Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Akai MPC60II is a classic powerhouse in the realm of music production, designed for producers and beat-makers who appreciate the fusion of vintage charm and robust functionality. Released as an evolution of the original MPC60, this iconic drum machine and sampler is celebrated for its role in shaping the sound of the late '80s and '90s hip-hop and electronic music scenes. The distinctive 12-bit sampling engine delivers a warm, punchy sound that continues to captivate artists seeking that authentic old-school vibe.

Equipped with an intuitive interface, the MPC60II offers users 16 velocity-sensitive pads for dynamic rhythm creation. Its comprehensive sequencing capabilities allow for intricate layering and arrangement, making it a favorite among seasoned producers for crafting complex beats with ease. The built-in floppy disk drive provides classic storage options, adding to its nostalgic appeal while maintaining functional utility for those who prefer a tactile, hands-on approach to music creation.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a vintage gear enthusiast, the Akai MPC60II delivers a unique blend of history and performance, ensuring it remains a sought-after instrument in the modern studio.

Key Features:

  • 12-bit sampling engine for warm, vintage sound
  • 16 velocity-sensitive pads for dynamic beat-making
  • Comprehensive sequencing capabilities
  • Built-in floppy disk drive for classic storage
  • Intuitive user interface for straightforward navigation
  • Authentic retro appeal for vintage gear enthusiasts

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model MPC60II Integrated MIDI Sequencer and Drum Sampler
Finish Grey
Year 1991 - 1994
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 main features of the Akai MPC60II?

The Akai MPC60II features an integrated MIDI sequencer and drum sampler with 16 velocity-sensitive pads, 16-voice polyphony, and MIDI I/O. It is renowned for its robust sampling capabilities, making it a classic choice for music production.

Is the Akai MPC60II suitable for modern music production?

While the Akai MPC60II is a vintage piece of gear, its iconic sampling and sequencing capabilities still make it a valuable tool for producers interested in classic hip-hop and electronic music sounds.

How does the Akai MPC60II connect to other equipment?

The Akai MPC60II connects via MIDI Input and Output, allowing integration with other MIDI-compatible devices, and it also features USB MIDI connectivity for modern setups.

Can the Akai MPC60II be used for live performances?

Yes, the Akai MPC60II can be used for live performances, offering real-time sequencing and sampling capabilities that are ideal for dynamic music production on stage.

Marlow Digs

Marlow Digs

Making a Hip Hop beat from Jazz records on the Mpc 60 II

Video thumbnail for Making a Hip Hop beat from Jazz records on the Mpc 60 II by Marlow Digs

Making a Hip Hop beat from Jazz records on the Mpc 60 II

Marlow Digs

Marlow Digs

Video thumbnail for My Struggle with the MPC 60 II - An Old 12 bit Sampler Workflow by Marlow Digs

My Struggle with the MPC 60 II - An Old 12 bit Sampler Workflow

Marlow Digs

Marlow Digs

Video thumbnail for MPC 60 II WHAT HAD HAPPENED WAS.. by DyReck Productions

MPC 60 II WHAT HAD HAPPENED WAS..

DyReck Productions

DyReck Productions

Video thumbnail for The Akai MPC60II (Quick Start Guide & Overview) by Syntaur

The Akai MPC60II (Quick Start Guide & Overview)

Syntaur

Syntaur

Video thumbnail for Making A Beat On The Akai MPC 60 II: "Frisco Lights"... by diggahertz

Making A Beat On The Akai MPC 60 II: "Frisco Lights"...

diggahertz

diggahertz

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPC BATTLES PART 1 -  MPC 60II VS MPC  X SE by MUSICTECHWORKS by CEDDMACK

AKAI MPC BATTLES PART 1 - MPC 60II VS MPC X SE

MUSICTECHWORKS by CEDDMACK

MUSICTECHWORKS by CEDDMACK

Video thumbnail for Akai Mpc 60 II making a beat with Rhodes samples by Marlow Digs

Akai Mpc 60 II making a beat with Rhodes samples

Marlow Digs

Marlow Digs

Video thumbnail for AkAI MPC 60 Mk2 QUICK REVIEW. WHICH IS BETTER MK1 OR MK2? by PPIC

AkAI MPC 60 Mk2 QUICK REVIEW. WHICH IS BETTER MK1 OR MK2?

PPIC

PPIC

Reviews

PROS

  • Simple and effective for pure sampling

  • Excellent timing and sound quality

  • Durable, suitable for touring

  • Aesthetic appeal, reminiscent of its era

  • Offers that crispy lofi punch

  • Can be upgraded or repaired affordably

CONS

  • Bulky and heavy, similar to a cash register

  • Lacks built-in filters and effects

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPC60II.

Value and pricing

  • Sellers report MPC60II units in excellent condition can fetch $2,500 to $3,000 if cleaned and presented well.

    Source
  • A unit in better condition sold for $700 recently, indicating condition greatly affects price expectations.

    Source
  • Recent market trends show MPC60II prices rising above $1,200, with fewer listings and diminishing condition quality.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MPC60II powers on reliably and allows navigation through screen options, as noted by an owner.

    Source
  • Some users prefer using the stereo out over the 8 outs for specific sound preferences or simpler setups when connecting to mixers.

    Source
  • Roger Linn's website sells chips for firmware upgrades, allowing users to update to the latest version themselves.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • DJ Premier's famous setup included the MPC60II with S900/S950, pivotal in 1990s hip-hop production.

    Source
  • The unique sound associated with the MPC60II, often described as having a "crunch," is largely due to the sampling of classic drum breaks like Five Stairsteps' "Don’t Change Your Love."

    Source
  • The 3.10 firmware update adds up to 54 seconds of sampling and stereo sampling emulation by syncing two mono samples.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners unfamiliar with Akai's history found the brand's legacy surprising, dating back to 1946 with its music division starting in 1984.

    Source
  • The new OS update is noted to significantly improve usability, making the MPC60II more tolerable for modern production needs.

    Source
  • The sequencer on the MPC60II/3000 is praised for its precise rhythm capture, especially with unquantized recording, unlike the 2000xl.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MPC60II is noted for limited options compared to the 3000, such as less sample memory and outdated storage formats.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Akai/Linn MPC60 II (SOS Nov 91)

muzines.co.uk

The Akai MPC60II shines as a comprehensive all-in-one tool, seamlessly blending sequencing, sampling, and drum machine functionalities into a robust unit. Its intuitive layout, extensive MIDI capabilities, and versatile sequencing options make it a standout for musicians seeking a powerful workstation without diving into computer-based setups. The machine's sampling abilities allow for personalized sound libraries, complemented by a decent stock of onboard samples. However, the lack of internal memory retention, requiring sound reloading upon each power-up, may frustrate some users. Despite minor drawbacks, its price drop and reliable performance mark it as a worthy investment for serious producers.

positive
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
truffleshuffle

Beige is beautiful

I prefer the ii because i feel it is aesthetically closer to the era from which it came. I got mine looking crusty for $200. Another $100 in parts and a little soldering later, i have that crispy lofi punch I was after. Love this thing. I would only sell it if I got an SP1200.

dominic_toone

Ultimate Beast.

Great timing, Great sound, Rock Solid. You don't want another sequencer.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Prince uses Akai MPC60II

Prince

Guitarist, Bassist

Prince

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo taken in his personal studio, Prince is seen using the Akai MPC60II.

See how Dr. Dre uses Akai MPC60II

Dr. Dre

Rapper, Music Producer

World Class Wreckin' Cru

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:15, Dr. Dre is seen using an Akai MPC 60-II.

See how J Dilla uses Akai MPC60II

J Dilla

Rapper, Music Producer

Slum Village

...
Verified via Photo

Nodfactor re-publishes an article from a February 2006 edition of Scratch magazine where Alvin “Aqua Boogie” Blanco interviews J-Dilla. Aqua Boogie asks what equipment did J-Dilla start with, to which he replies “I started with the SP-12 then moved to the SP-1200 and then shortly after that the MPC-60, then the MPC-62, then the MPC3000 and I’ve been on the MPC 3000 ever since then. I’ve tried other samplers but the 3000 is best for me for what I like to do.”

See how MF Doom uses Akai MPC60II

MF Doom

Rapper, Music Producer

Madvillain

...
Verified via Photo

In this user-uploaded photo, MF Doom's Akai MPC60II is visible, highlighting its role in his production setup.

See how DJ Shadow uses Akai MPC60II

DJ Shadow

Music Producer, DJ

Nite School Klik

...
Verified via Tapeop

”When I first started using my MPC-60 Mach II back in early '92 it was so new. No one was using them.”

See how DJ Premier uses Akai MPC60II

DJ Premier

Music Producer, DJ

Gang Starr

...
Verified via YouTube

An MPC 60 II can be seen in the back at the beginning of this video shot at Preemo's home studio. His use of the 60 is common knowledge.

See how Just Blaze uses Akai MPC60II

Just Blaze

Music Producer

Roc-A-Fella Family

...
Verified via Vimeo

In this video with Red Bull Music Academy,m Just blaze says he used an MPC 60 II at 01:00:53.

See how DJ Quik uses Akai MPC60II

DJ Quik

Rapper, Music Producer

The Fixxers

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:11 in the video Dj Quik talks about favorite drum machines and his feelings on some of them "Battlecat actually introduced me to the MPC 60 when it first came out...and i wasn't ready for it 'cuz i wasn't ready for all of the Midi implementation because i was a SP-1200 man. But when i saw the MPC 60II it changed my life when it came to equipment..."

See how Hi-Tek uses Akai MPC60II

Hi-Tek

Rapper, Music Producer

G-Unit

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post, Hi-Tek showcases his Akai MPC60II, highlighting its role in his studio setup.

See how Ice Cube uses Akai MPC60II

Ice Cube

Rapper, Composer

Da Lench Mob

...
Verified via YouTube

The drum sound on the song is clearly made on the Akai MPC60 because it has a strong, punchy and clean sound like the drum sound on Dr. Dre's The Chronic album.

See how Dj Toomp uses Akai MPC60II

Dj Toomp

Music Producer

Zulu Nation

...
Verified via YouTube

At around 0:15 Dj Toomp in this interview talks about his MPC ''I did alot of hits on those, but I got a few songs that I did only by themselves, but then on alot of other songs too i still involved my MP.." as the camera takes a close up of his Akai MPC60II.

See how Adrian Quesada uses Akai MPC60II

Adrian Quesada

Guitarist, Music Producer

Black Pumas

...
Verified via Photo

Starting out the new year in the studio writing with some new colors in the palette. #rolandjuno #mpc60 #mpc60ii #electricdeluxrecorders “the mpc 60 is rare, but it still sounds crispy!”

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 MPC60II, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Akai MPC 3000
Akai MPC 3000 Keyboards, Synthesizers & MIDI
5
Akai MPC60
Akai MPC60 Production & Groove
3
E-mu SP-1200
E-mu SP-1200 Production & Groove
3
Akai S1000
Akai S1000 Audio Samplers
2
Akai MPC 2500
Akai MPC 2500 Production & Groove
2
Steinberg Cubase
Steinberg Cubase Music Software
2
Ensoniq ASR-10
Ensoniq ASR-10 Audio Samplers
2
Korg M1R
Korg M1R Synthesizers & Sound Modules
1

Community setups

Show yours
esp_elizarov

esp_elizarov

Gear IQ 80

1 alternative for Akai MPC60II, curated by the Equipboard community.

More Akai Production & Groove

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    simfonik
    simfonik

    Gear IQ 2532