A hybrid hardware and software music creation system that’s perfect for making beats and producing electronic music.

Needless to say, that makes the MPC Studio a sweeter deal for newcomers.Akai MPC Studio Music Production System Features: 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.

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