Yeah, the shift timing feature seems to be one of the key ingredients of what people percieve of as the "mpc feel".
To Akai--the reason many people(myself included) considered/are considering buying a MPC is the sequencer. You know this. But perhaps it didn't occur to you that the shift-timing feature may have contributed greatly to to the reputation of the MPC series.
...or maybe it did occur to you, but the processor is already being pushed to its limits. I don't personally know how much it can handle, so I don't want to speculate(i am curious, though).
Another point here too--you are marketing the MPC1000 as an alternative to computer-based production. All fine and well; for me, it does seem better right now. But--customers coming from a software based system are accustomed to frequent(and often free)updates. These updates often not only fix bugs, but offer new and enhanced functions. Again, you are aware of this. But to compete in today's market, it would be wise to at least come across as having an active and responsive development team. Again, look to Ableton for a good example.
I'd also like to see a feature implemented, possibly USB based, that shuts down the computer if a person has been on the internet for more than 45 minutes, forcing them to make some music.
