MPC X SE vs MPC 3000 Loudness Test

[@Altruwest]

Interesting results for sure. Its worth noting that there is a big difference in the signal to noise ratio of a 24-bit device vs a 16-bit device. Traditionally we recorded sounds hotter in 16-bit to minimize the noise signal, so high gain settings were more common. Its really difficult to do an exhaustive comparison on these devices, but it would be interesting to compare individual outs as well, since many professional use cases would have utilized the 8 outs on the MPC 3000. There's so many aspects of traditional MPC workflow that would need to be explored to exhaust the topic, but this is definitely a decent start.

[@AveMcree]

That’s the point.

[@AveMcree]

Trust fam, this was a big waste of my time. People will think whatever and won’t even make any music.

[@RealRobinsonIV]

We never used the MPC's for the sound, but mainly for the low Audio out and midi jitter when syncing other gear. Out all the drum machine the 60, 3000 and 4000 were the best.

[@Altruwest]

@@RealRobinsonIV I would agree that the sound commentary is more of a retrospective. In real time, producers were just using the best tools available in the domain of sampling and sequencing with each subsequent sampler release. Since today's computers are fairly stable and fully capable on the sequencing and sampling side, its really a preference to use a modern sampling groovebox. There's a lot of ways to achieve warm textures and pristine sonics, but for some the goal is more so to connect with past eras of sample based music. The most straight forward way is to simply use the same gear, but I think it would need to be coupled with the same sampling and sequencing techniques to achieve similar outcomes. That being said, paying attention to Bit Depth, Sample Rates and Volumes would be bare essentials.

[@Kweli_Wali]

Oh snap @Altruwest your one of my favorite content creators. Where you been fam?

[@R.G.777.]

I cant believe ave actually released this video with his gloating pompous energy as if he was coming with irrefutable science🤦🏾‍♂️as most non cheerleaders have said Ave voided this entire video by using the volume position as some kind of hardcore evidence. The math isnt matching Ave. Disappointed in this video, my hopes were high when i saw you actually copped a 3000 LE

[@roughviper2633]

This was an amazing tap dancing performance by him to defend this new money hungry team at Akai. I think he will be happy to receive his pat in the head & a milkbone!! 😏🙃

[@R.G.777.]

@@roughviper2633 well behaved little lapdog. I'm not disrespecting People with mental illnesses but I think dude may be bipolar or something, first he apologised to Ski and now he's coming back with subtle shade and is even disrespecting People in the comment section for questioning his bizarre but flawed experiment 🤦🏾‍♂️

[@esterix101]

@@R.G.777. He will cry again and apologize to community for being cancelled 😂

[@roughviper2633]

@@R.G.777. exactly!! He decided to do this lazy test & now he's butthurt over the well deserved critique. Any credibility he had, has just left at light speed!! 😭🤣😂

[@R.G.777.]

@@roughviper2633 it's Biopar I'm telling you, either that or maybe KZbin clout does something to people's minds🤷🏾‍♂️

[@Gainn]

You're recording them in at different levels. The louder recording sounds louder. What a surprise. 😂

[@CWealthMusic]

😂 I usually try to keep most of my thoughts out of the comments but bruh, you null and voided the whole video in the first 20 seconds with so called "level matching" by putting the knobs at the same spot. At least bring them up to the same db level with the meters in ableton or use a vu meter.

[@PorchBass]

But bro he put the knobs to the same degree of rotation! That's hard scientific fact.

[@argee-s3y]

And let me know who records with such a low main volume. I think he has the gain up on the Apollo. Using his platform to misinform.

[@esterix101]

This is comical at this point. Ave totally lost it acting like 15 yo teenager with total misinformation

[@AveMcree]

@@esterix101nah but keep commenting and people who aren’t bias will comment

[@esterix101]

@@AveMcree drop me some tears. I'm not biased I like both machines nothing with them but you proved that you are deaf with this video. Enjoy comments for your algo.

[@JayBee6801]

It was never a discussion about loudness. It was sound quality.

[@JeronimoFury]

Which is mostly bs and subjective. There are numerous MPC users that have did these side by side comparisons with no consensus on what sounds the best. We are only on this topic because a certain producer felt slighted that he wasn't first in line to get the new MPC while Akai's marketing were handing them out like candy to the influencers. This particular producer has yet to post side by side comparisons of various MPC models when dude has all of them. But he spends hours recording video rants about sounds and picking arguments with influencers.

[@mattyg499]

@@JeronimoFury so people who think there is a difference are wrong?ok whatever….

[@bonchbonch]

"It was never a discussion about loudness." But the video title is "Loudness Test."

[@MegaQwerty2000]

Use a common VU meter for volume levels. Physical volume knob markers are not a valid common reference. Perhaps use a commom test tone sample and match the volume levels with their output volume knobs. Then do your test.

[@AveMcree]

VU meters on analog mixing devices are in accurate the vast majority of time. If you were an experienced engineer, you would know that already clearly.

[@Bibblebabbler]

@@AveMcree welcome to the mpc shatlist number one spot. Good luck buddy.

[@immersive_______9925]

Match level digitally don’t be lazy

[@immersive_______9925]

Peak and rms

[@immersive_______9925]

We have too much technology to not do that

[@drewhjava]

Thanks for doing this, but unforunately all the tests are worthless because the volume wasn't matched.

[@AveMcree]

Both volume knobs were the same level but ok

[@aqueous5099]

@@AveMcree smh, people really just talking out their ass, huh?

[@esterix101]

Knobs were matched but volume isn't lol.

[@jaredjackson8097]

The physical position of the knob being the same on two different pieces of gear doesn’t mean the volume levels are matched.

[@masterbeatshuntv]

Thanks for taking the time for this Ave.

[@immersive_______9925]

Gotta re-do this video the right way matching levels with a digital meter this is not the way

[@AveMcree]

No

[@JeronimoFury]

Why don't you do one and show him/us how it is done....

[@CEEPMDEE]

Mcree ave is a goofy. Did the test incorrectly on purpose. 🐭lookin in the face dude.

[@JayLayne]

Pride will be the unfortunate demise of so many lost souls

[@MgmDinero]

Ave you are not the guy for this job sorry.

[@matthewgaines10]

Newer gear tends to be cleaner and more neutral if properly designed. Older gear was limited by the DACs, circuits, and design choices. Weights and cladding have little to do with sound quality beyond beefier, cleaner power supplies tend to weigh more. At the end of the day, it’s easier to make a clean output sound gritty, dirty, or analog with effects and processors than it is to do the reverse. Use what floats your boat and concentrate on doing what you need to do with the gear you have to get the sound you want. There’s no magic in either approach. Use your ears and do the work.

[@thablackkat9905]

💯,000%

[@NimbleX-MC]

Totally agree with this! Very well said

[@danteberry1581]

​@AveMcree 6:41 why did the loop get loud after the video chop tho

[@JayLayne]

Mpc 3000 - 19.82 pounds Mpc X se - 12.48 pounds You can’t determine machines strength using the volume knob Giving out wrong information, I think he purposely gives bad information just to get a reaction…

[@AveMcree]

😂😂😂literally weighed it in the video and people still saying I’m wrong

[@JayLayne]

@@AveMcree you still said the 3000 was lighter

[@KeyfloMusic]

Ave!!! First, appreciate you for taking the time out to do this, but you may have to do the level test over. The volume was noticeably louder on the MPCx. So volume was not matched to me. It was evident when the 3000 was -11.8db and the X was -6.55db. Second, I think making the same beat, utilizing the extras out on both devices would be a better test. I Simple beat, basic sequence, no drag and dropping sounds, record everything in and track it all out. I know it requires more work but you’re already deep into this topic so might as well. Third, since the devices vary in bit depth and sample rate you will absolutely hear different sound out of the machines: both tracking in and out of the machines. I feel like the older MPCs you can go in hot and track hot. The newer MPCs has some sort of hardware clipper on them preventing you from clipping the outs. I owned a 4000 so I know what it was like the clip the hell out of it. Fourth, you’re right, consumers don’t care about the gear used to create the music but, they do care how things sound. So if you as a creator feel like hardware gives you the best sound then use that hardware, if you feel like software gives you the best sound use that and find yourself searching for that depth lmao.

[@IvarConq]

Great points!

[@tbonebeats6429]

C'mon Ave, you know better. When comparing two files or signals, they have to be gained/volume matched. I refuse to believe u didnt know this. Lol btw, I dont have a dog in the fight but you have to do it right.

[@judgeloc]

Damn... you are insulting our intelligence at this point - take this ish down, go back and get the levels correct. Out here acting like other folks haven't already made this video more thoroughly. Ghad dang mane.... SMH

[@Wheramai]

It would be expert level trolling if dude turned to the camera at the end and said 'psyche' 😭

[@jackbauer1805]

Regardless of which machine sounds better. You just proved you should have never called anyone out and you don't know half as much as you think....

[@AveMcree]

Jack where’s your mpc 3000?😂

[@bigpressure00]

its just a "WAV" file lol

[@jackbauer1805]

@@AveMcree never had one... So now you're the expert beat maker because you have one?🤣😂 I had an ASR10 for most of the 90's until I switched to the 2000xl... I'm just pointing out that you're nowhere near as knowledgeable as you think... The more you keep at this subject the more you expose your ignorance. Why should we listen to you instead of Pete Rock, Premo, Ez MoBee, EA... Ect. You're a decent content creator, but you should have humbled yourself, learned something and stayed in your lane. Especially when you realized what EA can do and has accomplished. You started all of this by calling him a clown and everything else. When it's you that's looking like a a clown... Just because you laugh hard at something doesn't make you right... Grow up.. SMH

[@jackbauer1805]

@@AveMcree word of advice... Box up that 3000 and wait a few years and sell it for 10k... You're not going to do anything with it

[@esterix101]

​@@AveMcreelol and where is your intelligence?

[@boutstaxx]

The average listener doesn’t care or know if it was made on a 3000 in Logic or FL Studio as long as it sounds good all audio is not created equal that’s why we have equalizers

[@gassmaskwoodrow]

💯

[@NamelessSmile]

This really shows the people right who say all these youtubers are just professional wafflers. Got someone here talking quack as an authority on audio who doesn't even understand matching output volumes for AB tests. "The volume knobs were in the same place but ok" wow

[@PorchBass]

I love you Ave, but use a meter for volume matching, please! Matching knob position doesn't mean anything. Edit: record both and normalise to 0db peaks - then do a null test.

[@AveMcree]

No thanks! Download the file and you can do it

[@overloaded808]

@@AveMcree wait, are you really telling us to do the work that you just didn't do in the comparison for the video? how'd you make it this far in music without knowing anything about it?

[@R.G.777.]

@@overloaded808 my validation means nothing but every once in a while AVE shows who he really is and judging by his responses to valid, non disrespectful comments he homes across as a very immature old boy. Ski was right AVE a corn ball

[@thadirtyabbott33]

​@@overloaded808🎯

[@jackbauer1805]

@@R.G.777.big facts!

[@chubbyboy2242]

A year or two ago everyone was in love with the newer MPCs and rightfully so. Now the community is bored and has to find something to argue about. How about we get back to making music. This MPC drama is so stupid. They are all great.

[@AveMcree]

My point exactly

[@thyviralload1359]

EA-Ski gone slide on yo ass 😂😂😂

[@RnBGarvey]

As he should

[@ray_maestro_]

Watching this video in my car. The 3000 kick did feel more 3 dimensional. Meaning the kick physically shakes the floor and walls of my car in a way that feel like someone actually kicking or knocking. The XL kick was voiced exactly the same but it rocked my car a little flatter way that didn’t feel as 3D. Although I know you can just choose another kick that would ring out of the XL that way. And you can adjust the settings of the XL to get it to knock that way, it is interesting to see that the 3000 knocked more physically to my environment using the same kick. Maybe the 3000 has some other under the hood setting making this the case

[@AveMcree]

3 dimensional… 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@IvarConq]

You are correct, it has more depth and less flatter than the newer models, hence the feel of 3 dimensions. Hope people understand 3000 knocks harder.

[@ray_maestro_]

@@IvarConq So I listened again in my home studio setup and didn't notice a huge difference in knock. I noticed the sample in the 3000 sound less saturated which I can't tell if that is naturally the case or if the XL being so loud gave it extra hiss and saturation. This may be the cause for the clear low end knock I heard from the 3000 and the overall flat sound of the XL. The XL was definitely more saturated when I listened through my Yamaha HS8's. Once again I'm saying this could have been do to how loud it was maybe it was closer to clipping but it was muddier. I'm using those words as descriptions not as words to make the XL sound bad. I believe in the new gear and would prefer for the new hear to be better. Thank you Ave these videos are great.

[@IvarConq]

@@ray_maestro_ You are correct. I have both old and new gear and really enjoy both. Generally I use my old machine to process the chops generated from newer machine. It has been a lifetime being a musician and finding a sound I like. Peace and thank you for thoughtful answer.

[@FromTheHipp]

@@AveMcree wait....so you dont think thats a thing?

[@thikdikriky1559]

Glizzyworkbeats once again being clueless. Its fine to point out that the newer mpcs have more gain, but that doesnt nessessarily mean they will sound different if you match their levels. This comparison is misleading and doesnt accurately compare the TIMBRE which is what's important.

[@electrowayne2918]

? This man literally turned the knobs to the same position and thought that was level matching ??! Tell me that was a mistake or mishaps while recording? Not even trying to be funny..

[@quickstrike209]

Bingo!!!!

[@esterix101]

then he get triggered and say, "then do it yourself" , WTF is this music producer 🤣🤣🤣 this comment section is gold. Only reason to be here

[@coolborndj]

Yeah I was baffled :0

[@gwsound]

You can not level match by putting a volume knob at the same position. What a nonsens is this. Insulting your viewers.

[@AveMcree]

Hilarious

[@raphaelsandersrs1]

but true@@AveMcree

[@Metro6am]

You should have matched volumes properly..

[@rook9309]

I can make my MPC3000 sound and feel unique in a way that someone with an X won’t be able to easily duplicate .

[@Crysco.mp3]

Wow, I feel quite old. I can vividly remember the days when you could buy an MPC60, SP12/1200, or 3000 second-hand for a lower price than a brand new 2000XL. I still recall purchasing a 60II as an upgrade from my trusty used ASQ-10. Back then, I longed for a 2000, 2000XL, and later the 4000, believing that owning one of them would put me at an advantage. Eventually, I shifted from MPCs to Yamaha Groove Boxes like the RM1X and RS7000. Although I did get my hands on an MPC2500 later on, I unfortunately lost it at a pawn shop due to financial struggles in my younger years. I can distinctly recall the release of the 2500/5000 models, and the criticisms that arose claiming they sounded too clean compared to the distinct "sound" of the 60/3000/2000. Sometimes, I can't help but feel that people can be overly judgmental about gear, dismissing the next generation of artists and producers based on the equipment they use. The truth is, if the MPC 60 were re-released today exactly as it was in the early 90s, its qualities that once made it the holy grail would hold far less significance in today's musical landscape. I've discovered that by carefully selecting samples, I can even make my MPC 60II sound relatively clean. Having said that, I absolutely adore my MPC Live 2 Retro and Reason. The ability to embrace the MPC workflow with battery power, a built-in speaker, and a touch screen is simply mind-blowing. Lately, I've been challenging myself to utilize the MPC for all my musical endeavors and have deliberately held back from using Reason for the past year or so. It's honestly so much fun to work with the MPC."

[@MurderToCassette]

I own and actively use both the X and a 3000/LE. The 3000 is pretty clean but gives you a nice bump in the low mids when you push the sampling level depending on how hot the signal is. You can't push the sampling level in the X the same way. I also have to agree with the other comments re: the volume knob matching. FWIW, in my own experience there is a difference in the sound of the machines. It's not going to make or break you if you don't make good music but its notable. The workflow of the X makes it appealing as a daily driver (even then I'll run it through some older rackmount gear first to give it some flavor no pun intended), but when I can sit back and take my time I prefer the 3000.

[@jamesjr2550]

Exactly

[@NimbleX-MC]

I agree that the outboard gear helps with both machines, I’ve also used both MPCs. But the MPC 3000 to me sounds duller and muddier especially in the low and mids which I don’t like at all. The MPC X SE had a very crisp high in these comparisons, which to me give more punch to the sound. Also I’ve had a lot of success with pushing the MPC X SE sampling vinyl, I bring the sound in hot and it also is coming out hot using all of the outs not usb.

[@IvarConq]

You are so on point!

[@raphaelsandersrs1]

Thank you, finally a useful comment! I own a One, a Maschine mk3 and had the 2000XL back in the day. I yet have to make a comparison between Maschine/modern MPC because I was interested in the same things, and some times you hear people say the MPC knocks harder but there is not a single real comparison as far as I know. And it should not even be too difficult, especially when you volume match more accurately than in this sad video😂 However, I cant check 3000 myself but always have the same feeling that you described: the low mids have that knocking thump. It's thumping. Big differentiator. Clearly audible even on simple Bluetooth speakers and also in the video even if Ave does not hear or comments on that. Maybe for other frequency ranges the 3000 could be perceived as undesirably muddy or lower resolution but for most kick drum sounds it just seems to make them stand out more. I wonder what vst fx or techniques can be used to replicate that sound (besides the MPC-built in emulator which in my opinion might be a start but still is not as thumping).. do you maybe have any suggestions?

[@michaelthompson8352]

You gotta do that again brother, the record level on the 3000 was a tad bit lower!

[@makesenz]

Man, i mean...it's a neverending debate lol. I grew up around analog and digital equipment and was literaly born in a studio. My pops is a famous Jazz/Rock musician (who has been sampled by J Cole, Outkast, Pete Rock etc.) and always used analog stuff to record (i was born in the early 80's). First stuff i touched was a mpc60 and the Linn drum and what not. Anything that had buttons, was interesting to me. Fast forward to 2023, me and pops are having wild discussions about the difference in sound in certain drum machines, recording gear and what not. Just like you said, it's about creating music, BUT...i still rock the mpc1000, sp1200, sp303, mpc3000 and what not. I made beats on the mpc live, one, ren, basically the more recent mpc's. For some reason i always get trouble with the mix. Maybe it's because the newer mpc's have more like a 4khz boost in it (which sounds more clean, hyped in the highs a bit) that gets me to fuck up the mix. The older machines "glue" shit together more nicely for me. But again, that's my personal preference. I love these debates. I've been making beats for about 30 years and i still stick with the old stuff cos of the sound. Maybe it's me, but my stubborn ass is gonna stick with the old stuff haha. Keep it up, stir the pot yo

[@NimbleX-MC]

I think either a great mixer and or outboard eq solves most issues fitting the sounds in. I do agree the MPC 3000 is a great old machine and if you have a fully functional one it is gold if used with the right outboard gear in a studio.

[@pairadeau]

you have to gain match. all hardware will have different volume output levels. that's not interesting that the X is louder. gain match and then see which hits harder. this is assinine.

[@GodsPoetryProductions]

Some are saying that you can't do quality sounding music that will be a hit without the sound of the mpc3000 or vintage machines but the thing is I know a lot of mainstream artists that have billboard charts number one album and some of the beats were made in FL Studio.

[@kiujay]

Made is FL, then re-recorded through outboard gear. Ie a mixing console. Since music is mostly digital still still goes through analog in most cases. Both works both worlds

[@aqueous5099]

@@kiujay fair point!

[@GrayGhostDog1]

@@kiujay… similar applies to those vintage MPC’s, ASR’s, etc., etc. They were all ran through outboard gear and consoles.

[@kiujay]

@@GrayGhostDog1 all true. So for me there is not debate (not saying you are) work with what you have and what you can pay for. Thing for me is, I do not believe you have to spend $$$$$’s to get a good hybrid sound. Be easy.

[@GrayGhostDog1]

@@kiujay … exactly. You don’t need a ton of money to have good sound. Whatever pieces of equipment you choose is fine, as long as you are able to get the results you want and your music is good and is unique to you.

[@citizencain01]

Bruh these comments...! Anyway to answer your question, the OG 3000 was released in 1993. It came with 2mb ram *expandable to 16mb, and had the options to add the IB-CRT VGA card and SMPTE timecode chip. The LE was released in 2000 with a msrp of $2995. It's overall specs are identical to the OG, but it has the different paint scheme and comes fully expanded with the VGA adapter and SMPTE chip already installed. It also has the latest OS 3.50 and the ram was increased to 32mb.

[@futureworldmachines4407]

What's sounds better? It all depends who's using it and what production techniques they use.

[@AveMcree]

Exactly my poin

[@NimbleX-MC]

Ave do you use any outboard gear, mixer, pre-amp or Eq with your sound ever? I have a Mackie V2 pro 16 that is giving huge sound with the MPC X SE with samples and field recording. I definitely agree with E A Ski that outboard gear improves the sound. However to me I believe the MPC 3000 needs just as much help as the newer MPCs, in these comparisons it sounded muddy in the lows and mids and less crisp in the highs. I usually eq for clear lows and mids and very crisp highs. This sits better in a mix with synthesizers, guitars and other sound that I uses.

[@knowEgo]

Bottom line is; if you didn’t start out with a MPC60/MPC3000 and heck I’ll even add the SP1200 in the mix ….you won’t understand what producers like EA-Ski and Jermaine Dupri are talking about! It’s not about loudness and gain….it’s about a certain texture and sound quality that can only be judged by your ears; not through computer graphics…or wav. files! Real quick - I’ve always worked with an MPC3000 I purchased mine in 1994 straight from AKAI - I still have it to this day…at the time I had a buddy who had a few Roland rack mount samplers and I believe a Kurzweil sampler, we would compare beats to friends, play it in the car systems etc. and people would always say my beats; which where on cassette at the time sounded harder and had more of a thump, than my buddies! I didn’t make the connection at the time being young and new to production but surprisingly he did, and he would say it’s your drum machine man….it knocks…I was like okay lol. But he knew way back then it was the gear!! Shout out to Keith D.

[@kamikaze6295]

Yes, the modern MPC is louder, but that has nothing to do with the quality. That's psychoacoustics, if we take two identical tracks, we'll find the louder one better. If the volume is adjusted, there is not much left of the apparent advantage. Only under these conditions can a fair comparison take place. Peace

[@RnBGarvey]

I told you the 3000 is heavier. I dont have both units, you do. But common sense prevails

[@Cap10NRGMusic]

I agree with the your "Let's just make music" honestly man I do waste a LOT of time trying make technical improvements to my gear, and you are correct in saying people are not going to hear it. I mean I hear it - and I point it out to my friends who are audio fanatics too - but if you ask my family, my no audio friends, pretty much anyone else out there.... The small percentage difference does not make a hill of beans to them.

[@boutstaxx]

Personally it’s called a EQ and if needed I’m going to use it on whatever I’m listening to and to be honest a lot of the older hip hop was made on these and you still need to cut it up to compete with today’s standards

[@NimbleX-MC]

@@boutstaxxdefinitely agree! The older MPCs and Sp 1200 still have to be EQed to get it in to a current mix of sounds. Everything ends up being EQed in some way.

[@nelsonmyrick1974]

The 3000 sounded more full to me ..

[@AveMcree]

Full of shyt😂

[@djdawless]

@@AveMcree 3000 is slightly dirtier because of only 16 bit, so it makes it sound slightly warmer, MPC X is cleaner (24 bit), but can be made dirtier to sound the same. You can't make MPC 3000 sound cleaner, like the newer MPC's. There are similar arguments with old vs new in the DJ community too, people still wanting to carry crates of records around instead of a thumb drive... crazy.

[@hailnaryproductionz3661]

@@djdawless😂😂 crates

[@R.G.777.]

@@AveMcree So dude gave his opinion that whatever he was listening to your video through made the 3000 sound more full and you reply "full of shyt 😂" 🤦🏾‍♂️ Something's wrong with you Ave, seriously take some time out and talk to a professional, they'll get to the bottom of what it is

[@youforknow]

​@@djdawless16 bit is CD quality sound. Hows that dirty?😂

[@MIDAZSITH]

I never had the 3000, but I had the 2000xl. I first started making beats with the asr x. Sold that got the triton I remember sampling drums on there and they would sound flat. Then my man bought me a mpc 2000 and when you sampled a drum or what ever there was a very noticeable umph especially with drums. Good review Ave.

[@argee-s3y]

The main volumes of both units should he much higher. I think you’re using gain on your apollo when you shouldn’t have to as these are balanced outputs

[@The_Sonic_Ally]

100% correct, these old machines got their sound from pushing the voltage. you can make any mpc sound the same as another without pushing them. all while he professes to you that its all the same. `kin idiot he is.

[@johnviera3884]

the Koala iPad DAC hits hard AF

[@dolo747]

Bro just let it go. Just continue to make your platinum hits on your machine of choice. EA made 1 video and got youtube beat makers in their feelings. Just use what works for you and keep it moving.

[@AveMcree]

What does this have to do with him?

[@dolo747]

@@AveMcree If it had nothing to do with him why mention him in your video?

[@JeronimoFury]

EA Ski obviously got into his feelings because Akai didn't give him the new MPCX

[@Heatwavs]

@@JeronimoFury lmao he already had a regular x. why wouild he need a new one?

[@JeronimoFury]

@@Heatwavs Ego. Additionally...many existing MPCX users hated the new model for the same reason why there were MPC 3000 users that bought the MPC 3000LE. It is clear from EA Ski's videos that he was pissed that Akai marketing gave influencers who have never even used a flagship MPC, the MPCX SE before him. He started attacking one of Akai's main marketing guy. Then he started making threats against influencers. That is weird. And anyone co-signing his antics are weird. Dude 50 years old trying to be Suge Knight. Ain't nobody scared unless your name was IAMSIGHT who looks like a soft little girl. Next he started getting free shit from other companies and started hying them up on You Tube. Choose to believe what you want as Stans. But I see right through him. He is being disingenuous. My two cents. I stand by what I write.....

[@hostilesavage4299]

So E A Ski got this man doing sound tests now. Cause sound matters 😂

[@TheBudd1980]

22:16 Correct.... Nobody is gonna test it like you did. 😂

[@bengalinsky4300]

You seem to have no idea what you are talking about

[@mr.beatspt.2969]

I’ve never owned a mpc 2000 or 3000, I briefly owned a 1000 but traded that in for a Roland MV8800 and that thing knocked! Cats actually thought that I used an MPC. I don’t know what point I was trying to make other than…I really miss my MV8800 lol.

[@mattyg499]

But it sounds nothing like the MPCs Lol.most people have not got a clue….

[@willjay6943]

i dont think your tests proved anything … the wave form for 3000 mode was the same . and how are u going to say either one knocks then have the mpc turned to lower line volume level .

[@Diddddu]

People always say that the new mpc's are just computers. Computers where around before drum machines they are all computers.The mpc 60 ,3k,2k used floppy disc when computers were using them 50,25 pin scsi was standard also on computers at that time.They were always made to connect to computers from the beginning.The 3k even has a monitor when Hooked up LOOKS LIKE A COMPUTER SCREEN of that era.Such non sense when people say that.

[@beatsbypt]

(grabs a big bag of popcorn) 👀

[@7Wounds]

I guess my main question on this issue is... Ive heard a few places say the really power of the older MPCs is in coming out of the individual mix outs as opposed to the main stereo out. Would you say that wouldnt make a difference in this experiment eithee? Anyone tried it? I cant as I dont have one, but im very curious to see a field test on how different thats be if at all

[@DaMixWizard]

The point of the 8 outputs is to run the individual sounds through each output into a recording console or a Audio Interface with 8 inputs. The 8 outputs on any MPC doesn’t make it sound louder, rounder, or more vintage. Each Output on the 8 outputs is MONO, not stereo. So the sound is usually DRY, which is why you record it to the console so you can add effects to that sound. So if you saw the interview with KLC from NO LIMIT RECORDS, he said he never used the 8 outputs on the MPC, he only used the STEREO OUT (L/R) to get a better sounding mix. Same thing Michael Jackson’s recording engineer Bruce Sweiden said…he recorded all tracks on the Thriller album in stereo. He didn’t record MONO tracks. Stereo tracks sounds better and gives a wider sound and better quality. So to me, those 8 MONO outputs on the back of the MPCs are useless. They are MONO tracks, not STEREO

[@7Wounds]

@@DaMixWizard that's the exact use case I'm talking about... Tracking out to your board or interface. I understand your emphasis on a stereo signal ... I just wanted to hear if anyone has tried it. I'd love to see/hear those KLC and Bruce Sweiden interviews if you have links. I'm sure there are gems in them.

[@Dispatcher813]

​@DaMixWizard wtf useless lol. 😂 ok

[@Mike_Benz_]

How do the examples sound if you peak level match them?

[@danteberry1581]

​@AveMcree 6:41 why did the loop get loud after the video chop tho

[@moneyball1318]

the TEST IS DONE WRONG. PUSH THAT MPC 3000 AS LOUD AS YOU CAN THEN PUSH THE X AS LOUD AS YOU CAN....WHICH ONE BREAKS UP FIRST? ANALOG VS DIGITAL. HOW do you have a Mpc 3000 at volume 3.... Push that Volume up to at least 7

[@raphaelsandersrs1]

Do you know techniques or vst effects to get the 3000 (more thumping) sound?

[@eyeswideopen2442]

The difference is RMS Vs Peak volume. The new MPCs may be louder but they are not as powerful. I would rather have higher RMS rates because it leaves way more headroom than high peaks. You can clearly see that the X waveform looks loud and thin.

[@NimbleX-MC]

The MPC X SE Sounds pretty load, hard hitting and fat in these tests. I love vintage gear and the MPC 3000 too, but it is not delivering more. The 3000 low end actually sounds muted and a bit lifeless, not what I thought would be the result. But objectively the MPC 3000 is actually delivering a better quality sound, fuller across the spectrum which is what I look for. I’m suprised

[@eyeswideopen2442]

@@NimbleX-MC The wave on the X doesn't look fat at all its thin and loud. The peaks on the 3000 look fat and rounded off which means more RMS. I think loudness is fooling you

[@CRUCIALMEDIAGROUP]

Mpc 3000 sounded more punchy compressed and a little dirty!!!! I wish I had the cash. But I love my live 2!!!Great video.

[@seekingtruthonly.4299]

Big ups for linking the uncompressed audio. The MPC 3k SE didn't add anything to the original. But it isn't as you imply 'almost the same as if not lesser than the MPC X SE adding even more with a color change and some extra ram/hard drive space. You're not comparing apples to apples . The MPC 3000 LE. was a newly available "Limited Edition" run of a machine you could't find new. They were bringing it back, so you'd have a chance to buy a classic, brand new with a warranty. My gear was lost to a hurricane and the reason I don't pick up another S1000, 3k or 4k today is that I'd be taking an expensive chance with used gear that's really old. But if I could buy a limited run reissue of them, surely I would. That's why the LE sells for more now. It's a newer MPC 3000. You can't know what you don't know if you weren't present during those times. It's OK to not know. It's not ok to speak as if you've proved something while highlighting the fact that you don't know. It comes across as you promoting a product and defending it instead of just comparing to see where the comparison leads you. Whether you agree or disagree with Ski on anything (And I disagree with a few things while overall agreeing with him, ) If you're honest, you have to appreciate the fact that his passion if for the art. We used to drive the inputs to the 3k to create a sound., so a comparison saying which has a louder level out of the machine is really a test of nothing. Honestly, you'd be better level matching in Ableton to say which sounds better. You're ultimately saying "ha see, one is louder than the other in output." But you're still missing some of the character of the 3k in how they were used in real world situations. I honestly never tested the 3k for this when I had it, but I did test the S1000. (II'd assume they had similar features. I owned/used both). When you pushed the S1000, it created harmonics that weren't there in the original sample. So the way you sampled into it created a different sample. I experienced the same thing with the 3k in practice. What I'm interested in seeing is the MPC XL's converters rescorded vs the MPC XL export. Though the converters probably won't work to create harmonics like the older units, this test would at least allow us to confirm whether or not the converters negatively impact the sound.

[@VincentsVideoVisions]

This video is all wrong. Theres so many problems with this comparison. First of all, the setting on the volume knob doesn't mean anything at all. Second, the sampling settings and techniques matter a LOT as well. Third, youre just comparing volume with mismatched levels. This video is bullshit lol. Also, have you ever heard of normalization? Sample into the 3000 hot and use the filter and then normalize the beats and compare them side by side and youll hear the difference. Also, you used a file for the mpc x rather than directly sampling in which is also a whole other issue in and of itself. Im a mpc head from way back and the 3000 vs new gen loudness is not the discussion... its about tonal quality and timing. This would be like me taking two different synthesizers or drum machines and putting them at the same setting on the volume knob and making comparisons. It would be dumb and irrelevant right? Im a sampler head from way back and i have a mpc one and a bunch of vintage units and theres good reasons why people still use those crusty dinosaurs... its tonal qualities, not volume. This video is a complete L from start to finish 😂

[@pongtrometer]

Did you actually record into the devices, or just play the same files back through the units ? I have an S900 and also an MPC1000 ( WHICH KNOCKS). On the S900 ,You can run sounds through the unit, to use the filter to process live without recording, but when you do actually record into the unit, the playback of the sample file is warmer with more body that running sound through it. Just checking as actual recording through the convertors and creating a file for playback is different to passing sound through a unit, as the natural Compression happens when the sounds are pushing the output convertors. I also have have the MPC STUDIO OG for sequencing & vst workflow...and that's where we arrive at computer based units with cheaper multifunction sound cards on the MPC RENAISSANCE etc....till new editions

[@RickRijuanaPro]

I see the MPC 3000 drum samples going into Ableton with more head room. I'm wondering if level matching after the sounds went in would show the more of the 3000s characteristics. That's if it actually sounds different because they sound the same to me lol

[@Quarterkey1000]

the new mpcs don't sound as heavy

[@AveMcree]

What is heavy?

[@MusicianParadise]

Great video! The link to the recorded audio files is in the video description, so anyone who wants to test matching levels and perform null tests can do so. There's not much to complain about. Judging sound quality and subtle sonic character differences based solely on compressed audio from KZbin is not a fair evaluation. I am sure that 50 years from now, people will rave about the sound of the MPC X SE from 2023 and compare it to the "horrible sounding" MPC XXX SE from 2073. The MPC 3000 will cost as much as a Fender Strat from the 1954 does now. Ultimately, what matters is music. It's all in the hands of the person behind the machine!

[@AveMcree]

big facts

[@djkaydeemix]

Why didn't you sample into each unit inputs..using the same sample doesn't really count..

[@allpositivenetwork]

I think that's what he did.

[@avace917]

The big thing about the Limited Edition was that the MPC 3000 had been discontinued. After the release of the 2000, the 3000LE kept the 2000 haters at arm's length

[@iknNR]

lol the way you "match" the knobs to the same position and refer to it as a volume matching is hilarious :D REALLY?? :D

[@Jplazanyc]

I have a beat i made in the 3000 and 2500. Sounds totally different. Should i upload it? A and B it?

[@djgreenhornet2892]

I like MPC vs MPC videos!

[@foulchild]

Could you sample in hot on the MPC X and the 3000 and let us see how they behave differently or the same in terms of the resultant audio recording?

[@sellcolman4319]

I have question does MPC X sound like MPC software on a PC? If your answer not, why?

[@apoclypse]

The real question is why does it matter? It doesn’t seem to matter to all those producers using Ableton/Logic/FLStudio to make music on laptops.

[@EARART]

I'm wearing the same colour t shirt as you Ave whiles watching this lol

[@djwickit]

I'd love to hear bigger drum sounds for this comparison, the kick and snare used are super mellow. Also when I do this in Ableton, I will click on the audio pieces and press Command+J to consolidate, and the clip volume will show you the exact peak decibel read-out, so you can match the two pieces of audio at exactly the same volume.

[@ВячеславСеменченко-х8е]

How much AKAI payed you to do this fake comparison? Are you serious? 😂 Vintage mode sounds “louder” hahahah 😂😂😂

[@wurlinnawurl]

Jermaine might have said that.. sure.. maybe he is right. However.. this fact remains they i wish people would marinate on.. Jermaine Dupri had used the x as his main workhorse for the past five years, and used it pretty much exclusively, while the 3000 gathers dust.. He could use anything and chooses to use the x.. well, now he is using the x se.. but the point remains.. Get over it people.. use what you like, but nothing is wrong with the new mpc's either..

[@vincewatson_official]

Ave, your video is titled 'Sound Better', yet your testing for gain and if it hits harder...if you had matched the levels properly (both units at maximum volume, no sound card, gains adjusted in Ableton to match overall loudness) and then compared how they actually 'sound' and not how loud they are you would find the 3K has a nice low mid bump that makes the old skool samples pump that the new machines fail to do....despite how good they are at almost everything. That last example, if you had turned down the X recording to match the 3K, you can clearly hear the difference. You should have highlighted this. Gain is gain, we all have gain knobs; how it feels and sounds is not the same thing.

[@danteberry1581]

6:43 looks like you cut the video before the loop ended bro. Was i trippin

[@SMEL]

Gratitude Av 🙏🏾 in my opinion the 3000 is more musical or has more of a characteristic sound to it than the X. The X is cleaner, has a little harshness to it from what I can hear.

[@mattyg499]

Theres quality of sample lost recorded into the MPc,cant believe people cant here it.the old rackmounts sounded amazing.even the last S3000xl and 5/6000.very good quality sound….the Z4/8 was no slouch either.def a case to be made for converters and quality control.

[@jimroseberry5608]

Ave, Enjoy your MPC videos! Just grabbed a MPC X SE. Wanted to chime-in about "perceived loudness". Average level (vs peak level) is what our ears use to determine "perceived loudness". To see if there's any "secrete sauce" applied in the MPC 3000, make sure the peak levels are the same for both MPC-3000 and MPC X SE. Then, measure the average level (this can be done via software/plugin). If there's a significant difference in the average level, one of the MPCs is affecting ("cooking") the signal. Volume pots on different devices can have different tapers. Even though they're in the same relative position, the output can be significantly different. 30 years ago, converters had lower dynamic range... so it wouldn't surprise me if the MPC 3000 compresses/limits the signal (even if just slightly). This would make the average level hotter... and make it appear to hit harder (within its more limited dynamic range). With advances in converters/DSP/etc, I would expect modern MPCs to sound more transparent/accurate. Keep up the good work.

[@ChromeRockwell]

😂 its funny when people do these tests you hear the bias undertone of proving a point, but when I do a sample test with my XL and One the result differences are clear as day. But also the "selling water to dolphins" comment was made about Akai having 3 or 4 MPCs out that ALL sound and operate the same. The 3000, XL, 2500, 4000, Hell the 5000 were ALL different machines and all had their own "sound"

[@aqueous5099]

So you have to recognize that a large business, a corporation, wants to sell as much as possible. Having many diverse options for different needs serves more consumers. You may desire a certain type of sound shaping, but the industry is on a different plane. Modern Akai doesn’t make money on “signature” sound, they make money by creating an alternative platform to a DAW with competitive functions and options to create music. Most music is made with a DAW these days, that’s what they are competing with. The reality is, they’d probably lose money trying to serve your niche. That’s why they don’t make “another version.” It’d be very expensive like 3-4K and few would buy it. The truth is, modern MPCs are tactile DAWs to easily integrate outboard gear for further processing. They were never, even from conception, meant to be standalone.

[@AveMcree]

@@aqueous5099the same thing could be said back in the days 😂

[@aqueous5099]

@@AveMcree for sure, you’re absolutely right. People don’t understand the context of industry standards. We have more sound shaping possibilities than ever before. The truth is Akai has always been cost effective. We all know that those old converters weren’t considered “premium.” I even remember my brother complaining about the sound quality nearly 2 decades ago. It’s a never ending chase for folks who think their music isn’t good enough simply because “it don’t got the flavor.” THEN ADD THAT FLAVOR. What do they think those 8 outs or controller mode are for? I am so grateful for how modern pre-amps can be so accurate and transparent. That just means more control amd less limitations or constraints when designing with outboard gear. People are either lazy as hell or deluded if they think they can’t achieve the same quality.

[@DJ.Dilley]

I always thought the new MPC 's sound great....👍

[@ChewoBeats]

They do! Just sample. People just copy lame waves. That’s the big difference- the classics was all about sampling. People need to get this, just try. You’ll have that boom

[@maximustheproducer]

ALL YOU DID WAS COMPARE A 16 AUDIO FILE IN A 24 BIT SPACE. THE QUESTION YOU HAVE TO ASK IF IT RENDERS AT 24 BIT FLOAT THEN YOU HAVE AN INACCURATE TEST. YOU WOULD NEED TO TRACK IN USING THE INPUT TRANSFORMERS ON THE 3000 AND COMPARE IT TO THE NON INPUT TRANSFORMER SETUP OF THE SE. IT'S TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF MACHINES TO BEGIN WITH. SO THIS TEST IS FOR NOTHING IF IT'S RENDERING IT FOR REPLAY. JUST SAYING

[@AveMcree]

Nah you just watched one part of the video

[@maximustheproducer]

@@AveMcree No I watched the whole thing. Why would you use input limiting if your trying to compare overall sound? Doesn't make sense. Could you explain?

[@jackbauer1805]

@@maximustheproducerhe can’t… he really doesn’t understand or know. But his ignorance and pride made him attempt this ridiculous testing method.

[@maximustheproducer]

@@jackbauer1805 this test should have been all of 5 minutes to see the difference. True Test. True Shoot Out! Just saying.

[@MrBlueHaze]

Two words Gain staging? Ii is obvious from the waveforms that the levels of both were different regardless of the output set. As an mpc X owner I always gain stage in the program menu. But I was wondering why I believe you said that you used the sample from the mpc 3000 in the mpc X? The mpc 3000 will have bit more low end which is why we have the algorithm included in the mpc X vintage mode. To be more accurate I believe you could have sample from any source iPhone, cd, record or computer into both units, gain stage both to the same levels and then hear from the outputs or recorded into a daw. This takes the samples through the whole conversion process of both units.

[@Kweli_Wali]

Still........?!? In normal recording environment your going to want to record the signal in as Hot as you can, but avoid distortion. This is why this comparison can be a bit misleading. Jermaine Dupree and E-A-Ski aren't the only ones that Championed the MPC 3000. I've been around the music industry for years and I've never hear any Major Producer (Battlecat, Premier, Dr. Dre, DJ Quik, DJ Toomp, Rick RocK, Hi-Tek and Rodney Jerkins) take a dump on the MPC 3000. I've studied their equipment selection and it's funny to me that these same people who are Multi Platinum Producers prefer older gear. I know they use both, but they hold the older in higher esteem.

[@mb2776]

Old gear can give u a slight advantage, that's what I realized. I own several vintage synths and samplers and the good thing about that old gear is u can just use a preset or just sample into the s950 and your done, not that much tweaking needed. But the workflow of the live 2, battery, build in speakers is just soo nice. I tried modern daw, I tried reason, hell I even tried using an atari st for sequencing. And I don't even make beats with it :D I use the best of both worlds and when the only thing u can afford is a newer mpc, just use some old samples...

[@tigersharc1]

My two cents on this whole debate I thought was about asking or addressing Akai for charging so much money with very few real updates. $2500 for the same machine and no real changes internally, ultimately they charged for the addition of the software vst's they included. The additional cost was software and a paint job. Now the question is when are we going to get the internal hardware updates that really make the MPC worth $2500. In addition, we know the consumer doesn't know sound, but we do. So if your going to charge me $2500, that machine better be a beast....

[@AveMcree]

That's exactly what happened with the MPC 3000 LE......

[@tigersharc1]

@@AveMcree In my opinion I didn't feel like you were addressing or talking about price point, it seemed you just wanted a sound comparison. It became a sound issue when E-A pointed out if your charging this much, put some convertors in it and charge $2500. I'll pay $2500 if it hits harder than my MV 8800....... But it's all good. I feel like these discussions need to happen to make us more informed and better producers/ beat makers.

[@DaMixWizard]

I know someone who got the Black Lion Audio converters put in there MPC X and all it did is make it about .05 db louder😂. It didn’t make it sound rounder or sound whole or more vintage. He was pissed off😂. He said he could’ve just put a maximizer on the master track😂. What do you think these so called converters going to make the MPC sound like…the 3000? You already heard the MPC X SE sounds better than the 3000. Go pay $6000 for the MPC 3000 and see if it’s converters are worth that price. You complaining about $2500 that Akai is charging, but these other companies are overpricing their trash products…PUSH 3, Roland Fantom, Yamaha Montage, Maschine Plus, etc. they’re all doing it

[@tigersharc1]

@@DaMixWizard So why don't we stop paying the prices until it can be justified. That is the point.....Maybe convertors don't change the sound much....... But once again what makes the X SE worth it. It should be the same price as the Original X. But since it's not it must be because one is paying for the additional software.

[@tonyg1997]

Who the hell has a 12 lb dumbbell? Lmao you’re the best 💪🏽🙏🏽 love your digitakt dnb track

[@PLANETROCKWELL]

The most important thing I've learned from this is that Street Fighter 6 looks amazing!! I didn't even know it was this fire is it old? Man I hope it's on Game Pass.... I'll take that 3000 off your hands if wanna get rid of that crappy old thing. The XSE sounds way better. You were right.

[@AveMcree]

$7000 and it’s yours👀

[@streetlife20]

Drive both of em a lot harder to bring the character out in each one.

[@gooneybird808]

You didn’t level match...come on dog

[@DynamikMedia]

Hey ave I’m just getting back into the MPC gang I’m having a issue if u have time i loaded a video of the issue on my channel i would appreciate any help thanks

[@dracul74]

Imo it’s up to an artist to determine what sounds inspire them to make their music. I bought a used tascam tape 414 a few years back and it really inspires me with sample making and mixes. To someone else it could be a total waste of time. I’ve used plugins and prefer the real deal. Imo use what make you productive and happy with your music.

[@beyallluv]

The X sounds cleaner but it should cause it's 2023!!! Can we please move on from this shit!!! 😂😂😂

[@BeatsByGemsmiff]

I swear…like this conversation is jus tired now!!!

[@nilespeshay1734]

NOPE. Cuz now, we're moving on to the 4th phase of this "war" - with at least 4 warriors of the Analog Army making reaction videos to this one. (To be clear, *I* don't care about the sonic nuances between 30 years of MPC's.)

[@AveMcree]

@@nilespeshay1734a digital machine is analog? 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@nilespeshay1734]

@@AveMcree Well... their flag and their matching uniforms all have 'analog' written on them. (There's a great deal about the ways and rituals of their people that I don't, at all, understand Ave!)

[@djkaydeemix]

the mpc x has rec gain..3000 has low mid hi input ..its not about how loud..its about the warmth of the sound..

[@jamesjr2550]

💯

[@salvatorediguido4883]

The comparison doesn't look made in a professional way. It's clear that there is a different peak level between the two recordings and you should level match them before making any comparison.

[@Mutt83GC]

The early gear are analogs feeling even though it is digital output. Bitrate plays a big deal as well analog output source (sample cassettes, vinyl 8tracks) have warmth and bottom end depth. The stereo 16bit 44.1k CD digital format cleans and leave a clean ring to it. Personal finding since 1995 working with wave files (WAV.)

[@nilespeshay1734]

"In professional wrestling, a heel is a wrestler who portrays a villainous character and acts as an antagonist to the faces, who are the heroic protagonist or "good guy" characters. Heels are often the opposite of faces, or “good guys,” in that their actions and words are intended to draw heat, or a negative emotional response, from the audience." What is a Heel in Wrestling? - Understand the Role and Impact of a Heel Wrestler April 12, 2023 by Mike Hancock (edit: I can't play any of these WAV files in the Stems folder.)

[@Ashfaq1999]

Great video. Both machines are dope. But for its price the X SE sounds amazing.