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Akai MPD18 Compact Pad Controller

^# 14

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$30.09 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (32)

11 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Newer option

Akai MPD218

$69.50 - $119.00

4.5 (84)

Find out who is using Akai MPD18

8 wishlisted

71 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

5.0 (4)

$30.09 7 available Used

View Deal

Average Price: $60

Budget/Beginner

$99

$300+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Pad Controllers category, Akai MPD18 Compact Pad Controller is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Step into the realm of creative freedom with the Akai MPD18 Compact Pad Controller—a seamless blend of performance and portability. This intuitive piece of gear invites electronic musicians and DAW users alike to dive deep into the authentic MPC pad experience, all without breaking the bank. With its 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, the MPD18 not only offers precision but also brings the versatility of a three-bank memory, unlocking a total of 48 sounds at your fingertips. Whether you're looking to dip your toes into the MPC series or seeking a reliable addition to your setup, the MPD18 delivers quality at a palatable price, ensuring your musical journey is both enriching and accessible.

Key Features:

16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads for dynamic performance
Three-bank memory, allowing access to 48 sounds
Fully MIDI compatible for seamless integration with your DAW
Compact and portable design for musicians on the go
Ideal for both beginners exploring the MPC series and seasoned producers

Product specs

Brand	Akai
Model	MPD18
Finish	Black
Year	2010s
Made In	United States
Categories	Pad MIDI Controllers
MIDI I/O	USB MIDI
Number of Pads	16 Pads

FAQs

How does the Akai MPD18 connect to a computer?: The Akai MPD18 connects to a computer via USB, allowing it to function as a MIDI controller for music production software.
Are the pads on the Akai MPD18 velocity-sensitive?: Yes, the Akai MPD18 features 16 velocity-sensitive pads, which respond dynamically to the force of your hits, providing expressive control over your beats.
Is the Akai MPD18 compatible with all DAWs?: The Akai MPD18 is compatible with most major DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) that support MIDI input, including Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro.
What type of power supply does the Akai MPD18 require?: The Akai MPD18 is powered via USB, eliminating the need for an external power supply or batteries.
Can the Akai MPD18 be used for live performances?: Yes, the compact and portable design of the Akai MPD18 makes it suitable for live performances, allowing musicians to trigger samples and control software instruments on stage.

Videos

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Sound On Sound magazine

Akai MPD18 - MusikMesse 2009

Sound On Sound magazine

AKAI professional MPD18 compact pad controller drum machine.

Vortex Cinema

AKAI MPD18 Unboxing and Demo!

Trate Music

Akai MPD18 Compact Pad Controller First Look:

OSReviews

Reviews

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PROS

Built to last and withstand rough use
Highly portable, great for musicians on the go
Affordable, offers great value for its price
Space-efficient, ideal for limited setup areas
Pads are responsive and well-sized for use
Enhances drum programming and live performances
Can be fully mapped to user's preference
Adds a more tactile feel to beat making
Versatile, can be used with various equipment
Can be modified for unique live performance setups

CONS

Lacks ability to output MIDI directly
Comes with no free software programs
Pad quality is functional but not exceptional
Absence of LED pads might be a downside for some

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPD18 Compact Pad Controller.

Value and pricing

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At $60 for a new unit, it's deemed a good deal, especially since retail prices typically hover around $100.
Source

Features and functionality

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The MPD18 has pads styled after original MPC drum machines, contrasting with the LPD8's button-like feel.
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It's noted that MPD18 pads may operate like buttons or CC controls if not set correctly, affecting their intended use.
Source

Mods and upgrades

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Consider investing $15-25 in thick extra-sensitive pads to enhance the tactile experience of the MPD18.
Source

Comparisons

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The MPD18 is seen as sufficient for production purposes, comparable to higher models like the MPD26 for new users.
Source

Use cases and applications

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Ideal for users focusing on production and soundtrack creation rather than live performance.
Source

Setup and maintenance

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Users experienced MIDI mapping issues, needing to press "presets" and then pads for proper function, a detail missing from the manual.
Source

Software and compatibility

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Some users found that pressing pad 1 and 3 also inadvertently activates pads 15 and 16 in both FPC and Poise, requiring further troubleshooting.
Source

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 11 Reviews and 32 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

danielseven

180

almost 12 years ago

Superb

Amazing and real-time responding!

Artist usage

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SeamlessR

Music Producer

Verified via Photo

In the bottom left corner of this photo, posted to SeamlessR's Facebook, an Akai MPD18 can be seen.

Baths

Singer, Music Producer

Verified via Photo

In this picture, an Akai MPD 18 can be pictured between Bath's MPD 32 and MacBook.

Scooter

Music Producer

Dance United

Verified via Facebook

Scooter is shown using the Akai MPD18 Compact Pad Controller in a photo on their official Facebook page.

Tennyson

Drummer, Keyboardist

Verified via YouTube

In their Ableton Loop presentation, we get a very clear look at the equipment Tennyson uses. We can see here an Akai MPD 18 which is used for triggering various one-shots.

Crim3s

Music Producer

Verified via Photo

Crim3s posts a photo to Instagram with the caption "studio" and shows their Akai MPD18 Pad Controller.

Tim Exile

Music Producer

Verified via YouTube

Tim's setup has a Launchpad Mini, an MPD18, and an LPK25.

Mister Lies

Singer, Guitarist

Verified via Instagram

Mister Lies is seen using the Akai MPD18 Compact Pad Controller during a rehearsal, as shown in a photo on his Instagram.

Nati

Verified via Facebook

In this Facebook Photo Nati can bee seen with the Akai MPD 18.

cln

Music Producer, DJ

Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, cln shared a photo featuring the Akai MPD18 Compact Pad Controller, hinting at its use during a series of shows with Katie Noonan and the Queensland Ballet.