BEST OF THE REST
Akai MPC Live £899
The MPC Live takes the title of the most selfcontained MPC ever, with built-in CPU and rechargeable battery turning this into Akai’s first truly ‘go-anywhere’ production tool. The MPC 2.0 software adds audio recording, bringing the package up to near full DAW functionality. Easily the most exciting MPC we’ve seen in years.
NI Komplete Kontrol Mk2 from £469
With this update NI’s controller ’boards gain the same large, full-colour screens as Maschine, which here are put to great use for browsing, DAW mixer control and integration of NI’s own tools and NKS-ready plugins. With super-tight integration, the S-Series makes a convincing case for becoming the focal point of your studio.
Akai MPC X £1,669
Akai’s new flagship production station isn’t focussed on portability. Instead, this beast puts its built-in CPU to work creating an all-singing-all-dancing standalone production hub. With plenty of I/O, CV outputs and optional computer compatibility, the MPC X makes the ideal studio centre-piece.
Elektron Octatrack MkII £1,149
With multiple LFOs per track, real-time pitch shifting and an assignable crossfader, the Octatrack offers sound mangling capabilities beyond most other samplers on the market. The MkII upgrade is largely based on small hardware refinements, but is sure to maintain the Octatrack’s status as the creative musician’s sampler of choice.
Teenage Engineering PO-32 Tonic £78
Like the rest of the Pocket Operator range, Teenage Engineer’s latest miniature groovebox is a fun noisemaker with a bargain price to match its limited features. Compatibility with Sonic Charge’s MicroTonic brings something new to the party here, allowing users upload fresh sounds and patterns for the diminutive drum machine.
Softube Console 1 MkII £429
The second incarnation of Softube’s hybrid mixing system arrived with a few hardware tweaks, but it was mostly the change in price point that really impressed us. Version two of Console 1 now comes at nearly £300 cheaper than the original, meaning that this slick channel strip emulation system is now far more accessibly priced.