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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
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What are the main features of the Akai MPC60II?
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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.
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Is the Akai MPC60II suitable for modern music production?
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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.
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How does the Akai MPC60II connect to other equipment?
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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.
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Can the Akai MPC60II be used for live performances?
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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.
Videos
Marlow Digs
Making a Hip Hop beat from Jazz records on the Mpc 60 II
Reviews
PROS
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Simple and effective for pure sampling
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Excellent timing and sound quality
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Durable, suitable for touring
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Aesthetic appeal, reminiscent of its era
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Offers that crispy lofi punch
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Can be upgraded or repaired affordably
CONS
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Bulky and heavy, similar to a cash register
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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
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Sellers report MPC60II units in excellent condition can fetch $2,500 to $3,000 if cleaned and presented well.
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A unit in better condition sold for $700 recently, indicating condition greatly affects price expectations.
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Recent market trends show MPC60II prices rising above $1,200, with fewer listings and diminishing condition quality.
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Features and functionality
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The MPC60II powers on reliably and allows navigation through screen options, as noted by an owner.
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Some users prefer using the stereo out over the 8 outs for specific sound preferences or simpler setups when connecting to mixers.
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Roger Linn's website sells chips for firmware upgrades, allowing users to update to the latest version themselves.
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Use cases and applications
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DJ Premier's famous setup included the MPC60II with S900/S950, pivotal in 1990s hip-hop production.
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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."
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The 3.10 firmware update adds up to 54 seconds of sampling and stereo sampling emulation by syncing two mono samples.
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User experience
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Owners unfamiliar with Akai's history found the brand's legacy surprising, dating back to 1946 with its music division starting in 1984.
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The new OS update is noted to significantly improve usability, making the MPC60II more tolerable for modern production needs.
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The sequencer on the MPC60II/3000 is praised for its precise rhythm capture, especially with unquantized recording, unlike the 2000xl.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings
116
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.
152
Artist usage
Add artist
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.”
In this user-uploaded photo, MF Doom's Akai MPC60II is visible, highlighting its role in his production setup.
”When I first started using my MPC-60 Mach II back in early '92 it was so new. No one was using them.”
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.
In this video with Red Bull Music Academy,m Just blaze says he used an MPC 60 II at 01:00:53.
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..."
In an Instagram post, Hi-Tek showcases his Akai MPC60II, highlighting its role in his studio setup.
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.
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai MPC60II, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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