Akai MPK261 Performance USB/MIDI Pad & Keyboard Controller

The Akai Professional MPK261 is a performance pad and keyboard controller that combines deep software integration, improved workflow, and core technologies from the venerable line of MPC workstations. It was designed to be an all-in-one controller solution.

The MPK 261 is a performance pad and keyboard controller that combines enhanced workflow, core MPC workstation technologies, and deep software integration with over £400 worth of premium music software already included. The MPK261 also includes a number of improvements that our producer community asked for.

• 61 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch 
• 16 RGB-illuminated MPC-style pads each with 4 banks for 64 pads 
• 24 assignable Q-Link controllers include knobs, faders, and switches (8 of each) 
• Revamped control layout with backlit LCD screen 
• USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input and output 
• iOS compatibility using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately) 
• Comprehensive transport & parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration 
• MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator for advanced rhythmic and melodic manipulation 
• MPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with dynamics and tempo 
• Pitch bend, modulation, and octave controls with split mode for expressive performances 
• 2 assignable footswitch jacks and 1 expression jack 
• USB power and plug-and-play connectivity 
• Production software package included: VIP 3.0, Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, SONiVOX Eighty-Eight Ensemble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials (downloads)

Akai MPK261 Tech Spec

• Number of Keys: 61 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch
• Pads: 16 pressure- and velocity-sensitive, light-up MPC-style pads x 4 banks
• Q-Link Controls: 8 control knobs, 8 faders, and 8 backlit switches
• Computer Interface: USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output
• Octaves: 10 with Octave Up and Down
• Arpeggiator: Yes
• Additional Controls: MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, MPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time Division
• Additional Inputs: (1) 1/4" (6.35mm) TRS expression pedal input and (2) 1/4" (6.35mm) TS sustain pedal or footswitch input
• Power: USB power; no power adapter required
• Dimensions: 35.63" x 12.25" x 3.38"
• Weight: 15.1 lbs

System Requirements

• Macintosh: 1.25 GHz G4/G5 or faster (Intel Mac recommended), 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended), Mac OS X 10.4.11 (10.5 or later recommended)
• Windows: 1.5 GHz Pentium 4 or Celeron compatible CPU or faster (multicore CPU recommended), 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended), Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista or Windows XP, Windows compatible sound card (ASIO driver support recommended), QuickTime recommended
• Available USB Port