MPC or Push...Really? Which way should you roll?

My thoughts on the Akai MPC vs Ableton Push issue...if there is one. Plus "Story Time" (How I ended up with mine).
• Merc Mixx Production T...
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Akai MPC:
www.akaipro.com/mpc-x-se
Ableton Push
www.ableton.com/en/push/
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MercMixx

[@mercmixx]

Hey just my thoughts on the two units and a story on how I ended up with the Ableton Push. Hope you like it!

[@deanivan3951]

lol How you gonna just skip past the mpc3000 so fast brother. To this day, nothing sounds as dope It's the greatest MPC ever built imo even with its limitations, thanks for the upload!

[@mercmixx]

@@deanivan3951 Lol my bad. 😄 Yeah the MPC3000 was the move. I loved it but as computers got more and more powerful, I found myself not using it so I sold it before it was worth nothing. The story in the beginning was to just establish that I’ve used both so that I’m somewhat credible…ya know? Plus I had to cut out a lot of video because the video was too as it was so sorry about that. Anyway I don’t think I have any good MPC stories except after selling it, years later I did buy the the 1st Native Instruments Maschine. This might be another video but I was pissed off on how ancient it felt at that time with all the new technologies out there including color screens on iphones and stuff. I wrote a long email to Native Instruments complaining about what they should and could’ve built instead, even going as far as using 2 iPhones screens as displays if they couldn’t do one large screen. I’ve never heard back from them but yeah, true story. Lol If I find that old email to Native Instruments, I’ll make a part two starting off with the MPC3000. ✌🏾😎

[@deanivan3951]

@@mercmixx 🙏🏾

[@pintosoundinstrumentalbeats]

check out rap alots convict album alot of tracks were made with the Roland r-8 in for Shure is ( ilegal aliens) track and big mik mad track : big bike how ya living than it starts but yes drx7 Yamaha was better much more versatile and more sounds not just drums

[@BeatsbyLonza]

Great video. Enjoyed the conversation on the machines. I love the push 2 and my Mpc’s.

[@mercmixx]

Thanks glad you enjoyed it.👍🏾

[@MIAMI-CASUAL]

ANOTHER GREAT BIT OF CONTENT .....GREAT STUFF

[@mercmixx]

Much appreciated, thank you!

[@mg-sj3ug]

Hard to criticise a misleading title when it hides content this good. Thx. Loved the first purchase story 😂, the kit chronology, then the clearest demo of chopping on Push. I started w Abl 3 - intuitive, fun, made lots, albeit often in the tangents it lures you down - then 10yrs of Logic - no fun, felt like homework - then last year with MPC Key 61, a fantastic one-box solution. But it’s like a great house that’s had many extensions over the years: good ones, but you’d never design a house that way from scratch. Excited to return to Ableton w P3.

[@mercmixx]

Welcome back my friend. I’ve tried all the DAWs (except Reaper which looks too “Windows 95” for me) and once I locked in to Ableton, it was a rap. It just clicked and made sense. Anything I hear in my head I can create without thinking about it….and the stuff you create by accident is like “I would’ve never thought of that” if I was working in a strictly linear type DAW. For me, starting a project/ideas in “Session View” then putting them together in “Arrangement View” is what works for me. So congrats on your return, especially with that Push 3…Enjoy amigo.🫡🦾

[@sectiondrecords4580]

Thanks for the comparison! Subscribed I have these and the Maschine plus- my preference is the Machine Plus

[@mercmixx]

Good choice! I still have an older Maschine but would love to have one of the newer ones to come up with ideas while on the couch. Thanks for the comment. 👍🏾✌🏾

[@mastermachetier5594]

I use ableton at home , but I take my Mpc on the road for performance or creations . It also lets you auto multisample instruments and carry those sounds around. Nice to take my hardware synth sounds in some form in a small package

[@mercmixx]

Yeah, there’s nothing wrong with that Ableton and MPC combination. Best of both worlds you know what I’m saying 👍🏾👍🏾

[@ebow707]

I loved the story telling. It’s hard even with the internet to make a decision, let alone without it. Also a house DJ, work across 4 decks and wanted to take it to the next level so bought an MPC One a couple of weeks ago. I love it and it does more that I need right now so lots to grow into. Have subscribed :)

[@WizWordofficial]

Yeah it's literally what not to do

[@mercmixx]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@inspector-tech]

I have an MPC One also!! Bought it while I was waiting and anticipating the arrival of a new Push. Two years later & Ableton dropped the Push 3 so now i have both!! I tell ya something, those MPC Ones are effin Excellent though!! Steep learning curve but once you get past that they’re great for banging out beats 👌🏾

[@binarysun_]

Great video. That sums up my feelings to 90%. And I like that it's mostly unbiased (okay when starting the video and seeing the push it's instantly clear what you favour ;) ) Used Ableton for many many years. But eventually left it for many reasons and problems of the eco-system itself. Not because I don't like it. It's still a great daw most of the time and have the latest version still and use it from time to time. But I am happy with an MPC X and Studio One for many years now. And that's where I have to comment on the MPC being just a beat maker. It's so fully featured nowadays that especially the old-school heads complain that it's just a daw in a box and not the simple beat maker they love. And that is true. The MPC is a full standalone daw you can use from idea to master easily. I think for the money you spend you won't get a more fully fledged device/daw-combination with seamless integration from standalone to controller mode anyway. The Push 3 standalone is not nearly in reach of where the MPCs are now. Most things you just can't do on a standalone Push 3. You can't even arrange anything at the moment. Not speaking about exporting stems from the standalone or even a full track. You always need a PC with Live. Data transfer between the Push 3 and Live is weird at best and you can't even use most of the M4L devices. Not to speak about arranging anything. It's merely a device for ideas at the moment. Anything more and you must have a PC. At the moment the Push 3 Standalone is a simple beat making device but that's it and then you still need to buy Ableton and a PC. That said the Push 3 will cost much more to make it fully fledged. Theoretically it's way more powerful. But it's not there yet at all. If you "need" Ableton Live and the Push 3, then get the controller portion only and if standalone is ready one day in maybe 1-2 years, then get the current NUC to put in there. But keep in mind that with a Push 3 you have to use a PC and still need a mouse and a keyboard. The MPC can go completely solo. If you want a small and portable device that can do everything from first idea to full mix, then get an MPC one+ for 700-is bucks. And if you still want to use a DAW, then just plug it in to your PC with USB, open the MPC Software and continue working where you left off. And if you think the MPC SW sucks (it's not that great tbh), then just open it as a VST in your favourite daw and record whatever you are doing directly into your daw of choice. It's still seamless enough. The only real downside imho is that the MPC does not support 3rd party VSTs in standalone and when you want to use a VST not in the MPC, then you need a PC. But the same holds true for the Push 3 in standalone or as controller where you can't even use all of the stock plugins in standalone anyway. So with a P3 SO you can't even say "I only need stock so I will never have to use a PC". Oh and I forgot to mention that I never work linear and you can do that with an MPC as well. just record your variations into different slots and play with them similarly to Live. TL;DR: Today it's not what an MPC or Ableton Live /w Push 3 can or can't do. They all can do everything and they all sound great. Choose one, LEARN IT and stick with it. It's not that one is better or worse why people complain. Most of the time it's that people are not willing to learn their gear and too many people on the web have their strong opinion and people think that they have to use to get to something. The only thing tools do nowadays is make certain things easier. More often then not you still have to know what they are doing and when you know what they are doing most of the time you won't need that tool anymore anyway.

[@mercmixx]

True that! In addition, I believe there’s 3 different ways of working with the Push. I’d use the Push 3 stand alone for starting an idea away from the computer and taking a finished track on the road to play out live in a club (both no computer needed) and the standard Push 3 as an interface between Ableton Live, the computer and you. You can’t really go wrong with either or, you’ll just need a computer 100% of the time with one. Hey, thanks for the comment.👍🏾

[@cashrainbow]

I say use both. I practice with Akia Key 61 and push 2 and 3, maybe try both. It gives you a wider choice. The negative is you have to learn more than one instrument and most folks say you should concentrate on only one at a time.

[@mercmixx]

Yeah use whatever you feel comfortable with especially if it gets the job done.👍🏾

[@byniasofficial2567]

Fun fact. Push 2/3 still suck if you work in arrangement mode. It basically turns into expensive simpler controller.

[@mercmixx]

Yeah that’s what I use it for. I stop buying keyboards cause I don’t play and I’d rather not use a mouse when making music so yeah, it’s my center piece for inputting music. What makes it perfect for me is that I can play “in key” notes and chords right from the pads (instead of the computer) so it’s a win win for me. Thanks for the comment though. 🙏🏾✌🏾

[@LukezyM]

@@mercmixx Does it have a chord mode now?

[@mercmixx]

@@LukezyM I use the “Chord” plug-in in Ableton which is then controlled by the Push.

[@Iredidv]

I started using Maschine when it came out, still do, had probably every model . Mk1 Was cheap compared to a Full spec mpc, always wanted a 3000, but too expensive. I learned Maschine inside out, and know it like the back of my hand. So 3 years ago I got an mpc one to see what I missed. I constantly compared it to Maschine, and everything was simpler, faster, better workflow on the Maschine. It went into the closet for a year or 2, got it back out when my Maschine plus was in for repair and suddenly it clicked with the mpc, because I put in the time. Now I still use the plus most, but sometimes I use em both with ableton link, and use the mpc as a sound module, sequenced by Maschine. The biggest lesson I learned? The most important value isn’t the gear, but the time you invest in learning it from a to z. Btw I have push 2 and ableton, but my workflow is make as much as I can on Maschine, export or record in ableton, wich is basically an audio tracker for maschine, because ableton is better for song building, fx, and automation. With this combo, I’m faster than ever. Made my best stuff in half an hour, excluding (advanced) mixing and mastering. For me it’s the deserted island setup, and everyone should look for THEIR way to get everything from your head to sound as fast as possible, you don’t want to push 100 buttons and dive in menus, you want to get that idea down fast. Good vid, enjoyed it 👍

[@mercmixx]

Thank you Amigo for the kind words!👍🏾 I also agree with getting the idea from your head down as fast as possible too. I also still own a Maschine myself but did’t bring it up cause the video would’ve been even longer, lol. ✌🏾

[@matissev2530]

Hi! Unrelated to your video, but I am looking for a large desk and I basically have the same audio gear as you do. Could you tell me the name and brand of yours? Thanks in advance!

[@mercmixx]

(Sorry This message just came up now) Yeah absolutely…And the cost is nice compared to studio desks. The desk is a counter top from IKEA and the legs you order off of sites like Etsy. Just make sure they’re heaven duty legs and if you’re getting a wide desk top like I have they support the center (or buy a third leg and turn it sideways). I’d recommend you go bigger than you think you’ll need….especially on the depth (front to back), you’ll thank me for this later. -IKEA “KARLBY” Countertop for kitchen island, walnut/veneer, 74x42x1 1/2 " (Super sturdy non flimsy) www.ikea.com/us/en/p/karlby-countertop-for-kitchen-island-walnut-veneer-30297641/#content -Legs from “Etsy.com” (example) www.etsy.com/listing/743716773/metal-table-legs-3x1-u-flat-black-set-of?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=tablelegs&ref=sr_gallery-1-4&frs=1&bes=1&organic_search_click=1

[@tkokami1380]

I'm wanting to learn ableton live after years of being on fl. I plan on playing live at some point because I've gotten experience with rekord box dj as well. I record as a singer and hip hop artist. I also make beats and produce. It sounds like i need the push since the mpc doesnt give phantom power either

[@badmusic504]

Greetings!!! That brick wall u speak of I can relate . I have a mpc key61 & I come from the workstation days motif/triton . Don’t know if it’s me not knowing enough about the mpc but after 4 tracks of trying to create a beat it will not allow me to do anything else so I just go back to the motif sample play keys & program a beat with still more that enough tracks to do more so I’m thinking about selling the mpc keys61 but moving forward I don’t know what direction to go In be it the push / N I / fantom/ or mpc x as a hub I prefer hardware but if I can sample make beats play keys synths strings etc without limitations on piece of gear give me that or something close to that

[@mercmixx]

Hey what’s going on? I’ve thought about your situation carefully because I don’t wanna lead you down the wrong path so here’s my take on the information that you provided. If you feel comfortable with programming your music on your motif, then there’s nothing wrong with that. The thing that I think you are missing is ultimately getting your music into a computer for arranging and possibly mixing and mastering in the future. I find that just using equipment outside of a computer is what brings me to that brick wall. I’d recommend using your motif keyboard in conjunction with a DAW to take your productions to the next level. Even if you purchase an outboard mixer and more external hardware, you’re still gonna end up inside a computer because today we use the computer not only for production purposes, but also like an ADAT or tape machine. So if you’re not using a computer at all, my recommendation would be to start using a DAW with your motif keyboard. You don’t have to immediately jump into mixing and mastering but I would at least use it for arranging. You can arrange 100 times faster in a DAW so you’ll be able to change and test out different arrangements to help get past that brick wall. If your arrangements‘s are satisfactory and it’s the sound that is causing your brick wall, then I definitely get into using a DAW for mixing. I would check out different DAW videos and try their demos to see which one you like best. Don’t just go out and buy ProTools because it has the word “Pro” in it… that could be your first mistake if you don’t do your research first. Choose what feels comfortable to you. I hope this helps and I didn’t misunderstand anything. If I didn’t quite understand something or you’d like me to go into more detail or clarify, just let me know.✌🏾

[@badmusic504]

Thanks for the response! So you definitely make great points & from that l begin to understand what I’m dealing with I have daws N I software the mpckeys61 came with a daw download but it’s the standalone part I assumed I could freely record 8 Tracks in the akai but I can’t it stops me a 4 depending on the plug in (could be me missing up) & I understand the motif & key61 are to different animals basically I just want something that does it all Daw & standalone a hybrid type situation . That’s why I assumed going to mpc x or push 3 would work . I’m trying but so far the mpc key61 is not working for me

[@mercmixx]

I see. Well what would do since you’re already leaning towards the Push 3 or MPC-X, I would buy the Push 3 “from a store” and test it out for 30 days and if you don’t like it, return it and pick up the MPC-X. Since you already have a foot in the door with the MPC and kind of know what that platform offers, I would go ahead and try the Push 3 with the Ableton Live Software (Use the free demo version so you don’t have to worry about returning software). Just make sure you learn both Ableton Live and Push within that time so you’ll have a concrete understanding of the Ableton platform so you can make an informed decision before trying to bring it back and then later on wishing you didn’t.

[@badmusic504]

Thanks bro I appreciate it !

[@88mokeyz6]

Love the Video, I just don't do standalone, but my Push 2 vs MPC Touch or Studio W/ Abelton and Drum rack Live has the Edge

[@mercmixx]

Yeah I’m with you, but I would love to have one so I could sketch a beat on the couch or while in the bed and then bring it to the studio…later that would be cool.👍🏾 Thanks for the compliment 👍🏾✌🏾

[@gmorb666]

Funny, i started with ableton, but the akai force got me focused, and now i feel im doing a 360 to ableton again because i can not really find a good fluid workflow between the two.

[@mercmixx]

Yeah, the Akai force is somewhat of a different animal. You may need to try out using Ableton Push with Ableton Live instead and see how that works for you. That sounds like what you may need.

[@Mixxwizard]

Great content, we almost have the same story starting out in music. I still own my SP1200 as well as my Roland TR909. I haven’t used them in years. I started with Live 2.0 but I was so focus on Pro Tools & Reason. I did not give Ableton a fair try. Now it’s all about Live 11 Suite. I’m waiting on my Push 3 to arrive any day now. I still have The Push 1 & 2. Keep up the great work. I see DaVinci controller on the side😂. I just converted full time editing with DR 18 studio. Leaving Fcpx behind😢

[@mercmixx]

Yeah Resolve is where it's at right now...Congrats! Waiting to get your Push 3 any day now huh...so you opted for the stand alone version or got lucky and found the Push 3 standard? Either way congrats on that too.👍🏾👍🏾 Thanks for the comment!✌🏾

[@Mixxwizard]

I purchased the Push 3 standard. That's all I need to create Mashups & remixes.

[@mercmixx]

Agreed. Same.

[@G_handle]

Yo you’re on fire right now! Imma a take it a step back, to the battle between TR-808 Beats vs MPC Beats. That’s when I came up, Boom Bap. Couldn’t afford either, and my first drum machine was a Dr. 550 when I was 15 in 1990. Fast Forward, and I know you were telling your journey, so you didn’t hit everything, but…. You didn’t even Mention Machine, which I’d think is the primary Push competitor at least for beats. Then I wonder if you’ve messed with MPC2, the current software version of MPC? Between Ableton, FL, Machine, and MPC2, it’s crazy as an old school cat how much a kid coming up today has on a laptop. Yo, keep these coming.

[@mercmixx]

LOL, it's funny you mention such gear. I actully did go into a few of those things but due to time, I had to pick and chose what needed to go including the free MPC software. Oh and Fun Fact...I still have the Machine mk1. It's not being used but it's in the closet somewhere.✌🏾

[@G_handle]

@@mercmixx Ahhhhh..... the gear closet. Lets not start pulling that stuff out.

[@88mokeyz32]

I have used the Machine Studio, MV8000, MPC, and Push 2. I ❤ them all.

[@mercmixx]

That’s what’s up. 👍🏾

[@flossondatrack8861]

I have a Push 2, but I went with the MPC X . It’s a great machine.

[@mercmixx]

Nice! Do you sync it with Ableton Live, the MPC Software or something else?

[@flossondatrack8861]

I use the VST in Ableton or studio one. Stand-alone is fun also.

[@mercmixx]

Ok, That’s what’s up👍🏾

[@mont-doggBeats]

Newer mpc’s are way different. They have their own VSTs inside plus it’s easily integrated with the computer in hybrid mode with the Mpc software or ableton link with ableton

[@mercmixx]

Yes you're correct that's 100% right, but I was explaining how they can chop up samples just as easily. I did speak on the MPC software and Ableton Link but had to cut it out due to time, my apologies. I also had to take out the other 1000 ways Ableton Live could chop up samples too (😡 I was mad about that) but I decided to just stick to chopping beats (video would've been 2hrs lol). I also did mention that today you can actually stay inside the MPC if you wanted to it's just my preference to start using my plug-ins inside the Mac...But it's all good.👍🏾👍🏾 Thanks for the comment my friend!!✌🏾

[@mont-doggBeats]

@@mercmixx everything you said was on point. The Push 3 standalone would be a game changer if it had more I/0 on the back and if it had the arrangement view

[@classic1984]

Without having used either of them, I had the impression that sampling from any source would be easier, faster and more 'intuitive' on an MPC, but maybe not? The only thing from stopping me from ordering an MPC right now is the fact that using 3rd party plugins with MPC projects could be problematic from what I understand. Good video.

[@mercmixx]

If you use Ableton Live then it’s a no brainer, but it all comes down to what you like to use and how you like to work….cause you could sample and edit with any software and use a midi keyboard as the controller (people do it all the time) but I wouldn’t. Believe me my friend there’s really no wrong answers. I’d buy one, learn it and use it within the return period (I think B&H is 30 days) return it and do the same with the other. By doing this you’ll find what you’re looking for. Thanks for the comment. 👍🏾

[@aaronspencer3147]

Seems like you made quite a few purchases before researching what you actually needed. Yeah people did that before the Internet as well. When I bought my first MPC I knew it didn't have internal sounds . So I midi connected with a korg N364.

[@mercmixx]

Yeah I wish I knew what an MPC was, back then nobody did🙄....not even the people working at the store. LOL Good Times😂🤣 Thanks for the comment Amigo👍🏾

[@jabbarindabenz]

Lmaoo I did the same thing with the same programs. My reason was I wanted change! Dope video

[@mercmixx]

Crazy Huh?!? SMH🤦🏾‍♂️ Thanks for the comment.

[@ImNotVeronicaa]

@mercmixx Wow, they both do so much…it’s great to see someone FINALLY doesn’t have an “opinion”- and realizes both are okay, and it’s just up to you. The argument over the two is unnecessary. You do really great with the push though!

[@InspelaRecords]

Finally - a video that speaks the truth about being able to make samples in Ableton sound any way you want them to sound - rather than saying that you need the A-to-D and D-to-A converters in an MPC X to get ‘that’ sound!

[@mercmixx]

Thanks. 🙏🏾 The truth is easy it’s just some people only want to believe in one way of making music or getting the job done. At the end of the day, the end listener doesn’t even know to care less. The key to making good music is to simply just “make good music”. If you’re not at the level to make it sound good there’s people like myself that does mixing and mastering that could help you out but if the song is bad, then the song is bad…there’s no fixing that. So the moral of this rant in almost 2024 is to simply buy what you like and “Run what you Brung” when it comes to creating music. For instants I love Ableton Live and I’d love to make a video on how great the program is but half the video I’d be saying things like “This is only my opinion”, “This is why I like it” and “You could also do this in other DAWs” instead of of just showing and explaining why I like to use it. Because if I don’t, forget about it…. every other DAW user/keyboard commando would come out of the woodwork starting a DAW war.🙄 Thanks again for the kind words my friend.🫡✌🏾

[@GardensoftheAncientsHerbal]

Sucks because these are the two choices and all the other controllers are struggling to stay in stock due to shortages

[@DanielIvan707]

MPC x sounds like a laptop

[@jackrorystaunton4557]

I had a moment when you started talking about scsi and jaz drives 😂

[@mercmixx]

I heard that! 😂 lol

[@illreel5169]

Unfortunately this is why they call it Musical Equipment Sales... They do the same thing in Gun Stores if your not educated enough, they'll send you home with a paperweight... 🤯🤬🤯 The MPC 3000 was the 1st Akai flagship unit with Digital Input!!! What happened to Digital I/O's Akai? MPC is still King of my Studio's the software took it to the next level...You must didn't use the Song Mode, Midi or sample keyboards with your MPC's... #GreatVidBro....🎥🎬🎥

[@mercmixx]

Hey Thanks!👍🏾 I did use it with midi keyboards, sound modules and of course with song mode but now just loading up an Ableton Live session for me is like cheatin', lol.😎 Thanks for the comment, my friend!🫡

[@BOMBPHONICS]

damn I wanna upgrade from my push 2 so bad

[@mercmixx]

Hey did you check how much you can get for your Push 2? You might not be that far away after selling it.

[@annebokma4637]

I guessed syquest drive 😁 but I had the jaz too

[@mercmixx]

Yeah I only remembered “Zip drive” but couldn’t remember “Jazz for some reason”. 👍🏾

[@annebokma4637]

@@mercmixx yeah you said not zip si I went syquest, also totally forgetting Jaz, with one z, for some reason. It seems certain products were popular in certain industries

[@CmdSoda]

Both! Both! Both!

[@marclemar]

For the current gen MPC there are thing that it does that the Push doesn’t and visa-versa. I have and had Multiple MPCs, push 2 (my 3 is on the way) and maschine (mk3 and +) I’m here to tell you there is no true winner AT ALL!! They all do 95% of the same shit then there is thr 5% that separates them. You need to figure out if you want a DAW companion or a groove box and/or standalone sampler… The reason I’m buying a push 3 is my Personal belief that the push 3 will be the first one to kind of do it all .

[@mercmixx]

Nice!👍🏾 I’ll upgrade one day. Maybe after Live 12 comes out.

[@ernieg]

2.5 per pad. Total 10 sec. I still have mines. Sp1200

[@mercmixx]

NICE!👍🏾

[@Kweli_Wali]

I should have known this was click bait for Ableton fan Club. At least you should have used both machines in comparison. The MPC XSE is nowhere in comparison to the MPC 5000. Not sure why you mentioned the MPC 5000 when your video referenced the MPC XSE?!? All the new MPC's are Hybrid machines meant to possibly start a project in standalone and finish in the MPC Software DAW if you choose to. A lot of the features you mentioned Ableton Live having the MPC has and so much more with every update. I can't say nothing bad about Ableton because I barely used it. I didn't like how plain it looked. But it's must be a solid piece of software it's an the top of the list among other DAWs

[@mercmixx]

No-no click bait amigo hear me out. Not sure if you watched 'til the end but I wasn't comparing the newer MPC's to the older ones, I was telling my (what I thought was interesting) story of how I got into MPC's...plus the title of the video has a (?) mark in it like, "Really...you guys are going to compare these two machine". To be clear I don't think they should be compared and you should choose what fits you (I explained why in the video). Also in the video I went over the latest flagship Push & MPC and gave an example how samples could be easily chopped inside the Push while stating both machines where great. I loved Ableton Live and Push but know better than to hate on other peoples preferences when it comes to gear, It's a preference...Plus who doesn't love MPC's.👍🏾 So no shade to you my friend and I hope I explained things a little better here. Hey I hated how Ableton looked too, I thought it looked ugly at first but now I look at it like this: Image you are a machinist or mechanic and instead of your shop looking all nasty, oily and junkie like most shops, your shop is clean, pristine with all your tools put back in place after each use and you're only working on "1" million dollar super car at a time like no other in the world (i.e. your tracks), and you can do/create "literally" anything you can think of while building these super cars without breaking a sweat, running onto problems or sitting there trying to figure things out until the car is done. That's how I look at Ableton Live and it's work flow once you become proficient. How did you get me talking about Ableton??🤔 Alright that's it I'm out.✌🏾

[@robtriton]

Neither. You can do more using an all out DAW, plug ins, and a few rack mounts.

[@mercmixx]

True, true.👍🏾 …But knobs pads and faders are fun!🥳

[@daniel_dumile]

Nothing beats MPC for sketching out ideas for beats, getting the first demo. Nothing. Ableton is too distracting especially attached to a PC with message notifications. But not just that, the hardware is perfectly designed for sample chopping. I can't go without a jog wheel when finely cutting up samples and the workflow where you find a chop on pad 1, keep hitting play while the drums play, then when get a good chop copy it to a pad 2, then repeat on 1, copy to pad 3. Etc Nothing beats it for sample based production. The only annoying part is stemming out to Ableton. It has built it export to Ableton project which is great but going back to tweak the sounds is annoying. So I need to figure out that mixing workflow better

[@daniel_dumile]

Also I can do it in bed or on the couch with my MPC Live 2 (don't bother with One+)

[@mercmixx]

👍🏾True, yeah I remember chopping samples in the MPC…it was fun and it actually felt like you were getting work done so I get it. I too hated the going back to edit or tweak something so I just eliminated that part altogether and just got super efficient at doing it on the Push inside Ableton (using the Ableton sampler, no stems). Now I can go back and tweak or edit a sample 19 years later at any given time during Production, Mixing or Mastering without skipping a beat or wasting time which I hate. Also the Push does have knobs that you’d use as the scroll wheel…the new Push 3 even has a larger knob for the scroll wheel. Again there’s really no right or wrong here just preference. After doing this for a long time I get rid of anything that’s stops or slows me down from getting what’s in my head down and out the speakers. Thanks 🙏🏾 for the comment, my friend.✌🏾

[@mercmixx]

Yeah, and that’s the only reason why I’m thinking about getting the standalone Push 3 (seriously to use in the bed), otherwise unfortunately I don’t “need-need” it…but would love to have it (Ableton if you’re listening 😉).

[@joeymc5272]

I dont give a shit what anyone says is have macshine and i got the push 3. Push 3 is awesome. I have very little complaints except for some issues when unplugging say a usb cable and it wont link back up with ableton without power cycling. Other than that its solid as shit. Screw the naysayers

[@mercmixx]

🤔Yeah come to think about it, I’ve never had an issue with Push myself or even Ableton to be honest. I agree…Solid as a Rock.👍🏾👍🏾

[@joeymc5272]

@@mercmixx try going in controller mode, unplug the usbc cable for a minute then plug it back in and see what happens. I have had a few things bug out on me but nothing that a power cycle wont fix. My issue is learning in depth with it. So much available with it.

[@Soulstice_Beats]

Mpc x over everything as of now

[@mercmixx]

Gotcha! 👍🏾 Actually with my setup, you could replace my Push with a MPC-X (and/or use the free MPC software) and be right at home. 👌🏾 ….One cable for power and one cable for data (the Push only needs 1 USB cable).

[@inspector-tech]

Maaan! What a trip down memory lane!! Ha ha! I remember that SP1200!! That was big money back in the day in the UK 😅 My first drum machine was that R8 and i came up with a couple of wikid beats on that (syncopation wise) but sound-wise? Yeah… it wasn’t the greatest 😁 Long story short, i had a Push 2 for a short while but now have the Push 3. I highly recommend the controller version only. Check out my channel for a video overview on this where I share my opinions. Apart from that, loved your video man! Truly great 👍🏾

[@mercmixx]

Thank you for the complements my friend I appreciate it. I too will eventually get the push 3 as well.✌🏾

[@matthewgaines10]

There is no controversy. How you work, what you make, and what you work with determines what you should use. Nor should you ask someone in a store what's best for you. The answer is personal to you. Ask 100 people what's "best" and you'll get 100 unique answers. This process you used was flawed from the start. Research upfront beats brute force. The limitations you have on MPCs are unique to your situation. I compose on my MPCs. Everyone is different. I have a Live Standard license and it's not really for me for composition. Great for mastering but not for everyone.

[@mercmixx]

Hey, thanks for the comment, Yes I did say most of this in my video but remember there was no “internet’” to look up anything so I had to ask someone and that someone happen to be the guy selling the gear. Lol, You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover but the guy looked like he would know what kind of drum machine I would need for the type of music that I’d be composing. Also part of doing your research is asking. Plus I did talk about a few more features of the MPC and Ableton, but I had to delete both because of time and keep the video primarily to how you can chop up beats in both with no problem. As well as stay 100% in the MPC…I did say that. Watch the video again you’ll see I don’t lean one way or another, I actually picked what’s right for me and my situation. They’re both great machines.👍🏾👍🏾✌🏾

[@matthewgaines10]

@@mercmixx People seemed to have successfully researched things before the internet. Believe it or not. Music stores had a larger inventory and more display items before the internet. I have always had a low return rate once I looked, listened, and played with things before buying them.

[@bobchris11]

syquest drive

[@mercmixx]

Yeah I kinda remember those too but never had one.

[@agustinbernal2760]

Push 3 standalone all the way!!

[@mercmixx]

Yep I hear ya!

[@deanivan3951]

Way Overpriced!

[@mercmixx]

@@deanivan3951 Hey it’s me again. Yeah I kinda thought it was always a lot of money but I have to remind myself this general rule. Most products usually sell for three times what they cost to build (except when you’re dealing with clothes, sneakers ). So when it comes to building electronic gadgets, I always try to divide the price it cost to buy into 3 parts. 1/3 will be to replace the gadget in their inventory. The second third is to build an additional device to sell (or R&D on future/current products) and the last third is profit into the bank. This is generally a healthy business model to run. So if the standalone Push 3 cost about $2000, I expect it cost them $666 to build…. it has a PC Nuc inside, how much are they now about 500 bucks? Once I break it down like that, I’m like “whatever take my money“ and bow my head in defeat.😔

[@deanivan3951]

@@mercmixxlol Hey I Hear You, I'm A Sucker For New Gear So My Room Is Full Of it! Thanks For The Uploads 🙏🏾

[@5thelementalsounds]

Not a fan of the Push workflow. MPC Gang

[@mercmixx]

That’s what’s up. 👍🏾

[@demolitionkid2]

You asked for a drum machine he gave you one. You didnt knownyou really wanted a sampler 😂 They have there respective purposes and ways they acheived them. Push 3 for live 11 is top tier mobile producing built FOR live. I respect akai and the mpc but its dated man . Its great for sampling and triggering however it isnt as expressive as the push.... by far.

[@mercmixx]

👍🏾 I like the Push for that reason for that reason…especially since I don’t use keyboards any longer. And Heeeeey lol 😄… nobody calls a MPC a sampler, we call them drum machines. Plus I gave him a perfect description of the MPC, down to the size of the blue colored screen. He knew what one was, but was acting dumb and just trying to sell me what he had in the store at the moment. 😒my dude was shady. Thanks for the comment my friend🙏🏾✌🏾.

[@classic1984]

What do you mean by expressive?

[@WizWordofficial]

I one hundred percent guarantee when the salesman saw you, in his head your name was this guy again. It sounds like you were unaware of, all the magazines that were available to teach you about the products at that time. You literally could have contacted Roland and they would have sent you a free video cassette on all their products. I wouldn't have any money, and still go to all the Roland and Yamaha demo shows I could for free. And be the only guy only walking out with knowledge and NO gear.

[@mercmixx]

I gotcha 👍🏾but let me know (me back then) “What’s a Roland?…and isn’t a Yamaha motorcycle??? You have to know about a Roland to contact Roland…..lol Everybody starts somewhere my friend. Also I live in New York so all my gear came from a place called Canal Hi-Fi that catered to DJ’s so I never had to go to Sam Ash really for anything. I didn’t know of magazines for producers or what a producer was (this was before the boom in producer magazines). I’m telling you if you didn’t know someone, the only thing you could do is go to the store, it was brutal. Plus what was he thinking when I told him “I wanna create House & Hip Hop’” and he hands me a Roland R7 or when I asked him what’s the best and he hands me a Roland R8 and said these words, “This thing is the best”??? Clearly he didn’t know about Drum Machines while working in the drum machine section….come to think of it, I think he had to go asks someone what’s the name of SP1200. SMH🙄 Hey you wanna really laugh… after I purchased the MPC 3000 and a Mackie 32 x 8 Bus mixer, I then went to Sam Ash in New York City (the 1st Sam Ash was in Jersey), told them what equipment I had already and I wanted to make House Music and asked them “what should I buy next” you know what they told me? A damn Distressor!🙄….not an M1 keyboard, a damn Distressor🤦🏾‍♂️. Bro most of these people just “worked” there. I later realized they only knew about Rock music and had knowledge on recording bands and stuff. Well thank god for the internet today. It was brutal back then.

[@Drrolfski]

Hate to say it but that was quite a lot of rambling. IMO, you could have easily made your point in half the time for a better video. Also, it seems to me that you are missing the point and maybe that has to do with you lacking experience with both the latest generations of the MPCs (One , Live 2, X) and Push (3). Because there has never been a discussion about any MPC vs the Push controller, not even the Push 3 version of it. The only relevant discussion is the MPC latest generation series vs the Push 3 standalone version. And this is actually a legit comparison. I actually bought the MPC Live 2 a few years ago because there was no Push 3 on the market yet and I wanted a mobile standalone DAW-in-a-box without staring at a laptop screen. And both the Live 2 and Push 3 Standalone can basically deliver that. Granted, both lack linear arrangement atm so you're best off finishing your track on your computer. But other than that both are incredibly powerful standalone machines. Akai is constantly adding amazing plugins to their MPCs and as the Push 3 Standalone supports Max4Life devices its possibilities for plugins are basically endless. Even though the Push 3 Standalone should be considered in its infancy atm, it already can rightfully be considered a powerful groovebox for all music genres. Just like the MPC, which has with the current generation become way more powerful than just a beat-making machine suited to hip hop. And it's this idea of a powerful new groovebox on the market that can potentially match the capabilities of the current King of Grooveboxes , that's causing a discussion.

[@mercmixx]

LOL, Whoa.... "Shots Fired" my friend. 2 things... 1. I thought some people might enjoy the story of me first going to get my first MPC...Sorry you didn't like it. I personally find other peoples stories entertaining. 2. I had to delete a bunch of stuff that the MPC (and it's software) and Push (and Ableton) could do due to time (because it would've been a 2 hour video) so I kept it just to chopping up beats and they both do that perfectly regardless of which way you go. Side note: Once I started getting into the software I started going over the various different price points especially with the MPC and the 1000 different ways Ableton could chop samples, it started becoming a rabbit hole and a different video all together. I believe you're the 2nd person to mention the MPC software so I wish I kinda mentioned it but be assured I'm well aware it exist, I actually have the free MPC Beats software and know that the MPC 2 software cost $199 or $299 for the MPC PREMIER upgrade. So no hate from me my friend and thanks for the comment...we're all people that LOVE music . Hopefully if you watch the video again, you'll find that it was meant to be entertaining in the beginning with a bit of reality at the end and that there is no legitimate controversy no matter which way you roll...I did mention that in the video. Duces my friend✌🏾

[@Drrolfski]

@@mercmixx Don't get me wrong: your history story was entertaining. But you used it to bring the point across that the MPC is a hip-hop-oriented beat machine and the Push is a midi controller. This is both outdated and not what the current discussion is about. It's about MPC latest gen series vs Push 3 Standalone (Maschine Plus should also be part of this discussion): Who has the best standalone groovebox? My money for now is on the MPC but there is no denying that there is way more potential in Ableton Push standalone series with its superior DAW behind it.

[@mercmixx]

Watch the video again my friend🤔, That's not what I was doing...I'm a House Head and I bought 2 MPC's so it's definitely not the case (I mentioned that in the video as well). Everything that you're stating is what my video was about...Hell here's the description of the video "My thoughts on the Akai MPC vs Ableton Push issue...if there is one". Now I do believe that comparing these Machines are a waste of time that's why I made all the points in the video. I think you got a sightly different take on the video. Let me clear it up now "They can all basically do the same thing" LOL, It's all good. I bought a Maschine (and still own it 'til this day) but that's a whole nother rabbit hole plus it would've been a 3 hour video lol.✌🏾

[@Drrolfski]

@@mercmixx The title of your video is literally: "MPC or Push...Really? Which way should you roll?" Also, you're starting your first sentence with the controversy between the two. This all suggests that you can compare these two and your video will be about that. And you're not wrong, you can actually compare the MPC with the Push and there has been some buzz around it. But that's about the latest generation of MPCs and the standalone version of the Push 3, not the midi controller Push 2 and 3 you are talking about.

[@boomboombaby9140]

How can you say that was quite a lot of rambling then proceed to type a novel in the comments section?😂😂😂

[@mrfish4572]

I've owned both. The MPC is the worst, most stinky f***ing miserable music making machine on the planet. The Ableton Push is close to heaven. I cant believe this is a serious video.

[@mercmixx]

Lol…Yeah I hear ya man. Some people just like the simplicity/straight forward approach (especially if you grew up at a time where there were no Abelton Pushes) to make music. I personally grew up in an era of drum machines, Protools and Cudase, but my brain works and thinks like Ableton, so the Push was a natural fit for me. Speed, flexibility and efficiency of a computer with knobs, pads and faders for the interface is my Sh!t…but that’s just me. Thanks for the comment my friend.🙏🏾

[@beesting6135]

Penny Lanes

[@yayyhy]

Sorry but the push with all those pads is distracting team Mpc all day

[@mercmixx]

Lol… I’ve never heard that one before.👍🏾

[@yayyhy]

@@mercmixx lol I just don’t like that it has so many pads seems like to much lmao

[@mercmixx]

Yeah I like the amount of pads because I actually use them more for playing keyboards than playing or chopping samples (If you noticed, I don’t have any keyboards in my set up). I stopped buying them once I got the push because you can play the push like a keyboard which is pretty dope. I just tell push to remove any notes that aren’t in the key of the song and then just start banging away so the more keys the better in my case. ✌🏾

[@yayyhy]

@@mercmixx wow I didn’t know that

[@mrfish4572]

lol hilarious.

[@headlinerbeats]

Most annoying customer ever😂

[@mercmixx]

Yeah ok 👌🏾 Everybody can’t be you.🫵