The next generation of MPC standalone music production

Akai delivers once again — this time with a new MPC that completely outshines the Live II and the other models in the range. Over the years, Akai has proven itself as the expert in computer-free music production with its MPC series. The MPC Live 3 is no exception. Once again, they demonstrate their ability to continuously refine their designs in ways users didn’t even realize they were missing.

MPC Live 3 makes no compromises. It keeps the classic features people love while introducing groundbreaking new functions that take music creation to the next level.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the new features.

A legacy that changed music forever

Before diving deeper into the new MPC, it’s worth looking back at the earlier models to truly understand the difference.

When Akai and Roger Linn launched the MPC60 in 1988, music production changed forever. For the first time, you could sample, sequence, and play beats on one single machine — completely without a computer. The legendary 16 pads and the distinctive “groove” made the MPC60 the heart of 90s hip-hop and R&B.

In 1994, the MPC3000 arrived — the last model developed with Roger Linn. It took everything the MPC60 could do and made it faster, sharper, and more precise. It became a studio icon used by names like Dr. Dre, J Dilla, and Kanye West.

Later in the 90s and 2000s, the MPC2000XL and MPC4000 introduced digital precision, expanded memory, and hard drive and USB support. The MPC had evolved into a complete production tool — not just a drum machine.

In 2012, Akai attempted to combine the best of both worlds with MPC Renaissance — a hybrid that required a computer. But many users missed the freedom of the original standalone machines.

So in 2017, Akai returned to its roots with MPC Live and MPC X — the first modern MPCs with touchscreen, internal storage, and battery power. Professional music production without a computer was back.

Three years later, MPC Live II added built-in speakers, wireless connectivity, and CV/Gate outputs — the most mobile MPC ever.

And now, in 2025, Akai takes another giant leap forward with MPC Live 3.

With an 8-core processor, 8 GB RAM, the new MPC3 operating system, and expressive 3D pads, it’s faster, smarter, and more expressive than ever. Clip launching, stem separation, and USB-C audio streaming turn it into a complete music workstation — ready to produce, perform, and mix anywhere.

From the raw 12-bit sound of the MPC60 to the futuristic power of Live 3, Akai has maintained the same mission: to give musicians the freedom to create without limits — and without a computer.