US — The Verge
Exclusive details about Akai’s MPC Sample Key
Devices1 min read
Akai is building a new music device called the MPC Sample Key. The Verge has seen exclusive pictures that hint at what it can do, and the company plans to open-source its software.
A new keyboard-style music maker
Akai teased the MPC Sample Key on Instagram. The company said it plans to open-source the device's software, which means anyone can read and change the code. The Verge got exclusive images of the device. There is no word yet on its launch date or price.
Key facts from the images
- The keyboard has 25 keys. An early version of this story said 37, but the article corrected it.
- It has three context-sensitive encoders (knobs that change job depending on the menu) and a large main encoder.
- It has a dedicated pitch wheel and mod wheel.
- It has a built-in mic and speaker.
Drums to melodies
The original MPC Sample was built to chop up drum sounds. The new Key seems built for playing pitched samples, which are sounds played at different musical notes. It drops the chop button. In its place, it appears to have chord and arpeggiator buttons. An arpeggiator plays notes of a chord one after another, like a pattern.
Why it matters
The Key looks aimed at players who want to play melodies and basslines live, not just make beats. Open-source software could also let music fans build their own changes and tools for the device.
What to watch
Glossary
- MPC Sample Key
- A new Akai music device that looks built for playing melodies and chords on a keyboard.
- Akai
- A music gear company that makes samplers and drum machines, including the MPC line.
- Open-source
- Software whose code is shared publicly so others can read, copy, and change it.
- CV outs
- Connectors that send control signals to other devices, often modular synths.
- MIDI
- A common standard that lets music devices send notes and control data to each other.