● Covered by 1 source · 2 reportsMedium impact1 neutral1 positive
Akai to release open-source MPC Sample Key, supporting community-developed mods
Key points
- Akai is developing the MPC Sample Key with open-source firmware.
- The device is a 37-key version of the MPC Sample, without pads.
- Early access is given to modding communities for custom firmware development.
- Community-developed synths and custom OS have been demonstrated.
- The MPC Sample Key has 25 keys.
- The device has dedicated pitch and mod wheels.
- The device includes chord and arpeggiator functions.
- The 'chop' button from the MPC Sample is missing.
Akai Embraces Open-Source for New MPC
Akai is preparing to launch the MPC Sample Key, a new 37-key instrument based on its existing MPC Sample. This new device will feature open-source firmware, signaling a shift towards greater community involvement in product development and customization.
The company has provided early access to modding communities, allowing developers to create custom firmware and software for the device before its formal announcement. This approach aims to foster innovation through external contributions.
Community-Driven Modifications Demonstrated
Akai has showcased several community-developed modifications for the MPC Sample Key. These include the integration of various synthesizers, such as Native Instruments Massive, virtual analog synths, and FM synths. One demonstration featured a completely custom operating system running multiple synthesizers.
These modifications highlight the potential for users to significantly expand the functionality of the MPC Sample Key beyond its stock capabilities.
Broader Impact on MPC Sample Platform
The community features demonstrated for the MPC Sample Key are also expected to extend to the regular MPC Sample. This suggests Akai may open-source the entire MPC Sample platform, allowing for similar community-driven enhancements across its budget-friendly MPC line.
Akai's CEO, Jack O’Donnell, stated that inMusic brands, including Akai, plan to engage the modding community by distributing early devices to developers, open-sourcing software, and providing SDKs.
Updates
- The MPC Sample Key has 25 keys.
- The device has dedicated pitch and mod wheels.
- The device includes chord and arpeggiator functions.
- The 'chop' button from the MPC Sample is missing.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Akai's upcoming MPC Sample Key, teased on Instagram, will feature open-source software and is designed for pitched sample playback rather than drum chopping. Exclusive images reveal dedicated pitch/mod wheels, octave controls, and chord/arpeggiator functions, differentiating it from the MPC Sample.
Akai is developing the MPC Sample Key, an open-source 37-key version of its MPC Sample, and is providing early access to modding communities. This initiative aims to integrate community-developed firmware and software, including new synths, into the device and potentially the broader MPC Sample platform.