Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (7)
$2,599.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (9)
$1,899.00
Amazon
4.3 (159)
$1,875.00 Used
Reverb
$1,150.00 30 available Used
Musician's Friend
$1,899.00
B&H
$2,499.00
Thomann
4.9 (9)
$1,925.00
Gear4Music
£1,699.00

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition: A Harmonious Blend of Power and Versatility

Unleash your musical genius with the Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition. This is not just a musical instrument, but a full-fledged music production powerhouse. With a stunningly intuitive and expansive interface, it's designed to inspire creativity, improve workflow, and deliver unparalleled performance.

The Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition is the epitome of sophistication and style. Its sleek design is complemented by an array of features that are as innovative as they are functional. The stand-out feature of this gem is its multicore processor that ensures seamless operation and high-speed performance.

Whether you're an established musician or an aspiring producer, the Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition is your perfect companion, helping you transform your musical ideas into masterpieces. Experience the power of immersive, tactile control with the 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive RGB pads. These pads provide an expansive range of colors that respond to your touch, allowing you to add a unique touch to your music.

Key Features:

  • Multicore processor for seamless operation and high-speed performance
  • 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive RGB pads for immersive, tactile control
  • Standalone functionality – no computer required
  • 10.1” full-color multi-touch display for intuitive control
  • Comprehensive set of inputs/outputs for maximum connectivity
  • On-board CV/Gate outputs for controlling modular gear
  • Includes a suite of classic studio quality MPC effects
  • Integrated user-expandable 2.5” SATA drive bay
  • Phono, instrument and line level inputs for sampling from almost any audio source.

Owner's manual

Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition User Manual

Product specs

Type Standalone Sampler/Sequencer
Internal Sound Engine Multicore system with plugin instruments, multi-sampled keygroup instruments, and drum expansion libraries
Screen 10.1" Multi-touch Display, Tilt adjustable
Pads 16 x Velocity/pressure-sensitive RGB pads, Full-sized
Other Controllers 16 x Touch-capacitve Q-links Knobs
Sounds 10GB of Premium Sound Content
Sequencer 128-track MIDI, 8-track Audio
Looper Yes
Sampling Advanced Sampling & Audio Editing/Recording
Analog Inputs 2 x XLR-1/4" Combo, 2 x 1/4" TRS, 1 x Dual RCA Stereo, 2 x 1/4" TS (instrument)
Analog Outputs 2 x 1/4" (master L/R), 6 x 1/4" TRS
Headphones 1 x 1/8", 1 x 1/4"
MIDI I/O 2 x 5-pin In, 4 x 5-pin Out, USB, Bluetooth
Other I/O 8 x 1/8" TRS (CV/Gate)
USB 2 x USB-A 3.0, 1 x USB-B 3.0
Bluetooth Yes
Pedal Inputs 2 x 1/4"
Storage 4GB of RAM, 48GB internal (10GB user storage), SD Card Slot, 2.5-inch SATA Drive Connector
Software Akai MPC 2
Compatibility VST compatible (controller mode)
OS Requirements - Mac OS X 10.10.5 or later
OS Requirements - PC Windows 8.1 or later
Power Source 19V DC power supply (included)
Height 3.4", 8.4" (display upright)
Width 19.9"
Depth 16.7"
Weight 12.5 lbs

FAQs

What are the key differences between the Akai MPC X and the MPC X Special Edition?

The MPC X Special Edition features a retro color scheme, doubles the RAM from 2GB to 4GB, and increases internal storage from 16GB to 48GB compared to the original MPC X.

Can the Akai MPC X Special Edition be used without a computer?

Yes, the MPC X Special Edition is a standalone unit, allowing you to create and produce music without the need for a computer.

What type of display does the Akai MPC X Special Edition have?

It features a 10.1" multi-touch display that is tilt-adjustable, providing an intuitive and flexible user interface for music production.

How many tracks can the Akai MPC X Special Edition sequencer handle?

The sequencer can handle up to 128 MIDI tracks and 8 audio tracks, offering extensive capabilities for complex music projects.

Is the Akai MPC X Special Edition compatible with VST plugins?

Yes, it is VST compatible when used in controller mode, allowing integration with a wide range of software instruments and effects.

What are the connectivity options available on the Akai MPC X Special Edition?

It includes 2 XLR-1/4" combo inputs, 2 USB-A 3.0 ports, 1 USB-B 3.0 port, and Bluetooth, among other options, facilitating diverse connections for audio and MIDI devices.

What power supply does the Akai MPC X Special Edition require?

It requires a 19V DC power supply, which is included with the unit.

Cookin Soul

Cookin Soul

MPC X SE . The best ever ? 🤔 Review & Beat making

Video thumbnail for MPC X SE . The best ever ? 🤔 Review & Beat making by Cookin Soul

MPC X SE . The best ever ? 🤔 Review & Beat making

Cookin Soul

Cookin Soul

Video thumbnail for MPC Cookup ep. 1 with Jermaine Dupri | Akai Professional by AkaiProVideo

MPC Cookup ep. 1 with Jermaine Dupri | Akai Professional

AkaiProVideo

AkaiProVideo

Video thumbnail for MPC X Special Edition | Akai Professional by AkaiProVideo

MPC X Special Edition | Akai Professional

AkaiProVideo

AkaiProVideo

Video thumbnail for MPC X SE - Dilla Style House Sampling & First Impressions by Ave Mcree

MPC X SE - Dilla Style House Sampling & First Impressions

Ave Mcree

Ave Mcree

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THE RETRO KING | Akai MPCX Special Edition

Lab & Legacy by @iamsight

Lab & Legacy by @iamsight

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MPC X VS MPC X SE - DOES 4 GIGS OF RAM EVEN MATTER?

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Why you Shouldn't Buy the MPC X Special Edition!

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mpc x special edition

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Sumito (Leon)

Video thumbnail for Akai MPC X Special Edition Features and Differences by Bit Bender Studio

Akai MPC X Special Edition Features and Differences

Bit Bender Studio

Bit Bender Studio

Video thumbnail for MPC X Special Edition (My thoughts) - VIRAL BEATS by VIRAL BEATS

MPC X Special Edition (My thoughts) - VIRAL BEATS

VIRAL BEATS

VIRAL BEATS

Reviews

PROS

  • Powerful in-house sampler for diverse sound creation

  • Programmable Q-Links enhance performance with parameter control

  • CV outputs ideal for modular synth sequencing

  • Increased RAM and storage for faster load times

  • Expansive plugin and expansion pack selection

  • 10" screen benefits users with visibility needs

  • Larger pads improve playability for finger drumming

  • Enhanced ergonomics with a tiltable screen

  • Unique vintage design with a modern twist

  • Notably faster plugin loading times compared to predecessors

CONS

  • Lacks per-step parameter locks for finer control

  • Song mode and disk streaming could be improved

  • No MIDI out over USB limits DAW integration

  • Significant size reduces portability

  • Customer support has room for improvement

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • The regular MPC X lacks upgraded RAM, storage, and access to the full suite of expansions that the SE offers.

    Source
  • Owners transitioning from Live to X SE note that the X SE's workflow feels more comprehensive, largely due to the increased number of buttons and Q-Links.

    Source
  • Owners transitioning from the MPC Live 2 to the MPC X SE find the additional buttons and cursor controls make navigation much quicker.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Some users recommend an MPC One+ for budget-conscious buyers, but consider the X SE a worthwhile investment for advanced production needs.

    Source
  • Some users find the MPC X SE slow for professional environments compared to DAWs like Pro Tools, though it serves well for home and hobbyist production.

    Source
  • The increased RAM and storage boost stem sampling performance, making it more efficient for complex projects.

    Source

User experience

  • The 8 outputs on the MPC X SE are praised for enhancing sample chopping capabilities, providing more flexibility in production.

    Source
  • One owner reported receiving a defective unit that couldn't find the audio device, highlighting potential quality control issues.

    Source
  • The tilting screen reduces neck fatigue by allowing comfortable viewing angles, a feature particularly appreciated during long production sessions.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The X SE lacks a clickable jog wheel, instead featuring a D-pad with an enter button, similar to older MPC models.

    Source
  • The text underline for each Q-Link lets users deactivate the right panel, improving note editing visibility without cropping the end of the bar.

    Source
  • The inability to assign third-party Q-links limits customization, which might discourage some users from choosing the MPC X SE.

    Source
  • The OLED Q-links and mini display significantly enhance workflow, allowing users to adjust settings quickly without menu diving, especially in low-light settings.

    Source
  • Dedicated buttons for functions like "sampler" and "pad mixer" streamline workflow, speeding up production by over 50% for some users.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The limited edition MPC X SE may see a price increase due to its special edition status, but it has been seen for as low as $2,300.

    Source

Build quality

  • Users appreciate the X SE's build, noting its large size and robust appearance, suggesting it might be more durable than previous models.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • MPC OS 3.0's darker graphics are easier to view on the larger X SE screen, reducing eye strain compared to the Live 2.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Akai MPC X Special Edition review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Akai MPC X Special Edition emerges as a standout update, boasting enhanced RAM, storage, and a nostalgic design that appeals to long-time fans. With an impressive suite of included plugins and a tactile interface, it excels in versatility for both studio and live settings. However, its flagship price and substantial size may deter budget-conscious or space-limited musicians. Overall, it's a powerful tool for those ready to invest in their music production journey.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jon Bellion uses Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition

Jon Bellion

Singer, Rapper

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Jon Bellion - The Making of Kid Again (New Unreleased Song)" by JustJoshinn on YouTube, Jon Bellion is seen using the Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition from 1:54 onwards to chop the guitar and drums.

See how Cookin' Soul uses Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition

Cookin' Soul

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

featured in this April 26, 2023 video

See how Sarah, The !llstrumentalist uses Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition

Sarah, The !llstrumentalist

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "My Music Production & Live Stream Studio Tour 2025!" by Sarah, The !llstrumentalist, the MPC X SPECIAL EDITION is listed in the description as part of the studio gear used.

Album Usage

The Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition 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 Special Edition, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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