Equipment question?

[p.illa]

What do you guys think about the AKAI MPK 49? Can it really give you that MPC feel? Cuz I'm thinking on getting one since it's cheaper than an MPC and I'm already using a software for making beats.

YouTube - AKAI MPK49 Overview

[secondrop]

There's also the MPD32.

YouTube - MPD32

That might be closer to the MPC feel than the MPK49. Dunno your situation tho (whether or not you need the keys on the MPK), but the 32 is worth a look.

[R.Jay]

ayo, the pads on the mpd's arent really the same as the mpc's, they're alot stiffer, i got an mpd 24 and its my shit, but i cant really speak on behalf of everyone, but as far as the mpk, the pads felt the same as the mpd, but it also had maaad knobs and sliders and such, its really up to whether or not u need the keys, ive always found it annoying to reach over and use the pads, but thas jus me

[p.illa]

good looks on the replys fellaz, so why would you by an Mpd instead of an MPC, is it because of the price? I'm just curious cuz I'm tryna see wich one I should go with.

[secondrop]

For me, yes, it had a lot to do w/ the price. I started out w/ the M-Audio TriggerFinger and then the MPD24 before I was able to get the MPC 2000XL.

It also had to do w/ trying out a new way of making beats. Hardware vs. Software thing... Before the XL I was a Reason guy. The MPC's hold a lot of resale value so I was thinkin after I tried making beats on the MPC I could easily go back to Reason if I didn't like the MPC.

I stuck w/ the MPC and don't use Reason much anymore, but it could've gone either way. I guess I'm saying you should try out all your options to see what's worth it to *YOU*.

If you can afford an MPC, get one used off of Craigslist or EBay. You can most likely sell it for just about the same price you bought it if you aren't feelin it.

My $.02

[Downstroke]

I just rock a MPD16 with Reason, and if you configure it properly you can at least get the same feel as an MPC as far as hitting pads go. Obviously the MPD24 & 32 give you loads more options as far as sliders go, and in the hands of someone who knows what they're doing, can be just as effective as an MPC, but it's all down to preference.

I copped my 16 just as a stop gap before I copped an MPC, but I'm not in any major hurry to get one now, although I haven't ruled it out. Most people who've gone the MPC route tend to evangelise about them & I can see why, but if it's a question of dollars, there's a very strong arguement for sticking with software & a controller.