Developed by Akai in tandem with the well-known electronic engineer Roger Linn, the MPC (Music Production Center) is in essence a powerful drum machine with an interactive interface of signature rubber squares. The units are also marked by the incorporation of extensive sampling abilities and MIDI sequencing, which became more powerful in newer models. The MPCs are some of the most popular production tools for old-school and modern hip-hop and rap.

The MPC500 is the smallest and most portable MPC model.

Years of production: ca. 2009-2012

Product specs: 12 touch pads, 16 MB sampling memory, onboard time stretch and pitch shift, four pad banks, one MIDI input and one MIDI outputs