David Scott wrote:I have never owned a new generation MPC. Without any experience or point of reference for either machine, which MPC would be the better option. Assuming that pricing isn't an issue and being portable isn't a major necessity for me, which would be the better option. From what I have read, there is less need to use the touch screen with the MPC One than with the Live II, but I also read that through the use of shortcuts using the shift key, the Live II is almost just as navigable as the MPC One. Whatever input this forum can share would be much appreciated.
I've had an MPC One, my close friend now has an MPC One, and I have the MPC Live II. I'd go for the Live II any day of the week, but my reasons may or may not be important to you:
- Live II allows you to install an SSD, which offers the best performance (I hate having to worry about SD Cards and USB sticks)
- Live II has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth (which lets me use Ableton Link with other wireless instruments, of which I have a few). I hate being tethered with CAT5 cable, and you don't ever need that with Live II.
- The battery. Simply put - it makes it 100% mobile as well as serves as an Uninterruptible Power Supply. I've had the power fluctuate in my area on occasion, and knowing that I'll never lose progress when the grid decides to take a crap gives me great confidence. And being able to take my MPC onto the couch, or the patio, or the park or the beach - it's just awesome.
- The built-in speaker. It really is a valuable addition that I never knew I'd rely on so much. I don't always want to carry around a set of cans or have it hooked up in my studio, and being able to just turn it on and start jamming is brilliant.
- Bigger pads. They're not huge by comparison, but the MPC One has smaller pads (like the Key 61), and I have sausage fingers, so the bigger pads on the Live II work better for me.
At one point, all of the additional hardware buttons on the One were tempting, but with the latest 2.11 update and the fact that I can customize my shortcuts, and now have the slide-out menu - I don't miss them.
YMMV, but that's my 2 cents.