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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

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.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings

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4 star
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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 Jermaine Dupri uses Akai MPC60II

Jermaine Dupri

Rapper, Music Producer

All Star Tribute

...
Verified via YouTube

at 2:15 seconds JD starts getting his hands on the legendary MPC 60 MKII.

See how Tom Lord-Alge uses Akai MPC60II

Tom Lord-Alge

Music Producer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

Akai MPC60 MkII is included in the equipment list.

See how Nick Hook uses Akai MPC60II

Nick Hook

Music Producer

Cubic Zirconia

...
Verified via Photo

in this photo we can see his mpc60ii..

See how DJ Yella uses Akai MPC60II

DJ Yella

Rapper, Music Producer

N.W.A

...
Verified via Photo

In a rare old photo DJ yella can be seen playing with a Akai MPC60II for showcase

See how Julio Bashmore uses Akai MPC60II

Julio Bashmore

...
Verified via Instagram

Humbled thinking about how many blunts this machine has had fired up in its presence

See how Noon uses Akai MPC60II

Noon

Music Producer

Grammatik

...
Verified via Photo

On the re-issue of Bleak Output (Bleak Output Max), Noon is seen with an MPC 60II in the picture.

See how Ayatollah uses Akai MPC60II

Ayatollah

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

Ayatollah can be seen making a beat with the 60II at 0:28 in the video.

See how DJ Magic Mike uses Akai MPC60II

DJ Magic Mike

Music Producer

The Ghetto Style DJ's

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Red Bull Music Academy lecture, DJ Magic Mike confirms at the 19:40 mark that he used the Akai MPC60II in his music production.

G

George Fields

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

1:00 George Fields is seen playing on the MPC60II

See how Deric “D‐Dot” Angelettie uses Akai MPC60II

Deric “D‐Dot” Angelettie

Music Producer

The Hitmen

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Deric “D‐Dot” Angelettie, he is shown using an Akai MPC60II. The post, captioned "#tbt - circa 1996… Trinidad," highlights a photo of Angelettie with the MPC60II during a trip to Trinidad with The Hitmen, suggesting its use in creating music at that time.

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 MPC 2500
Akai MPC 2500 Production & Groove
2
Akai S1000
Akai S1000 Audio Samplers
2
Steinberg Cubase
Steinberg Cubase Music Software
2
Ensoniq ASR-10
Ensoniq ASR-10 Audio Samplers
2
Roland Juno-106
Roland Juno-106 Synthesizers
1

Community setups

Show yours
esp_elizarov

esp_elizarov

Gear IQ 80

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

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