Engineered to be an all-in-one controller solution, the Akai Professional AKAI MPK249 Performance Keyboard Controller combines deep software integration, enhanced workflow, and core technologies from the iconic line of MPC workstations. Each member of Akai Pro’s MPK series comes fully loaded with a comprehensive interface for manipulating virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAWs, and more. MPK249 features 49 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 8 assignable knobs, faders, and switches, 16 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback, and onboard transport buttons. Three banks expand the number of knobs, faders, and switches (up to 24 each), and four pad banks expand the number of pads (up to 64 total). Plus, MPK249 is optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC with USB power and plug-and-play connectivity.

Made To Play

AKAI MPK249 Performance Keyboard Controller comes equipped with 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys and a premium piano-style keybed for unprecedented response and natural feel. Each key is velocity-sensitive and outfitted with aftertouch for dynamic, expressive performances and recordings. In addition, onboard Octave Up and Down controls allow players to access the entire melodic range; play bass lines, piano harmony, solo leads and much more.

Production Software

AKAI MPK249 Performance Keyboard Controller is armed with powerful production software—Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats—for out-of-the-box music creation. Ableton Live Lite is a fluid audio/MIDI environment that enables musicians and producers to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit musical ideas. MPC Beats is a free and fully featured beat making DAW software for both Mac and PC based on the legendary MPC workflow. It also works as a VST plugin inside any major DAW. From the moment you install MPC Beats, you’re ready to start creating, fast. Utilize over 2GB worth of content including samples, loops, and built-in virtual instrument plugins to craft your sound. Experience plug and play compatibility with all class-compliant USB controllers. MPC Beats has plenty of power for ambitious creators with over 80 audio FX plugins to warp, manipulate and transform audio into whatever you can think of. Plus VST/AU compatibility means there’s room to expand your sonic palette with compatible third-party virtual instrument plugins and audio processing plugins. You can even record instruments or vocals with 2 stereo audio tracks to add live elements to your music.

AKAI MPK249 Performance Keyboard Controller Features:

• 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch
• 16 RGB-illuminated MPC pads each with 4 banks for 64 pads
• 24 assignable Q-Link controllers include knobs, faders, and switches (8 of each)
• Revamped control layout with backlit LCD screen
• iOS compatibility using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output
• Comprehensive transport and parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration
• MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator for advanced rhythmic and melodic manipulation
• MPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with dynamics and tempo
• Pitch bend, modulation, and octave controls for expressive recording and performing
• 1 assignable footswitch jack and 1 expression jack
• USB power and plug-and-play connectivity
• Production software package included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, and MPC Beats (downloads)
• Includes VIP3.0 – the ground-breaking, award-winning music software platform that provides musicians and composers with a powerful hands-on control solution for their virtual instrument and virtual effect collection