LATEST LINE OF AKAI PROFESSIONAL MPK KEYBOARD/PAD CONTROLLERS NOW AVAILABLE

Full-featured solutions combine exceptional DAW integration with advanced performance features, plus premium software production suite

Cumberland, R.I. — September 24, 2014. Akai Professional is now shipping all four of the newest additions to their renowned MPK Series of keyboard/pad controllers: the 25-key MPK225, the 49-key MPK249, the 61-key MPK261, and the ultra-portable MPK mini mkII.

More than an update, the new MPK series incorporate years of extensive power-user feedback into the controls, keybed, layout, and functionality. A complete music production platform, each deliver improved performance control plus a premium software package that includes ready-to-play virtual instruments as well as popular composing and production software. Illuminated pads and an informative, four-line backlit LCD screen offer intuitive feedback to the performer/producer. Deep software integration and the ability to send QWERTY-style commands from the full-size MPK keyboards let the user stay focused on musical tasks. The illuminated, velocity-sensitive RGB trigger pads have direct lineage to the MPC Renaissance, and offer coveted MPC features like Note Repeat, MPC Swing, Full Level and 16 Levels.

Akai Professional Product Manager Dan Gill notes, “The new MPK series is huge leap forward–improving on the previous series with more capability, more features, and industry-leading software. We paid close attention to how the modern musician works to realize features that would enhance the user experience. In addition, we upped the ante by including an impressive software production package that truly pushes the boundaries of music creation.”

For the performer, each full-size MPK keyboard provides a semi-weighted keybed equipped with aftertouch, plus ultra-responsive Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels. Dedicated Octave buttons provide rapid access to an expanded note range. Each model is appointed with assignable pedal inputs for additional control. In addition to USB MIDI, traditional 5-pin MIDI inputs and outputs ensure compatibility with nearly all MIDI gear. A low-power mode is ideal for use with iOS devices via the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit.

For the on-the-go artists, Akai Professional offers the ultra-portable MPK mini mkII. The compact form factor features 25 synth-action mini-keys, plus a new dual-axis thumbstick for expressive control. There are eight backlit MPC-style velocity-sensitive pads, and eight assignable knobs for hands on beat production and parameter control. A single USB cable brings power to the MPK mini mkII, and creates a two-way data link with any computer. In lockstep with its full-size relatives, MPK mini mkII includes Note Repeat, Octave extension buttons, an arpeggiator, and full-size USB and sustain pedal inputs.

Each keyboard comes with leading software titles for out-of-the-box creativity, featuring Akai Professional’s MPC Essentials beat production software; Ableton Live Lite composition/performance software; and Hybrid 3 analog-modeled synthesizer virtual instrument.  Full-size models include Twist 2.1 from SONiVOX, a spectral morphing synthesizer. The MPK261 also includes Eighty-Eight Ensemble, an expertly captured piano instrument. MPK mini mkII also ships with Wobble 2.1, an EDM-centric synth.

MPK Series Highlights: