Akai Introduces MPK mini Keyboard Controller
Akai has unveiled the MPK mini, USB keyboard and pad controller.
MPK mini strikes the perfect balance between portability and software control by merging the immediate control and grab-and-go convenience of the LPK25 and LPD8 (And will probably piss off anyone who bought the LPK. —Ed.). The MPK mini is less than 13 inches across and weighs just over one pound and easily fits into a laptop case, backpack or messenger bag.
The MPK mini keyboard is velocity-sensitive and contains dedicated Octave Up and Down and Sustain buttons. The MPK mini also has a built-in arpeggiator to create sparkling, staccato leads and driving bass lines in a variety of time signatures and patterns.
MPK mini’s eight backlit, velocity-sensitive pads are based on Akai’s famed MPC lineup. The pads can send note information, MIDI CCs, and program changes. Pressing the Bank button will quickly toggle between two banks of pads for 16 pads in total. Additionally, the MPK mini has eight assignable Q-Link knobs to control virtually any software parameter. ?MPK mini is plug-and-play with Mac or PC and requires no software driver installation or wall power for operation. The included software editor quickly maps MPK mini’s controls as well.
“Today’s music is constantly evolving, and that requires the tools for music creation to evolve similarly,” explains Adam Cohen, Akai’s Director of Business Development. Thanks for that deep insight Adam. Wow!
Akai’s MPK mini will be available for the holidays and set you back a tidy $199. More information on the Akai MPK mini.
