mpc akai buyer’s guide for 2022

We spent many hours on research to finding mpc akai, reading product features, product specifications for this guide. For those of you who wish to the best mpc akai, you should not miss this article. mpc akai coming in a variety of types but also different price range. The following is the top 8 mpc akai by our suggestions:

Product	Features	Editor's score	Go to site
	Akai Professional MPC Studio Black Music Production Controller with 7+GB Sound Library Download		Go to amazon.com
	Akai Professional MPD218 | MIDI Drum Pad Controller with Software Download Package (16 pads / 6 knobs / 6 buttons)		Go to amazon.com
	Akai Professional MPK MINI MK2 MKII | 25-Key Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Drum Pad & Keyboard Controller with Joystick, VIP Software Download Included		Go to amazon.com
	Akai Professional MPC Touch | Music Production Station with 7" Multi-Color Touchscreen		Go to amazon.com
	Akai Professional MPC X Fully Standalone MPC With 10.1-Inch Multi-Touch Display, 16GB On-Board Storage, 8 Configurable CV/Gate Outputs, Full Control Arsenal and 10GB Sound Library Included		Go to amazon.com
	Akai Professional MPX16 | 16-Pad Sample Player and Recorder with SD Card Slot and Built-In Mic		Go to amazon.com
	Akai Professional MPK225 | 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller with LCD Screen (8 Pads / 8 Knobs), VIP Software Download Included		Go to amazon.com
	Akai Professional XR20 | Beat Production Station Drum Machine with 12 Trigger Pads, Note Repeat, and 700 Sounds		Go to amazon.com

Related posts:

1. Akai Professional MPC Studio Black Music Production Controller with 7+GB Sound Library Download

Feature

Best-selling MPC Studio upgraded to look and feel even better
1.5" profile, less than 2 lbs., and USB-power provide sleek digital music production anywhere you can take your laptop
Larger knobs, scroll wheel, and MPC Renaissance-style aluminum dial for improved tactile experience
16 genuine MPC drum pads and 4 control knobs with all the dedicated buttons of classic MPC line
7+ GB of sounds included for inspired-production out of the box Weight: 1.96 pounds (0.89kg)

Description

At an inch-and-a-half thick, with low-profile controls and a dark, sleek, brushed-aluminum body, MPC Studio Black is made to move and look good doing it.

The MPC Studio Black merges real MPC pads, iconic workflow, and the same MPC Software used by the MPC Renaissance to give you a fully integrated portable production solution anywhere you can connect it to your computer.

Akai Professional listened to four years of user feedback to find a way to improve the best-selling MPC Studio. Its still small, sturdy, and covered in features: 16 Genuine MPC pads and 4 Q-Link control knobs with MPC Note Repeat, Full Level, and 16 Level for inspirational workflow.

But the MPC Studio Black also has better knobs, scroll wheel, and the MPC Renaissances spun aluminum data dial so theyll hold up even longer and give you a better feel during your performances.

Technical Specs

Physical

• Display: 360x96-dot monochromatic backlit LCD
• Pads: (16) velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, multicolor-backlit
• Buttons
  • (32) dedicated function buttons (26 backlit)
  • (10) transport control buttons (3 backlit)
  • (4) cursor buttons
  • (6) multi-function (soft) buttons
• Knobs
  • (1) Data Dial (selection and navigation)
  • (4) Q-Link knobs, column configuration
  • (1) Q-Link column selector (scroll)
• Connections
  • (1) 1/8 MIDI input
  • (1) 1/8 MIDI output
  • (1) USB port
• Power: via USB connection
• Dimensions (width x depth x height): 11.2 x 10.1 x 1.5
• Weight: 1.96 lbs

Sequencer

• Maximum events: unlimited (based on CPU)
• Resolution: 960 pulses per 1/4-note
• Sequences: 128
• Tracks per sequence: 128
• Drum pad: 16 (velocity and pressure sensitive)
• Drum pad banks: 8
• Sync mode: MIDI clock, MIDI Time Code
• Transport Controls: MIDI Machine Control

MPC Software

• Polyphony: 64
• Dynamic filtering: 1 State Variable Filter per voice (up to 8 pole, depending on type)
• Filter types: Low Pass, Band Pass, High Pass, Band Boost, Band Stop, Analog Modeling, Vocal Formant
• Number of programs: 128
• Memory capacity: System Dependent. 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended)
• Plugin Supported as Host: VST (Mac / PC), AU (Mac)
• Plugin Formats Available to other DAWs: VST, AU (Mac Only)
• Audio files supported: WAV, MP3, REX, AIFF, SND
• Word lengths supported: 32 and 64-bit

Effects

• Program Effects: 4 Insert Slots per Pad, 4 Sends to Track Effects per Pad
• Track Effects: 4 Inserts and 4 stereo Sends per Track
• Master effect: 4 Master Effect Slots Over 50 high-quality effects Included
• Plugin Formats supported: VST (Mac / PC), AU (Mac)

MIDI I/O

• MIDI inputs: (1) 5-pin DIN via TRS to MIDI breakout cable (included)
• MIDI outputs: (1) 5-pin DIN via TRS to MIDI breakout cable (included)

Box Contents

• MPC Studio Black
• USB Cable
• (2) 1/8-to-5-Pin MIDI Adapters
• Neoprene Case
• Software Download Card
• Quickstart Guide
• Safety & Warranty Manual

2. Akai Professional MPD218 | MIDI Drum Pad Controller with Software Download Package (16 pads / 6 knobs / 6 buttons)

Feature

Simple, small, feature-packed pad controller for finger drumming and music production
16 Thick Fat backlit MPC pads (48 assignable pads accessible via 3 banks)
6 control knobs (18 assignable knobs accessible via 3 banks)
USB-powered through computer, no AC adapter required
Includes free software titles Ableton Live Lite, Akai Pro MPC Essentials, SONiVOX Big Bang Cinematic Percussion and Big Bang Universal Drums

Description

The MPD2 Series is a product of more than six years of detailed customer research and user feedback. We asked what you wanted and listened closely to what you told us to create the most capable and user-friendly line of pad controllers Akai Professional has developed to date.

The MPD218's 16 new, ultra-sensitive Thick Fat MPC pads, create a responsive user experience. It also has an expanded control set of six knobs in three banks versus one control on the previous MPD18 model. This will enable you to maximize your sound and give you increased control over effects.

MIDI information is sent over its plug-and-play USB interface for use on Mac or PC, eliminating the need to install any drivers. The USB connection powers the MPD218, so the included USB cable is all you need.

Our MPD2 Series marks an important evolution of the pad controller. Many years of research and customer feedback has led directly to some of the most capable pad controllers weve ever developed. These MPDs are the perfect bridge between your creativity and your computer-based studio.

Frequently Asked Questions

What software is included with my purchase, and where can I download?
The MPD218 includes Ableton Live Lite, MPC Essentials, Big, Bang Cinematic Percussion, Big Bang Universal Drums, MPD218 Editor. Once you have registered the product in your Akai Pro User Account you will have download links for all titles except Ableton. You will be able to download Ableton via a download card that is included in the box.

Are the pads different?
The pads are called Thick Fat MPC pads, which are completely redesigned.

Does the product require an additional power supply?
The MPD218 is powered by the included USB cable, and does not require an additional power supply.

Does the product require drivers, and where can I download them from?
The MPD218 is class compliant, and does not require any drivers.

Is the product compatible with the latest Windows, and Mac operating systems?
Since the MPD218 is class compliant it is immediately compatible with all current Windows, and Mac operating systems.

Will this work with my IOS device?
This is iOS compatible using the Apple Camera Connection Kit (sold separately).

Are the pads velocity sensitive?
The MPD2 series definitely has velocity sensitive padsand theyre awesome.

Technical Specs

• Pads:
  • (16) velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, red-backlit
  • (3) banks accessible via Pad Bank button
• Knobs
  • (6) 360 assignable potentiometers
  • (3) banks accessible via Control Bank button
• Buttons: 6 buttons
• Connections
  • (1) USB port
  • (1) Kensington lock
• Power: via USB connection
• Dimensions (width x depth x height): 9.4 x 7.9 x 1.6
• Weight: 1.65 lbs.

Box Contents

• MPD218
• USB Cable
• Software Download Cards
• User Guide
• Safety & Warranty Manual

3. Akai Professional MPK MINI MK2 MKII | 25-Key Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Drum Pad & Keyboard Controller with Joystick, VIP Software Download Included

Feature

Compact keyboard controller easily fits backpack and studio production desk (12.4" long, 1.6 lbs)
Powered by USB connection to computer, with free virtual-instrument download packages
Crammed full of all the features you need to play and edit musical ideas
25-synth-action mini-keys, 8 velocity-sensitive rubber drum pads with two banks, and eight assignable control knobs
Includes VIP - the ground-breaking, award-winning music software platform that provides musicians and composers with a powerful hands-on control solution for their virtual instrument and virtual effect collection

Description

The new MPK Mini MKII is an ultra-compact keyboard controller designed to easily fit in the laptop-toting musicians backpack and still earn its spot on the desktop producers crowded table space.

For maximum portability, the MPK Mini MKII requires no software drivers or external power adapter for operation. It supports plug-and-play connectivity, features USB-MIDI, and powers up with a single USB connection to your computer.

With an array of hardware controls, the MPK mini MKII lets you record, compose, and perform with virtual instruments, effect plugins, and Digital Audio Workstations whenever inspiration strikes.

It features 25 velocity-sensitive synth-action keys, a 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation manipulation, 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads, and 8 assignable Q-Link knobs. Plus, two banks expand the number of MPC-style pads to 16 for extended creative capabilities.

The MPK mini MKII includes all the essentials for quickly laying down and expanding upon your musical ideas.

Finally, it comes bundled with professional production software and virtual instruments free downloads for immediate music creation. Editor Software Requirements- Mac OS X 10.7+ or Windows 7+

Frequently Asked Questions

What software comes with the Akai MPK Mini?

The Akai MPK Mini comes with the following software:

• Akai Pro MPC Essentials
• SONiVOX Wobble 2
• AIR Hybrid 3
• Preset Editor Software

How do I get my software?

1. Go to akaipro.com/my-account
2. Login to your Akai Pro account. If you do not have an account, Create one.
3. Once you have logged in or created your Akai Professional user account, choose Register a Product.
4. Enter the requested information to Register your MPK2 series controller and press Submit.
5. Once you have Registered your MPK2 Series controller, you can now find the downloads for the various included software within the My Account section.

What operating systems is it supported with?

The Akai MPK Mini is supported on the latest operating systems, including Windows 8 and Mac 10.9. The MPK Mini is a class-compliant plug-and-play device that does not require a specific driver installation in order to be functional and will function with all major Windows and Mac operating systems from Windows XP, Vista and 7 to Mac 10.4 and later.

Is it powered by USB or wall power supply?

The Akai MPK Mini is USB hub powered. It connects and powers by a standard USB-A to USB-B cable and does not require a wall power supply.

What are the differences between the MPK Mini MKI and MKII?
Some of the major additions and changes to the Akai MPK Mini are:

• Features a 4-way Pitch Bend and Modulation joystick. This joystick has three assignable modes, including:
  • Pitch Bend - Up, down, left and right
  • Modulation 1 - There is a single CC per axis. The center CC is at 64 and the joystick modulates on the axis of choice.
  • Modulation 2 - There are two CCs per axis. The center axis is 0 and the endpoint CCs on each axis can be set by the user with the included preset editor.
• Connects via standard USB-A to USB-B cable rather than a mini-USB to USB-B cable.
• Features a Noterepeat and Full-level button option.
• Contains a 1/4 Sustain pedal input for standard momentary non-latching foot-switch functionality.
• The 8 velocity-sensitive pads have back-lit red and green coloring.

Can I change the default presets?

Yes! There are four built-in presets that can be chosen in the controller. These presets can be edited, adjusted and uploaded to the MPK Mini using the included preset editor.

Wait! What if I still have more questions?

Dont worry! You can watch step-by-step tutorials in the Related Video Shorts below or visit akaipro.com/kb/search/MPK_Mini for more detailed FAQs.

Technical Specs

• Note Keys: (25) velocity-sensitive mini keys
• Pads: (8) assignable backlit pads, velocity- and pressure-sensitive
• Pad Banks: (2) banks
• Knobs: (8) assignable 270 knobs
• X-Y Controller: (1) configurable thumbstick with 3 modes
• Octaves: 10-octave range with octave up/down buttons
• Arpeggiator: adjustable resolution, range, and modes
• Additional Controls:
  • Note Repeat button
  • Full Level button
  • Tap Tempo button
• Inputs / Outputs
  • (1) USB port
  • (1) 1/4 (6.35mm) TS input for sustain pedal
• Power: USB power via full-size USB jack; no power adapter required
• Dimensions (width x depth x height):
  • Product: 12.5 x 7.13 x 1.75
  • Shipping: 14.3 x 8.64 x 2.9
• Weight
  • Product: 1.65 lbs
  • Shipping: 2.43 lbs

Box Contents

• MPK mini
• USB Cable
• MPK mini Editor (download)
• Software Download Card
• User Guide
• Safety & Warranty Manual

4. Akai Professional MPC Touch | Music Production Station with 7" Multi-Color Touchscreen

Feature

7" color multi-touch Display
16 velocity-sensitive thick, fat MPC pads with RGB backlighting
2-in/2-out audio interface
Step Sequencer with touch interface
XYFX control adds effects, adjusts sound dynamics in real time
Refer user guide below.

Description

In creating the MPC Touch, Akai Professional has once again established the iconic MPC series as the thought leader in music production technology.

Combining the might of a pro-level piece of production gear truly fit to carry the MPC shield with the tactile ease of use found on smartphones and tablets, the Touch is truly a workflow revolution. How producers interact with all aspects of their sound has been forever changed.

Introducing a new approach to music production with an ultra-fast and super intuitive workflow, the Touch is powered by a radiant 7 color multi-touch display. Literally grab and pinch waveforms, draw midi events, adjust envelopes, chop samples, add effects and precisely set your controls using your fingertips. Combined with the classic MPC feel, sound and vastly improved pads, the Touch embodies the best elements of our past while taking music production tech into the future.

The hardware is a true innovation in music production technology. But at the end of the day its world-class sounds that inspire great music. Thinking of this, weve bundled the Touch with over 20,000 sounds from elite content providers covering the gamut of musical styles, including: AIR, CR2, Toolroom, MVP Loops, Sonivox and Prime Loops. You will be ready to start making your next banger within minutes of opening the box.

The MPC Touch is the future-forward progression of our legendary MPC series, encompassing the classic feel and workflow of previous models while adding a never before seen touchscreen workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does MPC Touch require a computer to use?

MPC Touch is not a standalone piece of hardware and does require a computer, but the built-in touchscreen allows you to take advantage of all your favorite MPC features quickly and easily right on the hardware.

Does MPC Touch require a power supply or is it USB bus powered?

MPC Touch includes a power supply which is required for the product to function fully. Without the power supply connected, MPC Touch will still send data from the pads and controls to the MPC software via USB, but the built-in touchscreen will not power on.

How many times can I install/authorize the included software?

The MPC software can be authorized on up to 4 computers simultaneously. This includes the sample content, The Bank and The 809. The AIR plugins can be authorizedon up to two computers simultaneously or an iLok. Authorizations can be moved if necessary. For more information, contact ourTech Supportteam for further assistance.

There aren't any disks in the MPC touch box...where can I download my software?

After you purchase an MPC Touch, visitakaipro.com/mpcdownloadto register your product and download the included software and sounds.

Why does the MPC Touch installer include a step called Configure Screen? Why do I need to install Display Drivers?

The built-in touchscreen is actually set up as another display monitor for your computer. While the MPC Software is running on your computer, MPC Touch will display the software's touch interface. If the MPC Software is not running, you have the option to either turn the display off entirely, or use it as a desktop extension. Additionally, while running the MPC Software, you can switch between viewing the touch interface or your extended display on the built-in touchscreen by holdingSHIFTand pressingERASEon the MPC Touch.

I tried to install MPC Touch's version of the MPC Software over my previous version and received an error message about RTAS support. Will my MPC Touch work inside Pro Tools?

As of MPC Software v1.9, the RTAS plugin format is no longer supported. While you'll have absolutely no problem opening the MPC Software as a plugin inside Pro Tools 11 or 12, Pro Tools 10 and below are NOT supported.

Technical Specs

• Controls
  • (16) trigger pads, velocity- and pressure-sensitive; 8 pad banks
  • (4) Q-link knobs
  • (1) data dial
• Buttons
  • (1) Note Repeat / Latch
  • (1) Full Level / Half Level
  • (1) 16 level
• Inputs / Outputs
  • (1) 1/4 TRS audio in (L + R)
  • (1) 1/4 TRS audio out (L + R)
  • (1) 1/8 headphone output
  • (1) 1/8 MIDI in
  • (1) 1/8 MIDI out
  • (1) USB port
• Display: 7 1280x800 multi-color
• Audio interface: 24-bit / 44.1 kHz
• Power: 6V, 3A external DC power or USB computer connection (display disabled)
• Dimensions(height x width x depth): 1.92 x 16.2 x 8.6

Included Software

MPC Touch comes with the latest version of the MPC Software, v1.9. This also includes over 20GB of samples, loops, programs, sequences and plugins:

• EDM & Future House (sample pack)
• Essential Instruments (sample pack)
• The Vault (sample pack)
• The 809 (MPC expansion plugin)
• The Bank (MPC expansion plugin)
• AIR Instruments Plugin Bundle (8 AIR Instruments plugins)

Box Contents

• MPC Studio
• USB Cable
• (2) 1/8-to-5-Pin MIDI Adapters
• Neoprene Case
• Software Download Card
• Quickstart Guide
• Safety and Warranty Manual

5. Akai Professional MPC X Fully Standalone MPC With 10.1-Inch Multi-Touch Display, 16GB On-Board Storage, 8 Configurable CV/Gate Outputs, Full Control Arsenal and 10GB Sound Library Included

Feature

Outboard Control - 2 MIDI inputs, 4 MIDI Outputs plus 8 configurable CV/Gate outputs for the analog control of modular gear, such as classic synths
Infinite Sounds, Unlimited Inspiration - Includes Vault 2.0 featuring samples leading sound design companies including CAPSUN ProAudio, MVP Loops, TOOLROOM, CR2 Records, Loopmasters and much more

Description

The X is a standalone MPC that sports a 10.1 multi-touch screen, 16 velocity and pressure sensitive RGB pads and, 16 gigs of internal storage, making the X a true Music Production Center. It also features two USB slots for MIDI controller connectivity. Plug in your AKAI Professional MIDI keyboard and play chords or synth leads that your production craves. In terms of extra storage, there is a 2.5 SATA drive connector and a built-in SD card slot. Rounding out the controls are dedicated menu buttons, a master encoder knob and 16 touch-sensitive 360 assignable pots (Q-Links) with OLED displays, which are perfect for automating parameters and delivering expressive recordings, making it easier to create a full-fledged hit wherever inspiration resides! Powering the mighty X is MPC 2.0, Akai Professionals new update to the MPC software. Capable of running natively on the MPC X in standalone mode, MPC 2.0 can also be run from a Mac or PC with the X tethered to a computer. New features added to 2.0 include: audio track recording, an improved time warp algorithm, enhanced Q-Link control, audio and MIDI drag and drop - all appearing on a new graphical interface. It can do it all, from making beats to recording vocals. Pre-installed with 10 gigs of world-class sounds, The Vault 2.0 features samples and kits from top-notch sound design companies including Capsun Audio, MVP Loops, CR2 Records, as well as our own. The MPC X has a number of features that make it the most powerful standalone music production tool to date. Onboard CV/Gate outputs enable the analog control of modular gear. Two RCA phono inputs with RIAA preamp have been included to ensure the right levels are coming into the X directly from your turntable. We proudly present the Music Production Center that embodies the past, present and future of beat-oriented production machines. The MPC X will be the centerpiece of studios worldwide for years to come, and maybe even a few decades, just like our classic MPCs.

6. Akai Professional MPX16 | 16-Pad Sample Player and Recorder with SD Card Slot and Built-In Mic

Feature

Record and play back stereo .WAV samples using any SD card (sold separately)
16 velocity-sensitive MPC-style backlit pads for sample-triggering and finger drumming
Sample via 1/4-inch (6.3mm) stereo inputs or onboard stereo microphone
Filter, tune, envelope, and choke grouping on each pad for dynamic performances
Pro-quality sampling and playback with up to 16-bit/48 kHz resolution. Please refer User Manual before use.

Description

Akai Professional's MPX16 is an advanced sample player with sixteen backlit velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads.

With it, musicians, producers and performers can trigger sound samples stored on standard SD or SDHC cards. Insert the SD card, assign its contents to any of the MPX16's pads, and go. You can even record audio directly using the built-in microphone, with a dedicated Record Gain knob to make sure you get it right.

MPX16's compact footprint means it is at home on a tabletop, music stand, lap, tray-table or in your backpack en route to the studio. Solid Akai Pro design and industry-leading pads ensure it stands up to the daily use you expect it to see.

Note: SD and SDHC cards sold separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can samples be loaded directly onto the MPX16 via USB connection?

The MPX16 allows for a direct USB connection to upload and download directly to the inserted SD card.

To use the MPX16 as an SD card reader, connect a standard USB cable to your computer USB port andpower onthe MPX16 while pressing and holding theMAINbutton.

When adding samples, be sure to add the samples directly to theroot (main) directoryof the card. Do not add samples to any subfolders on the card. Also, limit your file names to 8 characters, do not use spaces, and do not use any of the following characters in the name:"" * / : < > ? |

What format should my samples be in?

The samples must be in 16-bit, mono or stereo WAV format. They can have a sample rate of 48, 44.1, 32, 22.05, or 11.205 kHz.

How much can be assigned to the MPX16 pads at one time?

You can assign up to 60 MB worth of samples onto the MPX16's pads at a time. Also, please note that a sample's size will be rounded up when loaded (eg., a 2.1 MB sample on the SD card will be treated as a 3 MB sample when assigned to a pad).

How long does it take to load a sample from the SD card to a pad?

Using a number of different SD and SDHC cards with various transfer rates, we experienced the following average load times:

• 6MB stereo WAV, 44/16 - 18 seconds
• 31MB stereo WAV, 44/16 - 1 minute, 38 seconds

What kind of SD card do I need?

You can use an SD or SDHC card with a capacity of up to 32 GB and it must be FAT32 formatted. Up to 512 files can be stored in the root directory of the card.

Technical Specs

Display

• Backlit, monochromatic LCD; 2.0 x 1.1

Pads

• 16 pads, RGB-backlit, velocity-sensitive

Knobs

• (5) 360 encoders
• (2) 270 knobs

Inputs / Outputs

• (1) USB port
• (2) 1/4 TRS recording inputs (left and right stereo pair)
• (2) 1/4 TRS main outputs (left and right stereo pair)
• (1) 1/8 TRS stereo headphone output
• (1) 5-pin MIDI in
• (1) 5-pin MIDI out

Polyphony

• 64 voices total
• Mono or stereo sample playback
• Mono and poly trigger modes

Envelopes

• Attack-Decay (AD) amp and filter envelopes with Envelope>Tuning
  routing for filter envelope

Filter

• 4-pole low-pass filter with resonance per pad

Effects

• Reverb

Sample Tuning Range

• +12 semitones via Tuning parameter
  +12 additional semitones via Envelope>Tuning parameter

Sample File Format:Uses and records mono or stereo WAV files

Power

• via power adapter (included): 5.8V DC, 860mA, center-positive
• via computer USB bus or USB charger (sold separately)

Dimensions(width x depth x height): 11.6 x 5.8 x 1.2

Weight: 1.5 lbs

Box Contents

• MPX16
• MPX File Conversion Utility (download)
• Power Adapter
• User Guide
• Safety & Warranty Manual

7. Akai Professional MPK225 | 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller with LCD Screen (8 Pads / 8 Knobs), VIP Software Download Included

Feature

All-in-one controller with keyboard and trigger pads for performing live and composing in studio
25 semi-weighted, full-size keys with pressure sensitivity. iOS compatibility using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately).USB power and plug-and-play connectivity
8 RGB-illuminated MPC-style pads (32 assignable via 4 banks)
8 control knobs and 4 switches (24 knobs and 12 switches assignable via 3 banks)
Includes VIP - the ground-breaking, award-winning music software platform that provides musicians and composers with a powerful hands-on control solution for their virtual instrument and virtual effect collection
Please Note: This keyboard does not come with a traditional power adapter since the keyboard is mainly used with a computer, and the USB cable is the power cable because the computer fully powers the keyboard.

Description

The Akai Professional MPK2 series of performance pad and keyboard controllers are an all-in-one controller solution for studio composers and live music performers. The MPK2 series combines deep software integration, enhanced workflow, and core technologies from the iconic line of MPC workstations with a keyboard for maximum flexibility without complication.

The MPK225 features 25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch pressure sensitivity, 8 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback, 8 Q-Link knobs and 4 switches, and onboard transport buttons. Four pad banks expand the number of assignable pads to 32 total, and three banks expand assignable knobs 24 with 12 switches.

Plus, MPK225 is optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC with USB power and plug-and-play connectivity, so you can go where you need to and have all you need to.

Technical Specs

• Note Keys: (25) keys; semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive; 10-octave range with octave up/down buttons or transposition
• Pads: (8) pads; velocity- and pressure-sensitive; (4) banks
• Knobs: (8) 360 encoders; (3) banks
• Switches: (4) switches; LED-backlit; (3) banks
• Inputs / Outputs
  • (1) USB port
  • (1) 1/4 (6.35mm) TRS expression pedal input
  • (1) 1/4 (6.35mm) TS sustain pedal or footswitch input
  • (1) 5-pin MIDI in
  • (1) 5-pin MIDI out
• Power: via computer USB bus or USB charger (sold separately) via power adapter (sold separately): 6V DC, 1A, center-positive
• Dimensions (width x depth x height): 19.25 x 11.75 x 3.63
• Weight: 6.09 lbs

Box Contents

• MPK225
• Quickstart Guide
• USB Cable
• Safety & Warranty Manual

8. Akai Professional XR20 | Beat Production Station Drum Machine with 12 Trigger Pads, Note Repeat, and 700 Sounds

Feature

Over 700 sounds produced by Chronic Music
99 Preset patterns and 99 User patterns
Backlit LCD
Bright, glowing, backlit pads that follow the beat
Microphone input and Headphone output
Battery Power capability and AC Adapter (included)
Drum Roll / Note Repeat feature for realism and expression

Description

Inspiration can happen anywhere. The XR20 is loaded with pro-grade, industrial-strength drum, percussion, bass, synth, sound effects, vocal and instrument hit sounds and has the ability to lay them in a groove wherever and whenever you're ready. Over 700 pre-loaded sounds, and an integrated effects engine for Reverb, EQ and Compression put you in full control of your beat production. A microphone input is even included for mixing vocals with your patterns. Brilliant backlit pads provide visual cues for added beat precision. The XR20 features sounds of standard and electronic drums, single (one-shot) hits, bass and synth sounds to easily create your maximum mix in minimal time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sounds are in XR20?

XR20 has an entirely new sound set that was developed by music producers Chronic Music, containing over 700 sounds that can't be found anywhere else.

What are the blue lights for?

In addition to its blue-backlit display, the pads on XR20 light to the beat for a fresh, attention-grabbing stage appearance.

What can I connect to XR20?

XR20 has a full compliment of inputs and outputs. You can connect a microphone with the mic input. There are master outputs and aux outs for connection to amplifiers, PA system, or DJ mixer. A headphone output lets you stealthily build beats and monitor your work. MIDI in and out let you connect and interface with other MIDI-compliant gear including a keyboard for programming bass lines. A footswitch input enables remote start/stop or triggering of fills.

What is Pattern Play Mode?

Pattern Play Mode enables different patterns to be triggered from each pad directly so you can customize your performance as it happens.

Does XR20 have effects?

Yes: Reverb, Compression, and EQ are on each drum kit and switchable.

Can I take XR20 mobile?

XR20 is designed for portable operation. It can run five hours on average on batteries or the included AC adapter.

How do I program bass lines?

There are two ways: you can use the pads directly, or connect a keyboard via MIDI. XR20 even responds to pitch-bend messages via MIDI.

How many parts can I program at once?

The sequencer in XR20 is capable of one drum part, one percussion part, and one bass part at a time, and you can program different drum, percussion, and bass parts for Pattern A, A Fill, Pattern B, and B Fill sections in each pattern.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Main and Aux outputs: SNR 94dB A-weighted THD+N ~0.004% @ 1.38KHz
• Samples: 32MB 16 bit, max 44.1kHz sample rate uncompressed PCM
• Pads: 12 velocity-sensitive pads
• MIDI: In, Out/Thru
• Power: Input 12VDC 500mA, center pin is ground 6 AA batteries, 1.5V nominal each
• Weight: 0.94 kg
• Dimensions: 250mm (W) x 195mm (D) x 50mm (H)

Box Contents:

• XR20
• Power Adapter (12V DC 500mA)
• Quickstart Manual
• Reference Manual
• Safety and Warranty Information

Conclusion

By our suggestions above, we hope that you can found the best mpc akai for you. Please don't forget to share your experience by comment in this post. Thank you!