Akai Professional unveils MPC Sample: a compact, battery-powered sampler

Akai Professional has introduced MPC Sample, a standalone sampler bringing the MPC workflow to a portable, battery-powered format.

Inspired by the MPC60, the sampler lets producers sample, chop, and build beats from anywhere, without requiring a computer.

Designed for all skill levels, the device's portability makes it suited to mobile production. Its rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to five hours of continuous use, while the built-in microphone and speaker enable audio capture without additional gear.

The 2.4-inch full-colour display provides waveform editing for precise sample manipulation, and it has 2GB of RAM and 8GB internal storage, as well as micro SD expansion.

MPC Sample is built around 16 RGB-backlit velocity-sensitive MPC pads with poly aftertouch, as well as three real-time control knobs and an MPC parameter fader for immediate tactile control. Built-in features and effects enable deep sample manipulation and sound shaping.

Instant sample-chop mode automatically divides samples into playable sections, and the real-time timestretch and pitch adjustment features bring users more control over sound. Additionally, internal resampling with built-in effects helps users flip samples and build beats quickly.

The sampler includes four integrated effect engines with 60 effect types, including Pad FX, Knob FX, FlexBeat and Colour-Compressor. Over 100 factory kits are provided, across genres including hip-hop, house, drum and bass and lo-fi.

The device’s stereo inputs and outputs, MIDI connectivity, and USB-C support allow it to connect with hardware rigs, DAWs and smart devices. MPC Sample projects can also be opened directly in MPC3 software, for continued production on Mac or PC.

“MPC Sample represents a new chapter for the MPC legacy,” said Andy Mac, brand director at Akai Professional. “For decades, MPCs have been the foundation of modern music production, and now we’re opening the door wider than ever. MPC Sample gives anyone, whether they’ve never made a beat or they’ve been producing and sampling for years, the same iconic workflow that shaped entire genres, in a format they can take anywhere.”

Akai Professional’s MPC Sample is now available for £349 (€399 or $399) worldwide through authorised dealers and select music retailers.