Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (49)
$2,299.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (12)
$1,699.00
Amazon
4.2 (158)
Reverb
5.0 (30)
$1,489.44 New
$782.00 Used
Thomann
$1,769.00

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Akai Professional MPC X". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the full potential of your musical creativity with the Akai Professional MPC X. This state-of-the-art standalone sampler/sequencer is rich with features that echo the iconic original, yet has been upgraded to meet the demands of today's musicians. Whether you're a live performer or a studio genius, the MPC X gives you a robust control center for your analog synths and drum machines. This is no ordinary piece of gear, it's a game changer for your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads to create dynamic beats
  • A generous 16GB of onboard storage for saving and loading samples
  • Large 10.1" multi-touch display for easy navigation and control
  • Two MIDI ins and four MIDI outs for versatile connectivity
  • Eight configurable CV/Gate outputs for controlling multiple devices
  • Standalone capability, making it a potential replacement for computers in your live setup.

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model MPC X Standalone Sampler / Sequencer
Finish Black
Year 2017 - 2025
Categories Drum Machines, Samplers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Pads 16 Pads
Polyphony 8 Voices

FAQs

Is the Akai Professional MPC X suitable for standalone music production?

Yes, the Akai Professional MPC X is designed for standalone use, featuring a built-in audio interface and powerful sampling capabilities, allowing you to create music without needing a computer.

What connectivity options does the Akai MPC X offer?

The Akai MPC X provides MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and USB MIDI connectivity, making it versatile for integrating with various musical setups and external equipment.

How many pads does the Akai MPC X have, and are they velocity-sensitive?

The Akai MPC X features 16 velocity-sensitive pads, allowing for dynamic and expressive beat-making and performance.

Can the Akai MPC X be used with a computer?

Yes, the Akai MPC X can function in controller mode, allowing it to be used with a computer, providing additional flexibility and integration with DAW software.

What type of music production is the Akai MPC X best suited for?

The Akai MPC X is ideal for producers looking to create hip-hop, electronic, and sample-based music, thanks to its powerful sampling and sequencing capabilities.

AkaiProVideo

AkaiProVideo

MPC X - Product Overview Video

Video thumbnail for MPC X - Product Overview Video by AkaiProVideo

MPC X - Product Overview Video

AkaiProVideo

AkaiProVideo

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPC X FULL WORKFLOW GUIDE by SampleKings

AKAI MPC X FULL WORKFLOW GUIDE

SampleKings

SampleKings

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC X Demo and In-Depth Feature Overview by Gear4music Guitars

Akai MPC X Demo and In-Depth Feature Overview

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for AKAI Pro MPC-X Beat Producing (no talking) by Bonedo Synthesizers

AKAI Pro MPC-X Beat Producing (no talking)

Bonedo Synthesizers

Bonedo Synthesizers

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPC X Features Part 2: Automation | Reverb Demo by Reverb

AKAI MPC X Features Part 2: Automation | Reverb Demo

Reverb

Reverb

Reviews

PROS

  • Encourages a different, simpler approach to production

  • High-quality, cleaner sound compared to vintage MPCs

  • Built like a tank, durable design

  • FM DrumSynth provides unparalleled sound generation

  • Effective integration with DAWs as a centerpiece sequencer

  • Retains classic MPC features like direct sampling and sequencer style

  • Continually improves with firmware updates

  • Can add desired effects to samples manually

CONS

  • Stock sound banks considered subpar

  • Occasional crashes, especially when loading sounds

  • Screen brace difficult to manipulate for positioning

  • Requires some setup for seamless DAW integration

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The MPC X offers numerous physical buttons and dials, reducing the need for extensive menu navigation.

    Source
  • The added RAM in the MPC X SE enhances performance, making it faster when loading plugins and samples compared to the original MPC X.

    Source
  • The MPC X's 16 physical Q link knobs offer a more tactile experience, reducing the need for screen interaction versus other models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MPC X is more suitable for studio use with its robust features, while the MPC Live II offers better portability for beginners.

    Source
  • The MPC X is considered a standalone studio hub due to its extensive I/O capabilities, unlike older models like the MPC1000.

    Source
  • The MPC One+ is significantly more portable than the MPC X, ideal for use in tight spaces or on-the-go music production.

    Source
  • The MPC Live II's built-in speaker, while not top-tier, is appreciated for on-the-fly beat assessments, particularly highlighting its utility during breaks at work.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Many recommend starting with simple beat-making, focusing on learning drum programming and basic sampling before exploring advanced features.

    Source
  • The MPC One+ paired with a laptop battery is noted for superior portability compared to the MPC Live.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The MPC Bible is highly recommended for comprehensive guidance, providing detailed tutorials and insights across its 700 pages.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note a significant learning curve; it can take several months to become fully comfortable with the MPC X workflow.

    Source
  • Some users experience RAM limitations with the MPC X, especially when working extensively with audio edits.

    Source
  • Some users report that the MPC One is particularly well-suited for beginners focusing on drum programming due to its straightforward hardware.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Running the MPC in standalone mode inside DAWs like Logic has been described as transformative for some users.

    Source
  • The upcoming MPC 3 software, compatible with the MPC X, includes disk streaming, offering improved performance and revitalizing the device.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Akai MPCX

soundonsound.com

The Akai Professional MPC X is a powerhouse of connectivity and functionality, effectively merging various studio elements into a singular, standalone production hub. Its impressive array of inputs and outputs, including CV connections, makes it ideal for modular synth setups. The tactile interface, bolstered by a 10-inch touchscreen and customizable Q-Link encoders, enhances the user experience. However, its song mode and arrangement capabilities could be more intuitive, and its large size reduces portability compared to the MPC Live. Despite these drawbacks, the MPC X remains a compelling choice for both seasoned MPC users and those new to the platform, offering robust sampling and sequencing capabilities.

positive

Akai MPC X review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Akai Professional MPC X is a powerhouse, offering impressive standalone capabilities and DAW-like functionality, ideal for both studio and live use. Praised for its excellent audio engine and robust design, it excels in sampling, MIDI sequencing, and audio recording. The machine's responsiveness and touchscreen interface are standout features, though the lack of battery and limited audio track count in standalone mode are drawbacks. While it faces some RAM constraints and lacks certain DAW features like disk streaming, it remains a top choice for musicians seeking a versatile, self-contained production hub.

positive

macProVideo.com

macprovideo.com

The Akai MPC X is a formidable standalone music production powerhouse, blending the essence of traditional MPCs with modern DAW capabilities. With its 10.1” multitouch screen, extensive connectivity options, and comprehensive software, it caters to both seasoned producers and newcomers. While dust-attracting pads and limited audio inputs are minor drawbacks, the device's ability to function independently of a computer is its standout feature. The inclusion of CV/Gate outputs and versatile effects makes it particularly appealing to users of analog gear. Overall, the MPC X impressively bridges the gap between hardware and software, making it a worthy contender in the music production landscape.

positive
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 11 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
vegaschips

So glad they took the time to make it right!

So glad they took the time to make it right! I started back on the mpc2000, then got a 4000... then DAMN the game changed now its all computer based VST's etc.. ALONG came another "machine" that I kept trying to like, but no matter how much I tried to use another platform I just couldn't get into it. I had a couple year period where I tried all different softwares and sequencers, but nothing could do it for me (at that time it was the renaissance). I hit a slump UNTIL Akai finally redeemed themselves with this MPCX model! I feel right back at home with the natural MPC swing, Sequencer style and song mode! not to mention you can sample directly in to it like the old MPC2000/4000. They basically took the best of the digital world and merged it with the old hardware that everyone loved.

rawplaya

Потрясающая машина

Через мои руки прошло множество семплером и в основном я использую любой семплер в качестве отдельного инструмента для написания трека внутри теми средствами, что предлагает устройство. Это апогей студийного аппарата "все в одном" с потрясающим звуком и возможностями.

From Gear Setup
bklyn

The greatest MPC of all time

Back in the '90s, I used the MPC-60, MPC-3000, and MPC 2000 and the MPC X is hands down my very favorite. It sounds great and I never grown tired of it as it continues to get better with every firmware update. The MPC workflow has always been my favorite way of creating music and the MPC X never disappoints...

Artist usage

Add artist
See how John Mayer uses Akai Professional MPC X

John Mayer

Guitarist

John Mayer Trio

...
Verified via Imgur

In this screenshot from an Instagram Story posted by John Mayer, he shows his Akai Professional MPC X. He captions it "LP8."

See how Metro Boomin uses Akai Professional MPC X

Metro Boomin

Music Producer

So Icey Boyz

...
Verified via Photo

In the provided photograph, music producer Metro Boomin is clearly seen utilizing the Akai Professional MPC X, evidencing his use of this specific piece of musical equipment.

See how DJ Premier uses Akai Professional MPC X

DJ Premier

Music Producer, DJ

Gang Starr

...
Verified via YouTube

DJ Premier using the MPC X to make a beat in the studio

See how Pete Rock uses Akai Professional MPC X

Pete Rock

Rapper, Music Producer

Heavy D. & The Boyz With Friends

...
Verified via Twitter

Pete Rock mentions purchasing the MPC X

See how Zaytoven uses Akai Professional MPC X

Zaytoven

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Zaytoven is using an Akai MPC X Standalone Sampler/Sequencer. As expected, because he owns pretty much every MPC there is in existance.

See how Richard Devine uses Akai Professional MPC X

Richard Devine

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen at 0:48 in the video

See how DJ Jazzy Jeff uses Akai Professional MPC X

DJ Jazzy Jeff

Music Producer, DJ

The Roots

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Studio Tour: DJ Jazzy Jeff on His 'Creative Utopia'" by Sweetwater on YouTube, an Akai Professional MPC X is clearly visible in DJ Jazzy Jeff's studio setup at the 20:21 mark, located at the extreme left of the screen.

See how Fjaak uses Akai Professional MPC X

Fjaak

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

can be seen in this post from May 9, 2017

See how Ski Beatz uses Akai Professional MPC X

Ski Beatz

Music Producer, DJ

Ski Beatz And The Senseis

...
Verified via Instagram

Ski Beatz is using an MPC X in his studio.

See how Warren G uses Akai Professional MPC X

Warren G

Rapper, Music Producer

LBC Movement

...
Verified via Instagram

Warren G is seen using the Akai Professional MPC X, as evidenced by his Instagram post where he mentions revisiting his MPC 3000, highlighting his continued engagement with Akai products.

See how Araab Muzik uses Akai Professional MPC X

Araab Muzik

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

ARAAB MUZIK unboxing and using the Akai MPC X

See how Emile Haynie uses Akai Professional MPC X

Emile Haynie

Music Producer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

In this article it says Emile Haynie uses the Akai MPC X and is shown in one of the photos

Album Usage

The Akai Professional MPC X has been featured on the following albums:

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 Professional MPC X, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
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mwendell85

Gear IQ 49

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rawplaya

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Gear IQ 83

jasonxcummings

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Gear IQ 244

rawplaya

rawplaya

Gear IQ 269

rawplaya

rawplaya

Gear IQ 269

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