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Average Price: $180
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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
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How does the Akai MPK25 integrate with popular DAWs like Ableton Live or Logic Pro?
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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.
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What are the key features of the Akai MPK25's keyboard action?
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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.
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Are the pads on the Akai MPK25 velocity-sensitive?
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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.
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Does the Akai MPK25 require external power, or is it bus-powered?
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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.
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What connectivity options does the Akai MPK25 offer?
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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.
Videos
Producertech
AKAI MPK25 Review and Comparison with Novation Keyboards
Reviews
PROS
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Pressure-sensitive keys and pads enhance dynamics
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Easy setup process
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Sturdy build quality ensures durability
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Knobs and pads are fully assignable for versatile control
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Compact and portable, ideal for traveling musicians
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Integrates well with Ableton Live, enhancing workflow
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Intuitive layout facilitates quick learning and use
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Great for beat making and recording sessions
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Offers full control over instruments, suitable for experienced producers
CONS
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Some users find the pads to be unreliable or wonky
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Knobs can be confusing to set up for beginners
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Does not work with Logic Pro X, limiting compatibility
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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
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Pads are not MPC grade but perform adequately; keys are full-sized, providing a decent action for a MIDI controller.
Source
Software and compatibility
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Requires MIDI learn for DAW control; transport controls map to DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic, and Reason.
Source
User experience
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Owners report that the MPK25 works seamlessly even with software like Hexen on a Samsung Note 20.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 18 Reviews and 71 Ratings
198
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.
114
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!
30
dam thats cool
137
Great keyboard action - while it worked
Pads were wonky also IMHO, even with the upgraded action.
231
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.
467
Seamless integration with Ableton and high-quality keys
Ableton and this controller are like conjoined twins..and quality keys and functions.
118
Artist usage
Add artist
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."
In this behind the scenes video on Twitter, an Akai MPK25 can be clearly seen in the video starting at around 0:10.
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.
MPK25 seen in the centre of this photo, posted April 2015 on Shigeto's Instagram.
In this YouTube video (0:21) the MPK25 is standing on the table at Soul Assassins Compound (his record studio).
Album Usage
The Akai MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller 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 MPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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