Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $137
Budget/Beginner
$200
$501+
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Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Akai MPK Mini Plus 37-Key MIDI Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Designed for musicians who demand flexibility and control, the Akai MPK Mini Plus 37-Key MIDI Controller is a powerhouse in a portable package. With its 37 velocity-sensitive keys and innovative Gen 2 Dynamic Keybed, this controller offers a remarkable range of expression for both studio production and live performances. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding producer, the MPK Mini Plus is equipped to take your creations to new heights.
Its compact design doesn’t compromise on features. The MPK Mini Plus is loaded with eight RGB-backlit MPC drum pads, perfect for crafting dynamic beats or triggering samples. The eight assignable 360° rotary knobs allow for seamless control over effects, filters, and automation, giving you a tactile and immersive music-making experience.
For those spontaneous jam sessions, the built-in polyphonic step sequencer and arpeggiator capture ideas on the fly, while the dedicated transport controls keep your workflow smooth and intuitive. Plus, the integration of real pitch-bend and modulation wheels means you can inject genuine feel and nuance into your performances.
Connectivity is a breeze with USB, 5-pin MIDI, and CV/Gate options, making it easy to integrate with any class-compliant device or setup. The bundled MPC Beats DAW software further extends your creative potential with a vast library of sounds and samples.
Key Features:
- 37-key Gen 2 Dynamic Keybed
- Eight velocity-sensitive RGB-backlit MPC drum pads
- Eight assignable 360° rotary knobs
- Dedicated transport controls (Play, Stop, Record, Loop, Locator)
- Built-in polyphonic step sequencer and arpeggiator
- Real pitch-bend and modulation wheels
- USB, 5-pin MIDI, and CV/Gate connectivity
- Includes MPC Beats software DAW for Mac and PC
Product specs
| Type | Keyboard Controller |
| Number of Keys | 37 |
| Type of Keys | Semi-weighted |
| Pads | 8 x MPC RGB |
| Other Controllers | Pitchbend, Mod Wheel, X/Y Joystick |
| Encoders/Pots | 8 |
| Sequencer | 2-track Poly Step/Live |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (sustain) |
| MIDI I/O | In/Out/USB |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Other I/O | 5 x 1/8" (pitch, gate, mod, clock) |
| Computer Connectivity | USB |
| Software | MPC Beats |
| Format | NKS Compatible |
| Power Supply | USB bus powered |
| Height | 2.04" |
| Width | 17.76" |
| Depth | 7.08" |
| Weight | 2.78 lbs. |
FAQs
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Is the Akai MPK Mini Plus 37-Key MIDI Controller compatible with all DAWs?
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The Akai MPK Mini Plus is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro, thanks to its USB-MIDI connectivity. It also comes with MPC Beats software for seamless integration.
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Does the Akai MPK Mini Plus require an external power supply?
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No, the Akai MPK Mini Plus is USB bus powered, meaning it draws power directly from your computer via the USB connection, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
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Can the Akai MPK Mini Plus control external hardware synths?
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Yes, the Akai MPK Mini Plus features MIDI In/Out ports and CV/Gate outputs, allowing it to control external hardware synths and modular gear effectively.
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What are the key features of the Akai MPK Mini Plus's onboard sequencer?
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The Akai MPK Mini Plus includes a 2-track polyphonic step/live sequencer, which allows you to create complex sequences and patterns directly from the controller without needing additional software.
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How many pads does the Akai MPK Mini Plus have, and are they velocity-sensitive?
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The Akai MPK Mini Plus features eight RGB-backlit MPC pads that are velocity-sensitive, providing dynamic control for drumming and triggering samples.
Videos
loopop
Akai MPK Mini Plus: More than meets the eye in this MIDI keyboard // Full review & tutorial
Reviews
PROS
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Compact form factor with extra keys for expanded playability
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Configurable MIDI values onboard with a convenient small screen
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Features both MIDI in and out, catering to versatile setups
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Includes useful CV outputs and USB connectivity
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Accepts sustain pedal, enhancing expressive play
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Quality keybed for a satisfying tactile experience
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Easy parameter assignments for quick adjustments
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Equipped with a user-friendly sequencer and arpeggiator
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Chord and scale modes provide creative options
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Reliable build quality typical of Akai products
CONS
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MIDI IN doesn't merge to OUT in powered-only mode
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MIDI IN port limited in functionality without computer connection
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPK Mini Plus 37-Key MIDI Controller.
Features and functionality
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The MPK Mini Plus offers endless encoders, which can be a downside if they are of poor quality, as they might cause more trouble than standard potentiometers.
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The MPK Mini Plus lacks built-in sounds, requiring external sound sources or software like a PC, synth, or modular setup to produce audio.
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The MPK Mini Plus does not include a power cord; when using with an iPhone, a powered USB hub is necessary, but not with iPads, which supply sufficient power.
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The Akai MPK Mini Plus includes an onboard sequencer, which is rarely used by owners who prefer sequencing directly in Ableton.
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Software and compatibility
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Users report that the MPK Mini Plus integrates seamlessly with Ableton, requiring minimal setup beyond registration and installation of included software.
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Studio One users might face challenges as the MPK Mini Plus requires manual configuration, even for basic functions like start/stop.
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Users confirm the MPK Mini Plus works with GarageBand on iPads, needing only a USB adapter for connection, without requiring additional power from a USB hub.
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A sequencer on the MIDI controller may not be essential if using Ableton, as users report handling sequencing tasks within the DAW itself.
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User experience
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Some owners experience pad double-triggering, a known issue with other Akai models, impacting the reliability of the MPK Mini Plus for drum programming.
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The keys on the MPK Mini Plus are well-received for their feel, offering a comfortable playing experience compared to other models like the Atom SQ's pads.
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Build quality
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Users appreciate the full-size keys and mod/pitch wheels on the Launchkey, indicating a better key feel compared to the mini keys on the MPK Mini Plus.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
505
Amazing MIDI Controller
I got this for Christmas and have been using it for the past few days. The scale mode, chord mode, key sequencer and live sequencer are all flawless. I didn’t have a MIDI controller before so having this is a major upgrade to my work flow. The pads are very high quality and super fun to make drum beats on. (As one expects from Akai) The knobs are also built very well and make editing synths much more fun as I don’t have to use a mouse to turn knobs. Same goes for the mod and pitch wheels. This instrument is a steal for the price and I highly recommend it.
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