Akai Launches MPK Mini Plus II
Released in 2022, the MPK Mini Plus is a plus-sized version of the MPK Mini, a budget MIDI keyboard that delivers a respectable amount of functionality in a compact and affordable package. With more keys, more control and more connectivity than its 25-key sibling, it’s since become a rival to established controllers like the Arturia KeyStep.
Today, Akai Professional has announced the second generation of MPK Mini Plus, bringing an improved keybed, aftertouch-enabled RGB pads, a full-colour display and generative sequencing tools to this $169 MIDI/CV controller, while adding direct integration with Akai’s MPC software.
Akai MPK Mini Plus 11 combines an upgraded 37-key mini keybed that the company says delivers superior playability and response, while adding polyphonic aftertouch to its already velocity-sensitive RGB pads. The keys and pads are joined by 8 assignable encoders, transport controls and pitch and mod wheels.
The controller’s sequencing tools have also been expanded: you get a refreshed arpeggiator, Scale and Chord Modes for staying in key and building chord progressions, and an array of new generative functions for transforming melodies, rhythms and chords, including Glitch, Mutate, Strum, Freeze and Follow tools.
Here is a video overview of MPK Mini Plus II:
Alongside out-of-the-box integration with most of the major DAWs, MPK Mini Plus II has been built to integrate directly with Akai’s MPC Standalone and MPC Desktop software, making it quick and easy to control other Akai hardware without the hassle of manual mapping.
Direct MPC Standalone and MPC Desktop integration brings deeper MPC control to the keyboard, while USB-C, five-pin MIDI, and CV/Gate connectivity allow MPK Mini Plus II to move easily between software instruments, hardware synthesizers, and modular setups.
The controller ships with a generous collection of bundled software: the Studio Instrument Collection features over 1000 sounds from AIR Music Technology, Moog and Akai, and you also get a special edition of Native Instruments’ Komplete Select, along with the free MPC Beats DAW.
“MPK Mini has introduced a lot of creators to hands-on making music, and MPK Mini Plus II is built for the creator who’s ready for the next step,” Akai Professional’s Andy Mac said in a press release.
“Tools like Glitch, Mutate, and Strum help turn simple ideas in new directions, while deeper MPC, DAW, MIDI, and CV integration gives creators room to build a much bigger setup around one compact keyboard.”
KEY FEATURES:
PERFORMANCE & PLAYABILITY
- Upgraded 37-key mini keybed with three-octave range
- 8 velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB-backlit MPC pads with dual-bank control
- Dedicated pitch bend and modulation wheels
- 8 assignable 360° knobs and a 360° push encoder
- 160 × 80 full-color LCD display with direct parameter feedback
CREATIVE TOOLS & WORKFLOW
- Expanded Arpeggiator, Chord Creator, and Note Repeat modes with custom arpeggiator patterns
- Glitch, Mutate, Strum, Freeze, and Follow creative tools
- User Progressions and advanced Chord workflows
- Direct integration with MPC Standalone and MPC Desktop
- Deep scripted DAW integration with real-time display feedback
CONNECTIVITY
- USB-C for power and MIDI in/out
- Full-size 5-pin MIDI out
- 3 × 1/8″ (3.5 mm) TS CV/Gate outputs
- 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TS sustain pedal input
SOFTWARE & CONTENT
- Studio Instrument Collection: more than 1,000 sounds from AIR Music Technology, Moog Music, and Akai Professional
- Native Instruments Komplete Select (Akai Edition)
- MPC Beats
Akai MPK Mini Plus II is available now and priced at $169. Find out more on Akai website.
