Akai Reveals a Big Brother for One of the Most Budget-Friendly MIDI Controllers
Akai's MPK Mini mk3 is a solid and affordable way to access MIDI keyboard controllers, but you may still want more flexibility for your music-making sessions. Fortunately, the company now has a more powerful option that helps control costs. The just-launched MPK Mini Plus offers more range by expanding from 25 to 37 keys, and introduces more advanced elements like a two-track step/live sequencer, chord modes and scale, DAW-compatible transport controls, and wheels for pitch bending and modulation. . You'll also find full five-pin MIDI ports (you used to need USB) as well as CV/Gate connectors for connecting synths and similar modular gear.
The main attractions of the mk3 remain intact. The MPK Mini Plus still features eight RGB-lit MPC drum pads, an X/Y joystick (now fully assignable), and features like an arpeggiator, sustain pedal input, and octave shift. The hardware is USB powered, includes a small OLED display, and comes with Akai's MPCBeats software to get you started with your productions.
The MPK Mini Plus is available through Amazon and other stores for $169. That's significantly more than the $119 for the mk3, but it's clear where the money went. As it stands, you'll probably be hard-pressed to find any other MIDI controllers with this feature set under $200. This may be your best option if you're on a budget, but still want a device that can grow with your musical talents.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All prices correct at time of publication.
Akai's MPK Mini mk3 is a solid and affordable way to access MIDI keyboard controllers, but you may still want more flexibility for your music-making sessions. Fortunately, the company now has a more powerful option that helps control costs. The just-launched MPK Mini Plus offers more range by expanding from 25 to 37 keys, and introduces more advanced elements like a two-track step/live sequencer, chord modes and scale, DAW-compatible transport controls, and wheels for pitch bending and modulation. . You'll also find full five-pin MIDI ports (you used to need USB) as well as CV/Gate connectors for connecting synths and similar modular gear.
The main attractions of the mk3 remain intact. The MPK Mini Plus still features eight RGB-lit MPC drum pads, an X/Y joystick (now fully assignable), and features like an arpeggiator, sustain pedal input, and octave shift. The hardware is USB powered, includes a small OLED display, and comes with Akai's MPCBeats software to get you started with your productions.
The MPK Mini Plus is available through Amazon and other stores for $169. That's significantly more than the $119 for the mk3, but it's clear where the money went. As it stands, you'll probably be hard-pressed to find any other MIDI controllers with this feature set under $200. This may be your best option if you're on a budget, but still want a device that can grow with your musical talents.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All prices correct at time of publication.
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