MPC LIVE III | The Most Powerful All-In-One Standalone Music Production
Akai Professional MPC Live III Overview
The MPC Live III builds on Akai Professional’s legendary MPC workflow, now powered by the most advanced hardware ever put in an MPC. Driven by the next-generation MPC3 operating system and an all-new 8-core processor with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, it delivers four times the power of its predecessor. With support for up to 32 instrument plug-ins and 16 audio tracks, this standalone powerhouse handles your biggest projects, deepest mixes, and longest sessions without ever slowing down—no computer required.
The Complete MPC Experience Anywhere
Designed for beatmakers, producers, and performers who demand flexibility, MPC Live III provides the full standalone MPC experience in a portable format. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery powers up to four hours of creativity wherever inspiration strikes, while a vibrant 7-inch multitouch display keeps control fast and intuitive. Built-in stereo monitors, a high-quality microphone, and dual mic/line combo inputs make it easy to sketch ideas, capture vocals, or record instruments on the spot.
Expressive Pads, New Performance Controls
MPC Live III debuts MPCe 3D-sensing pads, enabling velocity, pressure, and positional control for expressive, multidimensional performance. These pads support X/Y sample blending, dynamic note repeats, and articulated control layers for a deeper level of musical feel. Sixteen dedicated RGB performance buttons provide clip launching, step sequencing, and automation, while a new assignable touch strip and four rotary encoders deliver hands-on real-time modulation for instruments and effects.
Expanded Workflow for Modern Performance
For the first time ever in an MPC, MPC Live III features a clip-based performance matrix and a dedicated 16-step sequencer, expanding traditional beatmaking into live remixing and groovebox-style workflows. Use the new Clip Matrix to trigger loops, stems, and scenes with precision, or sequence bass lines and percussion that stay perfectly in time. The new MPC Pro Pack introduces studio-grade time-stretching, expanded CV control, and pro-level plug-ins—all built into the standalone OS.
Studio Tools Built-In
From sketching to final mix, MPC Live III is equipped for serious production. Its onboard microphone and preamps handle quick vocal takes and field recordings with clarity, while direct USB-C sampling lets you capture sounds straight from your smartphone or computer. Built-in speakers provide instant playback, and over 1000 MPC-ready drum kits and instruments are included for instant inspiration. With Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ableton Control Mode, you can collaborate wirelessly, sync projects, and even use MPC Live III as a controller for Ableton Live.
Expanded Audio and MIDI Connectivity
Whether in the studio or onstage, MPC Live III is ready to connect. Alongside 8 CV/gate outputs, MIDI I/O, and Wi-Fi / Bluetooth with Ableton Link, the USB-C interface supports 24-channel audio I/O and 32 channels of MIDI, enabling seamless integration with your DAW or other hardware. Stream multitrack audio in real time, or use it as a class-compliant interface for your computer, iOS, or Android devices.
For Every Kind of Creator
From hip-hop and trap producers to techno performers, experimental musicians, and DAW-less jammers, MPC Live III adapts to any workflow. Whether you're layering beats, capturing field recordings, or sequencing a live set, its combination of power, portability, and expressive control makes it the centerpiece of modern music creation.
Key Upgrades over MPC Live II
8-core processor (4× the power)
8GB RAM (up from 2GB)
128GB internal storage (up from 16GB)
MPCe 3D-sensing pads with X/Y control
Dedicated 16-step sequencer and clip matrix
Assignable touch strip and four rotary encoders
Onboard studio microphone with mic preamps
24-track USB-C audio interface (32-channel MIDI)
MPC Pro Pack with advanced plug-ins and CV control
1000+ included drum kits and instruments
Key Specs
Sound Generation: Digital
Number of Pads; 16x Velocity-/Pressure-Sensitive RGB Backlit Pad
Number of Sounds, Kits, or Samples: 1000x Factory Drum Kit
Internal Memory: RAM: 8 GB + SSD: 128 GB
Media/Memory Card Slot: Single Slot: SD (Unspecified Type)
Audio I/O: 2x Combo XLR-1/4" Input
MIDI I/O: 2x DIN 5-Pin Input + 2x DIN 5-Pin Output
USB I/O: 1x USB-C (Audio, Host Connection, MIDI)
General
Item Type: Effects Processor / Multi-Track Recorder / Sample Triggering Pad / Sampling Workstation / Sequencer Workstation
Kit Components
Sound Generation: Digital
Number of Pads: 16x Velocity-/Pressure-Sensitive RGB Backlit Pad
Expression Controls: 1x Ribbon Controller
Transport Controls: Yes
Internal CPU: ARM Octa-Core
AD/DA Conversion: 24-Bit / 96 kHz
Standalone Operation: Yes
Sounds
Display: 7" / 17.8 cm Color LED Touchscreen
Number of Sounds, Kits, or Samples: 1000x Factory Drum Kit
Set Lists & Kit Chaining: Yes
Maximum Polyphony: 256 Voice
Internal Memory: RAM: 8 GB + SSD: 128 GB
Maximum Sample Length: 60 Minutes
Built-In Speaker: Yes
Built-In Effects
Amp Simulator
Dynamic FX
Delay
EQ
Modulation
Sequencing & Recording
Sequencer: Number of Steps: 16x Step
Motion Sequencing: Yes
Number of Recorder Tracks: 16x Audio
Max Audio Recording Time: 60 Minutes
Media/Memory Card Slot: Single Slot: SD (Unspecified Type)
Connectivity
Audio I/O: 2x Combo XLR-1/4" Input
Trigger Device & Pedal Inputs: No
Phantom Power: 48 VDC, Selectable On/Off
MIDI I/O
2x DIN 5-Pin Input
2x DIN 5-Pin Output
CV/Gate I/O: 4x 1/8" / 3.5 mm CV/Gate Output
Sync I/O: No
Network I/O: No
USB I/O: 1x USB-C (Audio, Host Connection, MIDI)
Internal Drive Bays: 1x 2.5" (Drive Not Included)
Wireless: Bluetooth / Wi-Fi *Built-In
Bluetooth: Yes
Internet Connection: Required for Registration
Power
Power Requirements: AC/DC Power Adapter (Included)
AC Input Power: 100 to 240 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz
AC/DC Power Adapter: 19 VDC at 3.42 A (Included)
Physical
Color: Black
Included Accessories: Power Cord
Dimensions: 17.2 x 10.1 x 2.6" / 43.6 x 25.6 x 6.7 cm
Weight: 9.5 lb / 4.3 kg
