Akai reveals a bigger sibling for one of the best budget MIDI controllers
Akai’s MPK Mini mk3 is a solid and affordable way to get into MIDI keyboard controllers, but there’s still a chance you want more flexibility for your music-making sessions. Thankfully, the company now has a more powerful option that still keeps costs in check. The just-launched MPK Mini Plus offers more range by expanding from 25 to 37 keys, and introduces more advanced elements like a two-track step/live sequencer, chord and scale modes, DAW-friendly transport controls and wheels for pitch bending and modulation. You’ll also find full five-pin MIDI ports (you previously needed USB) as well as CV/Gate connectors for attaching synths and similar modular equipment.
The main draws of the mk3 remain intact. The MPK Mini Plus still has eight RGB-lit MPC drum pads, an X/Y joystick (now fully assignable) and features like an arpeggiator, sustain pedal input and octave shifting. The hardware is USB-powered, includes a small OLED screen and comes with Akai’s MPCBeats software to help get your productions started.
The MPK Mini Plus is available through Amazon and other shops for $169. That’s significantly more than the $119 for the mk3, but it’s clear where the money went. As it stands, you’ll likely have a hard time finding other MIDI controllers with this feature set below $200. This may be your best bet if you’re on a budget but still want a device that can grow along with your musical talents.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All prices are correct at the time of publishing.
Akai’s MPK Mini mk3 is a solid and affordable way to get into MIDI keyboard controllers, but there’s still a chance you want more flexibility for your music-making sessions. Thankfully, the company now has a more powerful option that still keeps costs in check. The just-launched MPK Mini Plus offers more range by expanding from 25 to 37 keys, and introduces more advanced elements like a two-track step/live sequencer, chord and scale modes, DAW-friendly transport controls and wheels for pitch bending and modulation. You’ll also find full five-pin MIDI ports (you previously needed USB) as well as CV/Gate connectors for attaching synths and similar modular equipment.
The main draws of the mk3 remain intact. The MPK Mini Plus still has eight RGB-lit MPC drum pads, an X/Y joystick (now fully assignable) and features like an arpeggiator, sustain pedal input and octave shifting. The hardware is USB-powered, includes a small OLED screen and comes with Akai’s MPCBeats software to help get your productions started.
The MPK Mini Plus is available through Amazon and other shops for $169. That’s significantly more than the $119 for the mk3, but it’s clear where the money went. As it stands, you’ll likely have a hard time finding other MIDI controllers with this feature set below $200. This may be your best bet if you’re on a budget but still want a device that can grow along with your musical talents.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All prices are correct at the time of publishing.
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