General
With the MPC Live II, Akai place a complete and very mobile standalone MPC on your desktop or lap. Battery or mains powered, this stubbornly independent console even has its own built-in monitor speakers with a dual tweeter/woofer system. Since its predecessor only had one lonely headphone output, this next generation incarnation already takes things a step or three ahead. Here, you can comfortably switch between the speakers and a set of headphones whether you're writing outside while catching some rare Summer sun, or on the sofa in front of the TV.
The MPC Live II: Complete Mobility and Flexibility
Every single feature of the MPC Live II literally screams flexibility. Since this is an entirely standalone console, no computer or device connection is needed to start work and the wide touchscreen fitted to the face offers the kind of sample-editing workflow that a humble computer mouse could only ever dream about. Two sets of MIDI in and outputs and four stereo CV/Gate outputs accommodate any audio-based situation while the inclusion of WiFi, Bluetooth, and Ableton Link support are also pretty useful features, not to mention the onboard synth engine.
Software and Computer Integration
While it doesn't need it, the MPC Live II also works pretty well with a computer. The MPC II software ensures seamless integration where the MPC can be used as something like a VST in your DAW. Using Ableton Link, you get access to problem-free collaboration with other Ableton users, and if you're not yet a member of Splice, a free three-month subscription has been thrown in, opening up an immense library of royalty-free samples, presets, and loops for you to play with.
