Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 - 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 8 Backlit Drum Pads, 8 Knobs and Music Production Software and Native Instruments Sound Package (NKS Integration)

For several years I have fancied dabbling in music production and I wanted a MIDI controller that would be easy to use and have as much versatility as possible. For me this I meant having both pads and keys. I looked at several options but settled on the MPK mini as it appeared to offer the best combination of features and value for money. Firstly, it really looks the part, I have the black and white version which has a cool simplistic look with inverted black and white keys. Aesthetically I preferred this to the black/red or white/black options. Setup was easy but this is where a few people will find some difficulty. This is a MIDI keyboard which means that it will work 'out of the box' with almost ant DAW (digital audio workstation) software with no almost no configuration. Personally I use Ableton Intro and it is simply a case of plugging in the keyboard and selecting the MPK mini as the input device in the options. This of course, will vary depending on your software. The keyboard can then be further programmed when you have a bit more experience with your DAW. The keyboard does come with several software synthesizers and the basic version of Akai's own DAW, MPC Beats. The synthesizers can be a little tricky to set up as you will need to set up the authorisation system that they use. All I can advise is that you read the instructions carefully and it is fairly easy to do. You will need to register your keyboard with Akai but then you will have access to the installer which will help you install everything you need to get started. It is worth noting that these synths are not required for the use of the keyboard but will give you a really nice variety sounds to play with and I really do recommend you taking the time to install these. Personally, I use several Native Instruments synthesizers and sample players and this keyboard works really well with all of them also with little to no configuration. Both the keys and pads are velocity sensitive so the volume of my notes/drums will vary depending on how hard I press them. The infinite knobs (meaning the rotation doesn't have a start and end point) are really nice to use and can be configured to control almost anything within your DAW. The built in arpeggiator is a nice touch and is easy to use to create some cool note repeats, a great tool for use in EDM. The pitch/bend joystick control feels a little different to the traditional wheel controls but is really useful when you get the hang of it. The 8 drum pads are really nice to use, they have a really positive feel and react well to being tapped. You can also program a second bank of drums which can be switched easily giving you access to 16 different drum sounds. In my opinion the pads are on par with the pads on the (more expensive) Native Instruments Maschine Mikro beat maker. (I also own this controller and if you're into beatmaking I highly recommend it). This is a really great controller for the beginner, which I very much am. I really enjoy playing with it and I am constantly impressed with the quality and the features of the keyboard. Once you get past the installation of the synths, which is easy if you follow the instructions carefully, you can start making music almost immediately Spend the time to learn how it works - there are literally hundreds of helpful videos on Youtube that will assist you in getting started. I honestly believe that this is the best MIDI keyboard you can buy as a beginner and can't be beaten at the price.

Love it, still trying to figure out everything, its fantastic, does what its meant to do, definately recommend

The perfect mini mobile controller to complement my Hoton Ampero Multi Effects Pedal and BOSS RC-30 Loop Pedal. My principal instrument is electric violin, but also play guitar, mandolin, and ukulele. This Akai mini controller is perfect for creating rhythms and backing loops for my solo performance as a busker. It's fun to play with but also a serious piece of high quality kit for any musician using pedals, or a composer who needs a mini keyboard that's compact and has a rich pallette of sounds. The keyboard feels well made. It's NOT a guitar pedal that's used on the ground. The AKAI is an instrument that will be used and treated with care and respect like any other keyboard. So, it's build quality is comparable to larger keyboards like my Yamaha. I had no problem connecting the AKAI to my Smartphone and Tablet using a Piano App. Whilst the controller is designed to be used with a DAW on MAC or PC, I like being able to learn, practice, and experiment with chord inversions and progressions on the go, as I recently started learning keyboard with Pianote. The AKAI is not a substitute for a digital piano or keyboard but it's a very useful tool with a lot of potential. IMPORTANT! Don't use Bluetooth to connect to a smartphone or tablet as you'll have latency problems. Use a cable and there's no latency issue. (The age and quality of your PC, smartphone or tablet could issues. But it works fine with my Huawei P20 Pro, DELL XPS 17, and Neocore Tablet. There are plenty of YouTube videos that provide excellent instruction and reviews by professional musicians who give in depth, hands on analysis of the keyboard. Every review I've watched and read is full of praise for this MIDI Controller. Another 'best buy' for me.

Urządzenie jest idealne do użytku domowego jako narzędzie do nauki, jak również do pracy

Tek kelimeyle harika bir ürün eksiği yok bence

Great little Midi controller, works as advertised, connected easily to Cakewalk DAW.

This Akai MPK Mini MK3 completely exceeded my expectations. The keys have a very comfortable sensitivity, and the pads respond quickly with no delay—great for creating beats on the spot. Setup was extremely easy; it was literally plug-and-play with my computer and music software. The size is perfect if you don’t have much space, yet it still feels professional and sturdy. The knobs work smoothly for controlling effects and automations. Whether you’re just starting in music production or need a high-quality portable keyboard, this is definitely a great investment. Highly recommended.

Daughter loves it