Tech

MPC standalone hardware now offers stem separation

The widely-used feature has been introduced via an update to the MPC OS.

Akai Pro has revealed an update to its MPC OS, incorporating stem separation technology into compatible standalone MPC hardware.

Earlier this year, Akai announced that stem separation technology would be integrated into its MPC software. This allows producers and artists to isolate and manipulate elements like vocals, bass, and drums, re-arranging and re-triggering them independently.

The inclusion of stem separation in compatible hardware models—such as the MPC Live Series, MPC One, MPC One+, MPC X, MPC Xse, MPC Key 61, MPC Key 37, and MPC Studio Mk2—marks one of the first instances where this technology can be used without a laptop. This enables producers to access any drum loop, break, acapella, and instrumental without the need for record digging.

Powered by DSP company zplane, the stem separation technology is available as a $9.99 add-on. More information can be found on the Akai Pro website.