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Average Price: $83

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$99

$300+

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High-end

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Description

Discover the Akai MPD 24—an exceptional MIDI pad controller designed for musicians and DJs eager to infuse their performances with creativity and precision. This versatile tool is equipped with 16 iconic MPC-style velocity and pressure-sensitive pads, delivering a tactile experience that mirrors the legendary feel of Akai's renowned samplers. Whether you're triggering samples or programming beats, these pads provide an expressive and intuitive interface.

The MPD 24 isn't just about pads; it also features a suite of controls designed to give you comprehensive management over your music production. With four selectable pad banks, you have access to a total of 64 pads, allowing for extensive sample manipulation. The inclusion of six assignable faders and eight 360-degree knobs means you can tailor your setup to suit your specific musical needs. These controls transmit MIDI Control Change data, providing seamless integration with your DAW or sequencing applications.

Adding to its versatility, the MPD 24 boasts transport controls that transmit MMC messages, streamlining your workflow even further. Whether you're working in the studio or performing live, the backlit LCD display ensures easy navigation and control, while the option for USB or MIDI operation offers flexible connectivity. Included Editor Librarian software for both Mac and PC allows you to dive deeper into customization, ensuring this controller fits perfectly into your production environment.

Key Features:

  • 16 MPC-style velocity and pressure-sensitive pads
  • Four selectable pad banks for a total of 64 pads
  • Six assignable faders for transmitting MIDI Control Change data
  • Eight assignable 360-degree knobs
  • Transport controls (REW, FF, STOP, PLAY, REC) that transmit MMC messages
  • Backlit, easy-to-read LCD display
  • MIDI and USB operation
  • USB powered or via optional AC adaptor
  • Editor Librarian software included (Mac and PC)
  • Access to Akai Professional Sample library of classic drum machines

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model MPD24 MIDI Controller
Finish Silver
Year 2010s
Categories Percussion Pad Controllers

FAQs

What type of pads does the Akai MPD24 feature?

The Akai MPD24 is equipped with 16 velocity-sensitive pads, which are designed to provide a responsive and tactile experience similar to Akai's MPC series, making it ideal for dynamic beat-making and live performance.

How does the Akai MPD24 connect to a computer?

The Akai MPD24 connects to a computer via USB, providing a straightforward plug-and-play experience without the need for additional drivers, making it compatible with both Windows and macOS systems.

Can the Akai MPD24 be used with popular DAWs?

Yes, the Akai MPD24 is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro, allowing for seamless integration into various music production workflows.

Does the Akai MPD24 have any control knobs or faders?

The Akai MPD24 features six assignable faders and eight assignable knobs, providing extensive control over software parameters and enhancing the user's ability to manipulate sounds in real-time.

Is the Akai MPD24 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Akai MPD24 is well-suited for live performances due to its durable build, responsive pads, and comprehensive control options, making it a reliable tool for DJs and live producers.

EnigmatikoProds

EnigmatikoProds

AKAI MPD24 - Live Beatmaking 5 [EP]

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPD24 - Live Beatmaking 5 [EP] by EnigmatikoProds

AKAI MPD24 - Live Beatmaking 5 [EP]

EnigmatikoProds

EnigmatikoProds

Video thumbnail for Memorecks - Ninja Turtles (Custom MPD24) by memorecks

Memorecks - Ninja Turtles (Custom MPD24)

memorecks

memorecks

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPD24 - AMEN BREAK by EnigmatikoProds

AKAI MPD24 - AMEN BREAK

EnigmatikoProds

EnigmatikoProds

Video thumbnail for Making a beat with Akai MPD24 and Reason Ep39 by Coldman Beats

Making a beat with Akai MPD24 and Reason Ep39

Coldman Beats

Coldman Beats

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPD24 - Live beatmaking [EP] by EnigmatikoProds

AKAI MPD24 - Live beatmaking [EP]

EnigmatikoProds

EnigmatikoProds

Video thumbnail for I made a custom MPD24 by NΣΣT

I made a custom MPD24

NΣΣT

NΣΣT

Video thumbnail for Ableton Live 11/Akai MPD24 jam by Zero%Chill(Official)

Ableton Live 11/Akai MPD24 jam

Zero%Chill(Official)

Zero%Chill(Official)

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent for beginners in MIDI and controllers

  • Great value for innovative music making on a budget

  • Superior pad feel compared to newer Akai models

  • Easy integration with popular DAWs like Ableton and FL Studio

  • Customizable pad sensitivity, knobs, and faders for personalized control

  • Durable and classic MPC-like appearance

CONS

  • Pad sensitivity may be too low for some users

  • Pads can feel stiff, potentially causing discomfort

  • Faders and knobs prone to bending and becoming unresponsive quickly

  • Material quality of pads and buttons questioned by some users

  • Some reported issues with long-term durability and responsiveness

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPD 24.

Comparisons

  • Maschine is preferred by some for its pads and knobs, but the MPD24 offers flexibility in control assignments.

    Source
  • The MPD24 is purely a MIDI controller, unlike the MPC 500, which functions as a standalone unit, albeit with limited portability due to battery constraints.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MPD24 includes 16 drum pads, knobs, and faders, providing basic MIDI control without integrated sounds or software.

    Source
  • Unlike the MPD24, the MPC Studio Mk2 includes a license for MPC software, adding value and versatility for those using MPC environments.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Users find mapping issues with FL Studio 9, while integration with Ableton is seamless.

    Source
  • The MPD24 does not include any software, unlike the MPC Studio, which requires MPC Beats or MPC Desktop for integration.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MPD24 is praised for its simplicity and ease of use, making it ideal for quick connections and demos.

    Source
  • The MPD24 is effective for triggering sounds in Logic, offering flexibility in DAW usage compared to the MPC Studio, which is limited to MPC software.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the MPD24 for its reliability and straightforward functionality, despite newer models being available.

    Source
  • Users report the MPD24’s pad feel as less satisfying compared to older MPC models like the 2kXL, which are often preferred for their tactile response.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Akai MPD24

soundonsound.com

The Akai MPD24 stands as a robust and user-friendly USB MIDI controller that effectively combines MPC-style pads, sliders, and rotary encoders in a single unit. It offers a solid feel and straightforward setup with a useful software editor. While it lacks advanced programmability like NRPN and SysEx handling, its simplicity aids in operational speed. The inclusion of the BFD Lite software is a nice touch for UK buyers. If you're seeking a pad-centric controller over a traditional keyboard, the MPD24 edges out similar models like the M-Audio Trigger Finger with its intuitive interface and durable build.

positive

Akai MPD24 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Akai MPD24 offers a robust MPC-style MIDI controller experience, complete with classic Akai pads, smooth knobs, and sliders. It's a well-built device that appeals to live performers and is packed with presets for seamless integration with popular DAWs. However, the pads may not suit everyone's playing style, requiring a solid tap to register input. The lack of a power supply and limited transport control functionality are drawbacks. While the MPD24 is a solid choice for those seeking an authentic MPC feel, musicians should test the pads before purchasing to ensure they meet their needs.

Add

4.0 out of 5

Based on 6 Reviews and 26 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
jp_belanger

Good in concept, bad execution

I was very eager to get the MPD-24 when it was announced, I thought it would be a good upgrade to my M-Audio Trigger Finger.

Within just a couple of minutes of playing I knew I wouldn't bond with it. Pads are very stiff and are made of very poor materials, the buttons all are clicky, the faders bend very easily, buttons caps will go off eventually, but the worst was the pad sensitivity. Even on Full Levels, I couldn't "play" the pads as I had to hit them way harder than I usually would for them to trigger sound.

Brand new it looks very cool but after a couple of hours some knobs become less responsive, bent faders are annoying on a brand new unit and they do not have a smooth travel at all.

I wouldn't even pay $20 for it used.

shrike

Ouch...

I had this for a couple of weeks and resold it. Wasn't happy at all with pad performance. Stiff pads were literally hurting my finger tips, which aren't soft after 20 years of playing guitar, but anyway. The faders... they bent after only a couple of hours of really soft play, and the knobs wouldn't stay straight, so the thing basically looked like a crooked smile. I really wanted to get a Akai feel, use Ableton Live as my sampler but definitely have an Akai hardware control surface.

In the end I bought a Maschine MK1 and a Korg Nanopad, and both totally blew up the MPD in terms of feel. Since then I know things have changed and it seems by now Akai makes greater pad controllers. I really hope this was only this model that was such a piece of crap.

noa_ette

Pretty solid overall

Works as intended and is great for making music or even doing performances. The only thing I dislike is the pad sensitivity is too low for my taste.

untuchable_jay

Loved it

I loved this thing. Pads felt great compared to the MPD18 and 32. Worked wonders with FL Studio and Reason. Actually ended up trading mine to a guy for a MPC2000XL

nielsjacob

Classic !

I was so excited when i buyed this little peace of dream. Haters gonna say there's nothing in comparison to an mpc, or maschine.. but fuck them I use it to play live drums, trigger samples.. and it does the job very well ! Modify the sensivity of the pads, assign the knobs and faders to what you want is really a dream

S

Good pad bank

Does what it's supposed to.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Flying Lotus uses Akai MPD 24

Flying Lotus

Rapper, Music Producer

FLYamSAM

...
Verified via Photo

It is seen next to his laptop in this photo from a 2008 New Yorker article.

See how Justice uses Akai MPD 24

Justice

Music Producer

Justice vs. Simian

...
Verified via Photo

Justice can be seen using an Akai MPD 24 in this photo.

See how Headhunterz uses Akai MPD 24

Headhunterz

Music Producer, DJ

Project One

...
Verified via Twitter

The Akai Professional MPD24 USB MIDI Pad Controller can be seen in Headhunterz' studio setup in a photo he posted to Twitter.

See how Nicolas Jaar uses Akai MPD 24

Nicolas Jaar

Music Producer

Darkside

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Jaar can be seen with an Akai MPD24.

See how The Glitch Mob uses Akai MPD 24

The Glitch Mob

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

"What is this, this is the Akai MPD 24..." "Yes, um... so this is basically the Akai MPC series but minus the sampling capabilities and just the pads, obviously you get six sliders, you get 8 knobs, and it only sends MIDI, so... you could load up any sounds you wanted, and you can actually play them on the pads..."

See how Knxwledge uses Akai MPD 24

Knxwledge

Music Producer, DJ

NxWorries

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Boiler Room #48 London DJ Set, Knxwledge uses the Akai MPD 24.

See how Shigeto uses Akai MPD 24

Shigeto

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

You can see the MPD24 in this picture posted on his Instagram.

See how Lorde uses Akai MPD 24

Lorde

Singer

...
Verified via YouTube

Lorde can be seen using the AKAI MPD24 MIDI controller, during her performances of "Loveless" and "Precious Metals" during her 2017/2018 Melodrama World Tour. The AKAI MPD24 can be clearly seen in the YouTube video from the Lorde 2018 Vancouver show from 0:20 onwards, although the rear panel might have been taped over. Both the USB and one 5 pin DIN MIDI connector appear to be in use. There are other pictures that show the AKAI MPD24 from different angles, including this one from her November 2017 Brisbane show: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lorde_Brisbane_Nov_2017.jpg

See how WRLD uses Akai MPD 24

WRLD

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

The photo shows WRLD using an Akai MPD24.

See how jeremy ellis uses Akai MPD 24

jeremy ellis

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Jeremy Ellis is using the MPD 24 in an instruction video.

See how Flamingosis uses Akai MPD 24

Flamingosis

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 13 second mark, you can see that Flamingosis is using the MPD 24 midi controller by Akai

See how Josh Lloyd-Watson uses Akai MPD 24

Josh Lloyd-Watson

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Jungle

...
Verified via YouTube

In the live performance on KEXP, Josh Lloyd-Watson uses the Akai MPD 24 to launch samples.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai MPD 24, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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