Akai introduces MPC-500

Akai has a brand new Music Production Center in the form of the uber portable MPC-500. This device might look small in stature, but it is big on features. The MPC-500 packs in a 32-voice drum/phrase sample, a 48-track MIDI sequencer, a dozen classic MPC pads, switchable line/mic level analog I/O and MIDI I/O. Data transfer is made easy via the USB 2.0 port, while the CF card slot enables owners of the MPC-1000 and 2500 to translate their existing work without running into incompatibility issues. There is some concern about the tiny LCD hambering the entire workflow process though, killing creativity for the sake of sifting through multiple menu layers. Half a dozen AA batteries can power the MPC-500 for up to 4.5 hours, so its best to pick up the USBCell in this case. The Akai MPC-500 is going for $1,299 although street prices of $799 can be found.