The MPC is and can be a standalone DAW machine (not maschine, get it?), flat out. A DAW REPLACEMENT FOR DEMOS AND SONG IDEASĪkai won’t come out and say it, but we will. Need some inspiration to get over that case of writer’s block? Let’s explore. So why are we recommending a product that’s almost been exclusively used for hip-hop production and DJ booths the past 30 years? Well, because what producers and DJs have come to learn since 1987 is that the MPC workflow is like none other, and that, while it’s traditionally been a sampler and drum machine mainstay, that workflow can actually be adapted by pop and rock songwriters looking for a way to break free of their current trappings. Today’s units (we’ll focus on the MPC One as it’s the most budget-friendly) all have touch interfaces and tactile controls that’ll come to you intuitively if you’ve ever used a smartphone or tablet before.

If you’re a singer/songwriter and have never even heard of the MPC, let alone touched a sampler or drum pads before, no worries. We even think it might be a killer DAW replacement for solo artists – which we’ll cover more in-depth in a future column.”Īnd that brings us up to speed. But we think the MPC One hits the sweet spot for those getting into programmed drums, sampling, and backing tracks. And if you need a few more perks, like phono inputs or a battery for true mobile production, check out the MPC Live II. “If you want a piece of gear that can serve as the centerpiece of your beat-making production hub, this could be your gateway drug, no questions. When we recently reviewed the new MPC One from Akai, we instantly fell in love.

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