Akai MPK61 61-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard

zZounds' Take on Akai MPK61

Turn any computer into a full music production powerhouse with the Akai MPK61. Computer-based production studios provide access to an 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 can be controlled with the Akai MPK61.

Akai, makers of the legendary MPC Music Production Center sampler-sequencers, understand how important it is for electronic instruments to have the same feel and expressiveness as their acoustic counterparts. The MPK61 is a 61-key MIDI-over-USB controller keyboard that's equally adept as a keyboard instrument, a pad controller/sample sequencer, and a remote transport and mixing surface for digital audio workstations.

A Keyboard Controller

The full-sized keys on the MPK61 are semi-weighted, with pressure-sensitivity and aftertouch, for an intimate, tactile control over otherwise cold virtual instruments. In addition, solid, responsive pitch and mod wheels add to the MPK61'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, programmable arpeggiator that's tempo-sync-able to DAW projects or external MIDI gear.

A Controller Keyboard

Supporting MIDI Machine Control protocol, the MPK61 can be used to trigger more than just notes. A whopping 76 assignable rotary knobs, sliders, and buttons grant hardware access to virtually any control parameter in any digital audio workstation. A dedicated transport section turns the MPK61 into the nerve center of any studio setup. Eight sliders, buttons and rotary encoders are arranged like a mixer for intuitive control over channel level, panning and arming. Alternately, they can be used 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 layouts as well.

Genuine MPC Pads And Functions

Sixteen genuine MPC pads, velocity- and pressure-sensitive, sit at the top center of the MPK61. They're joined by familiar MPC functions like "full level," "16 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.

The Akai MPK61 is a USB keyboard controller that utilizes tactile control functions, genuine MPC pads and a semi-weighted keybed to bring a level of musicality to the programming process unlike any traditional controller.

About Akai

As the makers of the legendary MPC series, Akai has been producing groundbreaking technology-based instruments for decades. They continue to build upon their reputation by designing professional-grade products for today's composers, DJs and performers.

Manufacturer's Description for Akai MPK61 61-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard

The MPK61 is a keyboard performance MIDI controller that expands the popular MPK line. Each MPK controller combines a piano-style keybed with a bank of genuine Akai Professional MPC pads, assignable Q-Link controllers and key technologies from the iconic MPC family of music production workstations.

Features
- 61-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch for expressive melodic creativity
- 16 genuine MPC pads with pressure and velocity sensitivity
- MPC pads access four banks each for instant access to 48 samples
- Control 72 software parameters with 24 assignable Q-Link controllers
- Key Split enables two different sounds from the same keyboard
- MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator aid in creative process
- Transport controls for use with sequencers and DAWs
- MPC Full Level, MPC 12-Level, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with tempo and dynamics
- MIDI output over USB, bus powered, class compliant: plug and play with one USB cable
- Comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software
- Works with virtually all MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software

Producers, performers and DJs will appreciate the MPK61's mix of 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 16 MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity, 72 assignable Q-Link controllers, MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing and an arpeggiator. The MPK61's size is ideal for performers who need a larger keyboard than the original 49-key MPK49 offers, but also prefer the lighter weight and associated portability of a semi-weighted keyboard. The MPK61 retains the key split features from the MPK88, enabling you to divide the keyboard into two zones for performing with two different programs at once.

Like its 25, 49 and fully weighted 88-key siblings - the MPK25, MPK49 and MPK88, respectively - the MPK61 empowers you to create and manipulate melodic, harmonic and rhythmic content and inspires creative production with its arpeggiator, MPC Swing and MPC Note Repeat technologies.

The MPK61 comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software, one of the most popular and powerful performance and production programs worldwide. Ableton Live Lite enables musicians to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise and edit musical ideas in a seamless audio/MIDI environment. The MPK61 is a MIDI controller that sends MIDI data over USB for plug-and-play performance with Mac and PC. Because they are MIDI compliant, the MPK series works with virtually all MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software for musical performers from keyboard players to producers to DJs and VJs. zZounds is an authorized dealer of Akai products.

Specifications
- Number of Keys: 61 + 16 x 4 banks of drum pads
- 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

Includes:
- MPK61 controller
- USB cable
- Software CD
- Quick start guide

Power Supply: USB Cable (Included) OR Akai MP6 Power Supply (Not Included - only required if using Akai MPK-61 without a computer).

Dimensions and Weight in Packaging

Shipping Weight: 26 lbs

Shipping Dimensions: 12 x 10 x 3 in