Akai MPC One (2020–present)
A compact, standalone sampling workstation with touch interface, built-in synths, and CV/Gate support.
Overview
The Akai MPC One is a standalone sampling workstation and hardware DAW produced by Akai Professional starting in 2020. Designed as an entry-level model in the modern MPC lineup, it runs the MPC 2.0 operating system and shares the same quad-core ARM processor and 2 GB of RAM as the MPC Live. It features a 7-inch multi-touch color LCD display and a hybrid control system combining touchscreen navigation with 31 dedicated function buttons, 4 touch-sensitive Q-Link encoders, and 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB backlit pads. The MPC One was announced at the NAMM Show 2020 and positioned as a more affordable way to access core MPC features without battery power or wireless connectivity.
Specifications
| Screen | 7-inch multi-touch color LCD display |
| Pads | 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB backlit pads |
| Processor | Quad-core ARM processor |
| RAM | 2 GB |
| Internal Storage (User) | 16 GB |
| Factory Sound Library Size | Over 10 GB pre-installed content |
| Included Software Synths | TubeSynth, Bassline, Electric |
| Audio Inputs | 2 x 1/4" TRS (stereo pair or dual mono) |
| Audio Outputs | 2 x 1/4" TRS Main Outputs (L/Mono, R), 2 x 1/4" TRS Assignable Outputs |
| Headphone Output | 1 x 1/8" (3.5 mm) stereo |
| MIDI I/O | 1 x MIDI In, 1 x MIDI Out, 1 x MIDI Thru |
| CV/Gate Outputs | 4 x 1/8" TRS jacks providing 8 CV/Gate outputs total (via split cables) |
| USB Ports | 1 x USB Type-B (for computer connection), 2 x USB Type-A (for storage, controllers, or wireless adapter) |
| Other Ports | RJ45 Link port, 2 x 1/4" pedal inputs (sustain/switch) |
| SD Card | SD card slot (for storage expansion) |
| Power | 19V DC power adapter (included); no internal battery |
| Tracks | 128 MIDI tracks, 8 stereo audio tracks per project |
| Effects/plugins | Over 100 built-in effects and plugins |
| Included Software | MPC 2.0 Desktop Software license |
| Connectivity | No built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth |
| Weight | 2.1 kg / 4.7 lbs |
| Dimensions | 272 x 272 x 53 mm / 10.7" x 10.7" x 2.1" |
| Finish | Gray (standard model) |
Design
The MPC One has a durable plastic chassis and is the smallest and lightest model in the modern MPC range. It uses a hybrid touchscreen and hardware control layout, with slightly smaller pads than the MPC Live and X. Memory expansion is supported via USB-A drives and SD card. The front panel includes more dedicated buttons than the MPC Live II. It lacks internal battery power and requires an external 19V DC adapter. The unit includes automated sampling features, scale/chord functions, and CV Programs for assigning modulation sources to 8 output channels.
Context
The MPC One was introduced as the most affordable model in Akai’s modern MPC series, sitting below the MPC Live and MPC X. It shares core functionality—sampling, sequencing, plugins, and OS—with those models but omits battery power, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, speakers, phono input, and auxiliary outputs. The MPC One+ with wireless connectivity was released in 2023. The original MPC series began in 1988 with the MPC60, designed by Roger Linn.
Market
Originally priced at $699, the MPC One is praised as a capable and affordable standalone workstation. Its built-in instruments and effects are noted for high sound quality, and the pads are highly responsive. Some users report workflow complexities in Song mode and sequence management. The "Retro Edition" features a distinct gray color scheme and visual skin.
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