Akai MPC XL: The most powerful MPC model to date with 4x the processing power of previous modelsGo big or go home as they say, and Akai Professional has done just that with the official launch of the MPC XL – its most powerful MPC model to date with souped-up processing power.
Following a leak prior to Christmas last year, Akai has officially confirmed that the MPC XL is available now, and describes this beastly version of its flagship workstation line as “a studio centrepiece built for modern production”.

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Andy Mac, Creative Global Marketing and Artist Relations Manager at Akai Professional, says of the launch: “The MPC XL represents the evolution of everything we’ve learned from decades of innovation in music production. We’ve created a true studio-grade workhorse that delivers DAW-like power in a standalone format. MPC XL removes every barrier between inspiration and creation, giving producers the speed, control, and connectivity to bring their most ambitious musical visions to life.”
What are the main features of the Akai MPC XL?

The MPC XL features a Gen 2 8-core processor with 4x the processing power of previous MPCs and 16GB RAM for speed that “rivals computer-based systems”, according to Akai. It’s integrated with MPC3 OS as an all-in-one system, and can load up to 32 plugin instruments and 16 audio tracks simultaneously, with support for up to 256 simultaneous voices.
It also hosts a 10.1” HD multi-gesture touchscreen at the top of the unit, “ultra-responsive” MPCe pads with 3D-sensing technology, 16 touch-responsive Q-Link knobs with OLED displays, a dedicated step sequencer with 16 RGB function buttons, an assignable performance touch-strip, and an XL Channel Command for quick access to mixing and recording parameters, also with a dedicated OLED display and encoder.
The XL’s mic preamps with phantom power capture vocals and acoustic instruments, while its instrument inputs handle guitars and basses. It has phono inputs to connect turntables for direct sampling, and there are eight separate outputs to enable complex routing to external gear or multitrack recording into a DAW. It comes with a collection of plugins, samples, and effects right out of the box.
How much is the MPC XL and where can I get one?

The Akai Professional MPC XL is available now for €2,899.99 / £2,499.99 / $2,899. You can buy one through authorised dealers across the globe, or directly from Akai.
New Spitfire Audio partnership
Credit: Akai Professional
Accompanying the launch of the MPC XL is the announcement that Akai and Spitfire Audio have formed a new “strategic partnership”, which aims to provide MPC users access to Spitfire’s industry-leading tools within their MPC devices. That’s all we know for now, but more information will be announced at a later date.
Find out more via Akai Professional. 
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