Akai MPC Key 37 G2 & MPC One G2 ‘Next-Gen Standalone MPC’ Now Available
Akai MPC One & MPC Key 37 get G2 upgrades.
Akai Professional has announced updates to its range of standalone MPCs, giving the entry-level MPC One and keyboard-equipped MPC Key 37 Gen 2 upgrades that bring them in line with the MPC XL and MPC Live III.
As with those latter models, the big news is a significant step up in processing power and storage capacity. Both MPCs also now pack 4GB of RAM, up from the 2GB of their predecessors, along with 64GB of storage. The previous MPC Key 37 had 32GB of storage, while the MPC One+ had just 16GB.
Here’s what they have to say about it:
The MPC One G2 and MPC Key 37 G2 introduce a new generation of standalone MPCs built around the same core idea: faster workflows and bigger creative potential. Both devices are powered by MPC3 and a new G2 eight-core processor, delivering significantly increased performance for larger sessions, faster load times, expanded track counts, and deeper plugin usage.
For beatmakers and producers who want the classic MPC feel in a compact desktop unit, MPC One G2 delivers next generation standalone power, MPC3’s modern track and arrangement tools, and USB-C hybrid connectivity—making it the most capable and future proof entry point into the MPC standalone ecosystem.
For producers and players who write on keys but want the speed and focus of an MPC workflow, MPC Key 37 G2 delivers next-generation standalone power, MPC3’s modern track and arrangement tools, and one-cable USB-C studio connectivity in a compact production keyboard that eliminates the laptop dependency.
The improved specs mean that both models can make better use of the MPC3 OS in standalone mode, with the capacity for up-to 32 simultaneous plugin instances and 16 stereo audio tracks.
The extra power can also be put to use for pro-grade stem separation and real-time time-stretching, although access to these features requires the optional Pro Pack expansion, which also adds the Clip Matrix seen on other new MPCs.
The most significant addition on this front is the introduction of multi-channel audio streaming via USB-C, which lets users stream multiple tracks of audio and MIDI to/from a DAW, as well as sample directly via USB-C.
The MPC One G2 and MPC Key 37 G2 give producers and beat makers the most powerful standalone MPC we have ever built at these prices,” said Andy Mac, Director of Artist Relations at Akai Professional.
“From bedroom beat makers to established producer communities around the world, creators now have four times the power, MPC3 OS, and a powerful collection of instruments and samples ready to get you started. This is generation 2 of MPC standalone production.”
Here’s Overview & Deep Dive on MPC Key 37 G2:
Key Features:
Shared Platform Features (Both Models):
G2 8-core processor with 4x the processing power of the previous generation
- 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage
- Up to 32 simultaneous plugin instances and 16 stereo audio tracks in standalone
- MPC3 OS with modern, track-based workflow and full Linear Arranger
- 7″ full-colour multitouch LED display
- USB-C with 24×24 audio streaming, expanded MIDI, host and device support over a single cable
- Ableton Live Control Mode and Ableton project import/export
- Direct sampling from phones, tablets, and external devices via USB-C
- Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz, 802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5
- Over 20 GB of included content; NI Analog Dreams MPC Edition free at launch
- An optional Pro Pack expands both systems with advanced production tools including professional-grade stem separation, real-time time-stretching, and Clip Matrix.
MPC One G2 – Additional Features:
- 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads across 8 banks
- 4 touch-sensitive Q-Link knobs with 4 accessible columns
- 5-pin MIDI in/out and 4 TRS CV/Gate jacks (8 outputs total) for hardware and modular integration
- SD card slot and USB-A port for expanded storage and accessories
- 11 included plugins and 9 expansion packs
MPC Key 37 G2 – Additional Features:
- 37 synth-action keys with aftertouch, pitch bend, and modulation wheel
- 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB-backlit pads with 8 accessible pad banks
- 2 × 1/4″ TRS inputs and 2 × 1/4″ TRS outputs (stereo)
- 8 CV/gate outputs (4 × 1/8″ TRS jacks), 5-pin MIDI in/out
- 13 included plugins and 6 expansion packs
MPC One G2 – Included Plugins (11):
- NI Analog Dreams MPC Edition (free, included at launch)
- Bassline
- Electric
- Fabric Select
- Hype
- Mellotron
- Odyssey
- Organ
- Solina
- Tubesynth
- Drumsynth
MPC One G2 – Included Expansions (9):
- Acoustic Tools
- Classic Drum Machines
- Apollo Retro Kits
- Percussion Tools
- ATL Song Starters
- Marco Polo Lo-Fi Boom
- Welcome to ATL Kits
- Welcome to ATL Melodics
- Producer Essentials
MPC Key 37 G2 – Included Plugins (13):
- NI Analog Dreams MPC Edition (free, included at launch)
- Bassline
- Electric
- Fabric Select
- Hype
- Mellotron
- Odyssey
- Solina
- Tubesynth
- Drumsynth
- OPX-4
- Jura
- Sub Factory
MPC Key 37 G2 – Included Expansions (6):
- Acoustic Tools
- Classic Drum Machines
- Apollo Retro Kits
- Marco Polo Lo-Fi Boom
- Gemini Future Classic Synths
- Orion Future Classic Workstations
The MPC One G2 and MPC Key 37 G2 are out now priced at $799/£729/€849 and $999/£849/€999 respectively. Both sport new colours inspired by classic MPC designs. Visit the official Akai site for more info.
