Akai MPK61 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller main image

Akai MPK61 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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$83.59 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (31)

3 Reviews

Find out who is using Akai MPK61

1 community setup

42 wishlisted

99 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

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5.0 (3)

$83.59 2 available Used

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Average Price: $84

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Keyboard Controllers category, Akai MPK61 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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Unleash your musical creativity with the Akai MPK61 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, a versatile tool designed to elevate your studio experience. Perfectly blending the tactile comfort of traditional instruments with modern digital capabilities, this controller is a must-have for both budding musicians and seasoned producers. Whether you're crafting beats in your bedroom or laying down tracks in a professional studio, the MPK61 stands out with its expansive 61-key semi-weighted keyboard. This feature provides a natural, responsive feel that mirrors the subtleties of a real piano, making it a joy to play.

The MPK61 doesn't just stop at keys. It boasts 16 genuine MPC-style pads, each with four banks, giving you a total of 64 assignable sounds or samples at your fingertips. Perfect for those intricate drum patterns or triggering synth stabs, these pads are renowned for their responsiveness and durability. Additionally, the controller features eight full-size assignable pots and parameter sliders, offering extensive control over your DAW and virtual instruments.

Designed with input from professional musicians and producers, the MPK61 seamlessly integrates into any setup, enhancing your workflow and allowing for a more intuitive music-making process. With its robust build and comprehensive feature set, it's no wonder that artists like The xx and Kaskade rely on the MPK61 to bring their music to life.

Key Features:

61-key semi-weighted keyboard for a natural playing experience
16 MPC-style pads with four banks for a total of 64 assignable sounds
Eight full-size assignable pots and parameter sliders
Seamless integration with popular DAWs
Robust and durable design for long-lasting performance

Videos

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alternatingbitmusic

AKAI MPK61 demo (Reason emphasis)

alternatingbitmusic

AKAI MPK61 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Unboxing

HomeTracks

✅ How To Use Akai Professional MPK 61 Midi Keyboard Controller Review

The Stuff I Use Channel

AKAI MPK 61 Instructional Video For Beginners

SampleKings

Reviews

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PROS

Remarkable weighted touch response
Smooth operation of all features
Key bed feels very tight
Built like a tank for durability

CONS

Fewer keys than larger models
Pads become "squishy" over time
Arpeggiator lacks intuitive visual cues
Firmware issues; difficult to find support
Large size affects portability for some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPK61 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller.

Build quality

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The Akai MPK61's knobs may become unresponsive over time, and the pads have been criticized for poor sensitivity and reliability.
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Some owners prefer the tactile feel of the MPK261 keys over the original MPK61, despite differing opinions on the newer model's overall build quality.
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Comparisons

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The MPK61 is often compared to the Novation Launchkey, which offers more versatility and better pad functionality for EDM and related genres.
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The MPK261's key action is favored by some over the original MPK61, suggesting a subjective preference for the newer model's feel despite mixed reviews.
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Features and functionality

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The MPK61's aftertouch is noted to be stiff, which can impact expressive playing.
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The MPK61's knobs can control MPC Live 2 plugins and effects, though mapping via the MIDI CONTROL menu is complex.
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User experience

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Some owners feel that the 61-key version can be cumbersome if portability is a priority, recommending smaller models like the Akai MPK Mini for compact setups.
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Owners report successful key, pitch, modulation wheel, and sustain pedal function when connecting MPK61 to MPC Live 2 via USB.
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An owner sold their MPK61 due to space constraints, highlighting the importance of considering physical dimensions in shared or small spaces.
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Software and compatibility

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Akai MPK comes with Hybrid 3, SonyVox Vobble, and VIP 3.1, whereas competitors like M-Audio provide Ableton Live Lite, offering a different software bundle appeal.
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MIDI monitor in MPC Live 2 detects all MPK61 knobs upon connection, enabling potential for detailed control setup.
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Use cases and applications

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The larger pads on the MPK61 are considered better for finger drumming, making it a choice for users focusing on rhythm-heavy production tasks.
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Mods and upgrades

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Owners have modified MPK61 pads by slightly filling them to enhance sensitivity, indicating a common tweak for improved performance.
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 31 Ratings

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officialjonharrismusic

over 9 years ago

Very versatile machine

As far as MIDI keyboards go this is a great keyboard. The only downside is the portability (I have no problem transporting it from place to place if needed but some people may because it's so large). Although you can get a smaller MPK if you want something more portable. I produce in my home and in my studio so that's where the portability becomes a factor. Anyone in the same situation may want to consider that when choosing the size. Other than that the MPKs are GREAT