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Akai MPK49 49-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard
Features 12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity! Includes Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition.
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Using a computer-based production studio gives you access to a literally infinite number of virtual instruments. From sampled strings to modeled analog synthesizers to fine-tuned, studio-recorded drum kits, a universe of voices and timbres is at your fingers tips, and all can be controlled with a MIDI-over-USB controller keyboard. Only problem is, most controller keyboards feel less like keyboards and more like controllers. Not the Akai MPK49. Makers of the legendary MPC Music Production Center sampler-sequencers, Akai understands how important it is for electronic instruments to have the same feel and expressiveness of their acoustic predecessors. They've applied their decades of electronic music expertise to the MPK series, and the result is a USB controller that feels more like an instrument than any that have come before it. Plus, Akai has added features ported right from the MPC series for a fully featured studio tool that's equally adept as a keyboard instrument, a drum machine and sample sequencer, and the remote transport and mixing surface for your DAW.
A Keyboard Controller
The 49, full-sized keys are some of the best you can get on any USB controller, even those costing hundreds more. Semi-weighted, with pressure-sensitivity and after-touch, they grant intimate, tactile control over otherwise antiseptic virtual instruments. Keys that feel this good are sure to inspire better performances, as well as make you want to spend more time making music. Solid, responsive pitch and
mod wheels add to the MPK49's expressive capabilities, as do assignable inputs for expression and sustain pedals. MIDI in/out jacks allow control over hardware synths and modules as well. Hardware and software instruments alike will benefit from the advanced arpeggiator built right into the MPK, a multi-phrase, advanced, and programmable arpeggiator tempo-sync-able to DAW projects or external MIDI gear.
A Controller Keyboard
Supporting MIDI Machine Control protocol, the MPK49 can be used to trigger more than just notes in your DAW. A whopping 76 assignable rotary knobs, sliders, and buttons grant you hardware access to virtually any control parameter in any digital audio workstation. A dedicated transport section turns the MPK49 into the nerve center of your entire studio setup. Eight sliders, buttons and rotary encoders are arranged like a mixer for intuitive control over channel level, panning and arming, should you choose. Alternately, use them to control various functions and effect parameters in plug-ins and virtual or rack-mount synthesizers. A big, backlit LCD screen clearly displays MIDI control presets and makes it easy to edit your own layouts as well.
MPC Features
Other keyboard controllers may have "trigger pads" that emulate the classic MPC's, but only the Akai MPK49 has the real deal. Twelve genuine MPC pads, velocity- and pressure-sensitive, sit at the top center of the MPK. They're joined by familiar MPC functions like "full level," "12 level" and "note repeat" modes. A tap tempo control can be used to control both the note repeat and arpeggio functions in real time, and classic Akai "swing" can be applied as well. If you've ever programed on an MPC before, you'll be right at home, and if you haven't, you'll soon understand why the MPC has been held in such high regard for so long.
If you're looking to get more musical with your computer audio software, don't settle for a USB controller that's going to get in between you and your music. Get your hands on an Akai MPK49, and rediscover the excitement, passion and fun that your music's been missing.
A Keyboard Controller
The 49, full-sized keys are some of the best you can get on any USB controller, even those costing hundreds more. Semi-weighted, with pressure-sensitivity and after-touch, they grant intimate, tactile control over otherwise antiseptic virtual instruments. Keys that feel this good are sure to inspire better performances, as well as make you want to spend more time making music. Solid, responsive pitch and
mod wheels add to the MPK49's expressive capabilities, as do assignable inputs for expression and sustain pedals. MIDI in/out jacks allow control over hardware synths and modules as well. Hardware and software instruments alike will benefit from the advanced arpeggiator built right into the MPK, a multi-phrase, advanced, and programmable arpeggiator tempo-sync-able to DAW projects or external MIDI gear.
A Controller Keyboard
Supporting MIDI Machine Control protocol, the MPK49 can be used to trigger more than just notes in your DAW. A whopping 76 assignable rotary knobs, sliders, and buttons grant you hardware access to virtually any control parameter in any digital audio workstation. A dedicated transport section turns the MPK49 into the nerve center of your entire studio setup. Eight sliders, buttons and rotary encoders are arranged like a mixer for intuitive control over channel level, panning and arming, should you choose. Alternately, use them to control various functions and effect parameters in plug-ins and virtual or rack-mount synthesizers. A big, backlit LCD screen clearly displays MIDI control presets and makes it easy to edit your own layouts as well.
MPC Features
Other keyboard controllers may have "trigger pads" that emulate the classic MPC's, but only the Akai MPK49 has the real deal. Twelve genuine MPC pads, velocity- and pressure-sensitive, sit at the top center of the MPK. They're joined by familiar MPC functions like "full level," "12 level" and "note repeat" modes. A tap tempo control can be used to control both the note repeat and arpeggio functions in real time, and classic Akai "swing" can be applied as well. If you've ever programed on an MPC before, you'll be right at home, and if you haven't, you'll soon understand why the MPC has been held in such high regard for so long.
If you're looking to get more musical with your computer audio software, don't settle for a USB controller that's going to get in between you and your music. Get your hands on an Akai MPK49, and rediscover the excitement, passion and fun that your music's been missing.
Maximize your musical ideas on-stage or in the studio with the new Akai MPK49 performance controller. The Akai MPK49 ushers in a new era for USB/MIDI controllers by combining a high-quality, 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and 12 genuine MPC drum pads. 48 total pads are accessible via 4 pad banks. The pads feature the heart and soul of hip hop: the MPC Note Repeat function and Swing parameters. The Akai MPK49 Performance Controller also has its own arpeggiator, for creating quick, creative riffs in seconds.
The Akai MPK49 features MPC 'Full Level' and '12 Levels' functions on its pads, and MPC Swing can be applied to both Note Repeat and Arpeggio functions. Tap Tempo and time-division buttons allow for real-time control of Note Repeat and Arpeggio clock speeds. The Akai MPK49 delivers an amazing 76 assignable controls, with assignable inputs that include an expression pedal, footswitch, pitch bend and modulation wheel.
More than just a USB/MIDI controller, the MPK49 captures the soul of your performance.
Features
49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys
8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total
12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity
8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total
MPC note repeat and all-new arpeggiator
8 assignable backlit switches with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total
MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons
Large, easy-to-read custom LCD display
Type of action: Semi-weighted
Aftertouch (Channel)
Computer Interface: USB/MIDI
Displays: Custom LCD
Footswitchable Patch Changes: yes
Number of Independent MIDI Ins/Outs: 1
Programmable Continuous Footpedals: 1
Programmable Footswitches: 1
Programmable controllers: MMC, MIDI START/STOP, MIDI CC
System Real-Time Controls: MMC, MIDI START/STOP, MIDI CC
USB powered (or powered via optional AC adaptor)
The Akai MPK49 features MPC 'Full Level' and '12 Levels' functions on its pads, and MPC Swing can be applied to both Note Repeat and Arpeggio functions. Tap Tempo and time-division buttons allow for real-time control of Note Repeat and Arpeggio clock speeds. The Akai MPK49 delivers an amazing 76 assignable controls, with assignable inputs that include an expression pedal, footswitch, pitch bend and modulation wheel.
More than just a USB/MIDI controller, the MPK49 captures the soul of your performance.
Features
49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys
8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total
12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity
8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total
MPC note repeat and all-new arpeggiator
8 assignable backlit switches with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total
MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons
Large, easy-to-read custom LCD display
Technical Info
Number of Keys: 49 + 12 x 4 banks of drum padsType of action: Semi-weighted
Aftertouch (Channel)
Computer Interface: USB/MIDI
Displays: Custom LCD
Footswitchable Patch Changes: yes
Number of Independent MIDI Ins/Outs: 1
Programmable Continuous Footpedals: 1
Programmable Footswitches: 1
Programmable controllers: MMC, MIDI START/STOP, MIDI CC
System Real-Time Controls: MMC, MIDI START/STOP, MIDI CC
USB powered (or powered via optional AC adaptor)
Bring MPC feel to your computer workstation! This 49-key semi-weighted controller with aftertouch has 12 velocity-sensitive MPC pads built right in. Four pad banks, MPC-style Note Repeat function and Swing parameters bring creative feel to your favorite audio software. Built-in arpeggiator, tap tempo, and 76 assignable controls accessible through either USB or standard MIDI interface. Perfect for studio or live performance use! Includes Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition.
10/17
New stock arrives at zZounds, Blemished, order before they are gone!
10/17
New stock arrives at zZounds, Warehouse Resealed, order now!
05/28
Price cut, New, was $429.00, now only $399.00.
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Akai MPK49 49-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard Reviews
10 out of 10
zZounds has verified that this customer bought this product from us.
"Solid, practical and the best compromise."
Feature:
While apreggiators are not everyone's cup 'o tea, the MPK 49 has a pretty nice setup. For someone used to actually using a keyboard arpeggiator this one is pretty nice indeed, a real bonus for me. I do have some in my software and some in my hardware like my Waldorf Q rack, but as many know, nested loops are really quite awesome. use this function for jamming or for recording. Make some decent loops of your own to sample! While the unit has no power switch, to me thats fine, when I boot up the computer it is ready to go! Thats a plus and seeing the keys ready to go makes me reconsider doing another 4 hour stint on World of Warcraft...like a gentle reminder, "Hey remember-you write music!". The LED screen is large enough to read easily.The lighted pitch and mod wheels are nice to see also. The recording interface is like having an actual recorder making software recording seem even more like the 'good old days' of reel to reel or whatever. I used Otari 8 tracks and also 4 track cassette recorders, this controller moves the computer into a realistic mode for me. Less mouse work is good!
Quality:
The sturdy frame of the MPK 49 is way retro reminding me of my early Akai purchases, X7000 sampler and s-612 rack. Wow, this is as nice as I expected. The knobs feel very, VERY good, the sliders are better than some I have had and more than I expected in this price range. The buttons are a professional grade. That brings me to the pads and something I that I have read a few opinions on. It is normal for people to expect a LOT for their money but expecting a 2-3 thousand dollar set of pads on this is a bit unrealistic. If you REALLY want the top dog Akai pads you will pay for them. These are solid, maybe a bit hard to push but they do the job for me. The keys feel as good as virtually every synth i every used in my life and better than most. yes, I used a T-1 before, again, for 400$ this is not a T 1 keyboard! I have to give this machine a solid 10 with NO reservations.
Value:
If I need to trigger loops with a CC or a sequence, I simple tell the MPK 49 what I need. The sliders are great for bringing a running track into a live mix, or for doing an audio mix. I did consider the Novation controller (Thanks Tweek for the reviews on selecting a controller keyboard!) but I do things my own way a LOT and the reports of wobbly and unstable joysticks and way unresponsive pads on the Novation put me off a bit. If I get a chance I will own Novation as well as this Akai. I love their older synths. This is a deal at 400$ or more.
Desirability:
Ahh the red and black...the warm glow of the pitch bender and modulation wheels, so smooth to my touch so attractive. I must touch this machine and my music will touch someone, somewhere. It says Professional right on it.Mmmm!
Sound:
For a CONTROLLER it makes awesome sound...really, I can hear the midi signal as it races down the wire! Of course this unit makes no sound on it's own, if you expected it too, you might need remedial MIDI classes.
Ease of Use:
Ahhh, the interface is the very heart and soul of a controller and I condider the keys, knobs, buttons, sliders and pads to be the featured event. The large LED makes it easy to see what I am going for and the apparent reliability of the hardware eases my fear of a second rate bargain. This has several presets and I already have most of the sofware loaded up. If you are a beginner in MIDI you may have to work to get the exact setup you want. I see this controller as being just what I need for really flexible music making and sound design. There are more choices and you don't have to use them if you like it simple, what could be easier.
Support:
I have owned several Akai products over the years and never ever needed their support. When the UPS front loader ran over my x7000 it only broke a few keys, heh they paid full price and i got another Akai. Insurance is good. Hopefully I will not use support.The Akai website is well made and offers videos of the MPK 49, I also got a quick answer to a quest prior to making the purchase here at zZounds.
Overall:
I have had a bad case of gear lust for years, my FIZMO still has the original box, my Micro modular too. Wait- all my gear has the original packaging some after 10 years +. Think about that. This buy was researched for days and I put a lot of consideration into all the choices in controllers available, the price was right and the specifications. Cubase LE is a nice addition to my software also. It works just as it is, no need to upgrade if you are happy with it. I used Cubase when it was first out. And performer... I bought this realising that two octaves of keys were not enough for me, 88 keys too big. I am used to 60 key controller but space is at a premium until I get a larger recording area.(A recent move to the far North!) 49 keys fit right in front of my monitor and my computer keyboard is in front of the MPK. Compromise is not a very popular idea with some people, I first started programming semi modular equipment back when patch cords were used. I miss my old gear sometimes and if I placed some of the newer stuff side by side I would find both good and bad about then all. Digital Music that is recorded at a high digital resolution is DIFFERENT from music recorded on analog gear from analog sources then mastered on tape and pressed to vinyl...better or worse? That a matter of taste. We live in a digital age and even high quality computer music is reduced to a grinding 128k sample rate or even lower for many consumers/listeners. I am making the most of what I have and what I can obtain, that is both technology and inspiration/ability. At some point we all decide what we need and not always what a reviewer thinks. Keyboard magazine and E Musician hardly EVER saw a piece of gear is horrible. Yes, they do try and give all the takes on a piece of equipment but they depend on the advertiser. I am being objective here and gain nothing other than knowing I may help someone make a good choice. Now I have pads, sliders, buttons and endless rotary knobs as well as keys all in a piece of gear that fits on the desk in front of me. I consider my studio to be connected through the computer/mixing board to my main controller. All that comes between me and my musical creativity is this keyboard... I can place my rack gear and other synths on the sides when I am ready for that. Setting up a workable home studio is an art.
While apreggiators are not everyone's cup 'o tea, the MPK 49 has a pretty nice setup. For someone used to actually using a keyboard arpeggiator this one is pretty nice indeed, a real bonus for me. I do have some in my software and some in my hardware like my Waldorf Q rack, but as many know, nested loops are really quite awesome. use this function for jamming or for recording. Make some decent loops of your own to sample! While the unit has no power switch, to me thats fine, when I boot up the computer it is ready to go! Thats a plus and seeing the keys ready to go makes me reconsider doing another 4 hour stint on World of Warcraft...like a gentle reminder, "Hey remember-you write music!". The LED screen is large enough to read easily.The lighted pitch and mod wheels are nice to see also. The recording interface is like having an actual recorder making software recording seem even more like the 'good old days' of reel to reel or whatever. I used Otari 8 tracks and also 4 track cassette recorders, this controller moves the computer into a realistic mode for me. Less mouse work is good!
Quality:
The sturdy frame of the MPK 49 is way retro reminding me of my early Akai purchases, X7000 sampler and s-612 rack. Wow, this is as nice as I expected. The knobs feel very, VERY good, the sliders are better than some I have had and more than I expected in this price range. The buttons are a professional grade. That brings me to the pads and something I that I have read a few opinions on. It is normal for people to expect a LOT for their money but expecting a 2-3 thousand dollar set of pads on this is a bit unrealistic. If you REALLY want the top dog Akai pads you will pay for them. These are solid, maybe a bit hard to push but they do the job for me. The keys feel as good as virtually every synth i every used in my life and better than most. yes, I used a T-1 before, again, for 400$ this is not a T 1 keyboard! I have to give this machine a solid 10 with NO reservations.
Value:
If I need to trigger loops with a CC or a sequence, I simple tell the MPK 49 what I need. The sliders are great for bringing a running track into a live mix, or for doing an audio mix. I did consider the Novation controller (Thanks Tweek for the reviews on selecting a controller keyboard!) but I do things my own way a LOT and the reports of wobbly and unstable joysticks and way unresponsive pads on the Novation put me off a bit. If I get a chance I will own Novation as well as this Akai. I love their older synths. This is a deal at 400$ or more.
Desirability:
Ahh the red and black...the warm glow of the pitch bender and modulation wheels, so smooth to my touch so attractive. I must touch this machine and my music will touch someone, somewhere. It says Professional right on it.Mmmm!
Sound:
For a CONTROLLER it makes awesome sound...really, I can hear the midi signal as it races down the wire! Of course this unit makes no sound on it's own, if you expected it too, you might need remedial MIDI classes.
Ease of Use:
Ahhh, the interface is the very heart and soul of a controller and I condider the keys, knobs, buttons, sliders and pads to be the featured event. The large LED makes it easy to see what I am going for and the apparent reliability of the hardware eases my fear of a second rate bargain. This has several presets and I already have most of the sofware loaded up. If you are a beginner in MIDI you may have to work to get the exact setup you want. I see this controller as being just what I need for really flexible music making and sound design. There are more choices and you don't have to use them if you like it simple, what could be easier.
Support:
I have owned several Akai products over the years and never ever needed their support. When the UPS front loader ran over my x7000 it only broke a few keys, heh they paid full price and i got another Akai. Insurance is good. Hopefully I will not use support.The Akai website is well made and offers videos of the MPK 49, I also got a quick answer to a quest prior to making the purchase here at zZounds.
Overall:
I have had a bad case of gear lust for years, my FIZMO still has the original box, my Micro modular too. Wait- all my gear has the original packaging some after 10 years +. Think about that. This buy was researched for days and I put a lot of consideration into all the choices in controllers available, the price was right and the specifications. Cubase LE is a nice addition to my software also. It works just as it is, no need to upgrade if you are happy with it. I used Cubase when it was first out. And performer... I bought this realising that two octaves of keys were not enough for me, 88 keys too big. I am used to 60 key controller but space is at a premium until I get a larger recording area.(A recent move to the far North!) 49 keys fit right in front of my monitor and my computer keyboard is in front of the MPK. Compromise is not a very popular idea with some people, I first started programming semi modular equipment back when patch cords were used. I miss my old gear sometimes and if I placed some of the newer stuff side by side I would find both good and bad about then all. Digital Music that is recorded at a high digital resolution is DIFFERENT from music recorded on analog gear from analog sources then mastered on tape and pressed to vinyl...better or worse? That a matter of taste. We live in a digital age and even high quality computer music is reduced to a grinding 128k sample rate or even lower for many consumers/listeners. I am making the most of what I have and what I can obtain, that is both technology and inspiration/ability. At some point we all decide what we need and not always what a reviewer thinks. Keyboard magazine and E Musician hardly EVER saw a piece of gear is horrible. Yes, they do try and give all the takes on a piece of equipment but they depend on the advertiser. I am being objective here and gain nothing other than knowing I may help someone make a good choice. Now I have pads, sliders, buttons and endless rotary knobs as well as keys all in a piece of gear that fits on the desk in front of me. I consider my studio to be connected through the computer/mixing board to my main controller. All that comes between me and my musical creativity is this keyboard... I can place my rack gear and other synths on the sides when I am ready for that. Setting up a workable home studio is an art.
Submitted: 11/25/2008
Style of Music: Ambient, space music, future rock.
8 out of 10
"Controller's dream..."
Feature:
Ok, the good features: 1. Abundance of physical and virtual encoders and faders (probably the most in this product type). 2. Many presets available. 3. Preview feature. Extremely essential and absent from all other similar products. 4. Lighted wheels. 5. Arpeggiator (I rarely use it but good to have it on board) 6. Very solidly built. 7. Pads provide the famous Akai features (note repeat, full level and 12-level). 8. Very reasonably priced for what you get for your money. Now for the bad features: 1. No preview function for the pads and the keyboard 2. No keyboard MIDI zones 3. The ready-made presets do not provide very extensive VST support 4. No power on/off switch and it doesn't ship with a psu. 5. Sluggish pads. 6. Pitch bend range can't be edited.
Quality:
Very well made! The design might not meet everyone's taste but it surely makes you drool when seen all this abundance of pads, knobs and sliders... The keyboard is very well built and seems to withstand hard pressures. The knobs and sliders are very responsive and provide the right amount of resistance to their movement as to help you make accurate micro adjustments. The wheels are very well built and their orange lighting is an eye catcher. As everybody says, it is built like a tank! Very solid indeed!
Desirability:
Already got it! Lots of hours in reading manuals from other similar products led me to the MPK49...
Sound:
Sound? Not on this one but it surely smells nice!
Ease of Use:
A child's play. Anyone familiar with electronic music will never need the manual except for understanding the abbreviations used for some settings (like TGL, MTY, PPR etc.). Once familiar with them, you can edit this unassuming beast in no time! An additional bonus is the pc editor which makes editing a walk in the park. Very easy to use!
Support:
They responded immediately to my e-mail. I'm sure I'll never need them again since this is a perfect product to own!
Overall:
I'm not using this keyboard for elaborate playing. I'm solely into ambient music and this little beast is just perfect for triggering samples, editing sounds and you can also have fast access to any parameter you like. I also like its overall design and dark looks. Somewhat from the 80's one might say but still of a very professional design. I only wish it had a controller/pad labeling system like some other units out there (Novation Remote series and Korg Kontrol49). A great buy at a great value for money!
Ok, the good features: 1. Abundance of physical and virtual encoders and faders (probably the most in this product type). 2. Many presets available. 3. Preview feature. Extremely essential and absent from all other similar products. 4. Lighted wheels. 5. Arpeggiator (I rarely use it but good to have it on board) 6. Very solidly built. 7. Pads provide the famous Akai features (note repeat, full level and 12-level). 8. Very reasonably priced for what you get for your money. Now for the bad features: 1. No preview function for the pads and the keyboard 2. No keyboard MIDI zones 3. The ready-made presets do not provide very extensive VST support 4. No power on/off switch and it doesn't ship with a psu. 5. Sluggish pads. 6. Pitch bend range can't be edited.
Quality:
Very well made! The design might not meet everyone's taste but it surely makes you drool when seen all this abundance of pads, knobs and sliders... The keyboard is very well built and seems to withstand hard pressures. The knobs and sliders are very responsive and provide the right amount of resistance to their movement as to help you make accurate micro adjustments. The wheels are very well built and their orange lighting is an eye catcher. As everybody says, it is built like a tank! Very solid indeed!
Desirability:
Already got it! Lots of hours in reading manuals from other similar products led me to the MPK49...
Sound:
Sound? Not on this one but it surely smells nice!
Ease of Use:
A child's play. Anyone familiar with electronic music will never need the manual except for understanding the abbreviations used for some settings (like TGL, MTY, PPR etc.). Once familiar with them, you can edit this unassuming beast in no time! An additional bonus is the pc editor which makes editing a walk in the park. Very easy to use!
Support:
They responded immediately to my e-mail. I'm sure I'll never need them again since this is a perfect product to own!
Overall:
I'm not using this keyboard for elaborate playing. I'm solely into ambient music and this little beast is just perfect for triggering samples, editing sounds and you can also have fast access to any parameter you like. I also like its overall design and dark looks. Somewhat from the 80's one might say but still of a very professional design. I only wish it had a controller/pad labeling system like some other units out there (Novation Remote series and Korg Kontrol49). A great buy at a great value for money!
Submitted: 01/11/2009
Style of Music: Ambient
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