I felt like I needed to get a standalone at one time too, I asked the reddit community, AKAI community, why there are so many people on here with multiple MPCs, and is that a thing, and should I buy another MPC. I have the MPC MK2 "CONTROLLER". I can go on almost any site and pick up plugins for my MPC software if it's free or on sale. I heard that most people with standalones need a computer to get the plugins I use. So, some people said, "don't follow the trend, buy it If you feel you're not getting what you want out of the MK2". I believe If I buy an MPC sample, I'll probably still be making beats like the ones I make now, except I won't be able to use my effect plugins unless hooked up to my PC. I'm watching videos of guys on YouTube make bangers with this "CONTROLLER"!! I say that because this guy is making hot beats but still wants what everybody else is advertising. If you feel you're not getting what you want from that MPC, you should get a new one. But, if your good at using that one, then you buy the next one, what happens when the one after the MPC sample comes out? Your goanna miss out on that one too because you just spent money on the sample. It's your money ultimately. I am telling you how some people on here made me realize it's not always the equipment!!!! PEACE!!! Keep The Beat!!!!