MPC 2 by AKAI is a full-featured DAW that transforms the MPC into a studio centerpiece, offering audio recording, MIDI sequencing, built-in instruments, and effects.
Purpose and Core Capabilities
MPC 2 is a complete music production platform that moves beyond the classic performance instrument to act as a full DAW. It provides unrestricted creative versatility with tools for recording, editing, and sequencing. The software is built to serve as the central hub of a production setup, integrating with external hardware and software instruments.
It includes powerful MPC plugin instruments such as Mellotron, Hype, and Solina, alongside world-class insert effects like AIR Stutter and Half Speed. The AIR Vocal Suite offers advanced pitch processing. This combination of instruments and effects gives you a wide sonic palette directly within the DAW, suitable for any genre.
Key Workflow Features
MPC 2 supports all third-party MIDI controllers with templates for popular models. Its Advanced MIDI Multi capability turns the MPC into the ultimate MIDI sequencing centerpiece, allowing simultaneous connection and routing of class-compliant USB keyboards, MIDI interfaces, and USB-to-CV modules. Deep internal MIDI routing works across tracks and to any compatible synth, drum machine, or sound module.
Multitrack recording is supported, and the software offers resizable faders, an adaptive channel strip, a dedicated audio track editing window, and a resizable waveform view. These tools provide surgical control over audio, while real-time time-stretch and pitch-shifting let you creatively manipulate any source material, from chopped vocals to drum loops.
Built-in Instruments and Effects
New AIR virtual instruments are built directly into the DAW, including AIR TubeSynth, AIR Bassline, and AIR Electric. These add classic analog-style sounds for bass, keys, and synth leads. Additionally, the MPC plugins DrumSynth and Mother Ducker sidechain effect are included, expanding drum design and mixing possibilities.
The included Extended Factory Library offers over 20GB of content covering all popular modern genres. From hip-hop and trap to EDM and pop, this library provides a vast selection of sounds and loops to start any production. Having these sounds and tools packaged together streamlines the creative process from idea to finished track.
Practical Applications
MPC 2 shines as a production powerhouse for beat-making and full-track arrangement. Use the MIDI sequencing and routing to connect all your hardware gear into a cohesive setup. The audio track recording and editing features handle vocals, guitars, or any external sound source, while time-stretch and pitch-shift tools allow for creative sample manipulation.
The built-in instruments and effects mean you can produce complete tracks without additional plugins. For live performance, the MPC integration and controller templates provide tactile control. Whether you are a producer, beatmaker, or performer, MPC 2 offers a comprehensive environment for music creation.
Key features
- Full-featured DAW with advanced audio track recording
- Supports all 3rd party MIDI controllers with templates
- Advanced MIDI Multi for routing and sequencing
- Built-in AIR instruments: TubeSynth, Bassline, Electric
- MPC plugins: DrumSynth and Mother Ducker sidechain effect
- Over 20GB factory library covering modern genres
- Real-time time-stretch and pitch-shifting
Best for
Best for producers and beatmakers who want a full DAW centered on the MPC workflow, especially those with external MIDI gear needing deep routing, and who value built-in instruments and a massive genre-spanning sound library for versatile music production.