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Description

Unlock a world of musical possibilities with the Akai MPK261, a powerhouse 61-key performance keyboard controller designed to elevate your creative process. Perfect for both home studios and live performances, this versatile beast seamlessly connects with your favorite virtual instruments, effects plugins, and DAWs, offering you an extensive range of control at your fingertips.

With 16 RGB-illuminated MPC pads, you'll enjoy intuitive beat-making and triggering across 4 banks, providing a total of 64 assignable pads. The MPK261 also features 8 control knobs, 8 faders, and 8 switches, ensuring you have comprehensive, tactile command over your production environment. Whether you're adjusting volume levels, tweaking synth parameters, or manipulating effects, the MPK261 offers precision and flexibility that make it an indispensable tool for any musician.

Express yourself fully with pitch bend, modulation, and octave controls, complemented by an expression jack and two footswitch jacks for even more dynamic performance options. The MPK261 is your gateway to a more expressive, hands-on music-making experience, designed to inspire creativity and elevate your sound.

Key Features:

  • 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
  • 16 RGB-illuminated MPC pads with 4 banks (64 total pads)
  • 8 assignable control knobs, faders, and switches
  • Pitch bend, modulation, and octave controls
  • Expression jack and two footswitch jacks for enhanced performance
  • USB-MIDI with comprehensive DAW integration
  • Compatible with major music software and plug-ins

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model MPK261
Finish Black
Year 2014 - 2025
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 61 Keys
Number of Pads 16 Pads

FAQs

How many keys does the Akai MPK261 have, and are they full-size?

The Akai MPK261 features 61 full-size, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, providing a responsive and expressive playing experience suitable for both studio and live performances.

Does the Akai MPK261 MIDI controller have velocity-sensitive pads?

Yes, the Akai MPK261 includes 16 velocity-sensitive, RGB-illuminated MPC-style pads, each with 4 banks, allowing for a total of 64 pads for dynamic beat-making and performance.

What connectivity options does the Akai MPK261 offer?

The Akai MPK261 provides USB-MIDI connectivity and features 5-pin MIDI input and output, making it compatible with both computer-based setups and traditional MIDI hardware.

Can the Akai MPK261 be used without a computer?

While primarily designed for use with a computer via USB-MIDI, the Akai MPK261 can also control external MIDI devices through its 5-pin MIDI ports, allowing for standalone operation.

What DAWs is the Akai MPK261 compatible with?

The Akai MPK261 is compatible with all major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools, thanks to its class-compliant USB-MIDI functionality, which requires no additional drivers.

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AkaiProVideo

The All-New Akai Professional MPK261 Keyboard & Pad Controller

Video thumbnail for The All-New Akai Professional MPK261 Keyboard & Pad Controller by AkaiProVideo

The All-New Akai Professional MPK261 Keyboard & Pad Controller

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AkaiProVideo

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPK 261 - UNBOXING by Lincoln Alexander Estridge

AKAI MPK 261 - UNBOXING

Lincoln Alexander Estridge

Lincoln Alexander Estridge

Video thumbnail for Akai MPK 261 unboxing by Wolf Bite

Akai MPK 261 unboxing

Wolf Bite

Wolf Bite

Video thumbnail for 🏆 TOP 3 BEST 61-KEY MIDI KEYBOARD CONTROLLERS 2023 ( COMPARISON & REVIEWS ) by Shopedia

🏆 TOP 3 BEST 61-KEY MIDI KEYBOARD CONTROLLERS 2023 ( COMPARISON & REVIEWS )

Shopedia

Shopedia

Reviews

PROS

  • Sturdy build with improved resistance in faders and knobs

  • Easy to map controls, especially with Ableton Live

  • Responsive and solid key action for a non-weighted keyboard

  • Light weight and portable for gigging

  • Ideal for live performance with multiple fader banks

  • MPC pads enhance percussive creativity in tracks

  • Excellent for small performance spaces with heavy track reliance

CONS

  • Requires resetting presets for Reason after each power cycle

  • Initial uneven key sensitivity may need manual adjustment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPK261 61 Key Performance Keyboard Controller.

Build quality

  • The Akai MPK261 features a metal under casing, contributing to its robust construction, despite being primarily plastic.

    Source

User experience

  • The Akai's key action is described as stiff with a synth action and waterfall edge, favoring those who enjoy a firm response.

    Source
  • Owners report that the MPK261 is a durable choice for touring, maintaining its performance over years of use.

    Source
  • Some owners report key responsiveness issues over time, but these appear to be isolated cases rather than widespread problems.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Akai MPK261's pitch bend and mod wheel placement on the panel optimizes space without compromising functionality.

    Source
  • The MPK261 is not entirely plug-and-play; setup with DAWs and virtual instruments requires manual configuration.

    Source
  • The Akai MPK 261 includes only 8 sliders, which may not be ideal for those using Hammond VSTs that require 9 drawbars.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Akai MPK261 is noted for having larger keys and knobs compared to the Arturia, making it slightly harder to play for some users.

    Source
  • Owners highlight superior key action on the Akai compared to the Arturia, describing the latter as more springy and tough.

    Source
  • The MPK 261 has MPC-like pads and infinite encoders, setting it apart from competitors like the Oxygen Pro 61 and Nektar Panorama T6.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Dust accumulation can cause key malfunctions; regular cleaning is suggested to maintain functionality.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Updates on a Mac with an Intel chip may be unnecessary if the device functions without issues, especially without Apple Silicon.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Knobs and faders are more frequently used during live performances than in studio mixing.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Akai MPK261 Review - Should You Buy It In 2024?

keyboardkraze.io

The Akai MPK261 is a solid choice for both studio and live settings, boasting an intuitive design, reliable build, and high-quality semi-weighted keys with aftertouch. It comes loaded with useful bundled software like Ableton Lite Live and is compatible with all major DAWs. However, its relatively high price might deter beginners, and while the RGB pads are visually appealing, some users desired improved functionality. Despite being an older model compared to competitors like the Novation SL MKIII, its lightweight and durable design make it a dependable option for touring musicians. Overall, it's recommended for those who value functionality and durability in a MIDI controller.

positive

REVIEW: Akai mpk261 keyboard - Practical Usage

practicalusage.com

The Akai MPK261 impresses with its robust build and versatile features like customizable drum pads and comprehensive DAW controls, making it a reliable choice for performers needing a portable keyboard. However, it falls short with its semi-weighted keys that feel more like stiff synth keys, and the small display can be cumbersome for parameter navigation. While the included software bundle adds value, its integration isn't seamless, and a lack of preset management tools limits flexibility. Overall, it's a solid option for those prioritizing durability and configurability over key action and ease of use.

5.0 out of 5

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Artist usage

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See how Porter Robinson uses Akai MPK261 61 Key Performance Keyboard Controller

Porter Robinson

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

Robinson is seen using this to play MIDI patches in his Secret Sky 2021 live set.

See how Tomo Milicevic uses Akai MPK261 61 Key Performance Keyboard Controller

Tomo Milicevic

Guitarist, Bassist

Thirty Seconds to Mars

...
Verified via Photo

He can be seen with this controller

See how Dan Smith uses Akai MPK261 61 Key Performance Keyboard Controller

Dan Smith

Singer, Keyboardist

Bastille

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo, you can clearly see an Akai MPK261 keyboard.

See how Said The Sky uses Akai MPK261 61 Key Performance Keyboard Controller

Said The Sky

Drummer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

Said The Sky frequently uses the Akai MPK261 61 Key Performance Keyboard Controller during his live sets and while supporting Illenium, as evidenced by a user-uploaded photo on Myportfolio.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai MPK261 61 Key Performance Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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beaudamion

beaudamion

Gear IQ 189

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