AKAI MPK Mini Mk2 USB Midi Keyboard Controller

AKAI MPK Mini Mk2 USB Midi Keyboard Controller

The ultra-compact Akai MPK Mini MKII offers velocity-sensitive keys, backlit trigger pads, and a four-way thumb-stick in a portable plug-and-play form that lets you create music on the go.

After years of research, a redesigned and updated AKAI MPK Mini is finally here, with the AKAI MPK Mini MK2 keyboard controller. Akai has taken 5 years of user feedback to create an enhanced design for the MPK Mini MKII. Built with the professional musician and producer in mind, the 25 synth-action keys are tactile and velocity-sensitive for expressive performances; coupled with 8 MPC-style pads that can be configured to trigger samples with the bundled VIP 3.0 software. Modulate your impressive bank of Virtual Instruments using the 4-way thumb-stick, and instantly create harmonic melodies with the on-board arpeggiator.

The AKAI MPK Mini MKII makes it quick and easy to create music on-the-fly, while offering the customizability and controls you’d expect from larger controllers. Make use of the full-size 1/4-inch sustain pedal input on the back to add a new layer to your performance, and utilize the dedicated octave buttons to unlock the entire musical range.

Its ultra-compact size makes the AKAI MPK Mini MKII the ideal professional MIDI controller for traveling musicians or desktop producers. Having USB-powered for plug-and-play functionality means you will never again be caught off-guard when inspiration strikes, it’s even compatible with iOS devices for ultimate portability -- all with no software drivers required. Whether composing, recording, or performing, the four preset memory banks allow you to quickly set-up the controller and get playing.

The AKAI MPK Mini MKII MIDI keyboard controller comes bundled with AKAI’s professional VIP 3.0 software, offering unparalleled access to your VST and effects collections. Filter through virtual instruments by type, timbre, style, or articulation to easily find the perfect sound for your next production. VIP 3.0 lets you layer up to 8 instruments and patches, with up to 4 VST effects per channel, resulting in countless new ways to sculpt your tone. AKAI Pro MPC Essentials is also included, with beat production and sample triggering software that allows you to start making music without a DAW.

The hardware is natural and tactile to use, with an array of controls available to enhance your performances. Dedicated buttons switch to higher and lower octaves, unlocking the entire musical range across 25 synth-action keys. Two banks of sounds allow a total of 16 triggers to be sampled from the velocity sensitive trigger pads, which also benefit from Note Repeat and Full Level controls to further increase the palette of performance options available to you. The 8 Q-Link knobs are fully mappable through the bundled software so you can sculpt your synthesized sounds to perfection using hardware controllers, or use them to create evolving sounds on-the-fly.

So, whether you’re looking for a MIDI keyboard controller to use on the go, or looking for gear that’s well equipped and easy to set-up, you’ll find your perfect solution in the Akai MPK Mini MKII.

Features:

• Incorporates 5 years of user feedback for an all-new, enhanced design
• 25 synth-action mini keys
• 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control
• 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads with Note Repeat & Full Level
• 8 assignable Q-Link knobs for mixing, tweaking plug-ins, and more
• Built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range, and modes
• Dedicated Octave Up and Octave Down buttons
• Ultra-compact design lets you create anywhere
• USB-powered; no power adapter required
• Full-size sustain pedal input jack
• Comprehensive production software package included: Akai Pro MPC Essentials, SONiVOX Wobble, and Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech (downloads)

Specifications:

• Number of keys: 25 velocity-sensitive
• Pads: 8 pressure- and velocity-sensitive, light-up MPC-style pads x 2 banks
• Knobs: 8 assignable controller pots
• Computer interface: USB-MIDI communications to Mac/PC
• Programs: 4
• Octaves: 10 with Octave Up and Down
• Arpeggiator: Yes
• Additional controls: Pitchbend/mod joystick, note repeat button, full level button, tap tempo button
• Additional inputs: (1) 1/4" (6.35mm) TS input for sustain pedal
• Power: USB power via full-size USB jack; no power adapter required
• Dimensions: 12.5" x 7.13" x 1.75"
• Weight: 1.65 lbs.