For some operations, a mouse and monitor are far more inviting, but the transport and navigation controls are superb, the solid output of years of MPC evolution. The tilting blue screen is adequate, its 360 x 96-pixel resolution delivering retro small text and basic graphics. It's a hefty machine and it looks built for action.
I doubt anyone will be seriously disappointed with the Renaissance hardware, from its 16 pert and weighty encoders to the tough grey pads with coloured back-lighting. The Renaissance's back panel is awash with socketry and offers dual combi jack/XLR inputs, the traditional MPC phono inputs, stereo and assignable outputs on quarter-inch jack, and a generous four MIDI outs. Due soon, it's a trimmed down version that dispenses with the audio capabilities and multiple MIDI ports of the Renaissance.Ĭlaiming backwards compatibility with previous MPCs and largely consistent with their workflow, could the Renaissance be the gateway drug to lure more hardware freaks into a world inside the box? The Hardware
Those who don't need a new audio interface, or simply want to save a few bob, should check out the MPC Studio.
Not content with that, it serves as a 24-bit, 96kHz audio interface with multiple MIDI ports, too, while backlit pads, assignable Q-link controls and buttons galore offer maximum tactile gratification. The Renaissance has the look and feel of quality stand-alone kit, yet it functions exclusively as a controller for a software host running on your PC or Mac. If so, maybe the Renaissance marks the moment the empire struck back. I don't know if it grated when Native Instruments' Maschine appeared, applying MPC-like control to all those desirable software elements. But after a long reign and many hardware generations, not even Akai can resist the vast and constantly shifting world of computer-based production and its DAWs, virtual instruments and gargantuan sample libraries. It seems like Akai's MPC range has been around forever, revered for solid sequencing, a straightforward interface and no-nonsense sampling. The legendary MPC brand is reborn in a form that aims to marry its famous hands-on ethos with the unlimited possibilities of the software world.
0 kommentar(er)
