AKAI MPK MINI PLUS - why it may win | Akai MPK Mini Plus Review
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- Опубликовано: 24 окт 2022
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1. Akai MPK Mini Plus geni.us/FMNDS7
2. Minilab 3 geni.us/qjYl
3. Akai MPK Mini geni.us/6M2JNEM
4. M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini geni.us/cdGB7p
5. Native Instruments M32 geni.us/r1YI
Other keyboard reviews:
Minilab 3 • ARTURIA MINILAB 3 - Be...
My BIG keyboard comparison • TOP 6 MIDI KEYBOARDS i...
Novation Launchkey • Novation Launchkey Min...
Native Instruments M32 • Native Instruments M32...
Akai MPK Mini • AKAI MPK Mini MK3 - Be...
This is my first hands-on video about the Akai MPK Mini Plus keyboard. The Akai MPK Mini Plus is a 37 key, affordable keyboard that Akai makes. I discuss the features, the size, the feel, and demo all the features including the sequencer, chord, arp, and scale features, keys, drum pads, knobs, faders, and more. This midi controller keyboard is light and easy to carry around. However, the Akai MPK Mini Plus has a couple drawbacks. Watch and find out!
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⬇ Links to all keyboards ⬇
1. Akai MPK Mini Plus geni.us/FMNDS7
2. Minilab 3 geni.us/qjYl
3. Akai MPK Mini geni.us/6M2JNEM
4. M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini geni.us/cdGB7p
5. Native Instruments M32 geni.us/r1YI
Hii Sanjay..Need help..M Audio oxygen pro mini Vs Arturia minilab 3 Vs Akai mpk mini plus...What will be best according to you..Need to buy one urgently..Also do u have any idea when this will be available in India for purchase online..
@@MusicianHemant I have the exact same question. Do you now know which one is the best?
Can I use it without computer?
@@CH-zj7ku I dont think you can. You need to put sounds from the computer into the keyboard.
Where's a hard case for this ???
I can't find one !
This is definitely one of the best reviews I have seen on these keyboards. Thanks for pointing out the difference between this and the play keyboard and also the addition of the transport feature. Excellent instruction! Thank you. I might have purchased the wrong instrument had I not seen this video!
Thank you so much Sanjay. I was waiting for this video, I have been checking your updates for the past two days🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
Awesome...thank you, Musole!
We (all of your subscribers and viewers) really appreciate your thoroughness and objectivity, Sanjay. EXCELLENT review... as always!
The video I was looking for, thank you bro!
Watched your video, and ordered one for myself, to replace my existing mpk mini mk3. For me, addition of another octave is just irresistible! Thanks Sanjay.
My equipment in my studio is only there because of your videos.. I've never gone wrong with any of them..🙏🏼 Thank you Sanjay 💪🏼
Really nice to hear that, Ahmed. Thanks so much!
Amazing review! Thank you Sanjay C. I love your videos. Top notch, always.
Thanks a ton
Always on top 👍 !
Thanks buddy , this is a very good job !
Thanks a lot! How are you doing, MISTER GRoOVEMAN?
good review. 37 keys is so nice. it looks more pro and more robust than the regular minis. the look and the feel, seems modern and a little more robust. those knobs are amazing. i use it with my apc40mk2 which i love also, the knobs are even better.
Hi sanjay! I just want to say I really enjoy your videos, especially the weekly news ones.
I like your chill,cool style and the way you explain all you do, Keep it up!👊👊
Thanks so much. So glad you’re enjoying my vids. I’ll keep them coming! 😊
@@SanjayC Coming from a longtime watcher of the videos.
Este es el único vídeo en el que se realiza una comparación con el mpk3, es el único vídeo que explica que sofware trae y no solo lo da por hecho.
La calidad del video exelente como siempre, Además siempre cuenta con la opción de subtitulos. Sos el mejor sigue así me encantó.
Muchas gracias por notarlo. Agradezco tus amables palabras.
I'm glad to see you compare this to similar or recent alternatives like the Oxygen Pro Mini and the Minilab3! Perhaps a small update to your previous video comparing mini keyboards is worth making? I'd also love to see a comparison chart between them, if you know where to find one please lmk!
That’s a nice idea. Maybe I should make a comparison chart and link it from my videos. Thanks, Daniel!
@@SanjayC I'm surprised how good your response makes me feel. I'm glad my suggestion was useful! And if it works well, maybe other categories like microphones and audio interfaces can also be compared. Of course your videos are the best for an in depth description but a chart would be a helpful summary
Has this chart comparison been made? The only thing I am worried about with the oxygen are the reports of dead or burned in screens
Great video as always! A comparison with the Oxygen Pro Mini would be amazing tho
Awes review SanjayC! ❤
Thank you!
Waiting for this review... Thanks
Let me know what you think of it
Omg I love your set up ❤
I love your work!
Thank you so much 😀
I want it! I’m downsizing this will fit perfect on my desk for production
When it comes to controlling hardware, don't forget: synths aren't everything. This controller works amazingly well with MPCs (and Force) and the SP-404 mkII, for example. Add keys to your groovebox.
I’m thinking of getting it for my ipad. How do you get in with midi mapping for it and also quick in the fly midi channel changes?
I hope Akai will also bring the 37-ley version Play (built-in sound and speaker). That would suit my needs perfectly as I would love to just take it out and play anytime anywhere without having to connect to a computer, run the DAW before I could play.
Thanks! Pretty darn cool. Akai bringing the heat..
Yes, they are! Innovating for sure! Thanks for the kind Super Thanks, buddy!
I think it’s worth mentioning that iOS apps can provide the faders for Ableton, Logic, and probably other DAWs, too. So the lack of faders on a keyboard is not necessarily a deal-breaker. Other mini keyboards usually have only 4 faders, so it might be better to go with an app if you’re really trying to replicate a full mixer anyway.
True...can you get used to the faders on a touchscreen?
I bought the MPK Mini PLUS to replace an arutria keystep and I love the Akai better. Sure the keys on the Arturia feel "slightly" better, but the Akai has served me well when using it with my MPC One and Roland SP404 mk2. I don't like computer DAWs and prefer standalone drum machines/sequences, and this keyboard plays well with those.
I find the Akai especially interesting because its not tied to Ableton live, like almost any other Keyboard on the market. So does my MPK 261, which I love using with Logic pro.
awesome review 👍
Thanks so much...do you think you'd use the sequencer?
@@SanjayC definitely
What up Sanjay! Just thought I'd mention - while I'm glad for the dedicated pitch and mod wheels (so much better), I think they kept the "joystick" for x/y controls. All modern Akai hardware and software features an x/y pad for controlling, say, a beat repeat and a filter simultaneously (lots of other parameter combos). I use it on the Akai Force all the time, and the stick on the mini mk3 works perfectly with it. That's my theory of why they kept it even after adding the wheels.
I'm always glad to hear people are making use of the joystick on Akai's keyboards. Thanks for giving others here some useful info as well!
Thx, that joystick was a mystery to me. 🤨
I’m gonna have to make the jump and buy this asap, most likely with my next paycheck. I’m currently using the mpk mini 2 and I feel that the extra 12 keys alone make it worth it. After watching your thorough review I’m sold. Thank you!!
This was enough to prompt me to hit buy for this Midi on Amazon ;) Thanks, I think! I'm a complete amateur dabbling with Logic Pro and just want to have a little fun with something that can sit on the desk.
Sanjay, I'm a newb, setting up a basic GarageBand studio. Your vids on min-key-controllers are the best I've found; the functional detail you go into I have not found anywhere else. I had no idea how complex these things are. Still haven't made a decision, as I continue to go over all your vids. Can you recommend a basic production training for GB, and for setting up a basic, budget studio. Right now I have: Mac Studio, GarageBand and I'm outputting sound to Sonos speakers (faux "studio monitors"). I'm plunking on my computer key to input midi notes, lol. Thanks!
Nice vid Sanjay, long time subscriber. Imagine a MPK mini 49key or better yet , an Akai Force 61 key with polyphonic aftertouch and 8gigs ram. Yeah, I'm not from this planet.
Would be interesting if they released an MPK Mini Plus Play in the future. Chassis that big, it should be easy to integrate speakers so you can run it on its own when you take it outside.
Exactly! add in a rechargeable battery and I’m sold!!
Awesome review.
Thanks so much. Is this something you may buy?
@@SanjayC I’ve been on the fence. MAudios mini 32 seems more appealing. You would think with both of them being under the same umbrella that the MPK would have had sliders and deeper daw integration
Great review as always!! Personally, I prefer using the joystick instead of the wheels because you can control pitch and mod at the same time. I thought it to be rather handy!
Agree 100% I REALLY don't like pitch and mod wheels.
Yes!!! Another Sanjay video!!!
Yes...its here! How are you, Anthony B?
@@SanjayC doing great. I'm ready to check out this video after this work meeting. Lol... Happy Diwali to you and your wife!
Happy Diwali! Yeah, get that meeting done and then ready to play!
@@SanjayC haha
Great review as always.. but how portable is it actually? I’m looking to buy a MIDI keyboard to carry around, but I am unsure if that will even fit in my backpack haha
This is without a doubt my next midi controller, portable to go to work or anywhere with it and the crucial factor of the 37 keys, I find the Mini lab 3 better for the majority of people, but for me the keys are the key hahaah, saludos desde México!
Sanjay, I'm not lying but you're definitely helping with my music production! Lets get the Oxygen Pro Mini vs MPK Plus vid!!
Which keyboard do you think would win that battle?
@@SanjayC Oxygen, the Akai is the same as the Pro Mini but tweaked. It's quite weird as a company who make great keyboards and music technology would only just release this!
interesting video! Greetings from Italy
Notification Gangggggg!! Also, the joystick+Wheels combo is SUCH a lifesaver
Whats up Notification Gang!!! Yeah, the wheels make a huge difference! do you think you'd use the sequencer?
@@SanjayC I'm not really into sequencers, having been a Drummer for 11+ years I kind of dislike having to loop over something of 4 to 8 bars... I'd rather have small variations everytime, that human touch. But I do see it being useful in EDM or music of similar genre. I'm more hyped about the wheel+joystick combo because now I can map MPE controls easily, I mean... 3 centered controls and one static? IT'S A BLESSING!
Although having said that, I can see how it can work out in a live environment. Imagine having a small bassline looped with the sequencer and then jamming and shredding crazy on top of that. Almost like asking the audience to clap and keep time for you, instead this time, the computer actually does stay in time.
Yeah, I want to see how that joystick+wheels situation pans out for others. Could be a really nice setup for MPE
@@SanjayC Can you make a video pushing the sequencer and joysticks to their limits? Like 4 controls on the joystick maybe? And how many notes can the sequencer handle polyphonically... Push them to their absolute limits?
thank you for review . completely. just asking which midi keyboard stand alone ...no need to DAW you will suggest . Price is intresting also . thank you sanjay🌹
Excellent, thanks
You are welcome! What do you like most about this keyboard?
Nice review as usual 👌. For me, Akai has always had great pads, but their keys just are a bit lacking. I much prefer the Arturia feel.
Hard to beat those Arturia keys...but with the extra space on the Mini Plus...it was easier to feel comfortable playing.
Akai have aftertouch though. Making them better for expressive playing on AT enabled vsts. Arturia missed a trick by not using the same keybed as the arturia keystep 37 in this regard and ribbon pitch bends are useless.
@@wilkopiano probably it doesn't make as much sense on a 25 key keyboard where you're likely playing with one hand. You'll have much better control over the parameters with knobs compared to aftertouch anyway
One important difference is this has 8 360 degree knobs, most midi controllers have fixed range knobs which is limiting. For example, you can use these knobs in MPC beats mapped as additional MPC q-link knobs OR if you're a hacker you can modify an MPC one/live/etc and map them to q-link in standalone so you double (or triple technically) the amount of external q-link knobs.
For other UIs/vsts/DAWs it's useful to have the full range for things like zooming or scrolling
Great review! Thank you...
I own a mpk mini2 and I like it very much. But the editor was awful! Do you still need the old and terrible editor program for the PLUS? Or is there another possibility now to program the CC-knobs for example?
looks like a big improvement. I chose the launchkey mini over the akai mpk mini.
Peace Sanjay,
Do any other midi controllers have the scale feature as mentioned @ 9:56 ???
Thanks in advance. Keep up the content brother!!
Looks like a great all-in controller. Now I wonder if my recent purchase of the Arturia Minilab 3 was the right choice? 😉😉
hello Sanjay, loving your channel!
im a Didgeridoo player and am asking all across for some advice, but havent heard a lot.
im looking for some hardware to be able to Control the Didgeridoo's reverb, echo, delay and also add modulations, maybe, through some effects(if possible) while playing Live (instead of my venue's sound engineer mixing for me).
could you suggest what would work well? (also why im keen on hardware is because i neither own any gear nor any expertise on daw softwares)
thank you so much advance!! hoping to hear from you :)
Nice one. In the video you mentioned that it is missing sound mixer. Can we use external mixer setup with this?
I was getting convinced to buy it until I saw there is no scene control for Ableton :( I feel it is a big miss. Still looks like a great option for recording and the MIDI implementation is nice.
This is a big step.
Keep all these same features.
The final steps.
1) Scribble script under each encoder.
2) Put some onboard sounds. Forget the play series.
3) Make the sounds upgrade able via software and firmware upgrades.
That would end the game for portable compact keyboard.
It would be nice if the key bed were a little wider and longer. My Inateck bag can do a little longer and wider. But understand the necessity for compact.
Wow@ scribble script!
@@SanjayC for sure!
How about a review of 37-key iRig 2 Pro ? I find it a great addition that allows me to compose literally anywhere via an iPhone connection; no battery or Bluetooth required. I can then seamlessly connect to my Mac when I return to the studio to edit.
Being waiting for this
So what do you think about the keyboard?
@@SanjayC its super great, love the fact that it has more keys, and the daw controls as well.. the sequencer top notch.. I love it.. it's very similar to the oxygen pro mini.. one day I'll have one.. thanks for this so much
Sanjay! Excellent review as always.
This looks really solid! Difficult for me to choose between the mini plus, launchkey 37, or the oxygen pro mini now for a desktop controller!
Side question, I’m primarily a guitarist that also loves making beats / EDM, but I’ve really wanted to get into learning piano. Do you have any thoughts or suggestions on a setup that’s an entry level digital piano and a simple drum pad midi controller to go with it? I primarily use Logic, but I’m looking to give Ableton a shot soon.
Much love friend!
There are lots of keyboards that work well with Logic. I highlight some of them in this video ruclips.net/video/Mj2snnDMSKU/видео.html. For drum pad controllers, I would look into Novation controllers for Logic. Check to make sure the one you buy is compatible. And they will work well with Ableton if you decide to switch.
Thank you so much Sanjay!!
I'd go with launchkey 37. Handles all those daws very well, has knobs for mixing and the best transport controls of all these controllers.
I have both Akai APC Mini and Midimix and I just recently ordered the MPK Plus, for live sessions i think that's just the real deal
I think this will replace my Komplete Kontrol M32, which was a perfect device except for having to press Shift-Plugin EVERY SINGLE time I wanted to use the knobs for Ableton device controls 🙄 it looks like this one has that enabled by default which is huge!
Hey Sanjay,
I’m new to your videos and have been watching a lot of them thank you very much
I’m almost ready to buy my first midi controller
There is one controller I have not seen you review I’m intrested in your opinion on and that’s the Irig keys I/O
Hi...thanks for keep up with my videos. I need to check out the iRig hands on. I think I'll get one. Thanks for the suggestion!
@@SanjayC word, that would be awesome. I’m grateful you considered it even.
I’m a beginner for sure, I have only played marimba. I find myself wanting to learn some music production and playing the keyboard.
I think the included software in the Irig keys I/O, combined with the user friendly plug and play perks of using an iPad on the go make it almost perfect.
I’m looking into the 49 key version and the only thing holding me back is the price at 329.99 usd… I’d love to here if you think the product holds up to that price
Thank you a bunch Sanjay… you rule
But can you reassign the pads and knobs like on the beatstep for example? So I can change banks etc on a midi soundmodule
It does slot perfectly between the Keystep & Keystep Pro.
A lot of features...do you think you'd use the sequencer?
Thanks for the review! Great one... yet again! I have a question though- How do I get the transport controls to work with Logic Pro? With the "built in" Logic Pro mode, I was not able to get it to work. Can anyone let me know what I am missing? Thanks in advance.
I've been watching your videos and I still can't decide which one to get from the Novation LaunchKey Mini 3, Akai MPK Mini Plus, MAudio Oxygen Pro Mini, or the Arturia Mini Lab. I will be producing with Ableton and Komplete 14. Any suggestions on the best one? Or of another one I may have not mentioned? Thank you.
It looks fantastic. But Arturia minilab 3 looks fantastic as well.
I haven't tried any of them. But on the surface Akai mpk mini plus looks better.
Nice vid! Just wondering if it works with Cubase?
OMG that's what I always wanted! 😍
I will replace my Oxygen Pro Mini with this, I need the 37 keys (why on earth is that not standard?)! And transport controls of course, plus Akai's pads are just the best. Woah the sequencer feature is mindblowing! 🤯Can't wait for this to come out!
Its available for preorder now. Are you getting it?
@@SanjayC need your thoughts, this Akai or Miniab3
How easy is it to change the MIDI channel for the keybed, and is it true that doing that also changes the channel of all the knobs and pads? Because that would be a massive limitation in a DAWless setup.
looks good for me. currently in a small room with minimal gear and somethign that can go on my lap would be amazing. my ergonomic situation is terrible. only keyboard i brought with me is a modx 7 and its situated awkwardly i dont even use it half the time.
Hello, do the knobs work with value recall with the first 8 Ableton synths devices buttons only (like Arturia keyboard) or with all the Ableton synths devices knobs ? Thanks.
Thanks!
Wow! Thank you so much for the incredible Super Thanks, Josh! I truly appreciate it. That's a lot of money...Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones if you're celebrating this time of year!
Hello! I would like to know if it has a proper MIDI thru capability. Can it pass MIDI data with ext. clock incoming on it’s input and route that to it’s output? Thanks!
Hello Sanjay , I was wondering what software the mini plus comes with. I went to the Akai website to check it out but I didn't get much on the software side of things.
I'm thinking if I can use this as a midi control for my Korg Volca Beats and Korg Volc Keys? And also to my guitar pedals that has midi ins, like Strymon Volante and Strymon Mobius.
I noticed you had 2 cables plugged in during the demo. Does the USB cable not provide enough power? meaning you’d have to use another wall outlet to power while using it in a DAW?
Hey Sanjay, thanks soo much for this video!
I have a quick question, can the recommended software run Monterrey and m1 chips?
Nice!
I can’t deal with my 25 Key MPK Mini so definitely picking this up.
In my new apartment, I can’t fit my full size Casio next to my workstation and 25 keys is simply not enough.
Thank you very much for your video!
Do you know if I can use it with android devices?
Thank you very much.
Regards.
Bruh... You had me cracking up the whole time.
Hey, its Ave! Thanks for watching, my friend. I'm not much of a comedian...so any laughs are appreciated! 😎
i ve just ordered it , i just hope the keys are playable enough ( it a bit expensive though compared to something like novation launchkey37 mk3)
The keys are decent. I think you'll be happy.
Hei Sanjay, great video, I have just exchanged my Push 2 for a Novation 49 SL MKIII. I like piano keys more. But this thing would be cool too. Which monitor do you use for Ableton? Thanks
I use an the LG 5k2k monitor. I love it. And I love the SL MKIII - such a great keyboard for Ableton
Can you change the rate of the note repeat when it’s active? Like 16th notes, 8th notes etc.
I am still waiting for the VS video of this, the oxygen pro mini and the minilab mk3. Workflow comparisons etc.. A bonus would be ipad workflow but it may be asking too much since I know you are more of an Ableton guy.
Mixer volume control probably could be updated via firmware if they wanted. We shall see though 😂
Just looking into this. Why so few keys? I would still love to have 88key. Feels like Im going to miss all those missing keys when starting to play around with this.
Not able to find a comparison video between the FL Key 37 and Akai Mini Plus, which one would be a better choice interms of portability, features and key comfortness? Is it comfortable to play with two hands on a Akai Mini Plus keys?
Based on the review I've purchased one of these Keyboards for my daughter. She cuurenlty owns an Air Mac and monitor speakers. Do I need to purchase anything else? I have no idea what a HardWare Synth is - although I have looked...and the comment below regarding MPCs (and Force) and the SP-404 mkII blew my mind...
Do the comparison of available 37 key controllers! This, Oxygen, keystep 37 etc.
Somebody got a slider! Nice moves!
Thanks a lot! Sliders are a lot of fun
How do you think this would translate to live use with Ableton?
Hello Sanjay C!
I need your advice. I have the MPK Mini Mk3 and want to move up to a 37 or 49 MIDI keyboard that would be best for Logic.
I’ve watched your videos on the Mini Plus and the one from two years ago on the Novation Launchkey. I’m only learning piano right now and am more at writing and producing music in Logic.
Since I am new, I would be budget wise but will match price with value. Any suggestions?
Thanks for your reviews. I enjoy watching you. ✌🏼
P.S. I think I would prefer larger keys even though the Mini Plus is tempting.
Novation 49 key....real keys, best logic integration for controllers as well. Even ask when opening if your using logic. Works very nice for me...I'm specifically talking about the mk3 versions, I have a mini and 37 key since I liked them so much
Hey, in my case the encoders don't synchronise automatically with Ableton. Is there any solution how to fix this problem? Thanks in forward
Do you have a tutorial for AKAI mpk mini play (professional) to show how to setup it ?
Great video but I really need to know how to change the key velocity??? PLS help
Where do you buy one of these today? I can't find a new one anywhere!
Sanjay can you show if an iPad can power this keyboard or the Maudio
How does this compare to the NI M32 ?
In Chord mode, can u create own chords?
Great review!! I’m considering one of these as an “upgrade” from the MPK Mini. Question(s); I’m more of a hobbyist and I do not have a full-blown DAW on a computer. I’ve been using NanoStudio 2 and GarageBand both of them being on an iPhone 13 Pro. In GarageBand the keys work just fine but there’s no way to control any parameters. I’ve dove into menus and there’s just no controls. Does the Plus offer more or easier to find controls in GarageBand? For NanoStudio I’ve had more luck with the knobs seeming to map pretty good automatically but I cannot seem to change the drum pads. Would the Plus make this possible in that app? One more question would be what other iPhone DAWs would be user-friendly? Thanks!!
I’m using Reaper and I just want to use the plugins I already have but I really want that pitch knob. Should I go for this or the M-Audio will do just fine?
Did you find a proper case for this keyboard?
This seems like amazing value for $170! Super cool.
I think it is a good value for sure