Akai MPC Sample Key panel points to pitched sample playback

Akai has not said when the MPC Sample Key will launch or what it will cost. The Verge, which received exclusive images of the upcoming instrument, reports that its panel looks designed for pitched sample playback rather than for chopping up drum breaks.

Akai teased the device on Instagram earlier this week. It also said it plans to open-source the software, so that modders can hack it.

Built for pitched sounds

The Sample Key keeps much of the MPC Sample's control set. That includes three context-sensitive encoders and a large main encoder.

The layout points away from drum chopping, though. The "chop" button found on the MPC Sample is missing entirely from the Key.

There are dedicated pitch and mod wheels. Buttons change the octave range of the 25-key keyboard, and others are labeled "chord" and "arp." The Verge presumes they switch on a chord playback mode and an arpeggiator. An arpeggiator can add rhythm to drum samples, but it is more common on melodic and bass parts. A chord mode would be of little use for drums. Both options also appear to replace the chop function of the standard MPC Sample.

Looper, Swarm and outputs

A dedicated looper also appears on the panel. The Verge suggests it could help with live performance and layering sounds.

The Flex Beat effects of the original MPC Sample are gone. In their place is something labeled "Swarm," and what it does is not clear yet.

Like the first entry in the Sample series, the Key has a built-in mic and speaker for all-in-one production. The back panel has not been seen. From the controls on the front, The Verge expects MIDI plus CV outs for connecting modular synths.

The Verge corrected its report on October 30: the keyboard has 25 keys, not 37.

Source: The Verge