Akai MPK225 USB MIDI Controller

The Akai Professional MPK225 is an all-in-one performance pad and keyboard controller that offers greater control and improved workflow for working with virtual instruments, effects, and DAWs.

With 25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 8 MPC-style pads, 8 assignable knobs, and more, the relatively compact MPK225 makes a great addition to a production setup.

Intuitive Workflow

The MPK225 is packed full of features that make producing music a breeze. This controller features 25 full-size, semi-weighted keys for smooth and expressive playing and features aftertouch for even more expressive capabilities. The 8 MPC-style RGB-backlit pads are great for a more natural and rhythmic way to create beats and trigger samples. There are 4 banks which expands the number of pads at your fingertips to 32. Whether you're playing melodies or crafting beats, the MPK225's keyboard and pads create a more natural and free-flowing way to make music digitally.

Additionally, there are 12-assignable Q-Link controllers, 8 knobs and four buttons that can be set to control various parameters and functions. There are also three banks for these controllers, so you can have up to 24 knobs and 12 buttons at your disposal. You can also expand the functionality of this controller via the assignable footswitch jack and expression jack. The MPK225 is fully USB-powered and is compatible with PC and Mac so you can plug-in-and-play.

Included Software

The MPK225 comes with free software to help you jump right into making music. Included is Ableton Live Lite, a slimmed-down version of one of the best DAWs on the market, virtual synthesisers Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech and Twist by SONiVOX, as well as MPC Essentials which offers MPC workflow in your DAW or as a standalone. MPC Essentials is a beat/groove production and sample-triggering software that expands the MPK225 with up to 8 pad banks as well as 4 samples and insert effect per pad. You also get a free download of Akai Professional's VIP3.0 software which offers greater hardware/software integration for improved control over VST instruments and effects.

Akai Professional MPC Beats

Akai Professional are now offering that classic MPC beat-making workflow in a software format. Introducing MPC Beats! With both Simple and Advanced modes, MPC Beats has features to satisfy both beginner and experienced beat producers. The accessible interface, streamlined Simple mode, and the included templates make MPC Beats a great starting point for those looking to get into making beats. More experienced users will enjoy the over 80 audio FX plugins for warping, manipulating, and transforming audio, as well as the VST/AU compatibility for using third-party virtual instruments and audio plugins. You also get two stereo tracks for recording instruments or vocals.

MPC Beats comes free with this controller but is also free to download and use with any class-compliant USB MIDI controller regardless of brand. You can also expand the sample library in MPC Beats by purchasing expansion packs from premier sound designers.

Key Features:

• 25 Semi-weighted keys
• 8 MPC pads with RGB lighting
• 8 Controls
• 4 Buttons
• Inputs for expression and sustain pedal
• Arpeggiator
• MPC Note repeat
• MPC Full level
• Tap tempo and time division
• Backlit LCD indicator
• DAW Integration through comprehensive transport and parameter control
• Assignable buttons for keyboard commands
• 1x Jack input for expression pedal
• 1x Jack input for sustain pedal