MPC 3.4 Update: A Monumental Collaboration Between Akai and Native Instruments
The MPC 3.4 update is shaping up to be one of the most exciting things to happen in music production in a long time. When I woke up to the news that Akai and Native Instruments were teaming up, I’ll admit—I didn’t quite believe it. These are two giants in the music world. For years, Akai has been the go-to name for innovative hardware, especially with the legendary MPC series, while Native Instruments is the king of sound design, known for some of the best sound packs and virtual instruments out there. To see them working together? Damn, that’s a big deal.
Akai and Native Instruments Team Up: What it Means for MPC 3.4 Users
This collaboration isn’t just about adding some shiny new features; it’s about bridging the gap between hardware and software in a way that feels natural and intuitive. Akai’s hands-on hardware-based workflow is already formidable, and now they’re layering in the rich, detailed sounds of Native Instruments. It’s a producer’s dream.
Here’s what to expect in the new MPC 3.4 update:
MPC 3.4 Update: NKS 2.0 Support for Akai & M-Audio Controllers
If you’re using an Akai MPK keyboard (like the Mini Mk3, Mini Play, Mini Plus, or MPK249), or even an M-Audio Oxygen Series keyboard, get ready for a whole new level of integration. With NKS 2.0 support rolling out in late February 2025, you’ll have pre-mapped controls and seamless navigation of Native Instruments’ software. No more fiddling with MIDI assignments or trying to make things work—you can just plug in and start creating.
Bonus: Komplete 15 Select Included with MPK Series
As a bonus for MPK Series users: you’ll also get access to the Komplete 15 Select software package. That means a massive library of sounds and instruments right at your fingertips. It’s an instant upgrade to your production toolkit, packed with sounds that will take your music to the next level!
MPC 3.4 Update: Native Instruments Play Series Instruments Come to MPC
This is where it gets really interesting. For the first time ever, Native Instruments’ Play Series instruments, which used to be exclusive to Kontakt, are coming straight to the MPC platform. These “MPC Edition” instruments are optimized for the MPC workflow, so you can access those rich, dynamic sounds without needing a computer.
Available Now: Analog Dreams, Cloud Supply, and Nacht for MPC
Here’s what’s already available:
Analog Dreams: Think lush, vintage synth vibes.
Cloud Supply: Perfect for ambient textures and ethereal soundscapes.
Nacht: Dark, moody tones that add drama to any track.
Coming Soon: Homage and Sway Play Series Instruments
In February 2025, two more MPC Edition Play Series instruments are dropping:
Homage: A nod to the classic lo-fi sounds we all know and love.
Sway: Mellow Lofi grooves that are ready to vibe out.
Important Note for Existing Play Series Owners
Even if you already own the desktop versions of these instruments, you’ll still need to grab the MPC Edition versions to use them on the MPC. They’ve been specially designed to fit seamlessly into the MPC’s workflow, so IMO it’s worth the investment.
MPC 3.4 Update: New Genre-Specific Expansion Packs
Akai and Native Instruments are also rolling out some killer expansion packs to fuel your creativity. These packs are packed with one-shots, loops, and FX chains that are tailor-made for the MPC.
Available Now: Faded Reels and Hazy Days Expansions
Here’s what you can grab right now:
Faded Reels: Perfect for dusty, lofi hip-hop vibes.
Hazy Days: Chill-hop sounds for those laid-back sessions.
Coming Soon: Lone Forest, Global Shake, and Rare Vibrations Expansions
Lone Forest: Deep, atmospheric dub techno explorations.
Global Shake: Infectious Afro-inspired rhythms and club sounds.
Rare Vibrations: Genre-bending fusion of organic and synth jazz.
Why the Akai and Native Instruments Collaboration is a Game-Changer
This partnership is bigger than just an update—it’s a shift in how we make music. Akai and Native Instruments have each built their legacies on innovation. Akai revolutionized hardware production with the MPC, and Native Instruments redefined what’s possible with virtual instruments and sound design. Bringing these two together is like having the best of both worlds in one place.
The MPC 3.4 update isn’t just about adding features; it’s about giving producers tools that feel intuitive, sound incredible, and inspire creativity. Whether you’re chopping samples, layering effects, or exploring new sound packs, this update opens up possibilities that just weren’t there before.
The Future of MPC: What’s Next After MPC 3.4 Update?
This is only the beginning of Akai and Native Instruments’ collaboration. If this update is any indication, we’re in for even more exciting developments down the line.
Here’s to a new era of music production with the MPC 3.4 update. Make sure to keep an eye on Akai’s website and socials for the official release date. You won’t want to miss this one.
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