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Description

Introducing the Akai MPC60, a groundbreaking innovation that revolutionized the music production landscape. Born from the collaboration between Akai and the legendary engineer Roger Linn, this Music Production Center is celebrated for its distinctive blend of powerful drum machine capabilities and intuitive interface. The MPC60's legacy is rooted in its pioneering approach to sampling and MIDI sequencing, drawing inspiration from iconic predecessors like the Linn 9000 and Sequential Circuits Inc. Studio 440.

Designed to meet the needs of both classic and contemporary music producers, the MPC60 offers a robust platform for crafting beats and sequences. Its 16 touch-sensitive pads provide an interactive, tactile experience, empowering musicians to express their creativity with precision. The unit's sampling prowess, facilitated by its 750 kB memory and 40 kHz sampling rate, allows for detailed and high-quality sound capture, making it a favorite among hip-hop and rap producers.

With its 16 voice polyphony, the MPC60 ensures rich, layered compositions, while the dual MIDI inputs and four MIDI outputs offer extensive connectivity for integrating with other gear. This versatility has made it a staple in the studios of artists like Trent Reznor, The xx, and DiViNCi, who have harnessed its capabilities to shape their unique soundscapes.

Whether you're a seasoned producer or an aspiring beat-maker, the Akai MPC60 stands as a testament to innovation and musical expression, offering a timeless tool to elevate your production game.

Key Features:

  • Developed in collaboration with Roger Linn
  • 16 touch-sensitive pads for dynamic interaction
  • 750 kB sampling memory with 40 kHz sampling rate
  • 16 voice polyphony for rich compositions
  • Dual MIDI inputs and four MIDI outputs for extensive connectivity
  • Influenced by Linn 9000 and Studio 440 design principles

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model MPC60 Integrated MIDI Sequencer and Drum Sampler
Finish Grey
Year 1988 - 1991
Categories Drum Machines, Samplers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Pads 16 Pads
Polyphony 16 Voices

FAQs

What are the standout features of the Akai MPC60's sound engine?

The Akai MPC60 features a 12-bit sampling engine known for its warm, punchy sound, which is particularly favored in hip-hop and electronic music production.

Is the Akai MPC60 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Akai MPC60 is equipped with 16 velocity-sensitive pads and robust MIDI sequencing, making it a reliable choice for live performances.

Does the Akai MPC60 integrate well with modern DAWs?

While the MPC60 is a classic piece of gear, it uses MIDI I/O for integration, which can be adapted to modern DAWs with appropriate interfaces, though it lacks direct USB connectivity.

How does the Akai MPC60 handle sample editing?

The MPC60 offers basic sample editing capabilities, allowing users to trim, loop, and assign samples to its pads, though its interface is more limited compared to modern samplers.

What is the polyphony of the Akai MPC60, and how does it affect production?

The Akai MPC60 has a polyphony of 16 voices, which allows for complex layering of sounds but may require careful management in dense compositions.

dvdborn

dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 1: Introduction

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC60 Section 1: Introduction by dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 1: Introduction

dvdborn

dvdborn

Video thumbnail for MPC 60 Beat 1 in 60 Beats by Beats By Spiveys Creations

MPC 60 Beat 1 in 60 Beats

Beats By Spiveys Creations

Beats By Spiveys Creations

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC60 Section 2: The Basics by dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 2: The Basics

dvdborn

dvdborn

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC60 Section 3A: Recording Sequences by dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 3A: Recording Sequences

dvdborn

dvdborn

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC60 Section 6 Sampling by dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 6 Sampling

dvdborn

dvdborn

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPC 60 - It's all about Swing! by 100 Things I Do

AKAI MPC 60 - It's all about Swing!

100 Things I Do

100 Things I Do

Video thumbnail for Making a beat from vinyl on the mpc 60 - Boombap Hiphop by Tommy Vamoz

Making a beat from vinyl on the mpc 60 - Boombap Hiphop

Tommy Vamoz

Tommy Vamoz

Video thumbnail for The History of The AKAI  MPC: Part 1 The MPC 60 by SampleKings

The History of The AKAI MPC: Part 1 The MPC 60

SampleKings

SampleKings

Video thumbnail for Making Beat on Akai MPC 60 mk1 | #mpc60 | by vubeatz

Making Beat on Akai MPC 60 mk1 | #mpc60 |

vubeatz

vubeatz

Video thumbnail for A few classic AKAI MPC disks by SynthMania

A few classic AKAI MPC disks

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC60 Section 3B Quantizing by dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 3B Quantizing

dvdborn

dvdborn

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC60 Section 4 Editing Sequences by dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 4 Editing Sequences

dvdborn

dvdborn

Video thumbnail for A QUICK MPC 60 REVIEW. WAS IT WORTH IT? by PPIC

A QUICK MPC 60 REVIEW. WAS IT WORTH IT?

PPIC

PPIC

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC60 Section 8: MIDI and Sync by dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 8: MIDI and Sync

dvdborn

dvdborn

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC60 Section 5 Song Mode by dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 5 Song Mode

dvdborn

dvdborn

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC60 Section 7: Disk by dvdborn

Akai MPC60 Section 7: Disk

dvdborn

dvdborn

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPC60.

Setup and maintenance

  • Turntables without built-in preamps need a mixer with at least a 3-band EQ for optimal sample adjustment before connecting to the MPC60.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MPC60's limitations, like 12-bit sampling, foster creativity and can help develop a unique gritty sound style.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MPC60's 12-bit sound is favored by some for its distinctiveness over newer models, but it lacks modern features like sidechain compression and quick sample processing.

    Source
  • MPC Live's sound is described as too clean compared to the MPC60's sought-after lofi crush sound.

    Source
  • Users express curiosity about how the MPC60 compares with the MPC3000 in terms of sound characteristics.

    Source

User experience

  • Vintage gear enthusiasts often recommend starting with an MPC2000XL for a balance of vintage feel and manageable learning curve.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MPC60 is large, expensive, and limited in features, but offers an unmatched classic sound that many purists value.

    Source
  • Owners note that the MPC60's unique lofi warmth is difficult to fully replicate with DSP plugins.

    Source

Other

  • Vintage MPCs may require frequent maintenance due to potential issues with pads, buttons, and audio connections, emphasizing the need for technical readiness.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • There is interest in the impact of the new time-stretching algorithm in MPC Live's recent software update.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Akai MPC60 (MT Apr 88)

muzines.co.uk

The Akai MPC60 emerges as a robust and versatile MIDI Production Centre, impressively combining a drum machine with a sequencer. With its sturdy build and portability, it excels in delivering crisp, clear samples and a user-friendly interface. Musicians will appreciate its 16-voice polyphony, responsive drum pads, and extensive sync capabilities. However, the absence of features like a SCSI port and the somewhat closed system may deter those seeking extensive connectivity and future-proofing. A few early software bugs were noted but are expected to be addressed. Overall, the MPC60 stands as a formidable tool for rhythm-driven music production in the late '80s, offering significant creative potential.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 14 Ratings

5 star
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damjan_dimitrovski

Used for

Very limiting yet a full package for some nice boom bap. Perfect pair with akai s900 or s950. Make sure to update to 3.1 or 3.15 OS (doubles the memory, improved workflow within the machine)

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jimmy Edgar uses Akai MPC60

Jimmy Edgar

Music Producer

...
Verified via Facebook

In a 2016 Facebook post, Jimmy Edgar shared that he uses the Akai MPC60 in his music production setup.

See how Martin Glover uses Akai MPC60

Martin Glover

Bassist, Music Producer

Killing Joke

...
Verified via Muzines

With these words Youth heaves himself to his feet and suggests that he takes me for a quick tour of the building before he gets back to work. First he shows me the DDA studio in the basement, which sports a Tascam analogue 24-track, Lexicons 480L and PCM70, an Akai/Linn MPC60, and Genelec and NS10 monitors. A visiting M1 is subjected to his derision, much to the amusement of the programmer. Upstairs he shows me the 16-track studio, home to a Tascam MSR16 and a Soundtracs PC series desk, and the small editing suite with its Macintosh and Soundtools digital editing. Finally there's the demo room, with a Tascam M312B desk, Atari, S1000, Midiverb II, SPX50D, NS10s', and, surprisingly, a DX7II. The latter instrument is being played by Jaz Coleman, who's making a gothic-sounding godawful racket together with Geordie Walker on electric guitar.

See how Para One uses Akai MPC60

Para One

Composer, Music Producer

TTC

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video at 1:33, Para One of L'Atelier and TTC shows his studio, including a Roland TR-606, for the process of making his second album 'Passion'.

See how Marley Marl uses Akai MPC60

Marley Marl

Rapper, Music Producer

Juice Crew

...
Verified via Dubspot Blog

the first installment of Marley Marl ‘Classic Recipes,’ he shows you how he produced the beat for the 1991 Grammy award-winning chart-topping single “Mama Said Knock You Out” by LL Cool J. He discusses the collaboration and the production process of the track, as well as methods and tools that were used, including the Akai MPC60 and E-Mu SP-1200, the preferred sampler

See how Mark Bell uses Akai MPC60

Mark Bell

Music Producer

LFO

...
Verified via Muzines

As cited in this Aug '91 interview w/ Music Technologies Magazine. Note: article only cites "MPC Electronics Music Percussion Computer", but in 1991, the MPC60 was the only MPC that had ever existed to that point. The MPC3000 and later MPC2000 didn't hit until years later. The MPC60II was released in 1991, but it was only a cosmetic body-shell update to the original 60, no meaningful sonic/functional differences, and also highly unlikely to have made it's way to the UK and into LFO's hands by the time interview was granted, months prior to publication.

See how Kid Rock uses Akai MPC60

Kid Rock

Guitarist, Rapper

The Twisted Brown Trucker

...
Verified via Detroit Free Press

AL SUTTON (White Room co-founder, engineer): We were the grunge, hard-rock studio. Bands came in with amplifiers, guitars and drums. And in walks this guy with a sampler and MPC60.

He started hanging out in the studio. We needed somebody with his skills in our camp. He could program and loop, and we needed to be a little more current in that way. We had a B-room that he basically took over, coming in midday and staying 'til 5 in the morning.

See how Bill Nelson uses Akai MPC60

Bill Nelson

Guitarist, Music Producer

Bill Nelson’s Red Noise

...
Verified via Soundonsound

In the middle of all this assorted kitsch stands Nelson's home studio gear, most elements of which are actually also well on their way to becoming objects of nostalgia, even if they don't quite qualify (yet) as kitsch. Centre stage goes to an Allen & Heath System-8 24-channel desk and a Fostex B16 16-track tape recorder. To the right of it is a keyboard rack with an Emu E4K (his master keyboard and main sampler), Yamaha DX7 MkI and Akai MPC60.

See how Michael Diamond (Mike D) uses Akai MPC60

Michael Diamond (Mike D)

Singer, Drummer

Beastie Boys

...
Verified via Amazon

In the Beastie Boys Book, in one of the essays about the recording of Check Your Head, Ad-Rock refers to "Mike's MPC60 sampling drum machine."

See how Cookin' Soul uses Akai MPC60

Cookin' Soul

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video by Cookin' Soul titled "Making classic Hip-Hop beats 🎹 MPC 2000XL - Lofi Boom Bap," the Akai MPC60 can be seen at the 0:18 mark, positioned next to the Akai MPC 2000XL. Although Cookin' Soul does not use the MPC60 in this particular video, it is known to be an integral part of his production setup.

See how Meat Beat Manifesto uses Akai MPC60

Meat Beat Manifesto

Music Producer

The Orb vs. Meat Beat Manifesto

...
Verified via Muzines

As listed in this 1993 interview on the Music Magazine Archive

See how Prince Paul uses Akai MPC60

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 KayKay uses Akai MPC60

KayKay

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 14:10, Kay shows her MPC 60.

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 MPC60, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

E-mu SP-1200
E-mu SP-1200 Production & Groove
6
Yamaha DX7
Yamaha DX7 Synthesizers
5
E-mu SP-12
E-mu SP-12 Keyboards, Synthesizers & MIDI
5
Yamaha NS10 Studio Monitor
Yamaha NS10 Studio Monitor Active & Passive Monitors
5
Lexicon 480L
Lexicon 480L Effects Processors
4
Roland JD-800
Roland JD-800 Synthesizers
4
Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb
Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb Effects Processors
4

Community setups

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resonancestudios

resonancestudios

Gear IQ 214

P

pierre_nic

Gear IQ 81

architecturemusic

architecturemusic

Gear IQ 79

1 alternative for Akai MPC60, curated by the Equipboard community.

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