Pricing and availability

Average Price: $50

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Transform your iPad into a powerful music production hub with the Akai SynthStation 49. This 49-key velocity-sensitive MIDI keyboard controller is designed specifically for seamless integration with your iPad, offering a unique blend of portability and professional-grade features. Perfect for both studio producers and live performers, the SynthStation49 allows you to craft complex compositions on the go by connecting directly to your iPad.

Its intuitive layout includes nine MPC-style drum pads that respond to your every touch, lighting up with each beat for a truly interactive experience. The dedicated transport controls give you full command over your sessions, letting you play, pause, and record with ease. With a built-in adjustable iPad dock, your screen is always at the perfect angle, and the dock even charges your device while you create.

Compatible with all CoreMIDI apps, the SynthStation49 ensures you’re never limited in your creative pursuits. Whether you're using your iPad or connecting to a Mac or PC via USB, this controller provides a versatile and robust solution for any musician. The professional 1/4" stereo outputs and headphone jack offer pristine audio quality, perfect for both monitoring and recording.

Join a community of innovative musicians and elevate your workflow with the Akai SynthStation49, where your iPad becomes not just a device, but a full-fledged musical workstation.

Key Features:

  • 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys with pitch and modulation wheels
  • 9 velocity-sensitive MPC-style drum pads with illumination
  • Dedicated transport controls (Play, Pause, Record)
  • Built-in adjustable iPad dock with charging capability
  • USB connectivity for Mac/PC and MIDI control
  • Professional 1/4" stereo outputs with volume control
  • Headphone output for monitoring
  • Compatible with all CoreMIDI apps and various iPad models

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model SynthStation 49 iPad MIDi Keyboard Controller
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O USB MIDI
Number of Keys 49 Keys
Number of Pads 9 Pads

FAQs

How does the Akai Synthstation 49 integrate with an iPad?

The Akai Synthstation 49 features a built-in dock that allows you to connect an iPad directly, enabling you to control music apps and use the iPad as a sound source or controller interface.

Is the Akai Synthstation 49 compatible with DAWs like Ableton Live or Logic Pro?

Yes, the Akai Synthstation 49 is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Logic Pro, via USB MIDI, providing versatile control over your music production software.

What type of keys does the Akai Synthstation 49 have?

The Akai Synthstation 49 features full-size synth-action keys, offering a responsive feel suitable for various playing styles and genres.

Are the pads on the Akai Synthstation 49 velocity-sensitive?

Yes, the Akai Synthstation 49 includes 9 velocity-sensitive pads, allowing for dynamic control over drum sounds and samples in your music production.

What power options are available for the Akai Synthstation 49?

The Akai Synthstation 49 can be powered via the USB connection to a computer or through batteries when used with an iPad, providing flexible power options for different setups.

Audiofanzine in English

Audiofanzine in English

Akai SynthStation 49 Video Demo [NAMM 2011]

Video thumbnail for Akai SynthStation 49 Video Demo [NAMM 2011] by Audiofanzine in English

Akai SynthStation 49 Video Demo [NAMM 2011]

Audiofanzine in English

Audiofanzine in English

Video thumbnail for Akai SynthStation 49- Test by muzykujkropkacom

Akai SynthStation 49- Test

muzykujkropkacom

muzykujkropkacom

Video thumbnail for Akai SynthStation 49- Test by muzykujkropkacom

Akai SynthStation 49- Test

muzykujkropkacom

muzykujkropkacom

Video thumbnail for mmag.ru: Akai Synthstation 49 video review by MusicMagTV

mmag.ru: Akai Synthstation 49 video review

MusicMagTV

MusicMagTV

Video thumbnail for Akai Synthstation 49 Overview | UniqueSquared.com by UniqueSquared

Akai Synthstation 49 Overview | UniqueSquared.com

UniqueSquared

UniqueSquared

Video thumbnail for AKAI SynthStation: The Great Idea by Brian Kupferschmid

AKAI SynthStation: The Great Idea

Brian Kupferschmid

Brian Kupferschmid

Video thumbnail for Musikmesse 2011 Akai Synthstation 49 by MusicStoreTV

Musikmesse 2011 Akai Synthstation 49

MusicStoreTV

MusicStoreTV

Video thumbnail for Akai SynthStation 49 iPad-Controller-Keyboard im Test auf musikmachen.de by musikmachen.de

Akai SynthStation 49 iPad-Controller-Keyboard im Test auf musikmachen.de

musikmachen.de

musikmachen.de

Video thumbnail for Akai SynthStation 49 Ipad interface: HUGE power ...with a few concerns... by Gearfacts

Akai SynthStation 49 Ipad interface: HUGE power ...with a few concerns...

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai Synthstation 49.

Features and functionality

  • The Synthstation 49 is primarily designed for older iPads but functions as a generic USB MIDI/audio device on computers.

    Source
  • The audio outputs on the Synthstation 49 function as a standard USB audio device, requiring DAW configuration to use them effectively.

    Source
  • The SynthStation49 is class-compliant, enabling plug-and-play setup with no driver installation required, compatible with standard printer USB cables.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Audacity isn't suitable for MIDI controllers like the Synthstation 49; a DAW is required to handle MIDI and instrument plugins.

    Source
  • Users recommend trying free DAWs like Ardour and synth plugins such as Dexed, TyrellN6, Zebralette, and Triple Cheese for beginners.

    Source
  • Tone2's Nanohost can turn .dll plugin files into standalone synthesizers, providing an easy solution for users without a full DAW.

    Source
  • Windows users can enhance audio performance by installing ASIO4All, which optimizes latency and playback quality for the SynthStation49.

    Source

User experience

  • New users may struggle with plugin installation; placing DLL files in the DAW's plugin folder is necessary for activation.

    Source
  • It's suggested that users interested in recording additional instruments invest in an audio interface, enhancing recording quality and flexibility.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Garageband is recommended for macOS users as an accessible DAW, offering a straightforward interface for beginners using the SynthStation49.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jer_fin_dav

Keyboard

Use this practically always when making music with Logic.

C

My first MIDI keyboard.

It gets the job done.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Alberto Ferrari uses Akai Synthstation 49

Alberto Ferrari

Singer, Guitarist

Verdena

...
Verified via Photo

the keyboard can be seen on stage in this live @bloom club. additional pics here http://chuckia.altervista.org/portfolio/alberto-ferrari-verdena-bloom/#!

See how Jackrudes uses Akai Synthstation 49

Jackrudes

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Instagram

In a 2014 studio setup shared on Instagram, Jackrudes is shown using the Akai Synthstation 49.

See how Ben Morfitt uses Akai Synthstation 49

Ben Morfitt

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video at minute 0:05, we can see Ben using the Akai Synthstation 49. He also confirms that he uses it in the video description.

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 Synthstation 49, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Fender Mexican Telecaster
Fender Mexican Telecaster Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Marshall Jackhammer JH-1
Marshall Jackhammer JH-1 Distortion Effects Pedals
1
Shure SM58
Shure SM58 Dynamic Microphones
1
Boss SD-1 Super OverDrive
Boss SD-1 Super OverDrive Overdrive Effects Pedals
1
Clavia Nord Rack 2
1
Korg MS-20
Korg MS-20 Synthesizers
1
Korg M1R
Korg M1R Synthesizers & Sound Modules
1

More Akai MIDI Keyboard Controllers

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides