MPC Studio offers you different views that you have to switch between frequently. At first, even simple things like finding a sample via the integrated browser and loading it onto a pad were a bit annoying. Then when you launch the app, you’re confronted with a somewhat confusing interface.
Download the software, install, connect the controller via the included USB cable and everything is ready to go. Having said that, you do get off to a stress-free start here. At some moments I found the software not particularly intuitive. In fact, I had to do a lot of trial and error as well as reading up. I miss this aspect here, because first you have to get to grips with the software and the interaction with the controller. You could figure out the concept in no time, and start having fun with it quickly. I can’t help but compare the MPC Studio to the classic models, that were designed for simplicity. And that certainly requires a certain amount of familiarisation and a learning curve. The software’s many functions also mean that the MPC Studio is very complex compared to the “good old” MPCs because of the possibilities it offers. An audio interface will give you multiple inputs and outputs. The computer’s headphone output might be enough for you in that scenario. And even the latter you could – theoretically – do without when you’re on the road. MPC Studio provides you with a complete package to create entire tracks without additional hardware or software – apart from the computer and an audio interface, of course. An integral part is, of course, the extensive possibilities to arrange, sequence and mix tracks. External plug-ins in VST and AU format are also available.
In any case, the software provides you with most of the functions of a DAW and also includes some effects and virtual instruments. Unfortunately, I was not able to try this out. Using the MPC2 software as a plug-in under Ableton Live didn’t work for me, maybe this was fixed in the new update. Shortly I finished this review, a new update appeared.
The version number I had for this review was 2.10. MPC Studio only works in combination with the corresponding software, available for both Windows and macOS.
Akai MPC Studio rear panel MPC2 Desktop Software
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