Modern music’s evolution is intrinsically linked to the legendary Akai Professional MPC line – full-featured
production and performance powerhouses that have spawned multiple genres and advanced countless
existing ones. With a design often replicated but never surpassed, the Music Production Centre empowers
users with an unrivalled workflow and a tangible, intuitive interface coupled with forward thinking, indemand functionality that sets the precedence for the industry standard. Don’t settle for an imitation, take
control of your creative output with MPC.
NEW IN MPC
MPC returns, armed with reimagined functionality and retaining the core workflow ethos that defined it’s
iconic reputation. So what’s new in MPC X? Standalone functionality, CV outputs, audio track recording,
clip launching, MPC 2.0 Software and much more. This isn’t just the next generation of MPCs, this is a
turning point in self-contained creative capability.
IMMERSIVE PRODUCTION
MPC doesn’t just complement your workflow, it enhances it. With MPC X the convenience of touchscreen control, full-featured functionality and standalone capability fuses with Akai Professional’s iconic
velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB 16-pad format. The result? Immersive, self-contained production and
performance solutions meticulously designed for unprecedented creative expression without limitation.
CONTROL EVOLVED
Precision engineered to enhance your creative flow, the MPC X’s arsenal of hardware controls redefines
the studio centrepiece standard. 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive backlit RGB pads provide iconic MPC
response, faithfully capturing every subtle nuance of your performance. 16 touch-sensitive 360-degree
Q-Links with OLED displays seamlessly map to critical parameters, with user-selectable mapping
functionality for a completely personalised experience. 66 buttons provide direct hardware access to all
aspects of the user interface, catering for any workflow preference.
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STUDIO CENTREPIECE
The MPC X forms the beating heart of your creativity, offering harmonious integration with your existing
setup thanks to an ensemble of studio-grade inputs and outputs. 8 balanced outputs connect to
virtually all peripheral studio equipment for uncompromised signal routing and monitoring capability.
Plus, a combination of XLR, ¼-inch high-Z, balanced ¼-inch, and Turntable RCA inputs, plus switchable
phantom power (+48v), direct hardware monitoring, interactive VU metering, dual ¼-inch & 1/8-inch
headphone outputs and pristine high-resolution capture ensures rapid assimilation into your setup and an
unprecedented production experience.
RADIANT HIGH-DEFINITION DISPLAY
Centre-stage on the MPC X is a high-definition, full colour 10.1-inch fully articulating multi-touch display,
conveniently outfitted with 8 lockable positions. Immersive yourself in a world of intuitive gesture based
control of your production on the largest screen ever fitted to an MPC to date.
FULLY-LOADED. VERSATILE
Whether you prefer working in the box or dream of a truly unleashed production experience, MPC X
effortlessly transforms from a formidable standalone production centre to a high-powered MIDI controller.
Natively powering MPC in standalone mode is MPC 2.0 Software, fully loaded with critical in-demand
production and performance capability. Connect MPC X to your Mac or PC, load MPC software as a
plugin into your DAW of choice - or as a standalone application - and harness the undeniable power and
creative scope of VST-instruments and effects. Whatever your preference, MPC X redefines expectations
for control, seamlessly accommodating the most stringent of needs with ease.
EXPANDABLE STORAGE
As standard MPC X ships with 16GB of internal Micro SD storage. Seeking to incorporate your own
samples without tethering to a computer? MPC X features a 2.5” SATA drive connector providing expanded
storage via external hard drive – SSD or HDD. Additionally, sounds can be accessed and added to the
library using the built-in SD Card slot or the USB thumb drive.
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OUTBOARD CONTROL
With MPC X, harnessing the power and of your modular systems, sound modules, drum machines
and synthesisers couldn’t be easier. Fusing a raft of premium control sources, an on-board 2-in/4-out
MIDI interface plus 8 configurable CV outputs, take control of your outboard equipment using MPC X’s
unmatched sequencing capability. Plus, the MPC X’s 2 USB 2.0 inputs adds further customisation and
workflow enhancements providing support for external keyboards, mice and generic USB MIDI devices.
INFINITE SOUNDS, UNLIMITED INSPIRATION
The MPC has a well-earned reputation for sounds that hit hard and sound great, right out of the box. The
MPC X is no exception. Pre-installed with 10 gigs of world-class content, The Vault 2.0 features samples
and kits from leading sound design companies including Capsun Audio, MVP Loops, TOOLROOM, CR2
Records, Loopmasters as well as our own meticulously crafted sounds.
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MPC X HIGHLIGHTS
•Standalone MPC – no computer required – natively powered by MPC 2.0 Software
•10.1” full-color multi-touch display
•Also acts as a control surface for MPC 2.0 Software, compatible with Mac & PC
•16 Touch-capacitive Q-Links controls with OLED displays
•66 buttons for direct, hardware access to all aspects of MPC 2.0 Software
•8 configurable CV/Gate outputs enabling the analogue control of modular gear, such as classic synths
•16GB of on-board storage (over 10GB of premium sound content included from leading sound
designers including CR2, TOOLROOM, Loopmasters, Capsun Pro Audio, and more)
•User-expandable 2.5” SATA drive connector (SSD or HDD)
•2 USB-A 3.0 slots for thumb drives or MIDI controllers
•SD Card slot for loading samples and projects
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MPC SOFTWARE
SOFTWARE
INTRODUCTION
Redefining the creative vista and driving MPC X and MPC Live in standalone and controller modes is
Akai Professional’s reimagined MPC 2.0 Software; a cutting-edge production suite combining 128-track
sequencing capability, real-time time stretching, clip-launch functionality, advanced MIDI editing capability,
VST compatibility in controller mode, operation as a standalone application on Mac & PC, advanced
sampling & audio editing/recording functionality, seamless DAW integration, a redesigned GUI and much
more. Whether you’re seeking freedom from computer based music production, or searching for the
perfect controller for DAW-centric creative exploration, MPC 2.0 Software grants the ultimate in adaptive
creative versatility.
CLIP PROGRAMS
Refine your flow and spark your creativity with Clip Programs in MPC 2.0 Software. Armed with an
advanced real-time time-stretching / pitch shifting algorithm, and supporting Toggle/One Shot launch
modes, loop-specific RGB pad colour configurations, automatic BPM detection and automatic tempo
lock, MPC 2.0 Software’s clip launch functionality grants a truly inspirational production platform and an
unleashed performance experience.
THE POWER OF AUDIO TRACKS
Capture, edit and mix up to 8 studio-grade resolution audio tracks in standalone mode, or expand
your track limit to an immense 128 tracks in controller mode. Furnished with critical audio recording
functionality - including multi-track capture, selectable monitoring options (Off, On & Auto), monitoring via
effects, Punch In/Out Recording and Record Start options – MPC empowers producers, musicians and
performers with core audio-capture and the convenience of full-featured standalone operation.
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AUDIO EDITING
SOFTWARE
Now in MPC, cutting-edge audio editing capability fuses with intuitive gesture-based touch control thanks
to an all-new suite of audio editing essentials. Combining Pointer, Eraser, Audition, Marquee and Scissors
tools, seamlessly edit audio with the rapid, tactile ease-of-use found on smartphones and tablets. Take
total-command of your audio with MPC 2.0 Software’s array of processing options – including Fade In,
Fade Out, Reverse, Mute, Pitch Adjust and BPM Adjust – and perfectly tailor your audio to your most
stringent needs.
REIMAGINED GUI
MPC 2.0 Software’s redesigned GUI offers a vastly improved creative experience that enhances MPC’s
revered workflow. Combining a reimagined mixer layout outfitted with resizable faders, an adaptive channel
strip, a dedicated audio track editing window, resizable waveform view and much more, MPC 2.0 Software
presents the ultimate platform for unrestricted creative versatility alongside must-have tools that deliver
unprecedented surgical control.
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MPC 2.0 SOFTWARE HIGHLIGHTS
SOFTWARE
OVERVIEW
•Music production suite featuring native operation on MPC X and MPC Live in standalone mode
•Compatible with Mac & PC - Works alone as your main DAW or seamlessly with your current DAW as
a VST, AAX or AU plugin; available with MPC X, MPC Live, MPC Touch and MPC Studio Black
CREATE
•128-track sequencing capability and up to eight pad banks
•6 MPC Program Modes:
• MPC Drum Program - MPC’s powerful drum sampler
• Clip Program - clip launch workflow built in to MPC, trigger loops
• CV Program (MPC X Only) - drive your external analogue gear
• Keygroup program - MPC’s instrument sampler
• VST/AU plugin - control any VST or AU (Controller Mode Only)
• MIDI Program - sequence your external MIDI gear
•Capture, edit and mix up to 8 audio tracks in standalone mode, expandable up to 128 tracks in
controller mode
•Real-time time-stretching & pitch-shifting – warp clips, samples and audio regions
•Audio / MIDI Drag and Drop functionality for seamless integration with industry standard DAWs
•Powerful AIR Hybrid 3 virtual instrument built-in
EDIT
•Comprehensive suite of audio editing tools - Pointer, Eraser, Audition, Marquee, Scissors, Fade In,
Fade Out, Reverse, Mute, Pitch Adjust and BPM Adjust
•MPC’s Industry-leading Sample Edit functionality - trim, chop and process your samples
•Support for AU/VST plugin instruments and effects - instant mapping and real-time adjustment of VST
plugins in controller mode
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MIX
SOFTWARE
•Global / Track automation – automate any effect, instrument or mixer parameter
•Reimagined mixer layout – resizable faders, an adaptive channel strip, a dedicated audio track editing
window, resizable waveform view and more
•Advanced signal routing capability - submixes, FX returns, multi-output plugin support (up to 16 stereo
outputs) and more
PERFORM
• New Clip Program mode powered by MPC’s real-time warping algorithm
• Enhanced Q-Link functionality for precision control mapping of MPCs editable functions
• XYFX control adds effects, adjusts sound dynamics in real time
• Phrase Looper, enables connection of any instrument to create loops
• Selectable hardware outputs for seamless assimilation into multiple usage scenarios
SUPPORT
• Supports WAV, MP3, AIFF, REX and SND
• Supports samples and sequences from any MPC ever made
• Full 64-bit support in all versions; standalone, VST and AU
• Comes with 17+GB of high-quality expansion content
• Contemporary drum kits covering genres including Trap, Future House, EDM, Techno and more
• “Essential Instruments” - A complete selection of built-in keygroup programs
• Compatible with the growing marketplace of Akai MPC expansions
• Supports user-generated expansion packs (using the MPC Expansion Builder)
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MPC SOFTWARE SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
SOFTWARE
MAC: Dual-Core CPU, 2.5GHz or better and 4GB RAM (8GB Recommended)
WIN: Dual-Core CPU, 2.5GHz or better and 4GB RAM (8GB Recommended)
STORAGE: 2GB free space for MPC Software (Excluding content)
USER SUMMARY & TARGET DEMOGRAPHICS
The primary target market for Akai Professional’s MPC X consists of music producers and studio
professionals seeking a full-featured standalone production suite to achieve professional productions
without compromising modern DAW-centric features and functionality. With the MPC X, the much-revered
MPC workflow combines with onboard multicore processing power, providing this target market with a
comprehensive means to compose, produce and mix their compositions in a fully-standalone environment.
Combining revamped MPC Software offering clip launching technology & an expanded program consort,
on-board CV outputs, an arsenal of MPC mainstays, an on-board expandable solid state hard drive and
full functionality for the capture and editing of audio, MPC X provides music producers with a solution for
full-featured production capability, suitable for all-genres.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HARDWARE - WHAT CONNECTORS DOES THE MPC X INCLUDE?
The MPC X includes a 4-in/8-out audio interface plus a MIDI interface with the following connectors:
Yes, the MPC X features multiple studio-grade inputs which can be used to record audio signals directly
to the internal storage in standalone mode or into MPC software in controller mode.
CAN THE MPC X BE USED TO TRANSMIT MIDI?
Yes, the MPC X can send and receive MIDI signals using the MIDI In and Outs situated on the rear of the
unit; these can be used to trigger external synths, sound modules, sequencers and more.
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WHAT GESTURES CAN BE USED TO CONTROL THE 10.1” COLOUR SCREEN ON THE MPC X?
The following gestures should be used
• Tap – to select a field
• Double-Tap – to edit in detail.
• Drag – to adjust and scroll
• Pinch – to zoom
DOES THE MPC X REQUIRE A POWER SUPPLY?
Yes, the MPC X requires use of the included power supply.
WHAT MODES CAN BE ACCESSED FROM THE 10.1” COLOUR SCREEN ON THE MPC X?
The following modes can be accessed and edited directly from the MPC X’s 10.1” colour screen:
•Main – This is the central hub of the MPC allowing users to configure the tracks and programs in
a current sequence; additional functionality includes show/hide options for the channel strip on the
touchscreen for ultra-fast mixing.
•Audio Tracks – functionality to record and edit up to 8 tracks of real-time stereo audio in standalone
mode, and 128 tracks in controller mode
•Step Sequencer – controls and functionality for programming traditional step-sequenced events, all
via MPC X’s touch-interface
•Grid View – This mode allows users to edit MIDI performances by inserting, erasing and tweaking
notes within a track
•Program Edit – This mode allows users to edit program parameters
•Track Mute – A mode that allows users to easily mute tracks within a sequence or set Track Mute
Groups enacted via the MPC X’s pads
•Track View – Provides a comprehensive overview of all the tracks in a current sequence
•Channel Mixer – A dedicated, full-featured mixing environment allowing users to set levels, pan, route
and add effects to all the elements within a song
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•XYFX – An XY grid interface that allows users to add effects to sounds quickly and dynamically in
real-time
•Next Sequence – A mode that lets users trigger different sequences simply by playing the pads –
perfect for live performances
•Sampler – Functionality to record audio samples with mixer integration so users can record via
multiple dedicated input effect plugins
•Browser – A comprehensive file navigation system for browsing samples, sequences and songs
stored on internal and external hard disks in standalone and controller modes
•Looper – A full-featured phrase looper
•Pad Perform – Lets users assign musical scales, chord or progressions to the pads
•Pad Mute – A mode that lets users easily mute pads within a program, or set Mute Groups for each
pad
•Q-Link Edit – An environment that lets users configure the functionality of the Q-Link knobs to control
program or FX parameters
•Pad Mixer - A dedicated mixer for the MPC X’s pads allowing users to set levels, pan, signal route and
add VST effect plugins
•Sample Edit – Trim, crop and process samples directly from the MPC X’s touchscreen
•Pad Colour – Functionality to configure and customise the RGB pad’s colour layout
•Song – A comprehensive compositional tool allowing users to arrange sequences, craft playlists of
tracks and mix down songs.
•CV Programs – Functionality to configure the CV output located on the rear panel of the MPC X to
control peripheral compatible equipment
WHAT ARE Q-LINK CONTROLS AND HOW MANY DOES THE MPC X HAVE?
The MPC X features 4 banks of Q-links, each containing 16 dedicated touch-sensitive Q-link controls with
OLED displays. Q-Link controls can be used to control virtually any parameter including effects, mixer
settings and synthesisers.
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CAN THE DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS BE ADJUSTED ON THE MPC X?
Yes, using the MPC’s settings menu, the display brightness can be adjusted.
DOES THE MPC X INCLUDE TRANSPORT CONTROLS?
Yes, the MPC X features dedicated transport controls for Record, Overdub, Stop, Play and Play/Start.
WHAT DOES THE DATA DIAL DO?
The Data Dial can be used to scroll through the available menu options or adjust the parameter values of
the selected field on the display.
HOW DO YOU CONTROL THE MASTER VOLUME OF THE MPC X?
On the front panel of the MPC X unit there is a dedicated master volume dial which adjusts the overall
level sent to the headphones and main outputs.
HOW CAN THE RECORD INPUT VOLUME BE ADJUSTED?
The front panel of the MPC X includes two gain knobs, phantom power and input selection switches that
can be used to adjust the level of gain applied to the inputs.
WHAT DOES THE NOTE REPEAT FUNCTION DO?
When holding the Note Repeat button on the MPC X any pad that is held will trigger the loaded sample
repeatedly in accordance with the current project tempo and Time Correct settings.
WHAT DOES THE FULL LEVEL/HALF LEVEL BUTTON DO?
When Full Level is activated the pads will always trigger their corresponding samples at maximum velocity
regardless of the force that is used. When shift is held along with the Full Level button Half Level is
activated – when engaged the pads will always trigger the samples at half-velocity.
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CAN THE MPC X BE USED AS A STANDALONE DEVICE WITHOUT A COMPUTER?
Yes, the MPC X can be used as a standalone device, running MPC 2.0 Software natively. The MPC X can
also be used as a controller with MPC 2.0 Software on both Mac and PC.
SOFTWARE
WHAT ARE THE SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS FOR MPC SOFTWARE?
MACINTOSH:
2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended) Mac OS X 10.7 - 10.10
WINDOWS:
2 GHz Pentium® 4 or Celeron® compatible CPU or faster (multicore CPU recommended)
2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended) Windows 7 and Windows 8 (32 or 64-bit)
WHAT IS A SEQUENCE?
A Sequence is the most basic building-block of music you can compose on the MPC Software. MIDI
information from your MPC hardware’s pads, buttons, and Q-Link Knobs (or an external keyboard) are
recorded to the Tracks of a Sequence. Each Sequence has 64 Tracks. The software can hold up to
128 separate Sequences at the same time. The length of a Sequence can be set from 1 to 999 bars,
which would be enough to create an entire Song using only one Sequence. However, the software has a
dedicated Song Mode that lets you chain Sequences together to create a Song.
WHAT IS A TRACK?
A Sequence offers 64 Tracks, each Track can record audio, MIDI notes and controller data. For example,
you can record the verses of a Song on Track 1, while recording the choruses on Track 2. Alternatively,
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you can record different instruments on each Track. Note that your performances via Drum, Keygroup,
MIDI and Plugin Programs are recorded as MIDI events and the actual digital audio is not recorded onto
a Track. That way, you can edit your performance in many different ways once the performance has been
captured. Audio Tracks are captured as digital audio and can be edited using MPC 2.0 Software’s suite
of audio editing tools and processors.
WHAT IS A PROGRAM?
A program is a group of samples assigned to the pads. There are multiple Programs available in MPC
X including Clip, Drum, Keygroup, CV, MIDI and Plugin (MPC 2.0 Software). You can create up to eight
banks of pad samples per program in the MPC software and instantly switch between banks using the
dedicated buttons on the MPC X hardware.
WHAT IS AN MPC CLIP PROGRAM?
An MPC Clip Program is s group of loops designed to be triggered sequentially in any live or studio
environment. MPC X’s pads will indicate RGB colour groups for each style of clip (Red Drums / Green
Bass / Purple Melodic / Blue Vocals). When 4 clips are launched together horizontally, MPC produces a
full music track allowing “live remix manipulation”. Each clip can be launched to it’s own unique quantize,
th
fully customizable from 8 Bars – 1/64
Bars, along with Pitch, Reversed, Toggled or One-Shot modes.
HOW CAN I LOAD A CLIP PROGRAM?
Simply select the content browser within MPC X selecting the Clip Icon. This then allows you to browse all
clip programs available. Double click the screen and your chosen Clip Program will instantly load. Now
select Clip Mode from the main UI Home screen and select the loaded Clip Program. The MPC pads will
instantly change to a Clip Launch colour layout in the following arrangement - Red-Drums, Green-Bass,
Purple-Melodic, Blue-Vocals.
CAN I USE CLIP PROGRAMS AND DRUM PROGRAMS TOGETHER IN A SONG ARRANGEMENT?
Yes you can. MPC X allows each track to have its own independent program type. Any of these program
types can then be sequenced to it’s own independent track.
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CAN PAD COLOURS BE CHANGED?
Yes, The software’s pad settings menu allows you to select “Full RGB” or “Classic Renaissance/Studio/
Element” pad RGB light styles.
CAN I USE MY AKAI ADVANCE KEYBOARD AND VIP SOFTWARE WITH THE MPC X?
Yes, The MPC software fully supports Advance Keyboard and VIP software integration, facilitating a totalcontrol solution for user’s VSTi collection
HOW CAN I IMPORT ABLETON CLIPS INTO MPC CLIPS?
First MPC must be instantiated as a plugin within Ableton Live. Simply drag an Ableton Clip from the Clip
Arrangement Window onto an MPC Clip program choosing your desired Pad(s). Each Ableton Clip must
have the correct tempo entered into MPC Warp. Simply enter the clip’s tempo within Sample Edit and
activate Warp in the Main MPC UI Home Page.
CAN I SYNC AUDIO TRACK(S) TO MY MPC MIDI SEQUENCE?
Yes you can. Once an Audio Track is imported, the original audio tempo must be entered from SampleEdit. Once completed, select Warp in the main home page located under the Audio option. Now enable
Warp. Your audio track will now be synced to the master tempo.
IS THERE ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL CONTENT?
Yes, a raft of MPC Expansion content is available for purchase through the MPC Expansion Store:
http://www.akaipro.com/microsites/mpcsoftware
IS THE MPC SOFTWARE A STANDALONE DAW?
The dedicated MPC Software can be used standalone as a DAW or can be used as a plug in within a host
DAW. MPC Software is compatible as a VST, AU or AAX plug-in.
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IS THE MPC X AND SOFTWARE COMPATIBLE WITH MY EXISTING MPC PROJECTS?
MPC Software supports WAV, MP3, AIFF, REX, and SND, as well as samples and sequences from any
MPC ever made, and it’s compatible with both Mac and PC.
RD
BOUNCING 3
PARTY INSTRUMENTS TO USE IN STANDALONE MODE.
MPC X in standalone mode does not support 3rd party Virtual Instruments or FX. This is only available
when MPC 2.0 Controller Mode is activated. All 3rd party tracks can be rendered inside 2.0 using Drag &
Drop, creating an Audio Stem of the 3rd party instrument. This file can then be converted into an “Audio
Track” inside MPC 2.0 Software and saved within an XPJ project. Load the saved project inside MPC X’s
Standalone Mode to hear 3rd party instruments playing back as MPC audio tracks. MPC X’s Standalone
mode currently supports 8 stereo audio tracks.
CAN I ADD MY OWN CHORD PROGRESSIONS IN PAD PERFORMANCE MODE?
MPC 2.0 Software allows you to create your own chord progressions, which can then be saved and added
to your progressions menu within Pad Performance Mode. All progressions created can be added to your
MPC X for use in standalone mode.
CAN I TRANSFER MPC EXPANSIONS TO USE IN STANDALONE MODE?
Yes you can. Simply load the desired program(s) from the MPC Expansion inside MPC 2.0 software,
saving the program(s) in the “XPJ Project File” format to either your desktop or an external SD/USB
device. Activate MPC X in standalone mode then select Browser from the main menu. Insert the media
storage device containing the XPJ Project File then select your Expansion Program.
CAN I TRANSFER MPC PROJECTS DIRECTLY INTO LOGIC PRO X?
MPC will integrate seamlessly with all popular DAWs in Plugin Mode. Within MPC 2.0, all Audio and MIDI
information can be transferred into your DAW arrangement by using the Drag and Drop (Audio/MIDI)
feature. Alternatively, you can use the MPC Export Audio or MIDI options within the File-Audio Mixdown /
File-Export MIDI Track export options.
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CONTENT OVERVIEW
SOFTWARE INCLUDED WITH MPC X
As well as the included MPC 2.0 Software, the MPC X comes with the following plugin content:
Air Instruments
•HYBRID 3
•LOOM
•VACUUM PRO
•VELVET
•XPAND.2
•MiniGrand
•DB33
Sonivox Instruments
• Big Bang Cinematic
• Big Bang Universal
• Session Drums
• Silk Road
• ATSIA Percussion
• Orchestral Companion Strings
•theRiser
•AIR FX Collection Plus
TOTAL INSTALL SPACE 50GB
SAMPLE CONTENT INCLUDED WITH MPC X
Full Content List Available for Download with MPC 2.0 Software