Feature:
Alot of features. but its a catch 22 situation. Because, unlike many, i was lucky enough to purchase my 5k at a good price. The bad part is that alot of 5k features can be found in the 1k and 2.5k running the JJos. In fact, akai took about 25 of the jjOS features and placed them into the 5k. The only thing the 5k has going for itself at this point is the big blue LCD and the onboard synth. Unlike the 4k, the 5k doesn't have keygroups. All sounds consist of sample and synth programs. Creating programs can be a tedious task. Also, No more Aksys software. Perhaps they will add it in the next update?

Quality:
On the outside, well made. Something about all a black metal casing is sexxy. Not as big and retarded as the 4k. The only thing I dislike is that the jog wheel doesn't always register right away. You must turn the wheels a couple of times to get it going.

Value:
I paid below $1,900 (free shipping). The re-sell value of the unit is steady because no one is buying and no one is selling. the OS is still in semi-beta phase IMO. Winter Namm 2009 will determine the true value of this MPC

Desirability:
All MPC's have sex appeal. And now that their made in black...

Sound:
The sound coming out of the unit sounds clean. this unit is not like the older MPC's (2000, 60, 3000), which add a bit of color to your sound. The onboard synthesizer is not bad at all. You can get some nice lil bass sounds from it. I only use the MPC, my PC and a tape deck.

Ease of Use:
The manual of the 5k is much of an easier read than the 4k or MV8k (both of which I previously owned). If you're new to the MPC world, just read the manual while actually playing with the MPC. you will learn the basics within a week.

Support:
never used them.

Overall:
Overall im satisfied with this product. However, I fully understand that alot of features are going unused. I'm better off with a 1k wjjOS or reason/flstudio with the MPD32. The only thing that keeps me from selling this unit is the fact that I got it cheap, I dislike software sequencers with the exception of Acid 6 pro, there are still updates to be had, and the big blue LCD screen (nice and blue like the LCD on the kurzweil 2600 rack). I will only sell if the LinnDrumm2 lives up to the hype. If you rarely sample, and prefer to play your instruments, I suggest you get the 1k or 2.5k with JJos and use the keygroup functions. you can even get a 4k.

Feature:
It Creates the clearest, and easiest samples I've ever heard! Take your old dusty records from the crates and turn them into brand new beats!

Quality:
Even the old mpc's, like the lower 1000's or 2500's are still lasting today, so im very confident this product will last me a couple years to come! Its well worth the cost!

Sound:
IT'S AMAZING! All the drum patterns i need! From hip-hop to techno. Create that beat thats been stuck in your head within minutes!

Ease of Use:
Its really all that simple to use, once you the sampling down, and your drum pads, you'll be on your way to making live, or professional patterns!

Overall:
IT'S AMAZING! All the drum patterns i need! From hip-hop to techno. Create that beat thats been stuck in your head within minutes! Even the old mpc's, like the lower 1000's or 2500's are still lasting today, so im very confident this product will last me a couple years to come! Its well worth the cost!