MPC 2000XL vs Newer MPCs

[Noon Perhaps]

I recently have managed to snag a pretty good job, and because of which I now have some money to finally get started on my first setup.

I have always admired the MPC 2000xl. If anything, I would want to have a Dj Shadow/Pete Rock type sampler that would allow me to sample records, and give me freedom when it comes to making that ever so unique mpc-core sound. However, the idea of using floppy disks (or zip disks as the MPC is sometimes modified to use) as vintage and cool and hipster as it is, kind of turns me off. I don't know where I would find sample packs besides the some what high priced ones on ebay, and I have no clue how to get files on and off a floppy besides perhaps using a external hard drive. It really doesn't sound practical to be honest.

Though, at the same time I don't dig the price of the newer MPCs, and further more I don't like the fact of using software to use them.

I'm still learning and reading about samplers, so I don't know a whole lot. Which is also the reason I am holding off on buying one.

Perhaps someone with more knowledge could guide me through the pros and cons of MPC's in general along with the pros and cons of owning a MPC 2000?

Thank you!

[Alex E]

The 2000xl is a seriously great value in today's market.

Get an MPC-2000xl MCD. It's the blue version from 2004 that has a card reader installed as standard. It's a little harder to find, but not terribly. And it doesn't cost much more either.

However, my 2000xl (original) has a CF card reader built into the machine as an aftermarket modification that was done years ago.

Watch out for the original 2000 screens though, they die over time because of the internal heat of the machine. The 2000xl screens are recessed and don't seem to die the same way. Mine is fine.

[Noon Perhaps]

The 2000xl is a seriously great value in today's market.

Get an MPC-2000xl MCD. It's the blue version from 2004 that has a card reader installed as standard. It's a little harder to find, but not terribly. And it doesn't cost much more either.

However, my 2000xl (original) has a CF card reader built into the machine as an aftermarket modification that was done years ago.

Watch out for the original 2000 screens though, they die over time because of the internal heat of the machine. The 2000xl screens are recessed and don't seem to die the same way. Mine is fine.

Thanks for the great info!

[Stab Frenzy]

How much does a 2kXL go for these days? I've owned a 1000 and 2500 and they're both great machines, both are much easier to work with a modern computer studio thanks to having USB and playing back regular .wav files. They also have four times the memory of the 2kXL. On top of that the JJ OS adds a bunch of functionality that puts it head and shoulders above the 2ks, and the extra outputs and effects come as standard.

[Alex E]

Thanks for the great info!

No problem.

How much does a 2kXL go for these days? I've owned a 1000 and 2500 and they're both great machines, both are much easier to work with a modern computer studio thanks to having USB and playing back regular .wav files. They also have four times the memory of the 2kXL. On top of that the JJ OS adds a bunch of functionality that puts it head and shoulders above the 2ks, and the extra outputs and effects come as standard.

I actually just let mine go for $350. $15 less than what I paid. That's about average for ebay prices but they can go a little higher. Depends on what options are installed, of course. It's a little less than the black 1000 (with the good pads), and a lot less than the 2500.

[MPCHICK]

Guys, I've been trying to get my friend an MPC2000 but I dont know much about them..
He said he wanted a 2000 but Im not sure if he meant the MPC2k or MPC2kXL and just didnt continue his sentence because he knew I wouldn't know the difference between the 2..
I've been educating myself about the 2 MPCs and it seems like the 2000Xl has better features, options, screen and all that... Am i on the right track?
My other problem is that he likes going vintage like old stuff, used stuff, stuff that maybe have old recordings on them...

SO bottom line, Does anyone know where I'm able to find a VINTAGE USED MPC2000XL? any suggestions??

Thank you for your help, I appreciate it!

[Alex E]

Go with the 2000xl. It's more reliable, and more flexible. The screens can fade out on the original MPC 2000. They fixed that with the XL model. Get one either on Craigslist or eBay.

And make him pay for it himself.

[skunk3]

I currently have a MPC 1000 but I've owned several models of MPCs throughout the years. The only reason why I still have the 1000 is because I was forced to sell off some other stuff to pay bills. The feel and size of the 2000XL is much more preferable to the 1000 or even the 2500 IMHO. You can't get JJOS with a 2000XL, but do you REALLY need it? I like JJOS and all, but I don't consider it a "must have." Also, do you really need 128 megs of RAM for sampling? I rarely come close to using even 32 megs because I don't use multi-sampled programs... most of the samples I use are just drum sounds, short loops, or short phrases. 32 megs is more than enough to get the job done. I also think that there's a difference in sound between the 2000XL and the 1000/2500. While the 1000/2500 sound very neutral, the 2000XL is punchier, more "in your face." Definitely sounds better for hip-hop and techno IMO.