Akai MPC4000 2002 White

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 MPC4000 built on previous iterations of the series with expanded onboard features and the same sampling engine as the Akai Z8

Years of production: 2002-2008

Product specs: 16 touch pads, 16 MB sampling memory, 24 bit 96 kHz sampling rate, two MIDI inputs and four MIDI outputs, four independent pad sound banks

Associated artists: Trent Reznor, The xx, Kanye West