor to consider for those with limited room.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The MPC 2000XL is often overpriced; patience is needed for learning and tolerating slow boot/load times.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 6 Reviews and 32 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
finhiphop

absolute classic

There's not really much I can say about the MPC that hasn't been said. It's a fantastic workhorse sampler and sequencer. I picked mine up for 250$, and while it's definitely not in amazing shape, it works. Dealing with floppy disks to save is a headache, but I usually track my beats into Ableton to mix anyway, so it's not a huge deal for me.

roccstar

CLASSIC!

I rarely use it anymore but I can't bring myself to get rid of it. It served me so well for so many years. Sometimes I run sounds through it just to get the "MPC sound" then track them in. Haven't actually sequenced on it in at least 4 years though :(

alfa_trax

midi production center

16 bits digital sampler sequencer, great timing and shuffle

brendan_locker

outdated. maybe the worst of the MPCs

painful to trim samples. jog wheel is the worst. this machine has aged well. the world is much better without it. good pads... that's about it

2

Reliable sampling power in a classic machine

Old but always trustworthy. Rarely used but still loving its sampling power.

mahogbless

My 1st ever MPC... sad to see my baby go. (The Rawest!)

Classic for life.... #1997Flow. I made many #Bangas with this joint!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Karl Hyde uses Akai MPC 2000

Karl Hyde

Singer, Guitarist

Freur

...
Verified via Archive

In this archived version of a December 2000 article from Sound On Sound, Underworld bandmate Rick Smith explains Karl's then-current rig. "Hyde's live rack is very complex, according to Smith, partly because the guitarist/singer has several input sources to choose from: vocal mic, guitar, vocoder, Mesa Boogie Triaxis guitar preamp, CD player, and Akai MPC2000."

See how Tomoya Ohtani uses Akai MPC 2000

Tomoya Ohtani

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via SEGA | ソニックチャンネル

"It dates back to my school days before I joined SEGA. I used it during and around the time when I was working part-time to buy equipment for music production, make demos for the band I was working on at the time, and produce music and sound effects for a theater company operating in a small theater. One of the equipment is a sampler called 'AKAI MPC2000'."

See how John Shanks uses Akai MPC 2000

John Shanks

Guitarist, Composer

Bon Jovi

...
Verified via Guitar World

I was and still am into electronica, so I programmed an Akai MPC 2000 to combine hip-hop beats with old drum-machine sounds mixed with acoustic guitars. Out of that record there came a sound where guitars would come into the chorus.

See how Mika Vainio uses Akai MPC 2000

Mika Vainio

Composer, Music Producer

Pan Sonic

...
Verified via YouTube

In a 1997 video, Björk discusses synthesizers with Mika Vainio in Barcelona, where Mika is shown using an Akai MPC 2000. The source of this information is a YouTube video titled "Björk talks to Mika Vainio about synthesizers in 1997," provided by Björk's Joyous Tunes.

See how Prince Paul uses Akai MPC 2000

Prince Paul

Rapper, Music Producer

Gravediggaz

...
Verified via Heavyinthestreets

From an interview on producing the 2009 Souls of Mischief album "Montezuma's Revenge":

"If people are true fans of Souls of Mischief, which, coming into it, I was, they know what they want to hear on this record. I sat and analyzed all the records they’ve put out, even the solo projects. I tried to figure out what I liked and what I didn’t like. I told them, 'I’m going to make what should have been your follow up to 93 ‘Til Infinity. I’m going to make a retro record and scale back technology.' To do that, I decided to use an SP-12, ASR-10, MPC-2000, and MPC-60."

See how Melissa Reese uses Akai MPC 2000

Melissa Reese

Singer, Keyboardist

Guns N' Roses

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video MElissa talks about the gear she owns and mentioned the MPC 2000 as one of her favourite pieces.

See how Damu The Fudgemunk uses Akai MPC 2000

Damu The Fudgemunk

Music Producer, DJ

Y Society

...
Verified via Photo

Pictured here playing Madvillain Revisions off an MPC 2000.

See how Nate Smith uses Akai MPC 2000

Nate Smith

Drummer, Music Producer

The Fearless Flyers

...
Verified via Tape Op Magazine

Nate Smith has confirmed his use of the Akai MPC 2000 during his journey into home recording, as he noted, "I was doing tracks on my Akai MPC2000, which I still have." This statement is documented in an interview featured in Tape Op Magazine.

See how Mark Farina uses Akai MPC 2000

Mark Farina

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Attack Magazine

I’m an old school MPC guy. I love these. As well as the MPC4000 I have a 2500 and a 500, and my old MPC2000 too. I used to just make everything on that, like my Landscape EP on Panhandle.

See how Dj Evil Dee uses Akai MPC 2000

Dj Evil Dee

Music Producer, DJ

Da Beatminerz

...
Verified via YouTube

At 7:25 In this video, Dj Evil Dee shows some of the gear in his lab and states, "It's nothing complicated my SP, y'know my Mpc 2000".

See how Amtrac uses Akai MPC 2000

Amtrac

Music Producer

...
Verified via Gfycat

In this Instagram story posted by Amtrac, he is using an Akai MPC 2000.

See how Helena Hauff uses Akai MPC 2000

Helena Hauff

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "Passage" by Kaput - Magazin für Insolvenz & Pop, Helena Hauff is seen using the Akai MPC 2000.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai MPC 2000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Akai MPC 3000
Akai MPC 3000 Keyboards, Synthesizers & MIDI
3
Akai MPC 2500
Akai MPC 2500 Production & Groove
3
Avid Pro Tools
Avid Pro Tools DAW Software
2
Akai MPC4000
Akai MPC4000 Keyboards, Synthesizers & MIDI
2
Ableton Live
Ableton Live DAW Software
2
Yamaha NS10 Studio Monitor
Yamaha NS10 Studio Monitor Active & Passive Monitors
2
Native Instruments Maschine
Native Instruments Maschine Production & Groove
2

Community setups

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Gear IQ 965

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Gear IQ 89

1 alternative for Akai MPC 2000, curated by the Equipboard community.

Akai MPC 2000XL

$490.00

Vintage or Discontinued newer high-end alternative

The same as an original 2000, but with added features like time-stretch and auto-chop. It even has its own updates for the system.

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