# Akai MPC60 and Mk II
## Introduction

The Akai MPC60, developed by Roger Linn in collaboration with Akai, is a groundbreaking music production machine that integrates sampling, sequencing, and digital drum machine functionalities into a single system. First released in 1988, the MPC60 and its successor, the MPC60 MkII, have significantly influenced modern music production, especially in hip-hop, electronic, and dance music.

## History
### Development and Release

The MPC60 emerged from a collaboration between Roger Linn, famed for his LinnDrum, and Akai. Linn’s vision was to create a versatile, all-in-one music production tool that could seamlessly handle sampling and sequencing. Released in 1988, the MPC60 featured a 16-voice polyphonic sampler, a 99-track sequencer, and 16 velocity-sensitive pads designed for triggering samples.

### Success and Legacy

The MPC60 was revolutionary, offering unparalleled flexibility in sampling and sequencing. It quickly gained traction among producers and musicians, influencing the development of subsequent models and leaving a lasting impact on music production. This success led to the introduction of the MPC60 MkII, which built upon the original's strengths with several enhancements.

## Features
### Sampling

The MPC60 series is renowned for its high-quality sampling capabilities. The original MPC60 was equipped with a 12-bit sampler and a 40kHz sampling rate, giving it a distinctive sound that became integral to many classic tracks. Users could sample up to 13.1 seconds of audio, expandable to 26.2 seconds, and benefit from extensive editing features such as truncation, looping, and tuning.

### Sequencing

The sequencer in the MPC60 series is celebrated for its intuitive interface and powerful functionality. It supports up to 99 sequences with 99 tracks each, allowing for complex and detailed arrangements. Key features include real-time recording, step editing, and quantization, which provide comprehensive control over the timing and structure of sequences.

### Drum Pads

The MPC60’s 16 velocity-sensitive pads are a hallmark feature, enabling expressive and dynamic performance. Each pad can trigger different samples, with additional functions like note repeat and full level to enhance creative possibilities.

### Connectivity

The MPC60 series includes extensive connectivity options such as multiple MIDI inputs and outputs, individual audio outputs for each sample, and synchronization with other equipment via MIDI clock, SMPTE, and additional protocols. Later models introduced an optional SCSI port for expanded storage and integration with external drives.

## Models
### MPC60

Released in 1988, the original MPC60 set a new standard for music production equipment with its robust sampling and sequencing features. It featured a distinctive grey design and an intuitive user interface, establishing a benchmark for future models.

### MPC60 MkII

The MPC60 MkII, introduced in 1991, refined the original design with improvements based on user feedback. It featured a more durable construction, an integrated headphone jack, and minor software updates while retaining the core functionalities of the MPC60.

## Influence and Impact

The MPC60 series has had a profound impact on music production, particularly in hip-hop, electronic, and dance music. Its intuitive design and powerful features have made it a preferred tool for producers, influencing the development of modern music production technologies.

### Notable Users

Several prominent producers and artists have utilized the MPC60 series, including:
* DJ Premier: Known for his work with Gang Starr, DJ Premier used the MPC60 to craft his signature beats and sampling techniques.
* J Dilla: An influential producer, J Dilla created iconic tracks with the MPC60, renowned for their complex rhythms and soulful samples.
* Dr. Dre: The legendary producer and rapper used the MPC60 in his early work, helping to define the West Coast hip-hop sound.
* Pete Rock: Known for his soulful and jazz-influenced beats, Pete Rock utilized the MPC60 extensively.
* Large Professor: An early adopter of the MPC60, Large Professor used it in his work with Main Source and other projects.

### Legacy

The MPC60 series remains influential, with its design principles and features evident in modern MPC models and software. The series set a precedent for integrated sampling, sequencing, and performance tools, solidifying its place in music production history.

## Conclusion

The Akai MPC60 and MPC60 MkII are celebrated as pioneering devices in music production. Their introduction of pad-based sequencing and sampling provided a new approach for artists, paving the way for future innovations in music technology. The legacy of these machines endures, influencing contemporary music production and continuing to inspire musicians and producers worldwide. The MPC60 series stands as a testament to creativity and innovation in the music industry.
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* 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Cann, Warren (1991-11). "Akai/Linn MPC60 II (SOS Nov 1991)". Sound On Sound (Nov 1991): 46–52. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
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