To be honest, I have a MPC LIVE 2, but the MPC Key looks so good for a standalone keyboard. With all the connectivity and phantom power, that's a plus for me. Thanks for breaking down the MPC Key 👊🏼
Agreed Great stuff. If you don't play keys this is the best reason to start playing keys ! Its like going to the beach on the ocean and going to the beach at the lake . The sand has a different feel to it on the ocean and the waves are a lot more adventurous. The True block to creating on the Live vs Key 61 is having a keyboard and on top of that not having to go far for good sounds K61 has them too .
Very true. And I was one of them. Before the MPC key 61 I was not even considering an MPC because as you said yourself - to me when searching information about it on youtube it was basically hip-hop and beatmaking and I just couldn't see myself as a user of it since I'm not even remotely into that. But when the Key 61 came out I hopped onto it at the same time you did because NOW it was interesting, especially because of the plug-ins and the internet accessibility of new plugins as new synths, in fact - I saw this as a modern type synth that could be endlessly updated and it could control all my existing synths (which in fairness, other MPC's could do as well, it was just not clear to me back then). Now I can't even imagine life before it - in fact, the MPC Key 61 resemble a very advanced version of the Fairlight sampler that was revolutionizing music as we knew it (the very first hardware Daw in a way). Touch panel is the "lightpen", sampling is its base, and the sequencer etc. Now with VST's as well. It's a fairlight for regular people. As you may know, the fairlight was sick expensive back in the day and it cost as much as a house. So the Key 61 is very reasonable for what it does.
Great job explaining. I have both MPC live II, X and the key 61 and I use them all in different ways. Also, I love them all for what they can do. I use x in my commercial studio, but when I’m working on projects at home, because I am a keyboard player, it’s easier to take out the key 61, put headphones on and track out my thoughts. I use mpc x for backing tracks at local coffee houses or church. They all server a purpose very well. Thanks for sharing.
The name of the game is to identify the strengths of a product that works for you to inspire and create great music. You honesty is great to hear, keep up the great video's.
The MPC Key 61 Reminds me of My ASR-10 on steroids I just purchased The MPC Key 61 from just researching it online immediately, as some of the best music that I ever made was done on the ASR 10. It was a no-brainer. This Is what works for me. Just like was mentioned, everyone has different needs. Get what works for you, make your Music, and be Happy.
I totally agree with you. And by the way I’m guilty of being a keyboard player that only saw MPC as a beat box for rap hip-hap and such. For live I use a MODX because it has great sounds and it weighs almost nothing which is a big plus for me, I don’t want to carry anything heavy. I do not use backing tracks and play everything live however I do write a lot of music and though I usually use Logic with Omnisphere and all the Spectrasonics plug-ins and others etc. I sometimes find that being in a DAW can sometimes be an inspiration killer with updates and errors etc. even though I’m on a Mac they still happen and I’ve been looking for a stand alone DaW per say which could also record audio so I bought the nautilus and though some sounds are great as a Daw I found it falling short specially with the audio recorder. The sequencer is very old fashion and I find the interface a bit ugly and parameters that should be easy to use I find one has to do multiple button presses to get to places almost like we are still in the 80s. The lack of a piano roll is surprising also the lack of and XLR input , though I manage to successfully finish a song in it I 10:45 found it a beat frustrating and I probably won’t use the sequencer again. I love the Fx routing system in it but they also lack any kind of pitch correction not to mention that you cannot export stems and to export a track you need to sample it first then export to the internal HD then to USB something that exporting stems is available in most iPad apps haha There were bugs with the audio recorder so I just committed the best mix I could of the song without vocals and recorded the vocals with Logic. I also make videos about keyboards and music technology and in one of my Nautilus videos someone mention to me about the MPC Keys 61 and as I was checking it out I was so impressed. I really want something that I can jump into and flow with an idea that maybe I can develop somewhere else or maybe just do the entire recording there. The inclusion of not one but two xlr inputs is amazing also more or less some kind of pitch correction (wish they had a plug-in that behaved like celemony) all the FX routing and I’m not gonna lie I have been very impressed with Fabric XL, at least what I’ve seen on the videos. If allowed I think I may trade the Nautilus for the Akai MPC. I’m looking for something easy to use and something that inspires me with minimal setup. Thank you for your videos and I agree with your rant haha.
I have the mpc live 2 and arturia keylab essential 61 that's what I was ok with I wanted a keyboard with aftertouch I did research price checks it came down to the mpc key 61 it has everything I want watching your videos helped alot also thank you 👍🏾🙏🏾👍🏾 .all those other keyboards they ok they grate they just didn't have everything I wanted so i got my mpc key 61 back in August I love it I don't use it that much lol busy with my youngest son in highschool so I only use my mpc key 61 some times on the weekends I enjoy it alot when I do use it I plan on using it more in the future still tho my other setup I still use also I don't see me buying anymore music keyboards equipment anything any time soon this my first aftertouch keyboard that's the main feature that got me to buy it
You are correct..I could never understand those comments by people who clearly didn't read and compare the specs. Glad you refuted these uninformed comments.
I agree with both of your observations: 1. The Key 61 isn't a Live 2 with a keyboard. It's it own thing. The I/O, buttons, built in sounds, and RAM differentiate it. It is targeted for the traditional workstation keyboard buyer. 2. Traditional MPC buyers are attempting to justify their preferences by diminishing the Key 61. I am of they opinion that how they use a MPC is different than someone who came out of workstation keyboards. The Key 61 is there to scratch a particular itch that many beat maker MPC users never had that people who really can work a keybed with sufficient octave range have. Those who really play get it. Key peckers and hacks who can't use the full potential of Key 61 don't. Expressive players, this one is for you. Traditional MPC users also complained about the MPC Studio Mk2 as well and I find it to be quite serviceable in its particular context. For those who don't get it, it wasn't made for you in the first place. Relax and use what works for you.
Respectfully, you already know my take on this. And even tho i feel that way, I want to be clear that I personally am not trying to diminish the key 61. I also have the touch. I can see why anyone who has an MPC touch, Live, or X would say that the key 61 is basically the others but with keys. The Key 61 has a few features that are not on the others but technically they all do the same thing. Everything you're saying about the key 61 is true. But I do believe that depending on what youre doing or how you use it shapes the perspective about it. Im new to your channel but its clear that you are a musician so I get what youre saying because I too am a musician. But Im also a boom bap sample based producer, so I see both sides. Most of the ppl that make the statements that you mentioned, have a workflow that dont require all the specs that the key 61 provides which can hinder them from seeing the true value of it. I love my key 61 but based on what i do, the cv gates, phantom power etc etc, mean nothing to me. I still would have bought it even if it came with no sounds. 🤣All of the mpcs are dope in their own way. I know ppl with the live 2 who enjoy the convenience of the built in speaker and the portability of it. I know ppl with the X who love having all the q links and disc streaming. Its like you said..Every MPC is not for every customer. I do believe that the Key 61 is a beautifully crafted underrated piece of equipment. And Even tho i see both sides of the coin, Im with you fam. I think as time goes by ppl will start to see and appreciate its value.
Thanks for the update and insites! I have the Fantom 6 and midi it up to my MPC Live, also use a weird but fun Verselab MV-1. I love all three and deeply respect the strengths and challenges they have. My question to u is On the MPC Keys, CAN YOU Step time Chords in from the Keyboard to the sequencer? Because the Fantoms Step Time features are a must for me, as I have paralysis now in my fingers. but the sequencer is frustrating compared to the Live. Thanks and Happy Holidays.
Hi, I watched your full re-review too, and, as a backing track system for live use, I could really see the role for one of these. I mostly work in the studio with DAWs, so I never really considered the MPC as a necessity. I still don't, but this has a lot more utility and value than the other ones would for me. As it happens, I'm happy with my Fantom and other workstations, and I prefer 88-key weighted models, so I probably still wouldn't get one. But it's not the same thing to me at all, and, as you said, I had to seriously look at it and consider it. If I wasn't used to working with my other boards and needed backing tracks live, I'd probably be seriously thinking about one, which still isn't true for the other MPC models.
Wow! I just had the opportunity to play with the MPC Key 61. I was very impressed with the Keyboard. For Seq...... great work flow! With everything I have. It will be a Great edition I will be buying one super soon for my Birthday 12/19. MPC Key 61 Sounds better in person. It is a must have For Me. I have the MPC studio and Touch and just traded them to GC for a used X that I put in Layaway. Looking Forward to your new content. Your Better, Does Greater, be Bless!
People need to just relax lol...I have the Key 61 and it is the truth but I also know that not everyone will see it that way. The thing is, that's the same with any hardware and or software on the market...it's simple, people should get what works for them and keep it moving. I love your vids man and me as a mainly boom bap/hip-hop/sample-based producer can see that you are most definitely a real keyboardist and musician so for you to appreciate the board for what it is says a lot. Just my 2 cents man. But I love the MPC Key 61. I also have the MPC One which I love as well. Shalom - Big Joey Blessed
Yep, don't worry about what others say. The best keyboard is the one that you make good music on. The key 61 is what keys players been waiting for. If you only sample and mainly use pads, then maybe one of the other mpcs's is a better fit.
Dude, thanks for breaking it down for the deaf & uninitiated. It's too much gripe about AKAI, meanwhile NI releases the same software every few years with a few new additions. Akai updates their products by far more than anyone.
I meant to ask if you bought flavor pro and if so would like to know your thoughts on it. And your thoughts on Akai not making hybrid and xpand available for the standalones...primarily the key 61. Im kinda upset about that🤣
Any Key 61 owners here having issues with the play/start and locator buttons? when I hit these buttons on my 61 it stops /pauses the track and I have to count back in to record/over dub on my live 2 and X I can hit play/start and the track continues to play. on my X if I use the locators the track continues to play and I can can keep skipping back a bar, this is extremely helpful for trying to do unquantized parts.. the fact that I can't do this (that I'm aware of) makes me use the 61 way less .. I looked through my live and X settings and they look the same.. has anyone else encountered this on the 61?
I own an MPCX MPC LIVE TWO Akai forces 🔥🔥🔥🤫 MPC 61 key Trust me the MPC 61 key is amazing especially if you Connect the MPCX & the MPC 61 key Game over!!!!!
If you don't mind when you do your mpc key 61 video can you please do a comparisons of the aftertouch feature compared to other keywords with aftertouch it seem like I have to press very hard on the mpc key 61 to get the aftertouch to trigger this my first aftertouch keyboard so I don't know if it's a difference between how much pressure have to be used to trigger the aftertouch I consider myself very strong handed still tho I have to put alot of muscle into triggering the aftertouch on the mpc key 61 are all aftertouch keyboards like that or is it just me a newbie not use to the aftertouch pressure needed lol thanks in advance or just could you just give an answer to my question when you have time sir 👍🏾 have a blessed day 🙏🏾
My akai rant is simple. Theres so many damn bugs in the One, Live2 and now keys.... and they wont fix them yet they will continue to release OVER PRICED expansions. Akai is out their damn minds charging 500$ for expansions while the bugs just pile up. I love the one and this line, its my fav of all time but if this is how akai will work now, i wont buy anything new.
To be honest, I have a MPC LIVE 2, but the MPC Key looks so good for a standalone keyboard. With all the connectivity and phantom power, that's a plus for me. Thanks for breaking down the MPC Key 👊🏼
Agreed Great stuff. If you don't play keys this is the best reason to start playing keys ! Its like going to the beach on the ocean and going to the beach at the lake . The sand has a different feel to it on the ocean and the waves are a lot more adventurous. The True block to creating on the Live vs Key 61 is having a keyboard and on top of that not having to go far for good sounds K61 has them too .
Very true. And I was one of them. Before the MPC key 61 I was not even considering an MPC because as you said yourself - to me when searching information about it on youtube it was basically hip-hop and beatmaking and I just couldn't see myself as a user of it since I'm not even remotely into that. But when the Key 61 came out I hopped onto it at the same time you did because NOW it was interesting, especially because of the plug-ins and the internet accessibility of new plugins as new synths, in fact - I saw this as a modern type synth that could be endlessly updated and it could control all my existing synths (which in fairness, other MPC's could do as well, it was just not clear to me back then).
Now I can't even imagine life before it - in fact, the MPC Key 61 resemble a very advanced version of the Fairlight sampler that was revolutionizing music as we knew it (the very first hardware Daw in a way). Touch panel is the "lightpen", sampling is its base, and the sequencer etc. Now with VST's as well. It's a fairlight for regular people. As you may know, the fairlight was sick expensive back in the day and it cost as much as a house. So the Key 61 is very reasonable for what it does.
Great job explaining. I have both MPC live II, X and the key 61 and I use them all in different ways. Also, I love them all for what they can do. I use x in my commercial studio, but when I’m working on projects at home, because I am a keyboard player, it’s easier to take out the key 61, put headphones on and track out my thoughts. I use mpc x for backing tracks at local coffee houses or church. They all server a purpose very well. Thanks for sharing.
They are all great machines!
The name of the game is to identify the strengths of a product that works for you to inspire and create great music. You honesty is great to hear, keep up the great video's.
Thank you for watching!
The MPC Key 61 Reminds me of My ASR-10 on steroids I just purchased The MPC Key 61 from just researching it online immediately, as some of the best music that I ever made was done on the ASR 10. It was a no-brainer. This Is what works for me. Just like was mentioned, everyone has different needs. Get what works for you, make your Music, and be Happy.
I totally agree with you. And by the way I’m guilty of being a keyboard player that only saw MPC as a beat box for rap hip-hap and such. For live I use a MODX because it has great sounds and it weighs almost nothing which is a big plus for me, I don’t want to carry anything heavy. I do not use backing tracks and play everything live however I do write a lot of music and though I usually use Logic with Omnisphere and all the Spectrasonics plug-ins and others etc. I sometimes find that being in a DAW can sometimes be an inspiration killer with updates and errors etc. even though I’m on a Mac they still happen and I’ve been looking for a stand alone DaW per say which could also record audio so I bought the nautilus and though some sounds are great as a Daw I found it falling short specially with the audio recorder. The sequencer is very old fashion and I find the interface a bit ugly and parameters that should be easy to use I find one has to do multiple button presses to get to places almost like we are still in the 80s. The lack of a piano roll is surprising also the lack of and XLR input , though I manage to successfully finish a song in it I 10:45 found it a beat frustrating and I probably won’t use the sequencer again. I love the Fx routing system in it but they also lack any kind of pitch correction not to mention that you cannot export stems and to export a track you need to sample it first then export to the internal HD then to USB something that exporting stems is available in most iPad apps haha
There were bugs with the audio recorder so I just committed the best mix I could of the song without vocals and recorded the vocals with Logic.
I also make videos about keyboards and music technology and in one of my Nautilus videos someone mention to me about the MPC Keys 61 and as I was checking it out I was so impressed. I really want something that I can jump into and flow with an idea that maybe I can develop somewhere else or maybe just do the entire recording there. The inclusion of not one but two xlr inputs is amazing also more or less some kind of pitch correction (wish they had a plug-in that behaved like celemony) all the FX routing and I’m not gonna lie I have been very impressed with Fabric XL, at least what I’ve seen on the videos. If allowed I think I may trade the Nautilus for the Akai MPC. I’m looking for something easy to use and something that inspires me with minimal setup. Thank you for your videos and I agree with your rant haha.
I have the mpc live 2 and arturia keylab essential 61 that's what I was ok with I wanted a keyboard with aftertouch I did research price checks it came down to the mpc key 61 it has everything I want watching your videos helped alot also thank you 👍🏾🙏🏾👍🏾 .all those other keyboards they ok they grate they just didn't have everything I wanted so i got my mpc key 61 back in August I love it I don't use it that much lol busy with my youngest son in highschool so I only use my mpc key 61 some times on the weekends I enjoy it alot when I do use it I plan on using it more in the future still tho my other setup I still use also I don't see me buying anymore music keyboards equipment anything any time soon this my first aftertouch keyboard that's the main feature that got me to buy it
Akai makes wind instruments for musicians, MPC stand alone for musicians,MPC Keys for musicians and software for musicians...all are Akai 💯👍
Great commentary! Great perspective.
You are correct..I could never understand those comments by people who clearly didn't read and compare the specs. Glad you refuted these uninformed comments.
Agreeing with what you said on the video. Helped may a decision on buying one or not.....Yes! Thanks
I agree with both of your observations:
1. The Key 61 isn't a Live 2 with a keyboard. It's it own thing. The I/O, buttons, built in sounds, and RAM differentiate it. It is targeted for the traditional workstation keyboard buyer.
2. Traditional MPC buyers are attempting to justify their preferences by diminishing the Key 61. I am of they opinion that how they use a MPC is different than someone who came out of workstation keyboards.
The Key 61 is there to scratch a particular itch that many beat maker MPC users never had that people who really can work a keybed with sufficient octave range have. Those who really play get it. Key peckers and hacks who can't use the full potential of Key 61 don't. Expressive players, this one is for you.
Traditional MPC users also complained about the MPC Studio Mk2 as well and I find it to be quite serviceable in its particular context. For those who don't get it, it wasn't made for you in the first place. Relax and use what works for you.
Thank you very much for the best review about the MPC Keys 61!!!
finally a direct answer trying to get this for months thank you
What question did you have that my rant answered? Lol! 😄
@@darrickkeels6387 I was in a debate over the Roland 07 or akai key 61 your rant just made my decision to get the akai MPC 61
Respectfully, you already know my take on this. And even tho i feel that way, I want to be clear that I personally am not trying to diminish the key 61. I also have the touch. I can see why anyone who has an MPC touch, Live, or X would say that the key 61 is basically the others but with keys. The Key 61 has a few features that are not on the others but technically they all do the same thing. Everything you're saying about the key 61 is true. But I do believe that depending on what youre doing or how you use it shapes the perspective about it. Im new to your channel but its clear that you are a musician so I get what youre saying because I too am a musician. But Im also a boom bap sample based producer, so I see both sides. Most of the ppl that make the statements that you mentioned, have a workflow that dont require all the specs that the key 61 provides which can hinder them from seeing the true value of it. I love my key 61 but based on what i do, the cv gates, phantom power etc etc, mean nothing to me. I still would have bought it even if it came with no sounds. 🤣All of the mpcs are dope in their own way. I know ppl with the live 2 who enjoy the convenience of the built in speaker and the portability of it. I know ppl with the X who love having all the q links and disc streaming. Its like you said..Every MPC is not for every customer. I do believe that the Key 61 is a beautifully crafted underrated piece of equipment. And Even tho i see both sides of the coin, Im with you fam. I think as time goes by ppl will start to see and appreciate its value.
Thanks for the update and insites! I have the Fantom 6 and midi it up to my MPC Live, also use a weird but fun Verselab MV-1. I love all three and deeply respect the strengths and challenges they have. My question to u is On the MPC Keys, CAN YOU Step time Chords in from the Keyboard to the sequencer? Because the Fantoms Step Time features are a must for me, as I have paralysis now in my fingers. but the sequencer is frustrating compared to the Live. Thanks and Happy Holidays.
Hi, I watched your full re-review too, and, as a backing track system for live use, I could really see the role for one of these. I mostly work in the studio with DAWs, so I never really considered the MPC as a necessity. I still don't, but this has a lot more utility and value than the other ones would for me. As it happens, I'm happy with my Fantom and other workstations, and I prefer 88-key weighted models, so I probably still wouldn't get one. But it's not the same thing to me at all, and, as you said, I had to seriously look at it and consider it. If I wasn't used to working with my other boards and needed backing tracks live, I'd probably be seriously thinking about one, which still isn't true for the other MPC models.
Wow! I just had the opportunity to play with the MPC Key 61. I was very impressed with the Keyboard. For Seq...... great work flow! With everything I have. It will be a Great edition I will be buying one super soon for my Birthday 12/19. MPC Key 61 Sounds better in person. It is a must have For Me. I have the MPC studio and Touch and just traded them to GC for a used X that I put in Layaway. Looking Forward to your new content. Your Better, Does Greater, be Bless!
Congratulations on your purchase!
I love the X I’m keeping the X but damn straight I got the 61🔑 it’s amazing. They are a bit different but both are monsters in the studio point blank.
People need to just relax lol...I have the Key 61 and it is the truth but I also know that not everyone will see it that way. The thing is, that's the same with any hardware and or software on the market...it's simple, people should get what works for them and keep it moving. I love your vids man and me as a mainly boom bap/hip-hop/sample-based producer can see that you are most definitely a real keyboardist and musician so for you to appreciate the board for what it is says a lot. Just my 2 cents man. But I love the MPC Key 61. I also have the MPC One which I love as well.
Shalom - Big Joey Blessed
Yep, don't worry about what others say. The best keyboard is the one that you make good music on. The key 61 is what keys players been waiting for. If you only sample and mainly use pads, then maybe one of the other mpcs's is a better fit.
I believe they loaded the SSD to put the plug-ins on them. I’m just waiting for 88keys. 😂😂. Quick question what’s the polyphony like on the MPCkeys.
Dude, thanks for breaking it down for the deaf & uninitiated. It's too much gripe about AKAI, meanwhile NI releases the same software every few years with a few new additions. Akai updates their products by far more than anyone.
This is a play out of Apples philosophy, make the same core software and let the hardware to differentiate the experience. Great video.
I meant to ask if you bought flavor pro and if so would like to know your thoughts on it. And your thoughts on Akai not making hybrid and xpand available for the standalones...primarily the key 61. Im kinda upset about that🤣
Any Key 61 owners here having issues with the play/start and locator buttons? when I hit these buttons on my 61 it stops /pauses the track and I have to count back in to record/over dub on my live 2 and X I can hit play/start and the track continues to play. on my X if I use the locators the track continues to play and I can can keep skipping back a bar, this is extremely helpful for trying to do unquantized parts.. the fact that I can't do this (that I'm aware of) makes me use the 61 way less .. I looked through my live and X settings and they look the same.. has anyone else encountered this on the 61?
✔💯💯💯 Agreed...Well said
Great take!
I totally agree ❤
Hey Darrick, can we record automation on the Key 61 touch strip effects? I've been trying to figure it out and been unsuccessful.
Honestly I am not sure because I never tried it.
❤. Very well said !!!
I own an
MPCX
MPC LIVE
TWO Akai forces 🔥🔥🔥🤫
MPC 61 key
Trust me the MPC 61 key is amazing especially if you
Connect the
MPCX & the MPC 61 key
Game over!!!!!
If you don't mind when you do your mpc key 61 video can you please do a comparisons of the aftertouch feature compared to other keywords with aftertouch it seem like I have to press very hard on the mpc key 61 to get the aftertouch to trigger this my first aftertouch keyboard so I don't know if it's a difference between how much pressure have to be used to trigger the aftertouch I consider myself very strong handed still tho I have to put alot of muscle into triggering the aftertouch on the mpc key 61 are all aftertouch keyboards like that or is it just me a newbie not use to the aftertouch pressure needed lol thanks in advance or just could you just give an answer to my question when you have time sir 👍🏾 have a blessed day 🙏🏾
Indeed
Great video 🔥🔥🇨🇦
Agree but wish they have 88 keys. Key bed too short. this is my only problem with
hope next year they make a mpcx with an 88keys attched to it
Some plans for a new MPCX has been leaked. I doubt it will have keys though.
👍🏾🔥👍🏾
i love my mpc key 61 the only thing i would have liked to see is more ram
More ram to do what
My akai rant is simple. Theres so many damn bugs in the One, Live2 and now keys.... and they wont fix them yet they will continue to release OVER PRICED expansions. Akai is out their damn minds charging 500$ for expansions while the bugs just pile up. I love the one and this line, its my fav of all time but if this is how akai will work now, i wont buy anything new.
I want one bad
MPC GANG...!!!!
Gang gang!
@@darrickkeels6387 YESSIR..!! Much Respect
I am incorporating it with my roland fantom. 08 love it