Finding the best mpc live akai suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. Korg VOLCASAMPLE Sample Playback Rhythm Machine
Feature
Intuitive, ultra-powerful volca sequencerA fun to use sequencer with superb improvisatory potential
Motion sequencer records and plays back up to 11 parameters
Active Step and Step Jump functions let you insert or remove steps
Swing function lets you generate grooves
Description
The Volca sample is a sample sequencer that allows the player to edit and sequence up to 100 sample sounds in real time for powerful live performances. It's a powerful addition to any existing Volca setup, or simply on its own.2. Akai Professional MPC Live | Standalone MPC with 7" High-Resolution, Multi-Touch Display
Feature
Standalone MPC - no computer required7" high-resolution multi-touch display
Internal, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, (2) USB-A 3.0 slots for thumb drives or MIDI controllers
Phono, instrument, mic and line inputs, (2) pairs of MIDI Inputs and Outputs.16GB of on-board storage (over 10 gigs of sound content included), 2GB of RAM, and full-size SD card slot
Weight:5.95 lbs
Description
The MPC Live takes the production workflow and performance breakthroughs introduced by the MPC Touch and adds the standalone functionality of our classic MPCs that have been cherished by musicians for decades. Weve taken the power of our older standalone MPCs and crammed it into a sleek, portable body, making the Live the Swiss Army knife of production machines, both in studios and on stage.
Weighing in at 5.5 lbs, the MPC Live is compact enough to fit in your bag, but it still maintains the rigidity thats necessary for a trustworthy experience while on stage and in the studio. Weve packed a 7 multi-touch screen, 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive RGB pads, and 16 gigs of on-board storage. Files can also be accessed and transferred to the on-board storage via the built-in SD card slot and/or two-port USB hub. Those same USB ports can be used to connect your MIDI keyboard to tackle chords synth leads that your production is craving. It also features a 2.5 SATA drive connector for a HDD or SSD drive installation. With the Lives rechargeable Lithium-ION battery, this is a truly portable device for both live and studio use.
Whether you go computer-free or not, the Live goes from formidable standalone to high-powered MIDI controller, engineered to run the powerful MPC Software 2.0 on the computer in a DAW or standalone. A number of new features added to 2.0 include: Audio track recording, improved time warp, enhanced Q-Link control, audio and MIDI drag and dropall appearing on a new graphical interface.
Pre-installed with 10 gigs of world-class sounds, The Vault 2.0 features samples and kits from top-notch sound design companies including Capsun Audio, MVP Loops, CR2 Records, as well as our own.
We proudly present the Music Production Center that embodies the past, present and future of beat-oriented production machines. The MPC Live will be the centerpiece of studios worldwide for years to come, and maybe even a few decades, just like our classic MPCs.
Technical Specs
Pads
- (16) velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, RGB-backlit
- (8) banks accessible via Pad Bank buttons
Knobs
- (4) 360 touch-sensitive Q-Link Knobs
- (4) Q-Link Knob columns accessible via Q-Link button
- (1) 360 encoder for display navigation and selection via push
Buttons
- (22) dedicated function buttons; red-, amber-, or green-backlit
Display
- 6.9 / 176 mm (diagonal)
- 6.9 x 3.7 / 150 x 93 mm (width x height)
- Full-color LED-backlit display with touch interface
CPU
- Processor: 1.8 GHz quad-core ARM; Cortex; A17 processor
- RAM: 2 GB
- Storage: 16 GB (user storage, 10 GB pre-installed content), 4 GB (MPC operating system)
Connections
- (2) 1/4 (6.35 mm) TRS inputs (1 stereo pair)
- (6) 1/4 (6.35 mm) TRS outputs (3 stereo pairs)
- (1) 1/8 (3.5 mm) stereo headphone output
- (2) RCA inputs (1 stereo pair)
- (2) 5-pin MIDI inputs
- (2) 5-pin MIDI outputs
- (2) USB Type-A ports
- (1) USB Type-B port
- (1) SD card slot
- (1) power adapter input
Power
- viapower adapter: 6 VDC, 3 A, center-positive
- viabattery: lithium-ion, rechargeable, up to 4 hours of battery life
Dimensions(width x depth x height)
- 16.7 x 8.8 x 2.7
- 424 x 224 x 69 mm
Box Contents
- MPC Live
- Software Download Card
- Power Adapter
- Quickstart Guide
- USB Cable
- Safety & Warranty Manual
3. Akai Professional MPK225 | 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller with LCD Screen (8 Pads / 8 Knobs), VIP Software Download Included
Feature
All-in-one controller with keyboard and trigger pads for performing live and composing in studio25 semi-weighted, full-size keys with pressure sensitivity. iOS compatibility using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately).USB power and plug-and-play connectivity
8 RGB-illuminated MPC-style pads (32 assignable via 4 banks)
8 control knobs and 4 switches (24 knobs and 12 switches assignable via 3 banks)
Includes VIP3.0 - the ground-breaking, award-winning music software platform that provides musicians and composers with a powerful hands-on control solution for their virtual instrument and virtual effect collection
Please Note: This keyboard does not come with a traditional power adapter since the keyboard is mainly used with a computer, and the USB cable is the power cable because the computer fully powers the keyboard.
Description
The Akai Professional MPK2 series of performance pad and keyboard controllers are an all-in-one controller solution for studio composers and live music performers. The MPK2 series combines deep software integration, enhanced workflow, and core technologies from the iconic line of MPC workstations with a keyboard for maximum flexibility without complication.
The MPK225 features 25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch pressure sensitivity, 8 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback, 8 Q-Link knobs and 4 switches, and onboard transport buttons. Four pad banks expand the number of assignable pads to 32 total, and three banks expand assignable knobs 24 with 12 switches.
Plus, MPK225 is optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC with USB power and plug-and-play connectivity, so you can go where you need to and have all you need to.
Technical Specs
- Note Keys: (25) keys; semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive; 10-octave range with octave up/down buttons or transposition
- Pads: (8) pads; velocity- and pressure-sensitive; (4) banks
- Knobs: (8) 360 encoders; (3) banks
- Switches: (4) switches; LED-backlit; (3) banks
- Inputs / Outputs
- (1) USB port
- (1) 1/4 (6.35mm) TRS expression pedal input
- (1) 1/4 (6.35mm) TS sustain pedal or footswitch input
- (1) 5-pin MIDI in
- (1) 5-pin MIDI out
- Power: via computer USB bus or USB charger (sold separately) via power adapter (sold separately): 6V DC, 1A, center-positive
- Dimensions (width x depth x height): 19.25 x 11.75 x 3.63
- Weight: 6.09 lbs
Box Contents
- MPK225
- Quickstart Guide
- USB Cable
- Safety & Warranty Manual
4. UDG Creator Akai MPC Live / Touch Hardcase Black
Description
A Digital DJ looking for a professional, durable case solution for your Akai MPC Touch controllers? Then look no further, UDG have developed a super light EVA Hardcase designed for life on the road. Constructed from durable lightweight compression moulded EVA material with a laminated nylon exterior these cases provides protection against drops, scratches & liquids. Skilfully designed & moulded to fit the Akai MPC Touch controllers, these cases are perfect for the travelling DJ that needs to protect their equipment.5. Akai Professional LPD8 | Ultra-Portable USB Drum Pad MIDI Controller for Laptops (8 Pads / 8 Knobs)
Feature
USB Pad Controller for laptops gives you percussive performance with digital audio workstations, sequencers, DJ software and more8 backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads send MIDI data such as notes and program changes
Eight Q-Link knobs for controlling virtually any parameters in software
Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC; no driver installation required. Perfect for Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Studio One, Reaper, Digital Performer, Ableton, etc
USB-powered; no additional power cable needed
4 programmable memory banks
Includes editing software for Mac and PC; easily customize the controllers' MIDI commands to fit your workflow
Description
Ultra-portable production pad. The LPD8 laptop pad controller is a USB-MIDI controller for musicians, producers, DJs and other music creators. It measures less than 13 inches across and weighs less than a pound to easily fit into a laptop case, backpack or messenger bag for extreme portability. The LPD8 is based on Akai Professionals MPC line of iconic music production stations. Producers who love the feel of the MPC and want to work with software on their computer will find that the LPD8 gives their laptop the controls they prefer over a mouse and keyboard. The LPD8 has eight orange light-up pads that are velocity sensitive for programming rhythmic or melodic parts. The pads can also send program-change information to software. Additionally, the LPD8 has eight assignable Q-Link knobs you can assign to virtually any parameters in their software for hands-on control. The LPD8 works plug and play with Mac and PC and requires no software driver installation or wall power for operation. It has four memory banks for programming and recalling settings appropriate to different software programs you use. Make music in any setting with the LPD8.6. Akai Professional MPD232 | MIDI Drum Pad Controller with Software Download Package (16 pads / 8 knobs / 8 buttons / 8 faders)
Feature
Dedicated 32-step sequencer, 64 parts16 Thick Fat RGB illuminated velocity and pressure sensitive MPC pads - 64 assignable pads accessible via 4 banks
8 assignable faders, 8 assignable Q-Link knobs, 8 assignable Q-Link buttons - 72 assignable controls accessible via 3 banks
Includes Ableton Live Lite, Akai Pro MPC Essentials, Sonivox Big Bang Cinematic Percussion and Big Bang Universal Drums
iOS compatible using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
Description
The MPD2 Series is a product of more than six years of detailed customer research and user feedback. We asked what you wanted and listened closely to what you told us to create the most capable and user-friendly line of pad controllers Akai Professional has developed to date.
Sixteen new, ultra-sensitive Thick Fat MPC pads, create a responsive user experience. The MPD232 has an expanded control set featuring eight knobs, eight faders, eight buttons arranged in three banks for 72 total controls. This will enable you to maximize your sound and give you increased control over effects.
MIDI information is sent over its plug-and-play USB interface for use on Mac or PC, eliminating the need to install any drivers.
Our MPD2 Series marks an important evolution of the pad controller. Many years of research and customer feedback has led directly to some of the most capable pad controllers weve ever developed. These MPDs are the perfect bridge between your creativity and your computer-based studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What software is included with my purchase, and where can I download?
The MPD226 includesAbleton Live Lite, MPC Essentials, Big Bang Cinematic Percussion, Big Bang Universal Drums, and the MPD232 Editor. Once you have registered the product in your Akai Pro User Account you will have download links for all titles except Ableton. You will be able to download Ableton via a download card that is included in the box.
Are the pads different?
The pads are called Thick Fat MPC pads, which are completely redesigned. Also the MPD232 has an expanded control set featuring eight knobs, eight faders, eight buttons arranged in three banks for 72 total. This will enable you to maximize your sound and give you increased control over effects.
Does the product require an additional power supply?
The MPD232is powered by the included USB cable, and does not require an additional power supply.
Does the product require drivers, and where can I download them from?
The MPD232 is class compliant, and does not require any drivers.
Is the product compatible with the latest Windows, and Mac operating systems?
Since the MPD232 is class compliant it is immediately compatible with all current Windows, and Mac operating systems.
Will this work with my IOS device?
This is iOS compatible using the Apple Camera Connection Kit (sold separately).
Are the pads velocity sensitive?
The MPD2 series definitely has velocity sensitive pads - and theyre awesome.
Technical Specs
- Pads
- (16) velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, RGB-backlit
- (4) banks accessible via Pad Bank button
- Knobs
- (8) 360 assignable potentiometers
- (3) banks accessible via Control Bank button
- (1) 360 encoder for display navigation and selection via push
- Faders
- (8) 45mm assignable faders
- (3) banks accessible via Control Bank button
- Buttons
- (8) assignable switches, amber-backlit
- (17) dedicated function buttons, amber-backlit
- (3) transport buttons
- (4) directional cursor buttons for display navigation
- Display: 20 x 4 characters, monochrome backlit with adjustable contrast
- Connections
- (1) USB port
- (1) power input (power adapter sold separately)
- (1) 1/8 MIDI input
- (1) 1/8 MIDI output
- (1) Kensington lock slot
- Power
- via computer USB bus or USB charger (sold separately)
- via power adapter (sold separately): 6V DC, 1A, center-positive
- Dimensions(width x depth x height): 16.6 x 10 x 1.9
- Weight: 4.2 lbs.
7. Akai Professional Advance 25 | 25-Key Virtual Instrument Production Controller with Full-Color LCD Screen & 10K Sounds Download
Feature
Integrated 4.3-inch high-resolution full-color screen with dedicated interface buttons.Screen provides 1:1, real-time feedback of plugin parameters.
Includes Virtual Instrument Player software for unprecedented virtual instrument preset management, control mapping and multi patch creation.
25 Premium, semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keybed after touch.
8 endless and continuously variable control knobs.
Description
The Akai Professional Advance 25 gives you unprecedented playability and unrestricted manipulation of any virtual instrument with our exclusive interactive, full-color display, complemented by performance-friendly hardware controls.
Available in 25-, 49-, and 61-key sizes, the Advance Keyboards deftly fuse the power of software instruments with the live playability of a keyboard workstation, so you can create like never before. The dividing line between software and hardware instruments is finally gone!
The Advance Keyboards transform computer-based plugins into an entirely hands-on playing experience. The keyboard surface features an integrated high-resolution full-color 4.3-inch display, providing real-time control and feedback of all virtual instruments. The screen instantly adapts itself to the selected plugins controls, delivering immediate 1:1 access to the instrument and various editable functions.
Better yet, the Advance Keyboards work with any VSTi virtual instrument. Using the Advance Keyboards custom-designed Virtual Instrument Player (VIP) software application, your entire VSTi library is controlled by one application. VIP operates as a plugin inside any major digital audio workstation (DAW) or as a stand-alone application on both Mac and Windows operating systems.
Virtual Instrument Player Software Highlights
- Plays virtually every VSTi-compatible plugin
- Operates as a standalone virtual instrument player for your computer
- Also operates as a plugin within any AU, VST, or AAX compatible DAW
- Organizes your plugin collection with intuitive browsing by plugin, artist collection, instrument type, timbre, and more
- Access, edit, and mix up to 8 virtual instruments at one time
- Setlist feature lets live performers switch between patches from any plugin instantly from the keyboard
- Extensive key zone splitting, custom mapping, and instrument mixing options
- Pre-mapped to hundreds of industry-leading virtual instruments
- Unlimited instances of VIP may be run in a DAW
Technical Specs
- Keyboard
- 25 velocity- and pressure-sensitive keys
- 10-octave range with Octave Down/Up buttons
- Pitch-bend wheel
- Modulation wheel
- Encoders
- 8 360 assignable encoders
1 360 encoder with push function for display navigation
- 8 360 assignable encoders
- Pads: 8 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads; multicolor-backlit
- Switches
- 8 assignable switches; amber-backlit
- 23 function switches; amber-backlit
- 4 directional cursor buttons
- Display: 3.75"""" x 2.125"""" (95.3 mm x 54 mm) full-color LCD
- Connections
- (1) 1/4 (6.35 mm) TRS expression pedal input
- (10 1/4 (6.35 mm) TS sustain pedal input
- (10 5-pin MIDI input
- (1) 5-pin MIDI output
- (10 USB port
- (1) power adapter input
- Power: 6 V DC, 1 A, center-positive
- Dimensions(width x depth x height): 29.5"""" x 11.5"""" x 3.63""""
- Weight: 10.2 lbs
Box Contents
- Advance 25
- USB Cable
- Software Installation Card
- Quickstart Guide
- Safety & Warranty Manual
8. ArmorXL Carrying Case 17" for KeyPad Drum Controllers - Fits Akai Professional MPD218 , MPD226 , APC Mini , MPX16 , MPD18 , XR20 , MPC Studio Black , MPC Element , MIDImix , Tom Cat , Rhythm Wolf
Feature
Recommended to fit Key Boards and Key Pad / DrumPad Controllers and Accessories - Akai Professional MPD218 , MPD226 , APC Mini , MPX16 , MPD18 , XR20 , MPC Studio Black , MPC Element , MIDImix , Tom Cat , Rhythm WolfIdeal for transport and storage of equipment and Accessories with Carry Handle, Dual Padlock Holes and Discreet Design. External Dimensions: 16 x 13.5" x 6.5
Protection against IMPACTS, DROPS, DINGS and DUST. Hard exterior made of durable composite injection plastic. Internal Tri-Layer foam cushioning with Pick & Pluck customizable layer
Easily Fits Equipment and Accessories with Maximum Dimensions: 14.0" x 10.5" x 3.9" ; External Dimensions: 17.0" x 14.0" x 6.0"
MADE IN USA
Description
CASEMATIX Compact Key Pad / Drum Pad Controller Hard Travel Carrying Case (17") - Built TOUGHThis hard shell case's exterior is made of a dense, injection composite plastic for superior external protection against blunt forces, drops, dings and other unforeseen mishaps that can befall your high value possessions. Interior protection consists of a Tri-Layer arrangement of a Solid ELE Foam Layer(Bottom, 0.75"), a Dense Pick & Pluck Foam Layer(Middle, 3.0") and a Convoluted Egg-Crate Foam Layer(Top Lid, 0.75"). With the combination of a highly durable exterior and dense foam interior, you can be sure your equipment has reliable storage and protection.
Travel and Storage
This hard case is made for DJ equipment and is easy to transport using its convenient carrying handle. Measuring 17.0" x 14.0" x 6.0" in exterior dimensions, and internally fitting equipment and accessories with maximum dimensions of 14.0" x 10.5" x 3.9", this case is perfect for securing and protecting your equipment while traveling.
Unlimited Customization
The three foam layers included inside of this hard case provide superior protection to your device and accessories while traveling. The middle 3.0" thick Pick and Pluck core is easily customizable to provide a snug cushion around your device. Accessories can be easily stored by plucking a small customized compartment next to your equipment, or smaller items such as cables can be stored on top of the Pick and Pluck layer or beneath the bottom foam layer.
Recommended to Fit Select Keyboard and Keypad DJ Controllers and Accessories
AKAI Professional MPD218 / MPD226 / APC Mini / MPX16 / MPD18 / XR20 / MPC Studio Black / MPC Element / MIDImix / Tom Cat / Rhythm Wolf
