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Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
Average Price: $408
Standard/Professional
$200
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Akai MPK249". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Akai MPK249 USB MIDI Keyboard, a flagship controller that perfectly marries keyboard performance with music production. This extraordinary piece of gear boasts a premium, semi-weighted, 49-note keyboard with aftertouch, offering a nuanced and expressive playing experience.
Providing an unparalleled level of creative freedom, the MPK249 is equipped with 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads that are perfect for launching clips or finger drumming. To further enhance your control over your music, it also features 8 assignable knobs, 8 assignable faders, and 8 assignable buttons, giving you hands-on control over your software and virtual instruments.
This keyboard also comes with powerful software, including Ableton Live Lite and Pro MPC Essentials, so you can start creating music straight out of the box. It is optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC with USB power and plug-and-play connectivity.
Key Features:
- Premium, semi-weighted, 49-note keyboard with aftertouch
- 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads for launching clips or finger drumming
- 8 assignable knobs, 8 assignable faders, and 8 assignable buttons
- Comprehensive transport and parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration
- Includes Ableton Live Lite and Pro MPC Essentials software
- USB power and plug-and-play connectivity for easy setup
- Compatible with Mac and PC
- Powerful production software included
- MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator for advanced rhythmic and melodic manipulation
- MPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with dynamics and tempo
- Pitch bend, modulation, and octave controls for expressive recording and performing
- One sustain/footswitch jack, one expression pedal jack
- iOS compatibility via Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
Product specs
| Brand | Akai |
| Model | MPK249 |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2014 - 2025 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Semi-Weighted |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI |
| Number of Keys | 49 Keys |
| Number of Pads | 16 Pads |
FAQs
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What software is included with the Akai MPK249?
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The Akai MPK249 comes with Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats, providing a comprehensive platform for music creation, recording, and editing.
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How many keys and pads does the Akai MPK249 have?
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The Akai MPK249 features 49 full-size, semi-weighted keys and 16 backlit, velocity-sensitive pads, offering extensive control for both melodic and rhythmic elements.
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Is the Akai MPK249 compatible with Mac computers?
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Yes, the Akai MPK249 is compatible with Mac computers. For Macs with M1/M2 processors, it's recommended to use a powered USB hub for optimal connectivity.
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Does the Akai MPK249 support MIDI connectivity?
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Yes, the Akai MPK249 supports MIDI connectivity with both MIDI input and output ports, as well as USB MIDI, allowing for versatile integration with various devices.
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How does the keyboard action of the Akai MPK249 feel?
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The Akai MPK249 features semi-weighted keys, providing a responsive and expressive feel that is suitable for both studio production and live performance.
Videos
Sean Divine
Akai MPK249 Midi Keyboard Controller Review and Demo
Akai MPK249 Midi Keyboard Controller Review and Demo
Sean Divine
Akai MPK249 - In Depth Review
spoonelli
Akai MPK249 Unboxing, Review & Tutorial
Your Home Recording
Akai MPK249 2022 Review
Upwards.
Akai MPK 249 Performance Controller Keyboard
GetintheMix
Is The Akai MPK249 Worth It? - In 2024
Upwards.
Reviews
PROS
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Versatile DAW integration, works well with major software like Ableton and Logic Pro X
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Easy setup and plug-and-play connectivity with Mac and PC
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Semi-weighted keys offer a quality playing experience
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49 keys with aftertouch enhance expressiveness
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16 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback for dynamic performance
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Comprehensive control with 8 assignable knobs, faders, and switches
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Sturdy build with a metal base, designed for durability
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Includes valuable software like VIP3, Hybrid, and MPC Essentials
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Enhanced workflow with onboard transport buttons and multiple control banks
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Ideal for both beginners and professionals seeking an all-in-one MIDI controller solution
CONS
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Drum pads may require a firm touch, not as sensitive as some users prefer
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Keybed feedback varies; some find the keys too stiff or the black keys annoying
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Heavy and not easily portable for mobile producers
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Software bundle and user manuals might feel outdated or insufficient for advanced users
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Some users report difficulties with plugin downloads and installations in DAWs like Ableton
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPK249.
Features and functionality
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The Akai MPK249 is appreciated for its heavier, chunkier keys and superior pads, with a well-utilized space and mod/pitch wheels positioned on top.
Source -
Users find the standalone menu system awkward but appreciate its rarity of use, especially when integrated with DAWs like Bitwig and Ableton Live.
Source
Comparisons
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Arturia Keylab's keys are described as plasticky and inferior compared to Akai, with the pitch/mod wheel placement making it wider than necessary.
Source
Software and compatibility
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Arturia's Analog Lab software is highly praised, with users highlighting its extensive library of patches and combos as a significant advantage.
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Concerns exist about future support cessation if a new model releases, citing potential OS updates that might disrupt current model functionality.
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Firmware update v1.02 resolves M1 compatibility issues, allowing the MPK249 to function as a generic MIDI device on M1 Macs.
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Issues with M1 Mac thunderbolt ports may require switching hubs or using a USB 2.0 hub to ensure connectivity.
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An external power supply and specific USB adapters can be crucial to resolving connectivity issues on M1 Macs.
Source
User experience
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The Akai MPK249's action is favored by several users for its firmer feel compared to Arturia, which some find annoyingly springy.
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Long-term users report the MPK249's keybed as stiff but highly effective for controlling velocity, with zero rattle issues over extended use.
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Owners report needing to perform the SysEx update process twice on older MacBook Pros to ensure proper functionality on newer M2 models.
Source
Value and pricing
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Arturia's bundled software, like the Analog Lab V, is considered a compelling reason to choose it, especially during sales offering significant discounts.
Source -
Purchasing a used MPK249 can be budget-friendly, with prices around $150 including shipping, and offers the potential to resell without financial loss.
Source
Build quality
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The MPK249's chassis is described as exceptionally sturdy, with encoders and pads noted for their durability and tactile feedback.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 7 Reviews and 77 Ratings
74
Fully all in one!
It can fulfill almost every kind of MIDI input. Nobs, faders, pitch bend, pads(Akai's pads are awesome), 49 key with aftertouch, step sequencer, presets, etc.. You can google it for details. Also the softwares come with it are great. Drawbaks: If you want advanced controll, you may stiil need to buy other controllers. Such as you may need to buy Akai MPD 2-series or MPC for advanced pads input. And also it is a little bit heavy. It's not portable. You need to find other portable gears if you want to produce out side your studio/bedroom.
74
Fully all in one!
It can fulfill almost every kind of MIDI input. Nobs, faders, pitch bend, pads(Akai's pads are awesome), 49 key with aftertouch, step sequencer, presets, etc.. You can google it for details. Also the softwares come with it are great. Drawbaks: If you want advanced controll, you may stiil need to buy other controllers. Such as you may need to buy Akai MPD 2-series or MPC for advanced pads input. And also it is a little bit heavy. It's not portable. You need to find other portable gears if you want to produce out side your studio/bedroom.
824
The Best Controller Out
Engineered to be an all-in-one controller solution, the Akai Professional MPK249 is a performance pad and keyboard controller that combines deep software integration, enhanced workflow, and core technologies from the iconic line of MPC workstations. Each member of Akai Pro's MPK series comes fully loaded with a comprehensive interface for manipulating virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAWs, and more. MPK249 features 49 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 8 assignable knobs, faders, and switches, 16 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback, and onboard transport buttons. Three banks expand the number of knobs, faders, and switches (up to 24 each), and four pad banks expand the number of pads (up to 64 total). Plus, MPK249 is optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC with USB power and plug-and-play connectivity. - See more at: http://www.akaipro.com/product/mpk-249#sthash.c4zDNxHg.dpuf
222
center of my workstation
I've owned an mpk49 for a while and liked it, but the drum pads were crap. The pads on this really make up for it, and since I use Ableton Live it just made sense. I hurried and grabbed the limited edition red color to match my red monitors. Works very well. Still has the clean and shiny keys. I need a cover for this.
Artist usage
Add artist
about 5 seconds into the video the Akai MPK249 can clearly be seen
In this Disclosure and Sam Smith cover of Hotline Bling Howard is using the Akai MPK249 keyboard.
uses in this post from August 20, 2019
In the YouTube video titled "FINNEAS - I'm in Love Without You (Live at The Troubadour)," FINNEAS can be seen using the Akai MPK249 MIDI Keyboard Controller during his performance. He also utilizes this MIDI keyboard for his performances with Billie Eilish, particularly throughout 2019.
Her brother used it while performing "bellyache" at the Vevo LIFT Live Sessions.
Adam is seen in the video using the Akai keyboard in a live studio 93.3 garage performance of 'Somebody Else' along with Matty Healy from the 1975. It can be seen throughout the video, clearly at 0:10 with the markings visible on the back.
Seen in various pictures and videos of the band playing live in 2016. It is identifiable because of the rgb pads and the red colour around the connections on the back of the controller
most visible around 2:10 in the video
In a user-uploaded photo, Com Truise can be seen using the Akai MPK249 MIDI Keyboard Controller during his live performances.
On his Instagram he has pictures of himself playing live, and it is clear that he uses the MPK249 as in some pictures there are clear shots of the top of the keyboard, as well as the back where it says "AKAI MPK249".
In this video, Craig Jones can be seen using the Akai MPK 2 at 34:48
In this video you can see Zach preforming live with the Akai MPK249.
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Album Usage
The Akai MPK249 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai MPK249, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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