Akai MPC Live III Retro | Standalone Music Product...
$1,699.00
The Akai MPC Live III Retro is a standalone music production workstation combining classic MPC styling with next-generation processing power, expressive performance controls, and advanced sampling capabilities. Featuring a Gen 2 8-core processor, 8GB RAM, 128GB internal storage, and 16 full-size MPCe pads with 3D sensing technology, it delivers a complete production environment without requiring a computer. Its 7-inch multitouch display, built-in stereo monitors, integrated microphone, and rechargeable battery make it ideal for beatmakers, producers, sampling enthusiasts, and live performers working in the studio or on the move.
The Akai MPC Live III Retro brings the distinctive appearance of classic MPC instruments into a modern standalone music production environment. Inspired by the original MPC designs of the late 1980s, its retro color scheme complements a powerful hardware platform designed for contemporary hip-hop, trap, electronic, house, techno, and experimental music production. Powered by a second-generation 8-core processor with four performance cores and four efficiency cores, the workstation provides approximately four times the processing power of MPC Live II. Combined with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, it supports demanding projects, complex arrangements, and multiple virtual instruments without relying on a computer.
At the center of the production experience are 16 full-size RGB MPCe pads featuring advanced 3D sensing technology. These expressive pads extend traditional velocity-sensitive performance by allowing additional control across the pad surface. Producers can manipulate samples, blend sounds, create dynamic note repeats, and control assigned parameters directly through their playing technique. A dedicated performance touch strip, four touch-capacitive knobs, and 16 RGB step-sequencer buttons provide immediate access to sequencing, automation, and effects during music creation and live performance.
The integrated MPC3 operating system provides a complete production workflow for recording, editing, sequencing, mixing, and arranging music. The system supports up to 32 simultaneous plugin instances and 16 audio tracks, along with advanced capabilities such as Clip Matrix, Super Timestretch, Pro Stems Separation, and enhanced CV Playground functionality. The included MPC3 Pro Pack expands the creative toolkit with AIR Reverb Pro, AIR Visual EQ4, AIR Fabric Select, AIR Utility, and additional clip-based production features. Producers can build complete songs, launch loops, arrange performances, and process audio directly from the hardware.
Designed for music creation anywhere, the MPC Live III Retro includes built-in stereo studio monitors and an integrated microphone for immediate sampling and playback. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to four hours of portable operation, making the workstation practical for traveling musicians, mobile producers, and field recording applications. Its vibrant 7-inch multitouch display offers direct access to instrument settings, waveforms, sequencing tools, and arrangement controls. Whether producing in a studio, rehearsing backstage, or capturing sounds while traveling, the workstation keeps essential creative tools close at hand.
Extensive connectivity allows the MPC Live III Retro to function as the centerpiece of a larger production system. Two XLR/TRS combo inputs with microphone preamps accommodate external audio sources, while six line outputs provide routing flexibility. Eight CV/Gate outputs support modular synthesizers and compatible analog instruments. USB-C connectivity enables multichannel audio and MIDI integration with compatible computers, while Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ableton Link provide additional connectivity options. Combining classic MPC aesthetics with advanced standalone production capabilities, the MPC Live III Retro is built for producers and performers who want hands-on control in the studio and on stage.
| App Control | Ableton Control Mode through USB-C |
| Control Interfaces | 16 RGB MPCe Pads, 16 RGB Performance Buttons, Assignable Touch Strip, 4 Touch-Capacitive Knobs |
| Firmware Updates | Supported via MPC3 OS |
| Onboard DSP | MPC3 OS with MPC3 Pro Pack including AIR Reverb Pro, AIR Visual EQ4, AIR Fabric Select, AIR Utility |
| Physical Controls | Assignable Touch Strip, 4 Touch-Capacitive Knobs, 16 RGB Performance Buttons |
| Remote Control | Yes (via Ableton Link and Bluetooth) |
| Screen / Display | 7-inch Color Multitouch Screen inch |
| Battery Life | Up to 4 Hours hours |
| Connectivity Protocols | USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ableton Link |
| LED Type | 16 Full-Size RGB MPCe Pads with 3D Sensing Technology |
| Brand | Akai |
| Name | Akai MPC Live III Retro |
| Primary Category | Standalone Music Production Workstation |
| Dimensions | 17.16 x 10.08 x 2.64 in. (435.9 x 256.0 x 67.1 mm) |
| Included Accessories | MPC3 Pro Pack |
| Weight | 8.6 lb. (3.9 kg) kg |
| Warranty Length | Not specified years |
