TURNTABLE LAB

Akai
APC20 Ableton Performance Controller

most advanced USB controller for Ableton

LAB POINTS
- advanced USB controller for Ableton custom designed by Akai and Ableton
- pre-mapped for instant use (but still custom mappable)
- compact version of the popular APC40
- clip launch matrix with multicolor lighting for visual feedback of clip status
- 9 assignable faders
- sturdy metal construction
- USB plug & play, no drivers to install
- includes Ableton Live Lite APC Edition


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Ableton Live software is a powerful, flexible environment for creating, performing, and producing music. This unique software demands an equally unique control instrument. Akai Professional and Ableton are proud to present the APC20 compact professional Ableton Live performance controller. The APC20 transforms your Ableton Live experience from constructing tracks on a computer to fluid, musical creation. The second model in the APC series, the APC20 offers a smaller footprint than the APC40, enabling musicians to more easily create a personalized setup with multiple APCs, effects controllers, and other devices.

The APC20 is the link between human and computer that perfectly balances analytical parameter control with creative expression. Whether you are an electronic music artist and Live is your canvas, a DJ using Live to mix or remix tracks, or a more traditional musician using Live on stage or in the studio, you will find the APC20 to the intuitive, powerful instrument that directly links your inspiration with Ableton Live.


INSTANT PERFORMANCE
Because Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC20 specifically for Ableton Live, you don't need to map its controls to talk to the software. Just connect your laptop to the APC20 via USB and you're ready to make magic. The APC20 is plug and play, so you don't need to install drivers. First-time setup is literally three steps: load the included Ableton Live software, plug in and power up your APC20, and select the APC20 as Ableton Live's controller. That's it. No mapping, no setup, no hassles.

The APC20 comes pre-mapped for instant use with Ableton Live software, so if you're new to it, you'll find using the APC20 to be easy to get around on. And if you're an experienced Live user, you'll be happy to note that you can custom-map every single button and fader on the APC20 to completely customize the controls for the way you like to work.


VISUAL FEEDBACK
The APC20 talks directly to Ableton Live, and Live talks directly to the APC20. This bidirectional communication makes the APC20 an advanced controller in that it can receive feedback from the software and display it on its Clip Launch matrix. The Clip Matrix gives you an instant view of clip status: what's loaded, what's playing, and what's being recorded. Each state displays in the grid in a different color so you can get a quick picture of clip state. You can shift your clip focus and get an overview of the clips you have loaded for your set.


PROFESSIONAL CONSTRUCTION
Ableton selected Akai Professional as its partner in developing the APC20 because of Akai Pro's leadership position in great-feeling controllers that are rock solid, rugged, and precise. From the legendary MPC series that changed the way music is made to the industry-standard MPD and MPK controllers, Akai Professional is revered by musicians, DJs, and producers everywhere for creating the feel that powers their creativity. The APC20 is built with a rugged, metal chassis and slip-proof rubber detailing. There's no flimsy plastic here. Faders are solid and precise for pinpoint performance.


CREATIVE CONTROL
The APC20 comes with Ableton Live Akai Professional APC Edition software, which is fully functional for performance and production. Owners of the full edition of Ableton Live 8.1.3 or higher can also work seamlessly with the APC20. Live 8.1.3 has full support for the APC20.

The APC20 also enables special clip-status views and feedback that only the APC20's matrix can display. The matrix is not limited to only 40 clips: you can scroll and shift, enabling you to access, control, and perform with an unlimited number of cells.

The APC20 has nine faders, which you can assign to volume control, pan, sends, and a choice of three user-mapped modes. You have even more control power with special controls including Tap Tempo, Tempo Nudge, record enables, and solo/cues. A new User Mode enables you to use the Clip Launch buttons to control instruments and the Drum Rack.

Designed in partnership with Ableton, the APC20 is the ideal controller for performers who like to perform in a small amount of space for maximum portability. It's also perfect for players who want to combine multiple controllers in their setup thanks to its small footprint. Don't settle for cheap, plastic imitations. From the company whose name is synonymous with the word production, the APC20 is the serious choice.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Akai
APC40 Ableton Performance Controller

the most advanced USB controller for Ableton Live

NOTE: This item is backordered with the manufacturer until April 2011.

OVERVIEW
Akai's highly anticipated APC40 is finally here! This innovative unit was designed in collaboration with Ableton to be the ultimate USB MIDI controller for Ableton's Live software. It is an unique, intuitive, and powerful instrument that gives total control to the user with over 72 pre-mapped knobs, buttons, and faders - all of which are completely customizable. In addition, the APC40 comes with with Ableton Live Akai Professional APC40 Edition software so you can get started producing right away. This is the most advanced Live controller available.

FEATURES
-DIRECT DESIGN
Because Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC40 specifically for Ableton Live, you don't need to map its controls to talk to the software. Just connect your laptop to the APC40 via USB and you're ready to make magic. The APC40 is plug and play, so you don't need to install drivers. First-time setup is literally three steps: load Ableton Live, plug in and power up your APC40, and select the APC40 as Ableton Live's controller. That's it. No mapping, no setup, no hassles.

The APC40 comes pre-mapped for instant use with Ableton Live software, so if you're new to it, you'll find using the APC40 to be easy to get around on. And if you're an experienced Live user, you'll be happy to note that you can custom-map every single knob, button, and fader on the APC40 to completely customize the controls for the way you like to work.

-VIRTUAL VIEW
The APC40 talks directly to Ableton Live and Live talks directly to the APC40. This bidirectional communication makes the APC40 an advanced controller in that it can receive feedback from the software and display it on its clip matrix of 40 triggers and on LED rings surrounding each knob. The clip matrix gives you an instant view of clip status: what's loaded, what's playing, and what's being recorded. Each state displays on the matrix in a different color so you can get a quick picture of clip state. You can shift your clip focus and get an overview of the clips you have loaded for your set. The APC40 has 16 knobs, each surrounded by a ring of LEDs. These LED rings make it easy to see your settings on dark stages, indicating the currently selected parameters' values.

- PREMIUM FEEL
Ableton selected Akai Professional as its partner in developing the APC40 because of Akai Pro's leadership position in great-feeling controllers that are rock solid, rugged, and precise. From the legendary MPC series that changed the way music is made to the industry-standard MPD and MPK controllers, Akai Professional is revered by musicians, DJs, and producers everywhere for creating the feel that powers their creativity. The APC40 is built with a rugged, metal chassis and slip-proof rubber detailing. All of the knobs and faders are solid and precise for pinpoint performance. It even features a high quality, replaceable crossfader for transitioning between clips and loops assigned to "A" or "B".

- CREATIVE CONTROL
The APC40 comes Ableton Live Akai Professional APC40 Edition software, which is fully functional for performance and production. Owners of standalone editions of Ableton Live 7 or 8 can also work seamlessly with the APC40. Live 7 with the latest automatic update has full support for the APC40 and all versions of Live 8 are APC40-ready.

The APC40 has two banks of eight knobs. The first set controls Global parameters so you'll always have instant access to your main sends, pans, and other essentials. The second bank of eight knobs is dynamically reassigned to the Track you select. You can control eight track parameters at a time, and as you switch channels, the Track knobs follow your focus. For example, you might be working with the Beat Decoder on track two. When you switch to track four, the eight Track knobs that you had been controlling the Beat Decoder with are now controlling the Flangeverb on track four. You'll even notice that the settings for each knob load on the light rings so you'll immediately see each knob's status.

The APC40 also enables special clip-status views and feedback that only the APC40's matrix can display. The matrix is not limited to only 40 clips: you can scroll and shift, enabling you to access, control, and perform with an unlimited number of cells.

The APC40 has a wide range of controllers. The eight Global knobs can access four banks of controls; the eight Track knobs control nine different track parameters each. This gives you a massive total of 72 controllers that are dynamically reassigned each time you switch tracks. Channel faders, bus faders, and a crossfader give you smooth control of key values. You have even more control power with special controls including Tap Tempo, Tempo Nudge, record enables, solo/cues, and two assignable footswitch inputs.

OUR OPINION
This revolutionary controller will definitely change the way you interact with Ableton, in the best ways possible. If you are a performer, DJ, or remixer, this will help you get the most out of Live. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Akai
APC Bag - Carrying Case for APC20 / APC40

protective bag custom designed for APC controllers + laptop

Official APC Bag from Akai designed specifically for APC performers. The bag custom fits APC 20 or APC 40 and keeps them safe and secure in a compartment lined with red plush and high density foam. In addition, there is a laptop compartment (fits virtually all laptops) and place for hard drives, pens, cables and more. Features hand-carry handles and a shoulder strap so you can transport your performance rig to and from the show in style. Recommended.

reviewed by the mgmnt

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record bags + equipment cases / ableton shop

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Akai
LPD8 USB Laptop Pad Controller

ultra portable USB MIDI controller

OVERVIEW
The LPD8 is an ultra-portable USB-MIDI controller featuring 8 light-up pads and 8 knobs you can assign to virtually any software parameter. With a slim profile weighing less than a pound and measuring less than 13" across, the LPD8 easily fits in your laptop case, backpack, or DJ bag for producing/performing on the go.

FEATURES
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 and has four memory banks for programming and recalling settings appropriate to different software programs. Also includes a software editor for easy saving and changing of settings through your computer. Works plug and play with Mac or PC (no software driver installation or external power cord necessary).

OUR OPINION
As Akai's answer the Korg's Nano series, the LPD8 holds up very well and actually has a few advantages. While both feature ulra-slim profiles and portability, the LPD8 combines pads AND knobs in one unit (although the knobs are rather short) whereas you would have to buy 2 Nanos (the PAD and KONTROL) to get these features with Korg. It is also slightly shorter than the nanoPAD and features a nice matte finish with rounded corners. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Akai
LPK25 USB Laptop Performance Keyboard

compact USB MIDI keyboard

OVERVIEW
Akai's LPK25 is a compact USB-MIDI controller keyboard for producers, musicians, and DJs. A scaled-down relative to the MPK series of keyboard performance controllers, the LPK is feature loaded allowing users to create melodies and riffs anywhere, plus its small size and weight makes it extremely portable.

FEATURES
The LPK25 keyboard is made up of 25 miniature, velocity-sensitive keyboard keys with synth action. It features an arpeggiator, which steps through chords automatically, assisting musicians with creating quick melodic ideas. Sustain, octave up and down and tap tempo controls round out the LPK25’s easy-to-learn layout. The LPDK25 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.

OUR OPINION
The LPK25 is a vast improvement on KORG's portable mini-USB keyboard. Whereas the KORG had "key-like' computer keys, the LPK25 actually has real mini-keys that are velocity sensitive. A must for keyboard players and producers who want to work with software need to express with real feeling keys. The added features of arpeggiator and memory make this a steal for under $70. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Akai
MINIAK Virtual Analog Synthesizer with Vocoder - OPEN BOX SPECIAL

powerful synth with vocoder, sequencer & apreggiator

OPEN BOX SPECIAL: Save $50 on this open box MiniAK. Comes in like new condition with all original packaging and paperwork.

OVERVIEW
The MINIAK is a powerful performance and production synthesizer with phrase and step sequencing, a built-in drum machine/rhythm sequencer, an arpeggiator, a 40-band vocoder, stereo effects, and a virtual analog synth engine developed in partnership with the world-class Alesis synth team. Amazingly compact and portable, this synth shines on stage as well as in the production studio delivering 24-bit audio resolution and MIDI I/O.

FEATURES
The MINIAK puts up to 8 multi-timbral voices at your fingertips, each with three oscillators. You can create interesting and unique sounds and take advantage of the more-than-600 preset sounds and store up to 1,000 programs in the MINIAK. The synth also has two multi-mode filters, three envelope generators, two LFOs, stereo effects, and a 40-band vocoder. On top of all of this sound-melding power, the MINIAK has a comprehensive sequencer with step and dynamic real time phrase sequencing, a drum machine/rhythm sequencer, and an arpeggiator to aid in creating the landscapes and textures you're after.

Rounding out this complete instrument are high-resolution, 24-bit balanced 1/4" inputs and outputs. The MINIAK has a 37-key semi-weighted keyboard with velocity sensitivity for all-in-one performance. It can also be used as a sound source for MPCs, computer software, and keyboards via MIDI.


SEQUENCING
The MINIAK has extensive sequencing and arpeggiation performance capabilities. Arpeggios and sequences both respond to a key-press by playing a series of notes over a programmed rhythmic pattern. An arpeggio loops over whatever notes you are holding down on the keyboard. If you hold down a chord, the MINIAK will generate a melody by playing each note of your chord individually. A sequence has a melody line built in so you can hold down a single key and the MINIAK will play back that melody relative to that key. Pressing another key will transpose the sequence.

The MINIAK has MPC-style step sequencing and recorder-style dynamic real time phrase sequencing. There's also a drum machine/rhythm sequencer for the built-in drum sounds.

EFFECTS
The MINIAK has a full complement of stereo effects including Chorus, Feedback, Theta Flanger (Phaser + Flanger), Thru Zero Flanger, Super Phaser, Notch Frequency, String Phaser, 40-Band Vocoder, Analysis Gain, Sibilance Boost, Band Shift, Synthesis Input, Analysis Signal In, Analysis Mix, six types of Delay, and three types of Reverbs.

OUR OPINION
The MINIAK appears to be Akai's direct answer to Korg's popular MicroKorg. Both feature virtual analog synth modeling, vocoder and arpeggiator, but the MINIAK takes it one step further with on-board MPC style phrase sequencing and drum machine rhythm sequencer. Add to this a powerful shaping capabilities, a bounty of presets, effects, and 24-bit audio resolution and you have an incredibly versatile synth for under $500. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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dj equipment - sales + specials

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Akai
MPD18 USB MIDI Pad Controller

add real MPC pads to your setup

OVERVIEW
The MPD18 is an expressive and intuitive USB MIDI controller for the studio and stage with real MPC pads, and a compact footprint that is easy to fit into any setup.

FEATURES
The heart of the MPD18 is its bank of 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads, an Akai Pro exclusive. You can access three different banks of sounds from the MPC pads for a total of 48 sounds at your fingertips. The MPD18 also borrows the MPC series' assignable Q-Link controllers, enabling you to control nearly any parameters in your software in real time. You get an assignable Q-Link fader for natural, hands-on control of your most-used parameters, and MPC Note Repeat enables you to quickly input patterns such as hi-hat parts or drum rolls. The MPD18 also has 16 configurable presets so you can program it for the way you work with different hardware and software.

The MPD18 sends MIDI information over its plug-and-play USB interface so you can use it with your Mac or PC without installing any drivers. The USB connection even powers the MPD18 so the included USB cable is all you need for portable production. The MPD18 can control nearly any MIDI software, as well as MIDI hardware, such as synths, sound modules, samplers, sequencers, drum machines, and more.

OVERVIEW
The MPD18 gives you the control feel of the MPC in a super-portable and affordable instrument. Plus with its compact footprint, it's easy to fit in any setup for producing in the studio, on the go, or for live performance.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Akai
MPD26 USB/MIDI Pad Controller

intuitive MPC-style controller

LAB POINTS
- 16 expressive MPC pads w/ pressure sensitivity and velocity
- assignable Q-link knobs and faders control up to 12 software parameters
- MIDI over USB with traditional MIDI I/O for controlling software + hardware simultaneously
- MPC Swing to give drum sequences a loose/live feel
- popular MPC-style features: Note Repeat, 16 Level, Full Level, and Tap Tempo
- includes Ableton Live Lite
- easy plug and play on Mac or PC

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
The MPD26 is a MIDI-over-USB pad controller with genuine MPC pads. It's perfect for producers, programmers, musicians and DJs. Its blend of intuitive MPC controls and technologies meshes with easy USB connectivity to bring the feel of classic beat making to the world of computer music production.

The heart of the MPD26 is its bank of 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads, an Akai Professional exclusive. You can access four different sounds from each MPC pads for a total of 64 at your fingertips. The MPD26 also features the MPC series' assignable Q-Link controllers, enabling you to control nearly any parameters in your software in real time. You get six assignable Q-Link faders and six assignable Q-Link 360° knobs so you'll spend less time with the mouse and more time making music. The MPD26 also gives you a dedicated set of transport controls for instant access to the most commonly used DAW or sequencing-software controls.

While the MPC pads and Q-Links might be the heart of the MPD26, its brain is transplanted directly from the MPC. That's because the MPD26 is not just a control surface; it contains some of the key MPC technologies that have made the MPC the de facto standard it is. MPC Note Repeat is a capability that enables the MPD (or MPC) to automatically play a rhythm pattern, such as 16th notes on a hi-hat, for accuracy and speed of entry. MPC Swing is sometimes referred to as "the heart and soul of hip hop" because it turns perfectly aligned sequences into human-feeling time alignments. You can specify exactly the degree and timing of swing you want to apply for the perfect feel. The MPD26 also has MPC Full Level and MPC 16-Level on its pads.

The MPD26 sends MIDI information over its plug-and-play USB interface so you can use it with your Mac or PC without installing any drivers. The USB connection even powers the MPD26 so the included USB cable is all you need. The MPD26 also has traditional DIN MIDI input and output jacks so you can use it with MIDI hardware such as synths and other sound modules. The MPD26 comes with Ableton Live Lite and Editor Librarian software so you can start creating right out of the box.

The MPD26 is the perfect interface between your creativity and the computer-based studio. Its blend of intuitive MPC controls and technologies meshes with easy USB computer connectivity to deliver the control instrument you need.


MORE DETAILS
For more information, please visit the manufacturer's website.

reviewed by the mgmnt

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Akai
MPD32 USB/MIDI Pad Control Unit

powerful MPC style MIDI control

OVERVIEW
The MPD32 is a MIDI-over-USB performance pad controller for DJs, programmers, producers, and musicians. Built around the controls and technology from Akai Professional's industry-standard MPC series, the MPD32 is an expressive and intuitive instrument for the studio and stage.

FEATURES
The heart of the MPD32 is its bank of 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads. You can access four different banks of sounds from the MPC pads for a total of 64 sounds at your fingertips. The MPD32 also borrows the MPC series' assignable Q-Link controllers, enabling you to control nearly any parameters in your software in real time. You get eight assignable Q-Link faders, eight assignable Q-Link 360° knobs, and eight assignable Q-Link buttons so you'll spend less time with the mouse and more time making music. Even better, each Q-Link can access three different parameters for a total of 72 real-time Q-Links. You also get two assignable footswitch inputs and an expression-pedal input for even more ways to control and perform with the MPD32. The MPD32 also gives you a dedicated set of transport controls for instant access to the most commonly used DAW or sequencing-software controls.

While the MPC pads and Q-Links might be the heart of the MPD32, its brain is transplanted directly from the MPC. That's because the MPD32 is not just a control surface; it contains some of the key MPC technologies that have made the MPC the de facto standard it is. MPC Note Repeat is a capability that enables the MPD (or MPC) to automatically play a rhythm pattern, such as 16th notes on a hi-hat, for accuracy and speed of entry. MPC Swing is sometimes referred to as "the heart and soul of hip hop" because it turns perfectly aligned sequences into human-feeling time alignments. You can specify exactly the degree and timing of swing you want to apply for the perfect feel. The MPD32 also has MPC Full Level and MPC 16-Level on its pads.

The MPD32 sends MIDI information over its plug-and-play USB interface so you can use it with your Mac or PC without installing any drivers. The USB connection even powers the MPD32 so the included USB cable is all you need. It comes with a custom versions of Ableton Live Lite and FXpansion BFD Lite software so you can start creating right out of the box. In addition to Live and nearly any other MIDI software, you can also drive any MIDI hardware, such as synths, sound modules, samplers, sequencers, drum machines, and more. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Akai
MPK25 USB/MIDI Controller

compact keyboard controller with MPC pads and features

OVERVIEW
The MPK25 is a portable keyboard controller with MPC production controls. Based closely on the MPK49, the first keyboard ever to feature MPC pads, the MPK25 scales down the keyboard by 24 keys and retains the utility, capability, and flexibility that made the MPK49 a Lab best seller. Its smaller, more portable size makes the MPK25 the perfect travel companion for producers on the go.

FEATURES
MPK25 combines a 25-key keyboard and 12 genuine MPC pads. The keyboard is semi-weighted and features aftertouch for expressive melodic control. The MPC pads are pressure and velocity-sensitive to capture every nuance of your creative concepts. The pads can access four banks of sounds, so you have 48 samples at your fingertips with the touch of a button.

MPK25 places dedicated transport controls within your reach for easy control of some of the most important tracking and editing controls. The MPK25 has modulation and pitch-bend wheels for expressive musicality, and two assignable footswitch inputs enable you to connect an expression pedal or other continuous controller and a footswitch for momentary controls like patch change or start/stop.

One of the most important input devices on an MPC is its Q-Link assignable control section. The MPK25 gives you twelve virtual knobs and four virtual buttons that are assignable to control nearly any software parameter. You can control two different parameters per Q-Link thanks to the knobs' dual-bank selection.

Two technologies pioneered in the MPC series and built into the MPK series are MPC Note Repeat and MPC Swing. These note-modifying features can be heard in many of the most popular tracks over the last two decades. MPC Note Repeat is a capability that enables the MPK (or MPC) to automatically play a rhythm pattern, such as 16th notes on a hi-hat, for accuracy and speed of entry. MPC Swing is sometimes referred to as "the heart and soul of hip hop" because it turns perfectly aligned sequences into human feeling time alignments. You can specify exactly the degree and timing of swing you want to apply for the perfect feel.

On top of MPC technologies, the MPK25 has its own arpeggiator, which enables you to create quick, creative riffs in seconds.

MPK25 also has MPC Full Level and MPC 12-Level on its pads, as well as Tap Tempo and Time Division so you can nail the tempo, timing, and dynamics exactly as you hear them in your head.

The MPK25 is a MIDI controller that sends its MIDI values over USB. It is bus powered, so all you need to connect and power the MPK25 is the supplied USB cable. Because it is MIDI compliant, the MPK25 works with most MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software for musical performers from keyboard players to producers to DJs and even VJs. Includes Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition so you can begin producing right out of the box. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Akai
MPK49 USB/MIDI Controller

keys and pad controls

OVERVIEW
The MPK49 is Akai's fully loaded, next generation USB/MIDI controller. It combines 49 high quality, semi-weighted, full size keys (with aftertouch) with 12 genuine MPC drum pads (48 pads total with 4 pad banks). In addition to the keys and pads, a large array of various sliders, knobs and wheels are at your disposal - 76 assignable controls total!


FEATURES
Having USB/MIDI connectivity, 49 high quality, semi-weighted, full size keys (with aftertouch) and 12 genuine MPC drum pads (48 pads total with 4 pad banks) all in one piece is the maind draw of the MPK49. The pads themselves not only look and feel just like those on an MPC, but they also feature the MPC's velocity and pressure sensitivity, Full Level and 12 Levels option, Note Repeat, Swing Parameters, and Arpeggio functions. Tap tempo and time-division buttons are also available for real time control of Note Repeat and Arpeggio clock speeds. In addition to the pads there are several other controls including 8 full-sized sliders (with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total), 8 assignable backlit switches (with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total), pitch bend and mod wheel, and input for expression pedals for a total of 76 assignable controls. A large, easy to read custom LCD display and MMC/MIDI start stop transport buttons are also available.

Also of note is the included Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software (Mac or PC) which contains 28 custom Akai impulse presets with samples so you can start producing right out of the box.


OUR OPINION
With the genuine MPC pads and control features - the MPK49 is almost like purchasing an MPC and high-end USB controller keyboard in one (for a very reasonable price). In addition - it has ample assignable controls for even the most demanding producers and knob tweekers and is very well equipped to be rocked in the studio or live performance. All this, plus Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition included makes the MPK-49 a top notch choice for anyone looking for a USB/MIDI controller. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Akai
MPK Mini USB Controller

ultra portable controller w/ keys, knobs & pads

LAB POINTS
- ultra-portable software MIDI controller with keys, pads, and knobs
- 25-note, velocity-sensitive mini keyboard
- 8 backlit, velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads (2 banks, 16 total)
- 8 assignable Q-Link knobs to adjust virtually any parameter
- built-in arpeggiator, dedicated octave up/down and sustain buttons
- USB powered


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
The Akai Pro MPK mini is an ultra-compact mini-keyboard with an impressive array of buttons, knobs and pads to provide "hands-on" performance and production control no matter your location. MPK mini strikes the perfect balance between portability and comprehensive software control by melding together the complete control offered in the popular Akai Pro MPK family with the grab-and-go convenience of the LPK25 and LPD8. With a 25-note keyboard, 8 back-lit, MPC-style pads and 8 Q-Link knobs, the MPK mini is the ultimate portable controller to get your music moving.

The MPK mini keyboard is ideal for quickly entering notes and phrases into your computer. The velocity-sensitive keys allow you to accurately express dynamics, while accessing different pitch ranges is done instantly through dedicated Octave Up and Down buttons. Create sparkling, staccato leads and driving bass-lines in a variety of time denominations and patterns with MPK mini's built-in Arpeggiator. A Tap-Tempo button gives you the ability to quickly adjust the Arpeggiator clock which is essential if you're looking to stay in sync with a band. A Sustain button holds notes after releasing your hand from the keyboard allowing you the opportunity to easily pound pads and twist knobs, with no pedal required.

MPK mini's 8 back-lit, velocity-sensitive pads are based on Akai Professional’s MPC line of iconic music production stations. Great for firing one-shot samples and sequencing drum patterns, you can use the pads to send note information, MIDI CCs, or even program changes. Pressing the Bank button will quickly toggle between 2 banks of pads giving you access to 16 pads in total. Additionally, the MPK mini has 8 assignable Q-Link knobs to control virtually any parameter in your software.

MPK mini 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 your favorite software programs. The included software editor lets you quickly map MPK mini's controls as well. RECOMMENDED.
reviewed by snackmaster

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