“Up for auction is a vintage Akai MPC-60 integrated MIDI sampler/sequencer/drum machine. This is a 220/240 volt unit. Very rare to find one so clean these days, and if you’re willing to fix the minor issues listed below, you can have one of the cleanest MPC-60’s out there.
What works:
1) It powers up when connected to a 220volt step up transformer.
2) It loads samples from floppy disc.
3) It samples and then plays samples and sequences.
4) There is no strange hum or buzzing coming from the unit (it’s quiet).
5) LCD screen works, and contrast adjustment knob works.
6) The buttons all have their lettering, which is amazing for such an old unit.
7) All switches/sliders/pots currently work as they should, prior to shipping.
The issues:
1) The backlight appears to be dim or not working at all. I suspect it will need to be replaced, or there is an issue with the inverter that powers the backlight.
2) When playing samples, you can hear digital noise coming out the outputs. I suspect a grounding issue.
3) This is a 220/240 volt unit. I bought it off a producer who moved to the USA from France. He claimed it was the first MPC-60 in Europe. As such, it requires a step up transformer to operate it. This can be purchased for fairly cheap on eBay (around $10).
4) It is currently running OS 2.02. You can upgrade to Vimani (chips are available on eBay).
5) It only has the stock memory (available on eBay).
6) When these get shipped, buttons can be intermittent due to dust moving around inside during shipping, so basic servicing of switch contacts should be expected.
7) It does not have SCSI, but kits are available online.
Has been upgraded as follows:
1) Original pleather wristrest removed because it had some small marks on it (this cover is included in the auction in case you want to revert to stock). Has been replaced with a real leather wristrest to match the original color. Smells like leather, and much more comfortable!
2) “Corx” spacers added under rubber pads for instantaneous response, with very accurate velocity response.
3) Cleaned and detailed.
4) Power cable was removed at some point, and an IEC connector added to the back of the unit.
Condition is very clean, I’d say near mint. There are a couple minor marks on the unit here and there. See photos for details.” Click here to search for MPCs on eBay