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Description

Compact yet powerful, the Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller is an essential tool for both bedroom producers and live performers. Designed to offer a seamless blend of functionality and portability, the MPK25 ensures you have every tool you need right at your fingertips without overwhelming your workspace. Its 25 semi-weighted keys provide an expressive playing experience, while the 12 MPC pads—each capable of handling both velocity and pressure sensitivity—offer dynamic beat-making possibilities.

Beyond its tactile performance features, the MPK25 is equipped with 12 Q-Link knobs and 4 assignable buttons, giving you comprehensive control over your digital audio workstation (DAW) for a fully immersive music production experience. The built-in arpeggiator, tap tempo, time division, note repeat, and swing options let you craft complex sequences effortlessly.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Akai MPK25’s intuitive layout and robust feature set make it a versatile companion for any musical journey. Its sturdy build ensures it can handle the rigors of both studio production and live gigs, while its USB connectivity ensures quick and easy integration with your setup.

Key Features:

  • 25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
  • 12 velocity- and pressure-sensitive MPC pads
  • 12 Q-Link assignable control knobs
  • 4 assignable control buttons
  • Built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range, and modes
  • Tap tempo and time division
  • MIDI over USB for plug-and-play connectivity
  • Compatible with virtually all DAWs

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model MPK25
Finish Black
Year 2012
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 25 Keys
Number of Pads 12 Pads

FAQs

How does the Akai MPK25 integrate with popular DAWs like Ableton Live or Logic Pro?

The Akai MPK25 is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Logic Pro. It features assignable controls and presets to streamline integration, making it easy to map the keyboard and pads to software functions.

What are the key features of the Akai MPK25's keyboard action?

The Akai MPK25 features a semi-weighted keyboard with 25 full-size keys, providing a balanced feel suitable for expressive playing. This makes it ideal for musicians who need tactile feedback while playing melodies or chords.

Are the pads on the Akai MPK25 velocity-sensitive?

Yes, the Akai MPK25 includes 12 velocity-sensitive pads, allowing for dynamic and expressive drumming or sample triggering. These pads are ideal for creating beats and rhythms with varying intensity.

Does the Akai MPK25 require external power, or is it bus-powered?

The Akai MPK25 is bus-powered via USB, meaning it draws power directly from the computer without needing an additional power source. This makes it convenient for portable setups and easy integration with your DAW.

What connectivity options does the Akai MPK25 offer?

The Akai MPK25 offers USB MIDI connectivity, as well as traditional MIDI In and Out ports, providing flexibility for both computer-based and hardware MIDI setups. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices and software.

Producertech

Producertech

AKAI MPK25 Review and Comparison with Novation Keyboards

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPK25 Review and Comparison with Novation Keyboards by Producertech

AKAI MPK25 Review and Comparison with Novation Keyboards

Producertech

Producertech

Video thumbnail for Akai MPK25 Review by arcade15

Akai MPK25 Review

arcade15

arcade15

Video thumbnail for Making Beats! How to make a beat with the AKAI MPK25! by SlangCast

Making Beats! How to make a beat with the AKAI MPK25!

SlangCast

SlangCast

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPK25 MIDI Controler Review by MrDilness

AKAI MPK25 MIDI Controler Review

MrDilness

MrDilness

Video thumbnail for Akai MPK25 - NAMM 2009 by Sound On Sound magazine

Akai MPK25 - NAMM 2009

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Video thumbnail for Unboxing AKAI MPK25 Midi Keyboard 2014 by Marc “saysomthingTv” Bryan

Unboxing AKAI MPK25 Midi Keyboard 2014

Marc “saysomthingTv” Bryan

Marc “saysomthingTv” Bryan

Video thumbnail for Akai MPK25 by Knight Sound and Light

Akai MPK25

Knight Sound and Light

Knight Sound and Light

Reviews

PROS

  • Pressure-sensitive keys and pads enhance dynamics

  • Easy setup process

  • Sturdy build quality ensures durability

  • Knobs and pads are fully assignable for versatile control

  • Compact and portable, ideal for traveling musicians

  • Integrates well with Ableton Live, enhancing workflow

  • Intuitive layout facilitates quick learning and use

  • Great for beat making and recording sessions

  • Offers full control over instruments, suitable for experienced producers

CONS

  • Some users find the pads to be unreliable or wonky

  • Knobs can be confusing to set up for beginners

  • Does not work with Logic Pro X, limiting compatibility

  • Lacks faders, which could limit control options for some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller.

Features and functionality

  • Pads are not MPC grade but perform adequately; keys are full-sized, providing a decent action for a MIDI controller.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Requires MIDI learn for DAW control; transport controls map to DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic, and Reason.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the MPK25 works seamlessly even with software like Hexen on a Samsung Note 20.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users prefer the MPK25 over the Akai Mini for its more substantial feel and hands-on control despite the Mini's portability.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Akai MPK25

soundonsound.com

The Akai MPK25 packs a punch in a compact form, offering full-sized keys, MPC-style drum pads, and a versatile MIDI controller setup. Its solid build and intuitive controls cater well to studio setups and musicians on the move, even if the two-octave range limits live performance use. The lack of faders and an included power adaptor might disappoint, but the MPK25 compensates with its ease of use, bundled software, and the winning combination of pads and Note Repeat. Overall, it’s a powerful, portable option for those seeking high-quality control in a small package.

positive

Everything You Need to Know About MIDI | What's A MIDI | Мusic Gateway

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 18 Reviews and 71 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
novelstoic

Just what I need.

I love Akai, and this is the perfect piece of hardware for me. It has 25 keys and control knobs for everything I can think to use at one time. It also has great pad and the keys/pads are sensitive to the amount of pressure you put on them. It's also very easy to set up. I highly reccommend.

scitryx

Great for what it is.

Great for what it is. A solid MIDI keyboard that is build sturdy and does what you need it to. Knobs work great, pads are amazing. Everything I could want.

r3bbit

Awesome MIDI-Controller For Advanced Users!

Had this beast since I got the demo of Ableton Live that followed in the packaging. It does what it is supposed to, and more. The knobs for me are a bit confusing to set up, but that is mainly my own problem. This is definitely a keyboard for the experienced producers!

I

dam thats cool

paskee

this is great.

I love mapping multiple synth parameters to this thing and annoying the neighbours with massive synth sounds and happy mystical bells and shit. Love MIDI.

djdumusic

Versatile MIDI keyboard for road use with Ableton and Logic

I take the MPK25 on the road with me and use it with Abelton and Logic

lyford_rome

Great keyboard action - while it worked

Pads were wonky also IMHO, even with the upgraded action.

marcus_wilkins

Great controler

Most of my original music is midi instruments supported by live drums. This does the job for me the only downside is it doesn't work with Logic Pro X.

moscowbeachclub

Seamless integration with Ableton and high-quality keys

Ableton and this controller are like conjoined twins..and quality keys and functions.

electricmessiah

Fun and COmpact

Perfect size for traveling and great intuitive layout. I luv it.

kameron

Great MiDi Controller.

I use this to record, very cool design. Its made awesomely, great sensitivity on keys. The pads work nice. It's got fully assignable controllers.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kevin Parker uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Kevin Parker

Singer, Guitarist

Tame Impala

...
Verified via Photo

In this image, it is possible to see an Akai MPK25 next to Kevin Parker.

See how Bonobo uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Bonobo

Bassist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

On the far-right of Bonobo's Instagram photo, an Akai keyboard controller with 25 keys and 12 drum pads can be spotted on the table. The layout and design is consistent with that of the Akai MPK 25.

"Rehearsals. Nashville. Day one."

See how Tycho uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Tycho

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Tycho

...
Verified via Photo

In this image from Tycho's Instagram page, there is an Akai MPK25 here.

See how Zaytoven uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Zaytoven

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video you can see Zaytoven with the Akai MPK25 at 0:53.

See how Vince Clarke uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Vince Clarke

Keyboardist, Composer

Depeche Mode

...
Verified via MusicRadar

An Akai MPK 25 can be seen in Vince Clarke's studio (second photo).

See how Jon Bellion uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Jon Bellion

Singer, Rapper

...
Verified via Twitter

In this behind the scenes video on Twitter, an Akai MPK25 can be clearly seen in the video starting at around 0:10.

See how The M Machine uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The M Machine

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

The Akai MPK25 is responsible for the improvisational portion of The M Machine's show. Ben Swardlick is in control of it, and fires off samples.

See how Benjamin Goldwasser uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Benjamin Goldwasser

Keyboardist

MGMT

...
Verified via Twitter

Shown from a picture of their equipment at firefly 2013.

See how Shigeto uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Shigeto

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

MPK25 seen in the centre of this photo, posted April 2015 on Shigeto's Instagram.

See how DJ Muggs uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

DJ Muggs

Music Producer, DJ

Cypress Hill

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video (0:21) the MPK25 is standing on the table at Soul Assassins Compound (his record studio).

See how Boyinaband uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Boyinaband

Rapper, Music Producer

You And What Army

...
Verified via YouTube

Boyinaband is holding a Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller in this video.

See how Lex Luger uses Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Lex Luger

Music Producer

808 Mafia

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:26 you can see shots of this keyboard.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

1 alternative for Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, curated by the Equipboard community.

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