MPK Mini Plus - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 37 Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, Sequencer, MIDI/CV/Gate I/O, Music Production Software and Native Instruments Sound Package

Have just received this and it doesn’t disappoint. I picked up a Black Friday offer on a return to the price is to die for. I simply plugged the akai into my PC via usb after downloading MPC beats. After that it’s pretty simple. The akai mpk mini plus has lots of controls and is already synced with mpc beats so I can pretty much control the software via the keyboard, drum pads, knobs etc. Most of the YouTube videos cover different versions, unboxing or comparison so don’t cover the key info. Other DAWS seem to require subscription/purchase or configuration. If you understand and know what you want then it doesn’t have to be hard and CoPilot can provide good instructions. So after a few days, there are a few teething problems but it all works fine. videos available on YouTube by akai and inmusic (their other brand) are essential watching. These videos demonstrate how to register and download/install software. A key video is the hardware and midi mapping setup - initially missed this and couldn't get the transport buttons to work but it is explained clearly along with using mpc learn. there are several pieces of software available to provide a sound library which all work well with MPC beats,the default DAW. The additional software requires keys/subscriptions but there are plenty of free VSTs and plugins out there at no extra cost. Update: after using the mpk and mpc beats software for a couple of weeks I am very pleased with it and still learning. I have found a number of free VST packs and a site with free midi file downloads. I have also got myself an ewi. There are some great tutorials from akai on how to use mpc beats and it seems that the full mpc software is not much more complex and comes with more built in instruments and samples which is all good.

The AKAI MPK Mini Plus is a compact yet powerful 37-key USB MIDI keyboard controller, ideal for music producers and performers on the go. With 8 responsive MPC pads, it allows for dynamic beat-making and sample triggering. The extended key range offers more melodic flexibility compared to its smaller counterparts. It features intuitive controls like pitch/mod wheels and assignable knobs, making it versatile for DAW integration and real-time performance. Despite its small size, the build quality is solid, and it’s plug-and-play for easy setup. Pros: Compact and portable 8 quality MPC pads for beats 37 mini keys for added range Easy USB connection Cons: Keys may feel small for some users

My keyboard is an oldie so needed something smaller and more mobile whilst studying and creating audio piece for videos. I am a complete noob and not used a keyboard in over 10 years. This badboy is so versatile. Having used with Reaper, Native Access, and Spitfire Audio...all of you musical needs tapped into. If you are new to the MIDI lifestyle, this is great for the noobs! Instructions are simple. Make sure you decent software. There are loads of free instruments to get you started. Great value for money, sturdy keys, compact and tidy appearance. Adequate spacing between dials

MIDI works perfectly and comes with a cable to plug into the PC that connects with the DAW. Every function works easily. Much better than the mini version and has exactly what I need. For the price range this is very nice. Big problem however. The keys shake a bit. If you were to put your hand on a key and move it the key will move with it quite easily and that causes for a bit of trouble. Also when having the MIDI keys facing towards the ground and pressing a key down causes for almost like a maracas shaking sound. Extremely weird. It interrupts it and is terrible. I was testing it and playing fast and numerous different compositions. However just blueprinting a main melody then quantizing and adding more via note drawer this is a perfect midi. It works and handles itself easily. If you are expecting to test it and really grind on the keys you might face a small issue. I found this easy to get use to however.

Really good product. Good size and quality keybed. The MPC Pads work great as well as the pitch and mod wheels. Sequencer and arpeggiators are great to use as well on MPC Beats. Would highly recommend

This is a great piece of kit. Sensitive keys and beat pads. Lots of flexability via a software interface. This is my first MIDI kit and im enthralled. The USB lead that came with it was far too short. But hey, not really an issue.

Perfect keyboard for my other equipment. Can be powered using a usb cable from other devices to save on power connections

I can't really fault the keyboard as such as it seems to be working alright... however, I paid full price for a new one (Which has since been reduced 😡) and waited longer than expected... just to unknowingly receive a pre-owned one, in a lightly damaged box, that upon opening I discovered that it already has all the plastics ripped off and is missing the manual, the "free" software and the warranty and safety paperwork. I'm quite shocked and disappointed to say the least. I want to keep the item as I like it honestly and it's supposedly"special edition" so seems hard enough to find, I just feel completely ripped off regarding the missing contents and lack of any sort of manual to explain the functions... 😕