AudioPilz Takes on the Akai MPC Live III: Ugly but Powerful

Kicking off the latest episode of “Bad Gear,” AudioPilz doesn’t mince words about the Akai MPC Live III: yes, it’s ugly – but there’s more to this groovebox than meets the eye. He opens by marvelling at Akai’s unexpected design choice: a nod to the Pioneer SP16 language, which wasn’t on anyone’s bingo card for 2025. Immediately, it’s clear that this isn’t a gear review for the faint-hearted. He’s quick to point out the new pads, brimming with potential and armed with velocity and aftertouch. AudioPilz highlights their ability to handle four samples per pad, offering a whopping 64 sample layers that will leave the competition eating dust. Yet, authenticity seeps in with a query about the pads’ hygiene; just how quickly do they get grubby? A detail only a fellow gear-head would consider.

Once past the looks, AudioPilz dives into the meat of the MPC’s capabilities. He chronicles the improvements that align it with, of all things, a budget Android phone. Fancy that! He explains how the MPC Live III has absorbed DAW-like functionalities, including an arrangement process that makes creating songs almost enjoyable. The clip launcher, borrowed from FORCE, sparks interest with its new additions. AudioPilz relishes the extras like the ribbon controller and assignable Q-link knobs, which leave him pondering if ditching the computer could actually be possible. For all its modern marvels, AudioPilz finds himself missing – of all things – a mouse. Still, the machine offers hands-on editing tools and instruments ranging from TR-inspired drum kits to wild EDM tones. It’s a rich tapestry of sound capabilities that make stubborn MPC fans and DAW deserters alike ponder the possibilities.

As the episode wraps, AudioPilz delivers his final thoughts. The verdict on the Live III is crystal clear: it’s a powerhouse groovebox. Despite the controversial aesthetics, the instrument’s blend of traditional MPC workflows and cutting-edge features ensures it’s revered by long-time MPC enthusiasts. Beginners might find themselves overwhelmed, but the potential rewards for diving into this groovebox are huge. Those like AudioPilz, who navigate the 80s legacy of beat-making, might dream of the power without the physical trappings, but as he says, ‘it’s still ugly’. In true AudioPilz fashion, he leaves us with a cheeky grin, satisfied that even with all its prestige, the Akai MPC Live III will always be an acquired taste.