Musikmesse: New from Akai

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL ANNOUNCES MINIAK SYNTHESIZER

Virtual-Analog Synthesizer with Vocoder Developed in Partnership with Alesis

Cumberland, R.I. (April 1, 2009) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces the MINIAK, the synthesizer specifically designed for today’s music production and performance styles. The MINIAK will make its debut in Akai Professional's stand, B 21 in Hall 5.0 at Musikmesse, April 1 - 4, 2009. Held in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, Musikmesse is the world's largest fair for musical instruments, live music and the music business.

The MINIAK is the first synthesizer from Akai Professional developed in partnership with the world-renowned Alesis synthesis team. The MINIAK brings together Akai Professional’s excellent control feel with powerful DSP sound-generation technology. The MINIAK is a perfect synthesizer for producers in the studio and live performers on stage because, while it is extremely compact and portable, it is also a powerful instrument for creating sounds for performance and production.

The MINIAK enables users to create programs with up to eight multi-timbral voices, each with three oscillators. The user can create interesting and unique sounds and take advantage of the synthesizer’s more-than-600 preset sounds. Users can create complex and refined sounds using the MINIAK’s two multimode filters, three envelope generators, two LFOs, stereo effects and 40-band vocoder with gooseneck microphone. The MINIAK also has a comprehensive sequencer with step and dynamic real time phrase sequencing, a drum machine/rhythm sequencer and an arpeggiator.

Users will appreciate the MINIAK’s high-resolution, 24-bit balanced quarter-inch inputs and outputs for excellent sound quality. The MINIAK has a 37-key semi-weighted keyboard with velocity sensitivity for all-in-one performance. It can also be used as a sound source for MPCs, computer software and keyboards via MIDI.

“We have been watching a trend in music production towards using more synth sounds alongside samples,” said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Akai Professional. “The MINIAK is the perfect way for anyone to get into synthesis, yet it is powerful enough for any professional to create the precise sonority they are after.”

The MINIAK will be available from musical instrument and professional audio retailers Q3, 2009."
"AKAI PRO FURTHER EXPANDS MPK LINE WITH 88-KEY MODEL

MPK88 Performance Controller Features Exclusive MPC Technologies

Cumberland, R.I. (April 1, 2009) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces the MPK88, a new addition to its popular MPK series of keyboard controllers with MPC pads and technology. The MPK88 will make its debut in Akai Professional’s stand, B 21 in Hall 5.0 at Musikmesse, April 1 - 4, 2009. Held in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, Musikmesse is the world's largest fair for musical instruments, live music and the music business.

The new MPK88 draws on the design of its siblings in the MPK series. The MPK49 and MPK25 each combine a MIDI-over-USB keyboard controller with genuine MPC pads and a sampling of the technologies that have made Akai Professional’s MPC series such an iconic music-production tool. The MPK88 brings the utility and creative control of its siblings to more dedicated piano and keyboard players, thanks to its fully-weighted, hammer-action keyboard with assignable keyboard split and aftertouch. Akai Professional designed this performance keyboard controller to specifically deliver the feel that serious keyboardists demand in a high-quality instrument.

In addition to the premium keybed, the MPK88 gives the player 16 MPC pads that are velocity and pressure sensitive and can access four banks of sounds each, for access to 64 sounds at any time. The MPC pads are the most recognizable feature of the MPC series, which has been among the most influential devices in the creation and production of music for the last two decades. The MPK88 also puts the player in command of their software with assignable Q-Link faders, knobs and buttons. The user can assign any Q-Link to control nearly any parameter in their software for hands-on, mouse-free performance. The MPK88 also has two assignable footswitch inputs and an expression pedal input.

Two technologies pioneered in the MPC series and built into the MPK88 are MPC Note Repeat and MPC Swing. These note-modifying features can be heard in many of the most popular tracks over the last two decades. MPC Note Repeat is a capability that enables the MPK to automatically play a rhythm pattern, such as 16th notes on a hi-hat, for accuracy and speed of entry. MPC Swing is sometimes referred to as "the heart and soul of hip hop," because it turns perfectly aligned sequences into human feeling time alignments. Users can specify exactly the degree and timing of swing they want to apply for the perfect feel. The MPK88 also has an arpeggiator, which enables performers to build creative riffs instantly.

The MPK88 sends MIDI values over USB and a traditional MIDI jack. The controller works with most MIDI recording, sequencing and performance software as well as sound modules, synthesizers and other MIDI-compliant hardware, for musical performers from keyboard players to producers to DJs and VJs.

The MPK25 and MPK88 come with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software, one of the most popular and powerful performance and production programs in the world. Ableton Live Lite enables musicians to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise and edit musical ideas in a seamless audio/MIDI environment.

“Professional keyboard performers now have the control they need on stage and in the studio,” said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Akai Professional. “The MPK88 has weighted keyboard action plus the performance flexibility and control of the MPC pads and technology.”

The MPK88 joins the semi-weighted MPK49 and MPK25 controllers, which have 49 and 25 keys, respectively.

The MPK88 will be available from pro audio and musical instrument retailers in Q3, 2009."

"AKAI PRO MPD18 BRINGS MPC PAD CONTROL TO ANY SETUP

MIDI-Over-USB Pad Controller is Small and Portable for Versatility

Cumberland, R.I. (April 1, 2009) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces the MPD18 portable pad controller. The MPD18 will make its debut in Akai Professional's stand, B 21 in Hall 5.0 at Musikmesse, April 1 - 4, 2009. Held in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, Musikmesse is the world's largest fair for musical instruments, live music and the music business.

The MPD18 is the smallest-sized model in Akai Professional’s line of MPD pad controllers. DJs, programmers, producers and other musicians will find this MIDI-over-USB controller to be perfect for triggering samples, controlling software, and a variety of other applications. Its small footprint makes the MPD18 easy to integrate into any setup for stage performance, studio production or musical creation on the go.

The heart of the MPD18 is its bank of 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive genuine MPC pads, an Akai Professional exclusive. Users can access three different banks of sounds from the pads for a total of 48 sounds at once. The MPD18 also borrows the MPC series' assignable Q-Link controllers, enabling users to control nearly any parameters in their software in real time on an assignable Q-Link fader and an assignable Q-Link button.

Users will find the MPD18 to be convenient, sending MIDI information over its plug-and-play USB interface for use with Mac or PC without installing any drivers. The USB connection also powers the MPD18 so musicians can use the controller with no power supply. The MPD18 can control nearly any MIDI software, as well as MIDI hardware, such as synths, sound modules, samplers, sequencers, drum machines and more.

“The MPD18 gives you the iconic control feel of the MPC in a compact footprint that's easy to fit in any setup,” said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Akai Professional.


The MPD18 will be available from musical instrument and professional audio retailers Q3, 2009."
I missed the press release on these, so credit goes to Failed Muso for this one.

Akai Introduces MPCX and MPCLIVE Standalone Music Production Centers & MPC Software v2.0

Published on Jan 9, 2017 AkaiProVideo

Playlist:
Introducing the Next Generation of MPC: X and Live
Standalone Challenge: Bryan Michael-Cox
MPC Lounge: Clip Launch
MPC Lounge: Audio Tracks
Standalone Challenge: Zaytoven
Sound on Sound Akai Pro — MPC X Overview & Demo
Sound on Sound Akai Pro — MPC Live Overview & Demo

"The next generation of MPC is here. Introducing the MPC X and MPC Live, brand new standalone Music Production Centers powered by MPC 2.0 software. Separate from the Pack. Standalone.

MPC X Features:
• Standalone MPC – no computer required
• 10.1” full-color multi-touch display
• Also acts as a control surface for MPC 2.0 software
• 16 Touch-capacitive Q-Link controls with OLED displays
• Turntable (RCA) inputs with ground peg
• 16GB of on-board storage (over 10GB of sound content included)
• User-expandable 2.5” SATA drive connector (SSD or HDD)
• 2 MIDI inputs, 4 MIDI Outputs
• 8 configurable CV/Gate outputs for the analog control of modular gear, such as classic synths
• 2 USB-A 3.0 slots for thumb drives or MIDI controllers
• Ableton Link and WiFi will be supported in future updates

MPC Live Features:
• Standalone MPC – no computer required
• 7-inch full-color multi-touch display
• Also acts as a control surface for MPC 2.0 software
• Internal, rechargeable lithium-ion battery
• Turntable (RCA) inputs with ground peg
• 16GB of on-board storage (over 10GB of sound content included)
• User-expandable 2.5” SATA drive connector (SSD or HDD)
• 2 pairs of MIDI inputs and outputs
• 2GB of RAM
• SD Card slot
• 2 USB-A 3.0 slots for thumb drives or MIDI controllers
• Ableton Link and WiFi will be supported in future updates

MPC 2.0 Software Features
• New graphical interface
• Audio track recording
• Real-time time-stretching and pitch-shifting
• Clip Program mode for clip launching workflow
• Reimagined mixer layout – resizable faders, an adaptive channel strip, a dedicated audio track
editing window, resizable waveform view
• Advanced signal routing capability - submixes, FX returns, multi-output plugin support
• More efficient and streamlined MPC workflow
• Audio and MIDI drag and drop
• Enhanced QLink Control"

And the press releases:

"AKAI® PROFESSIONAL REIGNS SUPREME WITH NEW MPC® XTM, THE ULTIMATE STANDALONE BEAT PRODUCTION EXPERIENCE

Standalone Music Production Center goes back to the future to deliver the most powerful beat production machine to date

Cumberland, RI USA (January 9, 2017) — Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, today announced the newest addition to the iconic MPC line, the MPC X. In creating the X, Akai Professional has taken the lessons from every MPC that preceded it to engineer a production centerpiece truly fit to be the flagship Music Production Center of the future.

The new MPC X is a standalone MPC featuring a beautiful, full-color 10.1” multi-touch screen and 16 amazingly responsive, velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads. Rounding out the controls are dedicated menu buttons, a large master encoder knob and 16 touch-sensitive 360o assignable pots (Q- Links) with OLED displays, perfect for precisely automating individual parameters and delivering expressively nuanced recordings.

Powering the mighty X is MPC 2.0TM, Akai Professional’s new update to the MPC software. Capable of running natively on the MPC X in standalone mode, MPC 2.0 can also be run from a Mac or PC with the X tethered to a computer. Among the new features added to 2.0 are: audio track recording, an improved time warp algorithm, enhanced Q-Link control, drag and drop audio/MIDI – all appearing on a new graphical interface.

Features
• Also acts as a control surface for MPC 2.0 software
• 16 Touch-capacitive Q-Link controls with OLED displays
• Turntable (RCA) inputs with ground peg
• 16GB of on-board storage (over 10GB of sound content included)
• User-expandable 2.5” SATA drive connector (SSD or HDD)
• 2 full-size MIDI inputs, 4 full-size MIDI Outputs
• 8 configurable CV/Gate outputs for the analog control of modular gear, such as classic synths
“In creating the concept for the MPC X we wanted to preserve the classic MPC feel and workflow that people love,” said Dan Gill, Product Manager for Akai Professional. “But we turned the idea on its head and incorporated the best of what a modern touch-screen interface can offer. What we have now is the most powerful MPC production experience ever.”
MPC Live will ship with an MSRP of $2999/$2199 MAP and will be available Q1 2017."

"AKAI® PROFESSIONAL ELECTRIFIES BOTH STUDIO AND STAGE WITH GAME-CHANGING MPC® LIVETM

Standalone Music Production Center combines power and portability to deliver pound-for-pound the best MPC to date
Cumberland, RI USA (January 9, 2017) — Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, today announced the newest addition to the iconic MPC line, the MPC Live. Starting with the immersive production workflow and game-altering performance breakthroughs introduced by the MPC Touch, Akai Professional ratchets up the stakes with MPC Live by adding standalone functionality.

At the heart of the new MPC Live is a beautiful, full-color 7-inch multi-touch screen and 16 amazingly responsive, velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads, and a large, clickable master encoder knob. Featuring 2GB of RAM and 16GB of on-board storage, Live is as powerful as any MPC that has preceded it. But weighing in at just 5.5 lbs., MPC Live is compact enough to easily transport from studio to stage. The portability is taken even further with this MPC’s ability to run battery-powered via the internal, rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

Powering Live is MPC 2.0TM, Akai Professional’s new update to the MPC software. Capable of running natively on MPC Live in standalone mode, MPC 2.0 can also be run from a Mac or PC with the Live tethered to a computer. Among the new features added to 2.0 are: audio track recording, an improved time warp algorithm, enhanced Q-Link control, drag and drop audio/MIDI – all appearing on a new graphical interface.

Features
• Also acts as a control surface for MPC 2.0 software
• Internal, rechargeable lithium-ion battery
• Turntable (RCA) inputs with ground peg
• 16GB of on-board storage (over 10GB of sound content included)
• User-expandable 2.5” SATA drive connector (SSD or HDD)
• 2 pairs of MIDI inputs and outputs
• 2GB of RAM
• SD Card slot

'The MPC Live is an absolute beast. It truly represents a huge step forward in the product category,” said Dan Gill, Product Manager for Akai Professional. “MPC Live is the most powerful MPC we’ve made to date and yet it’s portable enough to take anywhere.'

MPC Live will ship with an MSRP of $1999/$1199 MAP and will be available Q1 2017."

---

"AKAI® PROFESSIONAL DRIVES CREATIVITY TO NEW HEIGHTS WITH MPC® 2.0 MUSIC PRODUCTION SOFTWARE

Latest version of acclaimed composition software features audio track recording, clip launching, real- time audio warping, Audio and MIDI drag-and-drop, along with enhanced QLinkTM control.
Cumberland, RI USA (January 9, 2017) — Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, is showing their MPC 2.0 at Winter NAMM, the latest version of their acclaimed music production software. Compatible with Mac and PC, MPC 2.0 works either alone as your main DAW or integrates seamlessly with your current DAW as a VST or AU plug-in. It’s available with Akai Professional’s MPC X, MPC Live, MPC Touch and MPC Studio Black.

Reimagined GUI:
MPC Software 2.0’s redesigned GUI offers a vastly improved creative experience that enhances MPC’s revered workflow. Combining a reimagined mixer layout outfitted with resizable faders, an adaptive channel strip, a dedicated audio track editing window, resizable waveform view and much more, MPC Software 2.0 presents the ultimate platform for unrestricted creative versatility alongside must-have tools that deliver unprecedented surgical control.

Audio Tracks:
Capture, edit and mix up to 8 studio-grade resolution audio tracks in standalone mode (MPC X and MPC Live), or expand your track limit to an immense 128 tracks in controller mode. Furnished with critical audio recording functionality - including multi-track capture, selectable monitoring options (Off, On & Auto), monitoring via effects, Punch In/Out Recording and Record Start options – MPC Software 2.0 empowers producers, musicians and performers with core audio-capture and the convenience of full-featured standalone operation.

Edit, Mix, Create:
Used in conjunction with an Akai Professional MPC unit, performers and producers will find that MPC 2.0 will Edit, Mix and Create in a manner unmatched by any other production software. There is a comprehensive suite of audio editing tools: Pointer, Eraser, Audition, Scissors, Fade In, Fade Out, Reverse, Mute, Pitch Adjust and BPM Adjust. For mixing, users can automate any effect, instrument or mixer parameter. With its advanced signal routing capability—submixes, FX returns, multi-output plugin support (up to 16 stereo outputs) and more—there is virtually no limit to the versatility on tap for the artist.

Manipulate Tempo or Pitch:
With MPC Software 2.0, total-command of user’s audio is possible courtesy of a new real-time time- stretching and pitch shifting algorithm. Change the duration of any audio region, drum/keygroup sample or clip to match the tempo of your project with MPC Software’s real-time time-stretching or, use real- time high-quality pitch shifting to change the pitch of any audio region, drum/keygroup sample or clip for creative manipulation or to change the key of the source material. MPC 2.0 makes it easy to manipulate the time and pitch of any source material: a chopped vocal in an audio track, a drum loop in a clip program or an orchestral phrase loaded into a chromatic sampler program.

Perform:
For performers, MPC 2.0 brings their presentation to the next level. MPC Software’s XYFX and a Phrase Looper now combines with an all-new Clip Program mode powered by MPC’s real-time warping algorithm, providing users with an intuitive clip launch workflow and the ultimate platform for creative versatility. Features like Enhanced Q-Link functionality for precision control mapping of MPCs editable functions and selectable hardware outputs providing seamless assimilation into multiple usage scenarios make MPC 2.0 a powerful creative tool.

Versatility:

MPC 2.0 is versatile and adaptable as well. It supports WAV, MP3, AIFF, REX and SND, as well as supporting samples and sequences from any MPC ever made. There is full 64-bit support in all versions: standalone, VST, AAX and AU.
MPC Software v2.0

• Completely new graphical interface
• Audio track recording
• Real-time time-stretching and pitch-shifting
• Clip Program mode for clip launching workflow
• Reimagined mixer layout – resizable faders, an adaptive channel strip, a dedicated audio track
editing window, resizable waveform view and more
• Advanced signal routing capability - submixes, FX returns, multi-output plugin support (up to 16
stereo outputs) and more
• More efficient and streamlined MPC workflow
• Audio and MIDI drag and drop
• Enhanced QLink Control

“MPC 2.0 is the next generation of Akai Professional music production software, perfected by over a year of intense R & D,” said Dan Gill, Product Manager for Akai Professional. “This software suite really energizes the creative process for performers and producers alike, and is an indispensable part of our MPC’s amazing capability.”
MPC 2.0 is bundled with Akai Professional MPC hardware, and is available in Q1 2017. It will be available separately as an update for existing MPC customers at a later date, price TBD.
For more information, visit akaipro.com."

Native Instruments Partners with Akai, Novation and More

Akai Pro & Native Instruments | Seamlessly Integrated

video upload by AkaiProVideo

Akai Pro MPC3 with Native Instruments Integration - Overview

video upload by AkaiProVideo

"Discover the groundbreaking integration of Native Instruments with Akai Pro MPC hardware. This overview highlights how seamless workflows and expanded sound libraries redefine music creation for producers and performers alike.

Available today are three signature instruments — Analog Dreams, Cloud Supply, and Nacht — each crafted to inspire unique creative expressions. Additional instruments, including Homage and Sway, are set to launch later in February. Complementing these are five genre-specific Expansion sound packs: Faded Reels which is available now, with Lone Forest, Global Shake, Hazy Days, and Rare Vibrations to follow. All are expertly tailored for seamless integration with the MPC platform.

With this landmark collaboration, Akai Professional’s iconic MPC platform takes center stage, seamlessly integrating with Native Instruments’ creative tools to deliver an unprecedented toolkit for musicians, producers, and audio creators."

Zaytoven Creates on the Akai MPC with new Native Instruments Integration

video upload by AkaiProVideo

AKAI & NI's plan for MPC & MPK // New MPC 3.4 features // Expansions & Play by Native Instruments

video upload by loopop

Press release follows:

Native Instruments expands partnerships to empower millions of music creators

Expansion of the NKS ecosystem connects Akai Professional, Novation, Nektar, Korg and M-Audio and ignites new creative possibilities for musicians and producers worldwide

Anaheim, CA – January 22, 2025: Native Instruments is making it easier than ever for music producers to explore new sounds on their favorite controllers by launching its Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Hardware Partner Program, announced today at NAMM 2025. Industry leaders Akai Professional, Novation, Nektar, Korg, and M-Audio are adopting the NKS ecosystem to power seamless integration with Native Instruments software. This connects music makers to over 2,000 NKS-compatible instruments and effects from more than 250 brands.

“This expansion highlights the impact of collaboration,” says Simon Cross, Chief Product Officer at Native Instruments. “It marks an important milestone in our mission to provide musicians with an open, connected platform, making professional-grade tools, instruments, and technology more accessible to creators everywhere.”

Native Kontrol Standard: An inspiring experience for every music maker

CLICK FOR MORE »

New Aki MPX16 Sample Recorder & Player

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL INTRODUCES THE MPX16

Leading music production equipment manufacturer debuts playable, practical solution for sample-based performers.
Cumberland, RI, USA—March 11, 2014. Akai Professional (akaipro.com), innovator of audio sampling technology for music production and performance, announces the MPX16, an advanced sample player with onboard sound recording.

The portable MPX16 plays and records .WAV samples using SD cards for powerful, reliable performance in live and studio situations. Like the popular MPX8, samples are triggered internally from the highly responsive MPC-style pads or an external MIDI device via USB-MIDI and 3.5mm (1/4-inch) MIDI inputs. Also a feature-packed MIDI pad controller, the MPX16 is equally capable of launching clips or adding trigger pads to a producer’s studio.

Samples are captured at CD-quality via dual 6.3mm (1/4-inch) inputs or the on-board stereo microphone and saved to an SD card. The user may assign audio clips to the pads and apply tuning, filters, envelopes and “choke” grouping for creative, dynamic performances. An LCD screen and illuminated trigger pads provide visual feedback during use, and the MPX16 may be powered from a USB port or the included power supply. Naturally, users may load existing sound files onto an SD card or use the MPX16 as an SD card reader for drag-and-drop convenience on a Mac or PC. A software tool for even easier sample management is included via download.

Highlights:
• Plays and records stereo samples using easily accessible and reliable SD cards
• 16 velocity sensitive, illuminated pads let the user play back samples in real-time
• Balanced 6.3mm (1/4-inch) inputs let you capture audio from a wide variety of sources
• Built-in stereo microphone lets you capture sounds on-the-fly
• USB-MIDI as well as MIDI Input and MIDI Output jacks for integration into virtually any
MIDI setup for use as a pad controller, sample bank or both
• Onboard sound processing–tune samples, adjust ADSR envelopes and filters
• USB or wall powered (adapter included) for use virtually anywhere
“The versatility and capability of the MPX16 will make it a workhorse for performers of all types,” notes Akai Professional Product Manager Dan Gill. “We knew that an affordable sample player

with Akai Professional’s practical MIDI integration would fit the needs of people wanting a no- nonsense way to access samples without computer dependency.”
The MPX16 will be available in Summer 2014, distributed worldwide with a $199.99 USD street price. Akai Professional will unveil the MPX16 at Musikmesse, Hall 5.1, Booth B45, March 12-15 in Frankfurt, Germany. For more information, visit: akaipro.com/messe2014.

###

About Akai Professional
The world’s most influential manufacturer of music production gear, Akai Professional (akaipro.com) develops creative technologies to empower music makers with tools that are unmatched in expressive capability. Akai Professional is best known for creating the legendary MPC, an instrument that has inspired generations of producers and performers and spawned entirely new genres of music. Akai Professional is a part of the inMusic Brands family (www.inmusicbrands.com)."

New Akai Rhythm Wolf - Analog Drum Machine and Bass Synth?

Real or not? You be the judge. I'm not seeing anything on the Akai site yet. This one is in via Soviet Space Child.  Synthtopia is reporting on it and the following is via Gearslutz.  $199 price point.

Update: some discussion on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge

Update2: looks like the Akai site is down. Updates coming or too much traffic?

Update3: The site is back and the info is up here.  Supersize image and press release captured further below.

"Musikmesse 2014: Following in the wake of the Korg Volcas and Roland's Aira range, Akai is the latest brand to get in on the vintage-inspired groovebox action with the announcement of the Rhythm Wolf – an analogue unit combining a five-voice drum machine and single-ocsillator bass synth.

The drum machine section of the Rhythm Wolf comprises kick, snare, metallic percussion, and open and closed hi-hat sounds, all of which are tuneable. The bass synth, meanwhile, can be switched between saw and square waveshapes, and features a filter with resonance control and a basic envelope shaper. Akai describes Rhythm Wolf as having an "authentic analog design that references classic rhythm machines and synthesizers" - no prizes for guessing which instruments the company is alluding to.

The whole unit is built around a 32-step sequencer, and also features six MPC pads for live performance. There's also a 'Howl' distortion circuit for adding a bit of dirt to the sounds. Additionally, the Rhythm Wolf features a USB MIDI connection and has both MIDI and gate in and out ports, so can be triggered via a DAW or external hardware. It packs a swing control on its front panel, and the unit also appears to have a built-in preset bank.

Arguably the most interesting aspect of the Rhythm Wolf, however, is its price. At an estimated street price of $199, the unit comes in at slightly cheaper than the combined price of the Volca Beats and Bass, and cheaper than either the Roland TR-8 or TB-3.

The Rhythm Wolf is due to arrive summer 2014. Visit Akai Professional for more details.

Rhythm Wolf highlights (from the official press release)
5-voice analog drum machine and synth—authentic analog design that references classic rhythm machines and synthesizers
Legendary analog drum sounds—kick, snare, open & closed hi-hat, and metallic percussion
Synth-bass module—selectable square or sawtooth wave with classic filter design for warm, deep basses and squelchy leads.
Onboard 32-step sequencer—classic drum machine workflow for quickly laying down grooves and melodies
Six genuine MPC pads—responsive controls for sequencing and finger drumming
Howl knob—custom distortion circuit for additional sound design
USB-MIDI and MIDI In/Out—flexible MIDI connectivity for easy integration into modern studios
Gate Trigger—triggering via modular synths, vintage sequencers, or external sound sources
Independent audio outputs—dedicated outputs for the drum machine and synth-bass module for precise mixing"

Update: full size pic & press release:

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL UNLEASHES THE RHYTHM WOLF

Leading music production equipment manufacturer debuts an analog drum machine and bass synthesizer inspired by the classics.

Cumberland, RI, USA—March 11, 2014. Akai Professional (akaipro.com), a leading innovator of music equipment for production and performance, announces the Rhythm Wolf, an analog drum machine and bass synthesizer module with built-in sequencing.

The Rhythm Wolf is an authentic analog instrument that combines the coveted sounds of early electronic and hip-hop music with genuine Akai Professional workflow. Inspired by the classic analog beat machines and synthesizers of the past, Rhythm Wolf enables today’s musicians to harness iconic analog sounds for music production and performance. The drum machine consists of five highly-tweakable drum sounds and includes a kick, snare, open & closed hi-hat, and metallic percussion. Onboard controls allow users to customize the tuning, amplitude envelopes, and volume of each drum voice separately for precise real-time adjustment. The bass synthesizer features a selectable oscillator (sawtooth or square wave), classic filter design, a filter envelope with variable decay, and is capable of creating powerful bass sounds and squelchy leads.

Outfitted with six genuine MPC pads and a built-in 32-step sequencer, the Rhythm Wolf provides an ultra-responsive interface with a classic drum machine layout. Drum patterns can be fine-tuned using the Rhythm Wolf features USB-MIDI, MIDI In/Out, a gate trigger, and integrates seamlessly with modern and vintage equipment.

Rhythm Wolf Highlights:
• 5-voice analog drum machine and synth—authentic analog design that references classic rhythm machines and synthesizers
• Legendary analog drum sounds—kick, snare, open & closed hi-hat, and metallic percussion
• Synth-bass module—selectable square or sawtooth wave with classic filter design for warm, deep basses and squelchy leads.
• Onboard 32-step sequencer—classic drum machine workflow for quickly laying down grooves and melodies
Swing function, Pattern Select, and Tempo Control knob. A custom
distortion signal path, activated by the “Howl” knob, adds grit and character for additional tone
shaping.
Two audio outputs enable producers and
performers to mix percussion sounds and bass independently.
• Six genuine MPC pads—responsive controls for sequencing and finger drumming
• Howl knob—custom distortion circuit for additional sound design
• USB-MIDI and MIDI In/Out—flexible MIDI connectivity for easy integration into modern
studios
• Gate Trigger—triggering via modular synths, vintage sequencers, or external sound
• —dedicated outputs for the drum machine and synth-bass

Akai Professional Product Manager Dan Gill notes, “The Rhythm Wolf puts those sought after analog drum machine and synthesizer sounds right into the hands of today’s musicians. We set out to make a compact drum machine and bass synthesizer, inspired by the classics, that can adapt to any studio setup and integrate with modern and vintage music equipment.”
The Rhythm Wolf will be available in Summer 2014, distributed worldwide with a $199.99 USD street price. Akai Professional will unveil the Rhythm Wolf at Musikmesse, Hall 5.1, Booth B45, March 12-15 in Frankfurt, Germany. For more information, visit: akaipro.com/messe2014.

###

About Akai Professional
The world’s most influential manufacturer of music production gear, Akai Professional (akaipro.com) develops creative technologies to empower music makers with tools that are unmatched in expressive capability. Akai Professional is best known for creating the legendary MPC, an instrument that has inspired generations of producers and performers and spawned entirely new genres of music. Akai Professional is a part of the inMusic Brands family (www.inmusicbrands.com)."

Update4:

Musikmesse 2014: Akai Rhythm Wolf Video

Published on Mar 11, 2014 delamartv·373 videos

Unfortunately no audio demo.

AKAI Introduces the MPC Touch

Published on Oct 7, 2015 AkaiProVideo

Playlist:
MPC Touch - Making the Beat with Needlz
MPC Touch - Touch Life with Metro Boomin

"Return of the King: The new MPC Touch revolutionizes the art of music production by combining professional grade hardware worthy of carrying the MPC shield with a hyper-intuitive multi-touch screen. The result - the most immersive music producing experience to date."

And the official press release:

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL BREAKS THE WORKFLOW BARRIER WITH THE REVOLUTIONARY MPC TOUCH

The newest addition to the legendary MPC series re-writes the rules with an intuitive controller featuring multi-touch display for an immersive production experience

Cumberland, RI USA (October 7, 2015) — Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music production equipment today announces the introduction of the MPC Touch, the newest and most future-forward member of their legendary MPC product line. The touch-screen controller is the result of painstaking engineering development, detailed customer research and user feedback. The result is the most capable and user-friendly music production controllers Akai Professional has developed to date.

The Touch introduces a new approach to music production with an ultra fast and super intuitive workflow, powered by a radiant 7" color multi-touch display. Literally grab and pinch waveforms, draw midi events, adjust envelopes, chop samples, add effects and precisely set your controls using your fingertips. Combined with the classic MPC feel, sound and award-winning pads, the Touch embodies the best elements of our past while taking music production gear into the future.

Features:

7" color multi-touch Display
16 velocity-sensitive thick, fat MPC pads with RGB backlighting
2-in/2-out audio interface
Step Sequencer with touch interface
XYFX control adds effects, adjusts sound dynamics in real time
Phrase Looper, enables connection of any instrument to create loops
Pad Mixer for setting levels, stereo panning and adding VST effects
Sample Edit control, for trimming, chopping and processing your samples
4 new, performance-ready touch-sensitive controls
Data Encoder knob, for push-and-twist control of display parameters
Includes MPC software with over 20 GB of sound content

“Our new MPC Touch is an incredibly noteworthy event in the evolution of the Akai Professional product lineup. Years of research, customer feedback and cutting-edge engineering development has led directly to the most capable and innovative MPC we’ve ever offered,” said Dan Gill, Product Manager for Akai Professional. “We’re known for the excellence and music-making capability of our MPC family. It’s the backbone of what we do. The MPC Touch breaks new ground in music production in terms of ease of use and on-board capability. We’re excited and proud to offer it to modern musicians everywhere.”

The Akai Professional MPC Touch will be available November 2015 at Akai Professional dealers and online directly from Akai Professional.

U.S. retail pricing is $799.00

For more information, visit www.mpctouch.com"

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NAMM: Akai Professional MPK25

"AKAI PRO EXPANDS MPK KEYBOARD SERIES WITH NEW 25-KEY MODEL

MPK49 Keyboard Controller with MPC Pads Gets MPK25 Sibling

Cumberland, R.I. (Jan. 15, 2009) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces MPK25, a new addition to its popular MPK series of keyboard controllers with MPC pads. The MPK25 will be on display at the 2009 NAMM Show in Anaheim, Calif., January 15 – 18, 2009 at the Akai Professional booth, number 6400.

The MPK25 draws on the design of the popular MPK49, the first keyboard ever to feature genuine MPC pads. It features a 25-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch, 12 MPC pads, Q-Link controls and MPC technology. Its smaller, more portable size makes the MPK25 the perfect travel companion. Its small footprint can fit in a musician’s lap on the couch or on a plane, enabling them to create tracks whenever inspiration strikes.

The MPK series features Akai Professional-exclusive MPC pads that are pressure and velocity-sensitive to capture every nuance of the user’s creativity. The pads can access four banks of sounds, so performers can have 48 samples at their fingertips with the touch of a button.

The MPK25 offers extensive assignable controls through its Q-Link section. The MPK25 gives players 32 parameters of hands-on control through 12 virtual knobs and four virtual buttons, each of which can access two different banks of assignment via a bank-change control.

Two technologies pioneered in the MPC series and built into the MPK series are MPC Note Repeat and MPC Swing. These note-modifying features can be heard in many of the most popular tracks over the last two decades. MPC Note Repeat automatically plays a rhythmic pattern, such as 16th notes on a hi-hat, for accuracy and speed of entry. MPC Swing is sometimes referred to as "the heart and soul of hip hop". Users can specify exactly the degree and timing of swing they want to apply for the perfect feel.

The MPK25 has an arpeggiator, which enables performers to develop creative riffs in seconds. The arpeggiator features six different modes and can have its own swing settings independent of the MPC Note Repeat settings.

Because MPK series controllers are USB class compliant, they do not require custom drivers to work with Mac or PC computers and will work with all MIDI recording, sequencing and performance software. The MPK series is perfect for musicians, producers, DJs and VJs.

The MPK25 comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software, one of the most popular and powerful performance and production programs in the world. Ableton Live Lite enables musicians to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise and edit musical ideas in a seamless audio/MIDI environment.

“This new addition to the MPK line takes the expressive, creative capabilities of the MPK49 to new places,” said Gregg Stein, Director of Marketing, Akai Professional. “The MPK25 can go away for the weekend with you and it is easy to integrate into on-stage setups for multi-instrumentalists and drummers.”

The MPK25 keyboard controller with MPC pads will be available from pro audio and musical instrument retailers in Q2 at an MSRP of $399.99 and an estimated street price of $299.99.

# # #

About Akai Professional

Since 1984, Akai Professional products have been a staple of modern music both in the studio and on stage. With intuitive design and cutting edge features, Akai Professional is one of the world’s most influential manufacturers of musical electronics. For more information, visit www.akaipro.com; images are available at http://akaipro.com/media.php.

Update .zerozeroisland. via in the comments:
"It's a great piece of gear, let me tell you. I was one of the beta testers, and i have one sitting right next to me as i type this.

it's a solidly built hunk of metal with a great feeling keyboard and pads that are pretty much as good as the ones on my mpc, although slightly smaller. the Vyzex sofware editor for it is also a great app. with that many programmable pads, knobs, switches etc. you'll definitely be glad for the on-screen editing!"

Akai Introduces New MPD2 Drum Pad Controllers

Introducing the Akai MPD2 Drum Pad Controllers Published on Jul 6, 2015 AkaiProVideo

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL ROCKS ELECTRONIC MUSIC MARKET WITH STUNNING NEW MPD SERIES MIDI PAD CONTROLLERS

Feature-packed units give artists unprecedented creative musical firepower with Thick Fat backlit MPC Pads, multiple controls and included software

Cumberland, RI USA (July 7, 2015) —Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of keyboards, mixers and production equipment for performers and recording artists, today announced the introduction of their new MPD Series of pad controllers. These new controllers are a product of over six years of detailed customer research and user feedback. The result is the most capable and user-friendly line of pad controllers Akai Professional has developed to date.   

All models feature new, ultra sensitive Thick Fat MPC pads creating an amazingly responsive user interaction. They also have an expanded control set to maximize the sounds and effects available to the user, iOS compatibility using the Camera Connection Kit and over $400 of free software (Big Bang Drums and Big Bang Cinema from Sonivox, Ableton Live Lite, and Software Preset Editor). 

Building on the success of Akai Pro’s previous MPD18, MPD26 and MPD32, these new pad controllers introduce greatly enhanced control capability to support the artist’s creative efforts:

- The MPD218 has red light-up MPC pads and a greatly expanded control set of 6 knobs in 3 banks vs. one control on the previous MPD18 model. 

- The MPD226 has an expanded control set of 4 knobs, 4 faders, 4 buttons in 3 banks for 36 total controls vs. 12 controls on the MPD26

- The MPD232 boasts an all-new 64-channel 32-step performance sequencer, which the MPD32 did not have.

In addition users enjoy intuitive control editing right from the front panel on the MPD226 and MPD232, and all three models can be programmed via the included easy-to-use Preset Editor, so musicians of any level can enhance their performance right away. This is one of the many things that distinguish the Akai Professional MPD218, 226 and 232 from everything else.

A recap of the new MPD Series features:

MPD218
• 16 Thick Fat backlit MPC Pads with Velocity and Aftertouch
• 48 assignable pads accessible via 3 banks
• 18 assignable 360-degree potentiometers accessible via 3 banks
• MPC Note Repeat and Full Level
• iOS compatible using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• 16 configurable presets
• Includes Ableton Live Lite
• USB powered, no AC adapter required

MPD226
• 16 Thick Fat RGB illuminated velocity- and pressure-sensitive MPC Pads
• 64 assignable pads accessible via 4 banks
• 4 assignable faders, 4 assignable Q-Link knobs, 4 assignable Q-Link buttons
• 36 assignable controls accessible via 3 banks
• Classic MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, 16 Level, Full Level and Tap Tempo
• 30 presets total, with configurations for most popular DAWs
• iOS compatible using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• MIDI In and Out jacks for controlling external gear
• Dedicated Transport controls
• Includes Ableton Live Lite

MPD232
• 64-part, 32-step sequencer to control pad events
• 16 Thick Fat RGB illuminated velocity- and pressure-sensitive MPC Pads
• 64 assignable pads accessible via 4 banks
• 8 assignable Q-Link faders, 8 assignable Q-Link knobs, 8 assignable Q-Link buttons
• 72 assignable controls accessible via 3 banks
• Classic MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, 16 Level, Full Level and Tap Tempo
• Dedicated transport controls
• iOS compatible using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• 30 presets total, with configurations for most popular DAWs
• Works with virtually any MIDI software or MIDI hardware
• MIDI In and Out jacks for controlling external gear
• Includes Ableton Live Lite

“The MPD218/226/232 family marks an important evolution in our pad controller series. Six years of research and customer feedback has led directly to some of the most capable pad controllers we’ve ever developed,” said Dan Gill, Product Manager for Akai Professional. “Our goal was to create controllers that respond quickly and intuitively to the player’s input, to make their playing experience the best it can be. We’re very excited about these new units.”

The Akai Professional MPD Series will be available in Summer 2015 at Akai Professional dealers and online directly from Akai Professional.

U.S. retail pricing is $199 for the MPD218, $299 for the MPD226 and $399 for the MPD232.

For more information, visit akaipro.com."

The new MPK Mini Plus | Akai Professional

video upload by AkaiProVideo

"Enjoy full creative control with the new MPK Mini Plus. Featuring 37 mini-keys, advanced connectivity for MIDI/CV/Gate/Clock, and an internal 2-track sequencer, make music with the ultimate feel and response."

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AKAI PRO FURTHER EXPANDS CONTROLLER LINE WITH MPK61

"New MPK61 Is Fourth Model Of Unique Keyboard and MPC Performance Controller

Cumberland, R.I. (Jul. 17, 2009) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces the MPK61, the fourth model in the company’s unique line of keyboard/MPC performance controllers. The MPK61 will make its debut at Akai Professional's booth, number 400, at the Summer NAMM Show held at the Nashville Convention Center, July 17 – 19.

The MPK61 is a keyboard performance MIDI controller that expands the popular MPK line. Each MPK controller combines a piano-style keybed with a bank of genuine Akai Professional MPC pads, assignable Q-Link controllers and some of the technologies from the icon MPC. Producers, performers and DJs will appreciate the MPK61’s mix of 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 16 MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity, 72 assignable Q-Link, MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing and an arpeggiator. The MPK61’s size is ideal for performers who need a larger range than the original 49-key MPK49 offers, but also prefer the lighter weight and associated portability of a semi-weighted keyboard. The MPK61 retains the key split features from the MPK88, enabling the performer to divide the keyboard into two zones for performing with two different programs at once.

Like its 25, 49 and fully weighted 88-key siblings – the MPK25, MPK49 and MPK88, respectively – the MPK61 empowers musicians to create and manipulate melodic, harmonic and rhythmic content and manipulate quickly with its arpeggiator, MPC Swing and MPC Note Repeat technologies. The MPK61 comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software, one of the most popular and powerful performance and production programs worldwide. Ableton Live Lite enables musicians to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit musical ideas in a seamless audio/MIDI environment. The MPK61 is a MIDI controller that sends MIDI values over USB for plug-and-play performance with Mac and PC. Because they are MIDI compliant, the MPK series works with virtually all MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software for musical performers from keyboard players to producers to DJs and VJs.

“The MPK61 was designed to meet the requests of many keyboard performers,” said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Akai Professional. “They loved the MPK49’s portability and ease of integration into their setup; they liked the large scale of the MPK88, and requested something in between: the MPK61.”

The MPK61 performance keyboard controller will be available from professional audio and musical instrument retailers Q3, 2009.

# # #

About Akai Professional

Since 1984, Akai Professional products have been a staple of modern music both in the studio and on stage. With intuitive design and cutting edge features, Akai Professional is one of the world’s most influential manufacturers of musical electronics. For more information, visit www.akaipro.com; images are available at http://akaipro.com/media.php."

AKAI PRO UNVEILS TWO NEW TINY CONTROLLERS

"LPK25 and LPD8 Bring Akai Pro Quality To A New Degree Of Portability

Cumberland, R.I. (Jul. 17, 2009) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces the LPD8 laptop pad controller and LPK25 laptop performance keyboard controller. The LPD8 and LPK25 will make their debut at Akai Professional's booth, number 400, at the Summer NAMM Show held at the Nashville Convention Center, July 17 – 19.

The LPD8 and LPK25 are USB-MIDI controllers for musicians, producers, DJs and other music creators. Each model is less than 13 inches across and weighs less than a pound to easily fit into a laptop case, backpack or messenger bag for extreme portability.

The LPD8 is based on Akai Professional’s MPC line of iconic music product stations. While the smallest model, the MPC500 is quite portable, many producers prefer to work with software on their computer and the LPD8 gives their laptop the controls they prefer over a mouse and keyboard. The LPD8 has eight blue light-up pads that are velocity sensitive for programming rhythmic or melodic parts. The pads can also send program-change information to software. The LPD8 also has eight assignable Q-Link knobs to which users can assign virtually any parameters in their software for hands-on control.

The LPK25 is a scaled-down relative to the MPK series of keyboard performance controllers. The diminutive keyboard is made up of 25 miniature, velocity-sensitive keyboard keys with synth action. The LPK25 contains an arpeggiator, which steps through chords automatically, assisting musicians with creating quick melodic ideas. Sustain, octave up and down and tap tempo controls round out the LPK25’s easy-to-learn layout.

Each controller works plug and play with Mac and PC and requires no software driver installation or wall power for operation. Both the LPD8 and LPK25 have four memory banks for programming and recalling settings appropriate to different software programs they use.

“Today’s music is in constant evolution, and that requires the tools for music creation to evolve similarly,” said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Akai Professional. “The computer has entrenched itself as the new core of the music studio, and we are now seeing more live performance with computers than ever before. The LPD8 and LPK25 are the perfect extensions of the computer for making music in any setting.”

The LPD8 and LPK25 will be available from musical instrument and professional audio retailers Q3 2009.

# # #

About Akai Professional

Since 1984, Akai Professional products have been a staple of modern music both in the studio and on stage. With intuitive design and cutting edge features, Akai Professional is one of the world’s most influential manufacturers of musical electronics. For more information, visit http://www.akaipro.com/; images are available at http://akaipro.com/media.php."

Akai Announces MPC Beats Software

AkaiProVideo

"Introducing MPC Beats, the new DAW from Akai Pro. MPC Beats includes everything you need to start making great sounding beats from drum samples, loops, MPC Plugins and more. Visit akaipro.com/mpc-beats to learn more and download MPC Beats today."

MPC Beats | Introduction & Overview

And the press release:

AKAI PROFESSIONAL® INTRODUCES MPC BEATS SOFTWARE – THE BEST BEAT MAKING DAW FOR BEGINNERS

An expansive 2GB content library, 3 built-in MPC plugins, and MIDI hardware controller compatibility make MPC Beats the choice for the entry-level beat maker
Ft Lauderdale, FL USA (July 21, 2020) – Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, today announced the latest addition to their DAW software lineup, MPC Beats. Built on the legacy of the legendary MPC hardware and innovative MPC2 desktop software, MPC Beats is available to anyone as a free download from the Akai Professional website and empowers new beat makers with all the tools to create excellent sounding beats.

Intuitive MPC Workflow
Aspiring beat-makers ready to delve into the world of music production will find MPC Beats an ultra-intuitive, inspiring entry-point for producing professional sounding music. Underpinned by the renowned MPC workflow, MPC Beats offers an easily accessible 4 x 4 drum sample grid, a piano roll, sample library browser and sample edit window. Users can seamlessly switch between these workspaces to discover, create, and edit their beats to perfection. For immediate accessibility, MPC Beats includes smart layouts from the included beat templates–the ideal starting point for new users looking to master the MPC workflow.

Samples & Sounds for Success
MPC Beats comes with a 2GB content library with selections from the most popular MPC Expansion Pack sound libraries. The carefully curated selection gives beat makers the freshest in-demand sounds for modern beat-making. From drum kits with punchy kicks and crispy claps, to 3 plugin instruments (Bassline, Tubesynth & Electric) from MPC, everything needed to create great sounding beats is here. Adding the final pro polish to tracks couldn’t be simpler with over 80 FX plugins from the AIR Effects collection–a premium selection of mixdown and mastering tools–giving beat makers everything they need to finish tracks and get them ready to share on any streaming platform.

Controller Connection
Get even more out of MPC Beats with integrated hardware control. MIDI keyboards like the venerable Akai Pro MPK mini, 4x4 and 8x8 pads, or even standalone MPC hardware all work seamlessly with MPC Beats so beat makers can connect their

devices and elevate their workflow to greater heights with immersive tactile control of the software. For complete setup simplicity, MPC Beats comes auto-mapped to some of the world’s most popular controllers from numerous brands. So whether it’s an Akai Pro MPK mini, Alesis V-Mini or M-Audio Keystation, there are no setup headaches and roadblocks to your creativity.

More Power Packed Tools
MPC Beats features 2 stereo audio tracks to sample your vocals, instruments, sound design elements and more. MPC Beats also supports AU/VST plugin instruments and audio effects, allowing beat makers to continue to expand their instrument collections. For complete integration with existing systems, MPC Beats opens as a plugin in all mainstream DAWs to merge the best of all DAW worlds. With MPC Beats, the power and performance the modern beat maker demands is there for any workflow imaginable.

MPC Beats Highlights
• Free software based on the legendary MPC workflow
• 2 Audio, 8 Midi/Instrument Tracks
• 16 Pads, Sample Editing, VST/AU support
• Ready to create right away - sample/sound content, effects, and virtual
instruments built-in
• Can be mapped to any MIDI controller, including MPC and MPK mini
• Easy, unified software, plugins, and virtual instruments installer
• Special Affordable MPC Beats version of Expansions (starting at $9.99)

Of MPC Beats, senior product manager Dan Gill said “We’re always looking to better understand and identify the evolving profile of music makers. With MPC Beats, we’ve created a powerful platform for a rapidly growing demographic, equipping them with every tool to eliminate barriers between their ideas and their creations. We’ve paired the best of the MPC history with comprehensive and intuitive workflows to give the next generation the best possible start to their music journey.”

MPC Beats will be available as a free download on July 21, 2020 from akaipro.com. ###
About Akai Professional The world’s most influential manufacturer of music production gear, Akai Professional develops creative technologies to empower music makers with tools that are unmatched in expressive capability. Akai Professional is best known for creating the legendary MPC, an instrument that has inspired generations of producers and performers and spawned entirely new genres of music. Akai Professional is a part of the inMusic family of premiere music brands.

Akai Professional Introduces New MPC One Retro Standalone

video by AkaiProVideo

"The most powerful standalone workflow now in the iconic retro MPC look for a truly timeless music production experience."

And the press release:

AKAI PROFESSIONAL® UNVEILS MPC ONE RETRO STANDALONE

The modern standalone MPC workflow is now available in the iconic Retro MPC colorway for a truly timeless music production experience.

Ft Lauderdale, FL USA (May 11, 2021) — Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers today announced the latest addition to their standalone MPC hardware lineup, MPC One Retro. The MPC One Retro retains the modern standalone MPC workflow while revisiting the legendary MPC look that defined generations of music production and beat making.

The Look, The Legacy, The MPC

Spanning through past decades, the lore of 16 gray pads is forever etched into the productions of countless music- makers who were integral to hit songs and multi-platinum albums. Akai Professional has captured that rich history and style with the new MPC One Retro. Featuring the iconic retro-colored housing and gray pads, the MPC One Retro combines all the modern standalone features ready for new musical adventures and legacies.

Definitive Standalone Workflow

MPC One Retro features all the modern MPC functionality contemporary music producers have come to rely on including MPC plugin instruments for inspirational sounds, world-class award-winning insert effects plugins from AIR Music Tech., and a vibrant 7” Capacitive Multi-Touch Screen for a fast, responsive workflow—all encompassed in a solid Quad-core powered standalone unit. From sampling and beatmaking, to conception, creation, and finished masters, the MPC One Retro has stylishly emerged from celebrated musical decades of the past to deliver that modern production style found only on MPC standalone.

Exceptional Standalone Hardware Features

The Akai Professional MPC One Retro experience is all about hands-on creativity without the need of a computer. The brilliant 16 velocity/pressure-sensitive RGB-backlit pads are not only inviting to look at against the retro tone, but also serve as the core input for creating beats, chords, melodies, pulsing hi-hats, basslines and anything else you assign to them. 4 touch-sensitive Q-link knobs are the gateway to controlling many parameters and settings that will help define your signature sound.
And when you are looking for more ways to creatively expand, the MPC One Retro integrates into your music world with all the ports and jacks you need including USB, MIDI DIN, LINK, CV/Gate, 1/4” line-level audio input and a SD card slot to save, transfer and share your productions—the MPC One Retro is perfect for pairing with other synthesizers, drum machines, and sound generators. The brilliant 7” multi-touch onboard display brings the experience to a full range of inventive editing capabilities without the need of a mouse

All information subject to change akaipro.com

Unprecedented Standalone Software Control

As a controller, the MPC One Retro comes with MPC2—its counterpart DAW software for those who want to elevate their music productions further on Mac or PC. As a full-scale Digital Audio Workstation software platform, the included MPC2 software boasts 128-track sequencing, real-time time stretching, MIDI editing, clip launching, Ableton Link support, and other advanced features such VST plugin support with other DAWs. MPC2 software enriches the MPC One Retro standalone experience in both standalone and controller modes delivering all the creative potential you need.
Akai Professional, Senior Product Manager Dan Gill said “Akai Professional and the MPC have a long-storied history that resonates profoundly with users from all around the world. Each recalls their first MPC encounter and the role it played in their most cherished musical experiences. The MPC One Retro is our tribute to this rich history while proudly asserting our continued commitment to creating the most powerful standalone music production devices in the world. MPC One Retro truly embodies the best of the legendary products throughout the years and the ultimate modern standalone music production workflow.”

MPC One Retro Highlights
• Limited Edition retro colorway chassis and gray MPC pads
• Exclusive MPC Expansion Pack for MPC One Retro owners
• All the features of the MPC One Standalone (No Computer Required)
• Standalone music production center with 4GB onboard storage
• Fully compatible with projects, programs and sequences from previous MPC versions and legacy
hardware
• Comes loaded with loops and samples created by industry-leading sound designers
• Load up your own custom samples via SD card or USB
• 7” touchscreen allows you to edit and chop samples via gestures
• 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive pads for programming beats and playing melodies
• Includes acclaimed instruments including DrymSynth, Electric, TubeSynth, Bassline, and AIR FX mixing
and mastering processors
• USB controller input allows you to play sounds with your favorite controller keyboard
• 8 CV/Gate outputs for controlling modular synthesizers
• MIDI I/O for integrating synthesizers, drum machines, and other hardware
• Stereo line-level inputs and outputs on 1/4” TRS connections
• USB-A port for thumb drives or control surfaces

Available: May 11, 2021 Price: $899"

https://www.akaipro.com/mpconeretro

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AKAI APC40 Now Shipping

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL APC40 ABLETON PERFORMANCE CONTROLLER AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE

Controller Provides Seamless Musical Link Between Users, Ableton Live Software

Cumberland, R.I. (May 30, 2009) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces that the APC40 Ableton Performance Controller is now available for purchase worldwide.

Akai Professional worked in partnership with software developer Ableton to produce the APC40, the only control surface specifically designed for performance with Ableton Live software. Adding the APC40 transforms the user’s experience from one of constructing tracks with software on a computer to one of fluid, effortless, musical creation. The APC40 is the link between musician and software that perfectly balances analytical parameter control with creative expression.

Akai Professional has developed APC40.com, a dedicated Web site containing all of the information about the APC40 in one place, including text, images, video, an interactive product tour, the APC40 quick start guide, event listings, news, free downloads and more.

Akai Professional will support the APC40 launch with events on May 30 in East London, UK; Hollywood, Calif.; Miami, Fla.; Edinburgh, Scotland; Farmers Branch, Texas; Greenville, S.C.; Seattle, Wash.; New York, N.Y.; Fountain Valley, Calif.; Millbury, Mass.; and Sherman Oaks, Calif. All events are free and open to the public. Further details are available at APC40.com.

'I have been an Ableton Live user since version 1.0. I've never found a controller that did the things I wanted it to do with Live,” said Glen Darcey, Product Manager, Akai Professional. “There were many things that would work, but I could never find an elegant solution. Akai Pro president, Jack O'Donnell, recognized Live’s popularity and the potential of pairing it with our hardware designs. Before long, we approached Ableton and got moving on developing what would eventually be the APC40.'

The APC40 is available now from pro audio and musical instrument retailers. It has U.S. retail price of $599, and a street price of $399."

NAMM 2013: New Akai MPX8 Sample Pad Controller & MAX25

"MPX8
SD Sample Pad Controller

Add sound samples via standard SD card (sold separately)
8 velocity-sensitive and pressure-sensitive pads
Drag-and-drop sample editor for Mac and PC included
Built-in library of popular sounds, samples, and bumps
Tune, add reverb, save sample sets for easy recall
USB MIDI plus standard MIDI inputs and outputs
1/8” headphone output and balanced 1/4” outputs"

"MAX25
Compact USB/MIDI/CV Keyboard Controller

25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 4 LED touch faders
Included AkaiConnect software automatically maps to VSTs
8 MPC pads, MPC Note Repeat, and MPC Swing
4 pad banks, 4 fader banks: 64 assignable pads, faders, and buttons
Step sequencer and expanded arpeggiator
CV & Gate outputs (1V/Oct), Mackie Control® and HUI® modes"

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL ANNOUNCES MAX25 KEYBOARD AND NEW ULTRA-COMPACT SAMPLE LAUNCHER WITH MPC® PADS
Adding to Akai Pro’s keyboard controller and portable production instrument lines, MAX25 and MPX8 give musicians groundbreaking capability in space-saving designs.

Cumberland, R.I. (January 24, 2013) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces MPX8, a standalone SD sample launcher with MPC pads, and MAX25, an innovative USB/MIDI/CV keyboard controller. Akai Professional will unveil MPX8 and MAX25 at Booth 6700 at the 2013 NAMM show, January 24-27 in Anaheim, California.

MPX8 is one of Akai Professional’s most innovative pad instruments yet. Using a standard SD card, users can load virtually any sample onto MPX8 and then assign it to any of the unit’s eight backlit velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads. MPX8 also comes with a large library of standard samples built in, which can be used for live performance in front of a crowd, on a radio show, or for in-studio production. Its bright blue backlit display and intuitive interface make for easy operation in any amount of light. A 1/8-inch headphone output, two balanced 1/4-inch outputs, and five-pin MIDI and USB MIDI inputs and outputs are onboard. 'With MPX8, we’re giving musicians a quick and convenient way to have one-touch access to a virtually unlimited number of sounds, shots, stabs, and drops,' said Dan Gill, Akai Professional Product Manager. MPX8 comes with a drag-and-drop sample editor for Mac® and PC for easy sample conversion. Users can also save sample sets together as kits for easy recall and even tune and add reverb to samples.

Akai Professional will also exhibit MAX25, a compact version of the innovative MAX49 USB/MIDI/CV keyboard controller that was released in 2012. MAX25 has all of the same cutting-edge features as MAX49, including CV/Gate output, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, a built-in step sequencer, expanded arpeggiator, and revolutionary LED touch faders for gradual or instant parameter value changes. The difference between MAX49 and MAX25 only lies in the number of onboard controls. Where MAX49 has 49 keys, 8 faders, and 12 pads, MAX25 has 25, 4, and 8, respectively. Like MAX49, MAX25 will come with AkaiConnect automatic-mapping software and Mackie Control® and HUI® modes for instant compatibility with many DAWs. 'This is a controller that’s made to be in front of a crowd,” said Gill. 'It’s everything people love about MAX49 but in a compact package that will fit perfectly in front of a laptop on stage.'

Mac is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Mackie Control and HUI are registered trademarks of LOUD Technologies Inc."

NAMM: AKAI PROFESSIONAL INTRODUCES APC20 COMPACT ABLETON PERFORMANCE CONTROLLER

"Powerful Ableton Live Performance in Compact Form Factor

Cumberland, R.I. (Jan. 14, 2010) – Akai Professional, the name synonymous with music production, announces the APC20 Ableton Performance Controller. Akai Pro will introduce the APC20 at the 2010 Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA, booth 6400, January 14–17.

Akai Professional worked in partnership with software developer Ableton to create the APC20, the second control surface created by Akai Professional for performance with Ableton Live software. Like the APC40, adding the APC20 transforms the user’s experience from one of constructing tracks with a keyboard and mouse to composing and performing with a seamless, fully integrated hardware/software musical system.

The APC20 retains many of the APC40’s most popular features and capabilities, while shrinking the physical footprint and adding interesting new capabilities. The smaller size enables musicians to perform in less space and makes setting up multiple controllers and devices easier. Power users can use the APC20 in conjunction with an APC40 to expand their track and clip controls.

Like the APC40, the APC20 centers on its five-by-eight Clip Launch grid. This bank of multicolor triggers not only start and stop clips playing in Live, they also show cells’ status in the software – whether a clip is loaded or not, whether it is playing or not, record-armed status and more. Clip Stop triggers, transport controls and faders round out the control surface. Users can switch the APC20’s faders between volume control, pan, sends and three different user-mapped modes. A new Note Mode enables musicians to use the Clip Launch buttons to control virtual instruments and Ableton Live’s Drum Rack.

Because Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC20 for use with Ableton Live software, the system is truly plug and play, although advanced Live users will appreciate that the APC20 enables them to remap every one of its controls to suit their own style.

“The APC20 is perfect for performers who like to customize their setup with multiple controllers, or just want a more compact setup,” said Adam Cohen, Director of Business Development, Akai Professional. “You’ll spend less time looking at the computer screen, using a mouse and keyboard with the APC20”

The APC20 will be available from pro audio and musical instrument retailers in January 2010. It has a U.S. Retail Price of $299.00 and an estimated street price of $199.00

Ableton and Ableton Live are trademarks of Ableton AG."
via http://www.akaipro.com/content217666

AKAI PRO Introduces New MPK Line of Professional Keyboard Controllers

MPK261 Performance USB/MIDI Pad & Keyboard Controller

61 semi-weighted, full-size keys
16 MPC pads with RGB illuminated feedback
8 assignable control knobs
8 assignable faders Updated control layout with backlit LCD screen
USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output
Comprehensive transport & parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration
Pitch bend, modulation and octave controls for dynamic performances
Expression & sustain pedal jack inputs
Comprehensive production software package included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, SONiVOX Eighty-Eight Ensemble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials

MPK249 Performance USB/MIDI Pad & Keyboard Controller

49 semi-weighted, full-size keys
16 MPC pads with RGB illuminated feedback
8 assignable control knobs
8 assignable faders Updated control layout with backlit LCD screen
USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output
Comprehensive transport & parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration
Pitch bend, modulation and octave controls for dynamic performances
Expression & sustain pedal jack inputs
Comprehensive production software package included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 & Akai Pro MPC Essentials

MPK225 Performance USB/MIDI Pad & Keyboard Controller

25 semi-weighted, full-size keys
8 MPC pads with RGB illuminated feedback
8 assignable control knobs
Updated control layout with backlit LCD screen
Comprehensive transport & parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration
Pitch bend, modulation and octave controls for dynamic performances
Expression & sustain pedal jack inputs
Comprehensive production software package included: Ableton Live Lite, AIR Hybrid 3, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials

MPK mini Performance USB/MIDI Pad & Keyboard Controller

25 synth-action mini keys
New 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch/modulation control
8 MPC pads with Note Repeat
8 assignable control knobs for mixing, tweaking plug-ins and more
Ultra-compact design lets you create anywhere
USB-powered; no power adapter required
Comprehensive production software package included: Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble 2.0

Press release:

"AKAI PRO EXTENDS ITS INDUSTRY-LEADING MPK LINE OF PROFESSIONAL KEYBOARD CONTROLLERS WITH NEW MODELS

New keyboard controllers from Akai Professional provide hands-on music production capabilities with modern DAW control.

Cumberland, RI, USA – January 22, 2014. Akai Professional announces four additions to its popular MPK USB keyboard/pad controller series— the 25-key MPK225, 49-key MPK249, 61- key MPK261 and an update to the ultra-portable MPK Mini.

Housed in a slimmer, all-new design, each full-size model features RGB backlit trigger pads lifted straight from the MPC Renaissance and a 20-character LCD screen with comprehensive parameter feedback. Designed to erase the line between hardware control and software performance, the new MPK family also includes the ability to send QWERTY-style commands using soft-controls, a low-power mode for iOS connectivity via the Camera Connection Kit and enhanced response from the refined keybed.

The latest members of the full-size MPK series also come with advanced music production software titles including AbletonTM Live Lite and MPC Essentials – a powerful sample-based groove production application – and spectral morphing synth Twist from SONiVOX. Owners of the MPK249 and MPK261 will also receive AIR Music Tech’s high-definition Hybrid 3 virtual synth, while MPK261 owners also receive SONiVOX Eighty-Eight Ensemble.

MPK Highlights (full-size models):
• New full-size, semi-weighted keybed in 25-, 49- and 61-key models
• Backlit, velocity-sensitive RGB trigger pads derived from the MPC Renaissance
• Includes industry-leading music creation software from AbletonTM, Akai Professional,
AIR and SONiVOX
• New layout with LCD screen for faster access to essential DAW-based functions •
• Hyper-responsive pitch bend & modulation wheels; octave controls

The refreshed MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard remains true to its name as the ultimate portable keyboard controller. It’s comprised with an impressive array of controls in the small 25 mini-key frame including an all-new joystick control for pitch and modulation functionality, trigger pads ported from the MPC Renaissance, famed Note Repeat, a full-size USB connector, and an improved keybed.

MPK Mini Highlights:

• Ultra-compact design lets you create anywhere; 25 synth-action mini keys
• 8 backlit, velocity-sensitive trigger pads derived from the MPC Renaissance
• New 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch/modulation control
• 8 assignable control knobs for mixing, tweaking plug-ins and more
• USB-powered; no power adapter required

Akai Professional Product Manager Dan Gill notes, “The MPK series has been a huge success for us, and these new models incorporate five years of customer feedback that deliver even more capability to keyboard players and music producers. By providing users with superior control capabilities and powerful music creation software, the latest additions to the MPK family are an instant upgrade to any studio or stage setup.”
The new range of MPK controllers will be available at the following street prices: MPK225 Performance Keyboard Controller ($249.99 USD), MPK249.99 USB/MIDI Performance Keyboard ($399.99 USD), MPK261 USB/MIDI Performance Keyboard ($499.99 USD), and MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard ($99.99 USD).

Akai Professional will unveil the MPK keyboard controllers at the 2014 NAMM Show in Hall A, Booth 6700, January 23-26 in Anaheim, California. For more information, visit: www.akaipro.com/wnamm2014"

Update: NAMM floor video:

AKAI MPK 249 Controller at NAMM 2014 - BBoyTechReport.com -

Published on Jan 22, 2014 BBoy Tech Report·44 videos

"MPK249 is the updated MPK 49. Name changed at the last minute to distinguish between the original and the new refreshed version."