STORY / ID 3438
The Akai MPC series and hip-hop production
The Akai MPC series began with the MPC60, released on December 8, 1988 by Roger Linn and Akai, pairing sampling and sequencing through a 4x4 grid of pressure-sensitive pads. Documented users of MPC models include DJ Shadow, who used an MPC60 MkII to make 'Endtroducing.....'; J Dilla, known for disabling his MPC's quantize function; and Kanye West, who used an MPC2000XL in a 2010 VMA performance.
The Akai MPC series originated from a collaboration between American engineer Roger Linn, previously known for the LM-1 and LinnDrum drum machines, and the Japanese manufacturer Akai. David Cockerell led the circuit-design team, while Akai handled production engineering. Linn reportedly aimed for an interface intuitive enough that users would not need to read the manual.
The original MPC60 was released on December 8, 1988, retailing for approximately $5,000. Its key innovation was a 4×4 grid of pressure-sensitive rubber pads replacing switches and buttons, combining sampling and sequencing in a single unit. Due to the cost of memory at the time, the MPC60 limited individual samples to a maximum of 13 seconds. It also featured two control knobs, an LCD screen, and floppy-disk based storage.
The MPC60 was followed by the MPC60 MkII and later the MPC3000, with exact release years for these successors undocumented. An MPC2000XL model also exists.
DJ Shadow used an MPC60 MkII to create his entirely sample-based 1996 album ‘Endtroducing…..’. J Dilla is known for deliberately disabling the quantize (grid-snap) function on his MPC to create a distinctive, deliberately “off-kilter” rhythmic feel; his personal MPC unit was held at the Smithsonian as of 2014. Kanye West (Ye) used an MPC for compositions on his 2004 album ‘The College Dropout’ and performed using an MPC2000XL at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards.