akai professional mpc renaissance review

AKAI PROFESSIONAL MPC RENAISSANCE REVIEW SOFTWARE

Before we get into some of the specifics, let’s take a look at what Akai’s MPC Renaissance has to offer.

AKAI PROFESSIONAL MPC RENAISSANCE REVIEW SOFTWARE

Like I said, I’m a software production guy, so using the software as a visual reference to my creation is a must-have feature in my opinion. There’s definitely a learning curve when it comes to any MPC, but the integrated (and required) software with the Renaissance definitely helps put me in a familiar situation. Also, keep in mind that you can use the MPC software as a plugin within your favorite DAW, but I prefer the stand-alone method.Īdmittedly, being a first time MPC user, I still look at that big board of “buttons and knobs” in fear. Also, with the MPC software you’re getting a 9+ GB sound library that includes all of the classic sounds from the classic MPC3000 including plugin packs like The 809, The Bank, The Noise, and The Wub. But keep in mind, anything that you can do within the software with a mouse, can be done directly from the MPC Renaissance so you’re not losing any hardware usability. This allows you to make quick, on-the-fly edits to your programs, sequences, and tracks without dealing with the sometimes cumbersome navigation of a standard MPC. The powerful software interface really changes the MPC’s ease of use.

The best part is, when connected to a computer, you have the freedom to use the MPC hardware controls just as you would on some of Akai’s older MPC models, but that’s where the tradition ends. Coming from a software production background, I see this as a plus. This new model will not act as a stand-alone unit like MPC hardware in the past. What’s the trade-off? Well, in order to use the Renaissance, you’ll need to have a connected computer running the MPC software. The Renaissance will also function as a full-on audio interface with two XLR 1/4-inch combo inputs and even phantom power. The Akai Renaissance combines traditional (but updated) MPC hardware with a sleek and smooth software interface. Prior to now, an MPC has always looked like a giant intimidating board of buttons and knobs, but Akai has really changed things up with the new Renaissance model. I’ve always used software and MIDI controllers for my production needs, and up until now, that has been good enough. In all honestly, I’ve never been a big MPC type of guy, but this fine piece of hardware and it’s software integration has changed my opinion.īefore using the Renaissance, I had never touched an MPC before.

Over the last few months, I’ve had the opportunity to demo Akai’s MPC Renaissance.

Akai professional mpc renaissance review