Akai is signaling support for its modding community ahead of the formal announcement of the MPC Sample Key, a device that resembles the MPC Sample but replaces the drum-style pads with a traditional keyboard. According to The Verge, Akai is giving hackers and custom firmware developers early access to the hardware, which will ship with open-source firmware.
The device is expected to run some version of the software found on the MPC Sample, with adjustments to accommodate the keyboard, pitch, and mod wheels. Unlike the higher-end MPC Key 37, the Sample Key omits pads entirely; users trigger sample playback using the keys instead.
Why it matters
Shipping with open-source firmware and offering early access invites community-built modifications and custom firmware, potentially expanding what the device can do beyond its stock configuration.
Who should care
Musicians, firmware developers, and members of the MPC modding community who want to experiment with or extend the hardware before its formal release.