Audio Equipment
Akai has launched the MPC XL, described as the company's most powerful standalone groovebox to date. This device offers four times the processing power of previous models and supports up to 32 virtual instruments simultaneously. It is available immediately for $2,900.
Raportoinut AI
A new 4-inch vinyl single format called Tiny Vinyl has launched with exclusive releases at Target, offering compact music playback. Testing on various turntables reveals it works well on manual models but struggles with automatic and portable ones. Sound quality is quieter and slightly distorted compared to standard LPs, appealing more to casual listeners than audiophiles.