Nine plugin instruments come included so you can fully thicken up the production, carve out melodies and play in chords using the sixteen performance pads. The MPC 2.10 software is just another layer of inspiration and makes it easier to record beats and can even be used used to complete the mixing and mastering stages, all via the same software. This unit also offers up to 10 gigabytes of onboard sounds, so users can spit beats with more speed and agility than ever. Featuring a bank of sixteen pads and a fully upgraded touch-strip, this edition of the MPC offers even deeper, even more intuitive control. Needless to say, that makes the MPC Studio a sweeter deal for newcomers.The Akai MPC Studio drum machine controller seamlessly integrates with the current MPC 2.10 desktop software. Update 9/21 6:10PM ET: Akai now says MPC 2 is included, not separate as we originally wrote. This could make Akai's universe considerably more accessible if you're new to this kind of music making. MPC 2 is thankfully included, so it's a relative bargain so long as you have a production-ready computer. The MPC Studio is available today for $269. Think of the MPC Studio as Akai's answer to Ableton's Push - it's hardware that brings out the software's full potential. You'll have access to eight plugin instrument engines as well as sampling, MIDI sequencing, arranging and other parts of the MPC workflow.

Akai has been pouring much more of its energy into its MPC 2 software, including a large update in July that added AIR plugins and on-device pitch correction. The software, unsurprisingly, plays a key role. A color LCD helps keep your focus on the controller when you're chopping samples or fine-tuning effects. Plug it in and you can produce tunes with the signature 16 drum pads (with pressure, velocity and aftertouch control) as well as an assignable touch strip that lets you twist instruments and synths. The company has introduced an MPC Studio controller built solely to tie in with MPC 2 software on your Mac or PC.

That ecosystem just became much more affordable if you have a computer, however. Akai's MPC hardware is normally an expensive investment - you're looking at $699 for the 'entry' One production studio.

Akai mpc controller