By acidpimp
Fri Apr 02, 2021 4:37 pm
I haven’t had an MPC since the 2000, but just picked up the LIVE II and am loving it so far, however I’m seeing some limitations and I’m either still trying to figure out some features or they are missing all together.
I know how to randomize notes, but how do you randomize other parameters such as velocity or CC info? Is there a way to set probability per event?
The software synths are good quality, but the fact that there are only 3 (1 I’d never use) is really just a tease. Absolutely need an FM synth that can do a pure sine wave, and something with real routing capabilities to recreate a Buchla style complex oscillator for example. I understand the complexity with 3rd party VST support in standalone mode (this NEEDS to be figured out though), but standalone mode needs to support some type of plugin that users can create like Ableton’s implementation of Opcode Studio Max.
Another oversight, is the inability to send an analog clock out of the CV/Gate outputs. Yes, it is easy to send a 16th note trigger; etc. but the omission of having an actual clock that can do 24 or 48 pulse per quarter-note is frustrating and something that seems easy to correct via software. Also, considering the popularity and multiple recent versions of the MS-20, a Hz/Octave option for the CV out should be implemented as well.
As far as the sampler goes, for a few years, I’ve had a cheap DJ program on my iPad that can isolate or remove vocals, drums; etc. perfectly. Akai, being the kings of sampling technology, I assumed would have this technology out of the box. Whatever it cost for the licensing, this absolutely needs to be done. The technology exists, but now if I want to isolate a vocal I have to run it through my iPad (i’m sure I can do it on PC I’ve just never looked it up ) and record the audio out. It’s still can be done, but I am scratching my head how an iOS app can do this simply but my new $1200 sampler can’t.
If any of these features are hidden in menus, someone please let me know, but if not I hope Akai is reading this and will consider these suggestions for future updates.
I know how to randomize notes, but how do you randomize other parameters such as velocity or CC info? Is there a way to set probability per event?
The software synths are good quality, but the fact that there are only 3 (1 I’d never use) is really just a tease. Absolutely need an FM synth that can do a pure sine wave, and something with real routing capabilities to recreate a Buchla style complex oscillator for example. I understand the complexity with 3rd party VST support in standalone mode (this NEEDS to be figured out though), but standalone mode needs to support some type of plugin that users can create like Ableton’s implementation of Opcode Studio Max.
Another oversight, is the inability to send an analog clock out of the CV/Gate outputs. Yes, it is easy to send a 16th note trigger; etc. but the omission of having an actual clock that can do 24 or 48 pulse per quarter-note is frustrating and something that seems easy to correct via software. Also, considering the popularity and multiple recent versions of the MS-20, a Hz/Octave option for the CV out should be implemented as well.
As far as the sampler goes, for a few years, I’ve had a cheap DJ program on my iPad that can isolate or remove vocals, drums; etc. perfectly. Akai, being the kings of sampling technology, I assumed would have this technology out of the box. Whatever it cost for the licensing, this absolutely needs to be done. The technology exists, but now if I want to isolate a vocal I have to run it through my iPad (i’m sure I can do it on PC I’ve just never looked it up ) and record the audio out. It’s still can be done, but I am scratching my head how an iOS app can do this simply but my new $1200 sampler can’t.
If any of these features are hidden in menus, someone please let me know, but if not I hope Akai is reading this and will consider these suggestions for future updates.