Closed systems have many plus points — they allow focus on features, maximum compatibility, speed of implementation, and minimal support issues. But sometimes, that closed ecosystem is begging to be opened up to the outside world. And with the release of Akai Professional’s MPC 2.2 update, the software becomes fully MIDI mappable to all those controllers that have long wished to be more than they are.
First the words:
AKAI PROFESSIONAL® OPENS UP POWERFUL MPC PLATFORM TO ALL HARDWARE OWNERS WITH RELEASE OF MPC 2.2 UPDATE
New update enables owners of non-MPC hardware to control MPC 2 Software, introduces other creative workflow features including Generate Random Events, Humanize.
Cumberland, RI USA (April 16, 2018) — Akai Professional today announced the release of MPC Software 2.2. This major software and firmware update for MPC 2 introduces a number of user-requested features and functionality enhancements. As a result, this update is highly recommended for all current MPC X, MPC Live and MPC Software 2 owners.
NEW FEATURES INCLUDE:
- MIDI Learn (Global): MPC Software can now be controlled by external MIDI surfaces other than the MPC, such as keyboards and pad controllers. This includes 3rd-party products.
- MIDI Learn (Project): Automatable parameters (volume, pan, etc.) can now be controlled by external surfaces such the faders on a MIDI mixer or rotary knobs on keyboard controllers.
- Humanize: Users can now add randomization to the timing or velocity of MIDI events. This is great for grooves that are slightly “out-of-the pocket.”
- Generate Random Events: MPC can generate random melodic and drum patterns across the timeline
- Many more workflow and stability enhancements
“MPC 2.2 advances the user experience in amazing new ways,” said Dan Gill, Akai Pro Product Manager. “The MIDI Learn and MIDI Control features are now available in both standalone and controller modes, introducing all sorts of new workflow and creative possibilities.”
This update is free for existing MPC 2 Software owners. Upgrades from MPC Software version 1 start at $99.99, new purchases from $199.99.
For complete details on new features found in 2.2, visit: http://www.akaipro.com/pages/mpc-2.2-desktop-software-firmware-update
For more information, visit akaipro.com.
You should definitely read the above MPC specific page, but these are the controllers that are pre-mapped:
AKAI Professional:
Advance 25, Advance 49, Advance 61, APC Key 25, LPD8 Wireless, MPD218, MPD226, MPD232, MPK Mini (mkII), MPK225, MPK249, MPK261Alesis:
V25, V49, V61, Vmini, VI25, VI49, VI61, VX49M-Audio:
Axiom AIR Mini 32, Code 25, Code 49, Code 61, CTRL49, Keystation 49 II, Oxygen 25, Oxygen 49, Oxygen 61Native Instruments:
Kontrol S49, Maschine Jam, Maschine Mikro MKI, Maschine MK1, Maschine MK3, Maschine Studio, Traktor Kontrol F1Novation:
Impulse 25, Impulse 49, Impulse 61, Launchkey 25, Launchkey 49, Launchkey 61, Launchkey Mini, Launchpad MK2
NOW EVERYTHING CAN BE AN MPC
OK, so it’s stretching the truth a little, because an MPC is so much more than the workflow. You only have to look at the way the JJ OS was embraced by the community. But now that the brain of the MPC is on the outside, Akai Pro has solidly reasoned that they can open up the MPC world to everyone, and generate a performer and producer focussed revenue stream from just about anyone who owns a controller with buttons. I notice that Ableton’s Push 1 and 2 are missing from that list though, but I imagine that they’ll be added.
MY GUT TWITCHES
It often does, and I trust it implicitly. And something is telling me that there’s more to come here. You don’t just open up an ecosystem and all the potential support issues to make a few quid. It’s not like inMusic will even feel the income that this will bring in. Games are afoot — mark my words.
SUMMING UP
MPC v2.2 is available now. At £199 (£99 upgrade from v1), it’s not a casual purchase, but for those wanting the MPC workflow with their preferred controllers, it’s the perfect way to get the MPC world in their lives. There is however a 7 day trial available for Mac and PC, that will help you decide.