NBD, except…they did a retro edition!!
Now do a newer mpd218 in this colorway Akai
2 Likes
Pretty slick but I’m not feeling the red pinstripes. Makes it look like it’s wearing a skin.
2 Likes
It’s too big! I am waiting for the micro key edition.
2 Likes
MPK ₜᵢₙᵧ
It’s a half-octave keybed with a single pad.
3 Likes
The akai ų. Doubles as a keychain
2 Likes
Jokes aside, I wish there were more good options for a 25-key keyboard without those pads. I never bang out drums with pads when in the daw, don’t see the need at all. And my desktop depth space is always the most limited. Reorganizing those buttons (transport is a must!) while ditching the pads would make it more interesting to me.
2 Likes
Korg Microkey?
2 Likes
Yeah, its a bit ridiculous, Thomann has 9 different models of 25-key keyboards with pads and knobs (not counting color variations), but only one with knobs (only 4!) but without pads (Midiplus x2 mini)
No transport buttons, like the AKAI Professional LPK25 MKII and Arturia MicroLab Mk3
The only small keyboard I’m aware of that has transport buttons is the Nektar Impact GX Mini – but it has no knobs
Both the Nektar and te Midiplus are about 8-10cm wider than the MPK. That a benefits of a design that includes pads: you can fit mod and pitch wheels (or strips) above the keyboard and don’t need additional space on the side.
3 Likes
(((Is there an Elektronauts topic about small MIDI keyboards, 25 keys max? If not, should there be one? It’s a category interesting on its own.)))
It’s actually the one I have for this purpose, but I do like knobs and it lacks it. Also, it feels dated with a massive USB-B port. I prefer usb-c.
Yeah, this is pretty much the ideal design for my needs. Not trying to sound like a brand snob, but I’d prefer to buy this design from Arturia.
looks off putting to me as well.
Somehow Akai gravitates towards busy designs.
The keys might be slightly better, but doesn’t look to be good value compared to Launchkey. Launchkey comes with 4 great Gforce synth vsts, Komplete Select and the chords features are better on it. I guess if you aren’t bothered about the software package though and want something to match your mpc, then maybe…
That’s hot !
