Top 6 AKAI MIDI Keyboards for composers and music producers
The best MIDI keyboard is needed in the studio when one is looking to take a complete takeover over their workflow. With many options available in the market, below are listed the 6 contenders that qualify for the best AKAI MIDI keyboards of all time.
Being one of the most popular MIDI keyboards on the market, the MPK MINI MkII holds its authentic Akai MPC drum pads as its main selling point. These pads, which are eight in number, can be used for triggering samples, patterns, or drums. Switching between banks instantly during a performance is also an easy option available on this keyboard. Coming with 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keys, the MPK MINI MkII does not exactly provide us with a huge range. However, it is more than enough to lay down and lead lines.
AKAI MPK Mini MkII
This keyboard, which was launched earlier this year, is considered best for gigs and touring as it is built into a custom hard flight case, making it travel-ready. Just flip the lid, and voila, you’re ready for a stage performance. Consisting of 88 keys and Akai’s exclusive Model-A keyboard, the AKAI MPK Road 88 is incredibly rugged and durable.
AKAI Professional MPK49
The MPK49 flourishes in the new era of USB/MIDI controllers due to its high-quality 49-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and 12 genuine MPC drum pads. It further consists of 4 ad banks which allow access to 48 total pads. These pads feature the MPC Note Repeat and MPC Swing, both of which are considered the heart and soul of hip-hop.
AKAI Professional MPK25
A portable keyboard controller with MPC production controls, the AKAI Professional MPK25 is closely based on the MPK49. It scaled down the keyboard by 24 keys while retaining the capability, flexibility, and utility. Its portable size makes the keyboard the perfect travel buddy, and its small footprint can fit into your lap no matter where you are, thus enabling you to create music whenever you’re struck by inspiration.
AKAI Professional MPK261
The MPK261 provides you with 61 semi-weighted, full-sized keys as well as a premium piano-style keyboard that gives a natural feel and unprecedented response. Each key is outfitted with aftertouch for expressive and dynamic performances as each key is velocity-sensitive. Bundled with the MPK261 is an authentic grand-piano virtual instrument, the SONiVOX’s Eighty-Eight Ensemble, which lets one perform with expertly voiced piano samples.
APC Key 25
A collaboration that occurred a few years back between AKAI and the Ableton Live presented us with the APC key 25, among others, as a keyboard designed solely for the conventional composer or performing musician. This high-performance keyboard offers the ability to create melodies, compose base-lines, and play chords with 25 synth-action mini keys. Not only this, but dedicated buttons for Octave Up, Down, and Sustain are also available, which naturally expand the expressive abilities of the keyboard, enabling one to tune into the full melodic range.
