OVERVIEW
Programming drums is one of the most challenging aspects of MIDI/digital production. Keyboard style MIDI controllers, cannot compete with the feeling and results you get from tapping out drums or looping sounds on a set of drum machine pads. Since the introduction of the Robert Linn designed MPC series, AKAI has developed a reputation for producing the most intuitive and well-built drum machines. With the MPD 16, Akai give us the best aspect of the MPC, the drum pads, without the cost of the entire MPC.

The MPD 16 enables users of all MIDI capable sound modules and computer based music programs, to benefit from the use of pads when programming their drum parts. It is also useful for triggering sounds (loops, sound effects, etc.) while djing or working at the studio.

USES
- MIDI controller
- Drum programming
- Loop triggering
- USB and MIDI connection

FEATURES
Like the MPC, the MPD 16 comes with 32 (16 to a bank) assignable touch sensitive rubber pads. You assign notes to the pads with key group names (e.g. A5), same as you would with any MIDI-Controller. A FULL LEVEL button allows you to bypass the touch-sensitive design of the pads, and play every note as loud as possible. The 16 LEVEL button spreads one note across all 16 pads, each with a different velocity (loudness). A slider is also included, which can be assigned to control different MIDI parameters. The MPD can be connected to your computer or Akai Z-series sampler via USB or to another MIDI device with its MIDI OUT port. When connected by USB, no power source is required, otherwise it can be powered by a standard DC 9V adaptor.

OUR OPINION
Whether your programming drums or triggering loops and sounds live, you can't beat the feel and action of the MPC pads. The MPD features all the best aspects of the MPC pad system: the pad design and feel, the "Full Level" and "16 Level" options as well as the slider. If you feel like your drums are missing a certain punch or bounce, the feel of the MPD's could greatly improve your performance.

If you are a dj or performer who likes to incorporate a laptop into your set, you may also find the MPD 16 beneficial. You can trigger sounds and loops with complete accuracy while hitting them as hard as you like. In addition, the unit is 100% powered via the laptop's USB port.

- 16 MPC style pads
- 36 assignments on 2 banks
- touch sensitive + full level mode
- USB powered
- MIDI OUT
- assignable slider control

reviewed by the mgmnt