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Description

Unleashing unparalleled power and creativity, the Akai MPC4000 is not just a percussion sampler; it’s a comprehensive production workstation, designed to elevate your music creation experience. At its core is the Z-96 sampling engine, working in tandem with a high-performance Intel CPU, to deliver pristine 24-bit audio and sampling frequencies up to 96 kHz. Whether you’re crafting intricate beats or lush soundscapes, the MPC4000's robust capabilities ensure every sonic detail shines.

With its expandable RAM up to 512MB, the MPC4000 offers ample space for even your most ambitious projects. The inclusion of an 80GB hard drive means you can store a vast library of sounds and samples without breaking a sweat. The intuitive Q-Link knobs and note variation sliders provide real-time modulation control, allowing you to shape your sound with precision.

For the tech-savvy musician, the MPC4000’s USB ports offer seamless integration with the ak.Sys Network and Control System software, enabling easy connection to both Mac and PC. Its virtual sampling feature lets you stream playback directly from the hard disk, ensuring a smooth workflow from conception to completion. The four-channel 56-bit effects processor adds depth and texture, enhancing your tracks with professional-grade effects.

Ideal for both studio and live settings, the Akai MPC4000 is a powerhouse of versatility and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, this workstation is designed to inspire and empower your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Z-96 sampling engine with high-performance Intel CPU
  • 24-bit audio resolution with sample rates up to 96 kHz
  • 80GB hard drive and expandable RAM up to 512MB
  • Q-Link knobs and note variation sliders for real-time modulation
  • Four-channel 56-bit effects processor
  • Virtual sampling streams from hard disk
  • USB ports for ak.Sys Network and Control System integration
  • Large 320 x 240 multi-angle graphic LCD
  • Built-in CD recorder for archiving and sample loading

FAQs

What sampling capabilities does the Akai MPC4000 offer?

The Akai MPC4000 features a powerful Z¢96 sampling engine with 24-bit audio resolution and up to 96kHz sampling rate. It supports 64 voices or 32 voices at 96kHz, making it ideal for high-quality audio production.

How much memory does the Akai MPC4000 have, and can it be expanded?

The MPC4000 comes with 272MB of onboard memory, which can be expanded to 512MB. This allows for extensive sample storage and manipulation during music production.

What are the connectivity options available on the Akai MPC4000?

The MPC4000 includes balanced stereo XLR-1/4" TRS combo inputs, S/PDIF, Word Clock, 4 MIDI out ports, and USB ports. It also supports external SCSI connections and has an internal 80GB IDE hard drive for additional storage.

Can I use the Akai MPC4000 with a turntable?

Yes, the Akai MPC4000 has switchable phono inputs, allowing for direct connection to turntables, making it suitable for DJs and producers who integrate vinyl samples into their work.

What real-time control features does the Akai MPC4000 offer?

The MPC4000 provides 4 Q-Link knobs and 2 note variation sliders for real-time modulation control, allowing users to adjust parameters like filter cutoff, resonance, pitch, LFO rate, and depth on the fly.

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPC4000.

Features and functionality

  • The MPC4000 offers 2 Toslink cables for 8 additional I/Os, and 10 analog outs, which enhances connectivity options not found in newer models.

    Source
  • The MPC4000 features a z-sampler, noted as the last high-quality sampler from Akai, offering superior sound depth compared to newer models.

    Source
  • It boasts a 960 parts per quarter note resolution and supports a 12/22-24/96 sample rate, contributing to its sonically superior reputation.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners report the MPC4000 as being more stable and comfortable than newer models, particularly noting that it rarely crashes compared to the MPC X.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MPC4000 can handle complex setups with multiple MIDI channels and synths without sync issues, making it ideal for intricate live performances.

    Source
  • The MPC4000 is described as ideal for users seeking a "big" MPC experience with extensive features, making it suitable for complex studio setups.

    Source
  • Ideal for users comfortable with hardware repairs and modifications, offering a rewarding learning experience and potential new skills.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Ak.sys software is specifically available for the MPC4000, providing additional control and integration options that newer models might lack.

    Source
  • For those using modern machines, running the Aksys software through VirtualBox with Windows XP is a recommended workaround for compatibility issues.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users note that while the MPC4000 lacks audio tracks, it excels in handling large amounts of keygroups and MIDI tracks more efficiently than newer MPCs.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report that screen replacement is straightforward, and the 8-output card and RAM can be upgraded, enhancing its long-term usability.

    Source
  • Owners often need to reseat the motherboard and replace components like the power supply, pad sensors, and FX card, which can be costly and sourced internationally.

    Source
  • Mastery of soldering can address 95% of potential hardware issues, significantly reducing repair costs.

    Source

Build quality

  • Input/output ports, switches, and potentiometers can be unreliable if not tested thoroughly before purchase.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A reasonable price for a working unit is around $500, but repair costs can escalate depending on parts availability and condition.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Akai MPC4000

soundonsound.com

The Akai MPC4000 is a powerhouse of a music workstation, boasting advanced sampling and sequencing capabilities that surpass its predecessors. Its 24-bit/96kHz sampling, robust sequencer, and intuitive interface make it a formidable tool for music production. However, its high price and competition from cheaper, flexible software solutions make it less appealing for new users. While it excels in live performance reliability, some OS stability issues and a lack of standard digital connections may deter potential buyers. The MPC4000 is a solid choice for dedicated enthusiasts who value hardware's tactile benefits.

Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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way_millennium

Best of both worlds

This is a Really great MPC, it gives you the Big drum machiine feel, with a vintage/digital sound. The love child of all of the previous MPC's of it's time. I got it into it on the word of Dr. Dre boasting so hard about the sound and how great the MPC 3000 was. So I figured lets jump into the future with new digital and built on sampling direct from CD capabilities. This is an AWESOME piece with adat in/out as well as Analog. Pure Heaven. If you Mod it you can also have a Solid State drive put in. This is a Classic sampling Drum Machine with great flexibility. I even play my sampled piano sounds from a keyboard controller while recording and playing back drum machine sounds! Now how great is that... in true CD full .WAV quality and not mp3 sounds. Go Big or Go home...lol.

morten_vammen

HUGE

Use it for the sequencer to kill screen fatigue - big nice sampler, rock solid.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kanye West uses Akai MPC4000

Kanye West

Rapper, Music Producer

Sunday Service Choir

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Kanye West is seen with an Akai MPC 4000.

See how Gustavo Cerati uses Akai MPC4000

Gustavo Cerati

Singer, Guitarist

Soda Stereo

...
Verified via Photo

Gustavo Cerati used the Akai MPC4000 during the "Siempre es Hoy" tour, as shown in the user-uploaded photo.

See how Madlib uses Akai MPC4000

Madlib

Rapper, Music Producer

Madvillain

...
Verified via Stonesthrow

"Are you still recording all analogue? M: It's a mixture. I keep my jazz analogue. But it depends. I mean, I still use my SP-12 and I've got an MPC-4000, but what I like the most is my little 303. A $200 machine, and I've done everything on that. So that shows you that you don't need all of this other stuff. "

See how RZA uses Akai MPC4000

RZA

Rapper, Music Producer

Wu-Tang Clan

...
Verified via Photo

"RZA At The Studio With The MPC4000 And 3 Emus On The Wall

See how Peter Gabriel uses Akai MPC4000

Peter Gabriel

Singer, Keyboardist

Genesis

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video tour of Gabriel's writing room at his Real World Studios, engineer Dicky Chappell is showing the camera man around the main work space. An MPC 4000 (identifiable by the blue pads, knobs, and sliders) is visible in the foreground for a good minute or so from the 3:11 mark onward.

See how Just Blaze uses Akai MPC4000

Just Blaze

Music Producer

Roc-A-Fella Family

...
Verified via Vimeo

At the Red Bull Music Academy interview Just Blaze says he used a MPC 4000 at 01:00:57.

See how Q-Tip uses Akai MPC4000

Q-Tip

Rapper, Music Producer

A Tribe Called Quest

...
Verified via Future Producers

Used for The Renaissance, as stated in his January 2008 Remix interview. Transcripts can be found at the Future Producers forums (linked) and this Prince.org forum.

Q-Tip goes even further with aural textures than he did on Open, trying numerous methods to get to the sound he hears in his head. “The MPC3000 has been his main workhorse,” [recording engineer Blair] Wells says, “but there was a period where he went back to the [E-mu] SP-1200 for obvious tonal reasons. He's tried the MPC4000 and the 1000, and some of the Roland boxes like the Fantom [X-series workstation] with the drum pads, to rework his samples.”

See how Havoc uses Akai MPC4000

Havoc

Rapper, Music Producer

Soul Assassins

...
Verified via YouTube

In this interview Havoc responds to Rosenberg's question about gear used these days around 1:40 "...I'm working with the Pro-Tools of coarse...the MPC 4000...."

See how Prefuse 73 uses Akai MPC4000

Prefuse 73

Music Producer

Risil

...
Verified via Facebook

You could obviously tell that the equipment is Akai's Professional MPC 4000 because you could see the name on the equipment itself. And you know it's "Prefuse73" because he has his tag/logo on the MPC 4000. By the looks of the photo, I think he uses the MPC 4000 in his studio. - the image was uploaded in 2013.

See how Mannie Fresh uses Akai MPC4000

Mannie Fresh

Rapper, Music Producer

Cash Money Millionaires

...
Verified via YouTube

Mannie Fresh using the MPC 4000 in the studio (00:24)

See how Large Professor uses Akai MPC4000

Large Professor

Rapper, Music Producer

Zulu Nation

...
Verified via Photo

Large Professor is shown using the Akai MPC4000 in a photo provided by Stopthebreaks.

See how Paper Diamond uses Akai MPC4000

Paper Diamond

Music Producer

Pnuma Trio

...
Verified via YouTube

When asked what tools he uses to produce, at 0:15 into this video Paper Diamonds says he owns an Akai MPC4000.

Album Usage

The Akai MPC4000 has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai MPC4000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Akai MPC 3000 Keyboards, Synthesizers & MIDI
5
Roland AIRA TR-8
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3
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3
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3
Behringer RD-8
Behringer RD-8 Drum Machines
2
Serato DJ Pro
Serato DJ Pro DJ Software
2
Akai MPC60
Akai MPC60 Production & Groove
2
Yamaha NS-10M
Yamaha NS-10M Active & Passive Monitors
2
Akai MPC 2000
Akai MPC 2000 Keyboards, Synthesizers & MIDI
2
Apple Logic Pro
Apple Logic Pro DAW Software
2

Community setups

Show yours
noisengineer

noisengineer

Gear IQ 196

noisengineer

noisengineer

Gear IQ 196

noisengineer

noisengineer

Gear IQ 196

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