Akai has announced the MPK49 is now available for purchase.

Maximize musical ideas on-stage or in the studio with the new Akai MPK49 performance controller. The Akai MPK49 ushers in a new era for USB/MIDI controllers by combining a high-quality, 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and 12 genuine MPC drum pads. 48 total pads are accessible via 4 pad banks. The pads feature the heart and soul of hip hop: the MPC Note Repeat function and Swing parameters. The Akai MPK49 Performance Controller also has its own arpeggiator, for creating quick, creative riffs in seconds.

Akai MPK49 performance controller

Akai MPK49 performance controller

MPK49 Key features

  • 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys
  • 8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total
  • 12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity
  • 8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total
  • MPC note repeat and all-new arpeggiator
  • 8 assignable backlit switches with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total
  • MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons
  • Large, easy-to-read custom LCD display

The MPK49 costs £299.99 GBP and comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition (contains 28 custom Akai Impulse presets with samples) and a USB Cable.

Visit Akai Professional for more information.