Thanks for watching! If you're planning on subscribing and want more 'Music Tech' related content, then sub to our new tech channel 'Tefty Music Tech' here: ruclips.net/channel/UC_0rGx4ifn3dufNhicjh06g All future technical music related content will be on that channel going forward. All future music 'performance' related content will stay on this channel! Cheers 🙏 Tefty & Meems
im 20 and im just getting into music cuz i live in an eastern household that sees it as something taboo! i dont know half the stuff you're explaining to me but ive bought an MPK mini plus as my first ever musical device and i can't wait to learn more as time goes on. leaving this comment cuz u said to do so :-)
Always love how in-depth you go with your reviews. Much more than others who are usually "this is GREAT! A game-changer! Perfection!" - real talk and deep knowledge of the whole midi thing is always appreciated. Thanks for always keeping it real.
This is the first time seeing your channel. I must say this may be the best review I’ve seen by far. You explained everything in detail. Thanks for your hard work.
I have watched quite a few reviews on the mini plus and even though loopop does a great job of being comprehensive, none of the reviews from anyone included comparisons to vastly more expensive options. It is likely because they consider it outside of a purchasers possible comparison scope. But I like to know as many alternatives as possible and knowing what you get. I'm one of the people that MIGHT have bought a full blown synth instead of strictly sticking to a midi controller. So thank you for your thoughts on more expensive and more powerful options. Keep using all of your gear in this way. Even if it's way "apples to oranges", I don't care. I want to consider as many things as possible before I feel comfortable making a decision. Sure people might chime in and say "why would I consider a $600 synth when I am looking at buying a $150 controller?" but ignore those people. It was helpful, and no one else is doing it.
I have one of these coming today! Should have had it yesterday but missed the delivery. Hopefully I get it today and can start messing around with it hooked up to my MPC One to control my instrument plugins on there....
Thank you for pointing out the issue with the usb connection to the computer preventing the midi port from working! I couldn't figure out why I wasn't able to connect the mini plus to my Korg Kross 2 via midi.
One of very few channels where to find HONEST reviews and not only those crappy bla-bla words provided by the marketing departments of all those companies. So often products didn‘t fulfill my expectations which were based on reviews published by some those well known liers. They always tell you that each and every product they review is the absolute best, but so often as soon as I got my hands on one of these devices, I was absolutely disappointed. What makes me really angry is, when they even don’t tell their viewers about all the bugs they MUST have recognized during their „review“. Thank you soo much for being way different! 🙂 I‘m really looking forward to what‘s coming next. Have a great day 👍
Just a small correction or expansion. You mentioned several times that you have to power it from a USB battery bank if you don't want it to power it from a computer, but you can also use one of those wall socket AC-to-USB power supplies (like ones to charge your phone from a wall outlet). A lot of USB-power-only music gear that I have bought recently even come with one.
Great review! You're an amazing resource of information and it's awesome that you are so humble and don't mind sharing your hard earned knowledge with the rest of us! Thank you and Merry Christmas (while we're at it)!!!
I appreciate the wide range of comparisons. You made me realize I may already have a very competent midi controller for the DAW in my Hydrasynth Explorer. That said, I am looking for one with a better Reason integration, and it looks like the new Arturia Minilab 3 that was just announced has that.
I have the Explorer as well. I chose to get this additional keyboard so I can control other things with it and be able to play my Explorer live on top. Basically creating badass multi Tim real synth experience w Explorer on one hand and all my ipad apps w the Mini Plus.
If you're existing midi controller is MCU compatible (Mackie Control Unit) then you can manually integrate the functionality such as transport controls in reason or any DAW with MCU support.
I read all the comments and to me it seems most dont understand how to make flow with your daw. To me it works perfect in cubase once set up and the small size fits perfect in my studio. Templates and Qkeys work great. Just like I set it up. Love the joystick cos I can do bends like with the nord keyboards wooden stick. Keys feel are lame but ive learned to play with them anyway. I wish the knobs had better feel. All in all an 8/10 for the price. To yall out there struggling with mpc compatibility, most of the time just needs to be set up better.
Yes your right probability would be a good feature, I would like to be able to set the arpeggiator on random and leave it to evolve over time. Anyway back to what I wanted to say, Really excellent review, and thanks for sharing.
Around 4:19 you mentioned not being able to split functions across other devices. Is there any kind of firmware/feature update list that might show any changes after all this time?
This might be too simplistic a view but the issue with the MPK not showing up automatically on the MPC software may be because the software is synced with the MPC and not the MPK. The latter being an independent module. The answer then would be to send across MPK software as opposed to MPC but given the vast price difference, Akai has more than likely given preference to the more costly one and has said 'we cannot do both (lazy or otherwise difficult to do), so you will have configure this module within the software provided to use it' Almost treating MPK as a B'stard to the MPC.
I love your reviews, but it's so difficult to review keybeds. I returned the Hydrasynth Explorer because of the keys :-) I own also the Korg XD, and those are playing much easier (no aftertouch unfortunately) and natural. It's not a Summit or a Motif but yeah, price differences, you mentioned it :-) Keybeds are so personal. Keep up the good work, love it !!
11:08 where do I get one of those from Amazon I don’t know what I need to get and I have a pc and I’m going to get this MIDI keyboard or whatever it is and I’m just starting out. Can someone help me?
Could you share the ableton script? Also do the 8 knobs work as macro controls, and how do I set the sync so the arp and note repeat follows abletons tempo? Thanks.
so thats why my TD-3 connected to MIDI doesnt want to play the notes, when im also connected to the PC. it doesnt send the notes to the MIDI Ports. Thats bad... maybe they can change that with a new firmware.
Great work dude! Thanks! I am totally struggling with my new MPK machine, it is not working with Pro Tools (using MacOS). -That is, the pads work but not the keyboard. It does work fine with: Logic Pro, Garageband, MPC Beats. My KORG Microkey works with Pro Tools. I have tried both with USB connection and using the MIDI ports.
Man, I agree with you on the software integration issue. I bought this thing thinking it was plug-and-play but no. Only the keys and pads were working and not the rest of the knobs and buttons. And that is on both MPC Beats and Logic. So frustration. To make matters worse, on the small screen, they make it seem like you can select a program template to work with your DAW. That is also not the case. Man! 😅
I just got the AKAI PROFESSIONAL MPK MINI PLUS and about to return it. I am just a beginner and not a computer savvy, having to use a computer and a software too much complicated for me! For $169 which is a way better deal for the 37 piano keys than the mini mk3. It is just too bad that is not built in sound like the mini mk3. It would've been much easier to use on the go with batteries included as well. It could be the next generation AKAI i hope? I am a bit frustrated the fact that i wanted to use it in the band for some gigs. I am gonna try one more thing, to plug it into my Yamaha Synthesizer and see if i can get the sound out. Will see what happens 🤔 if it doesn't work i am definitely replace it with the mini mk3 😑 or maybe not , ugh!!
@NewHopeAudio I actually plugged it into an external sound module and to my husband's guitar Amp, and guess what? I got the sound out of it and could play it. However, the sound was weak 😑 Oh well, I tried 🤪 I am definitely returning it. Too bad 😔
Question. I’m basically an akai pro one trick at the moment. I’m not a beginner per say but I’ve stepped away from making beats for a few years and an looking to grind away again. I currently have the advance 49 and love the VIP integration. How would this controller map out in comparison if you’re familiar with what I’m talking about? And in case you need clarification, yes I use the MPC software. Along with the MPC X
@19:24 are you able to see if you can set the pads to CC mode and then sequence the pads to see if it'll send a CC message to a midi channel during a specific step? I'm trying to see if this could kind of work as a hacky way of automating the CC messages. Thanks!
Be aware that with mini keys the velocity sensitivity is basically marketing, in practice the keys are just too small to reliably give expression. I've adjusted the velocity curve until the cows came home and it made little difference. If you get this controller your keys are basically on/off. They are very playable though, with good response and quiet. Just don't imagine you'll be playing chopin on it. If keybed feel is important to you, you'll need to stretch to $300+ in the midi controller range to get nice full sized keys.
Good review 👍. A more interesting product than I thought it would be. I have the MPC One but because I primarily sample in the One rather than using MIDI, if I bought this I'd be using it for my synth modules.
I noticed it doesn’t integrate well with the MPC One hardware. I’ve had to many map almost everything. The transport buttons don’t work at all. It ingrates perfectly with the mpc beats software but what a shameful missed opportunity to out of box integrate with the mpc one hardware
So if I'm DAW-less situation and connect the MPK to a Moog Minitaur using MIDI then it will work as long as the MPK is powered with Wallwart/Battery/Dumb power?? OR.... I have to configure the MPK using a PC and then the MPK remembers if it's powered up without connection to the PC that it's supposed to send key info to MIDI? BTW, I agree.. this is ridiculously silly... It's a controller. Seems what they've done is configure this product as a MIDI IN/OUT accessory for your PC.. ?? As a controller, one would expect it would be that the IN/OUT on the back panel should by default do as expected: Send/Receive MIDI from the keys.
You can run it with your every day usb charger. Buy as long cabel as you wish. Midi needs a littlw bit of power. If you think about it, it is pretty smart solution. Pretty neat not needing to have a special adapter/charger huh?🎉
Does it works with ipad well? i mean without additional power. I tried Akai Mini Play (mk1) with ipad, it works fine, but Akai mpk249 works only with active usb hub. Can i just connect Akai Mini Plus directly to (using usb cable) Ipad and have stable work with it?
i have bought the MPK mini Plus and tried to connect it with logic. but the compatibility is not so good. for example it doesn't show up in the list of logic midi controllers. you can find all kinds of other controllers even from Akai but not the mini plus. so there is no Auto mapping for the cc information (Knobs or Joystick) and do ing it manually works just for some synths but not all. does anyone have an idea or can help me?
Excellent demo, thank you. I’ve just bought one of these to plug into my MacBook. And I spent a long time looking for voices, FX and instruments in my MPC Beats. To realise it’s just a glorified drum machine (hence the name I guess, “beats”). I cannot afford additional hardware or software(Albeton), so I am using Garageband and funnily enough, my Korg software, as I have a 25key Korg keyboard. This is quite new for me, as I usually use my Yamaha keyboard or Roland JD-Xi, which has everything built in. Although, whilst the pitchbend a mod wheels work perfectly, the Joystick doesn’t do anything, even though I can see the parameters move within the small window on the controller. What am I doing wrong, or haven’t set correctly?
I'm always surprised no one talks about the build quality on novation launchkey. As a long time mpk user, I gave it a try recently. When I opened the box I couldn't believe how cheap it feels. Knobs are almost unusable, pads are worst than previous models and everytime you play, there's the plastic sound as it's about to break. Sent back right away.
I regards to the midi ports to PC. Theoretically couldn't you just disable the driver temporarily and still have it recieve power since it's bus powered?
Are the Akai MPK Mini Plus encoders mapped to MPC's Q-Links ? Or are they only usable via MIDI learn (where Q-Links can't be targeted) ? Also, the transport buttons of the otherwise excellent Launchkey don't work at all with MPC - they are meant for Ableton... Seeing them as purely decorative placeholders infuriates me !
im actually super pumped on this, it has a sequencer also? I was thinking of the keystep 37 but this matches the aesthetic of my MPC one, the CC out and CC edit feature is great for my modular set up. this might be the one.
Excellent informative video! A question about the Midi-Out problem: Does this blocking of the Midi sockets also occur if I have connected the Akai to a tablet or smartphone (Android), for example? Can I still control hardware via the Midi sockets? That would be very important to know! Thank you! ❤
I have the mini mk3 and want more keys so I can use both hands. I’m also using Logic on a Mac. Can this just plug and play? Part two question: Your Cobalt doesn’t look like it’s connected to the Mini Plus directly (At 15:24 in video) so when do you use midi in/midi out ports? Thanks.
Watched this because I recently downloaded Logic Pro and ordered an MPK Mini Plus to play with. Now realising I'm completely out of my depth and need to go back to some basic learning ;(
Oh wow, I'm between this mini controller and the oxygen pro mini and the knobs stuck to global midi channel is deal breaker for me. The MAudio oxygen Pro mini let's you select separate midi channel out for faders and knobs or even buttons! 32 keys still way better than just 25. 😮
i learned to play the accordion but i want to learn to play the piano is this controller a good way to learn piano, when i say learn piano i just mean like playing a melody on it and following the notes
Super helpful mate. Answered all my question but I am interested to see if the sustain peddel can be re-configered in the DAW to opperate an expression peddel.
Hello Tefty. First of all - thank you for this review, you covered almost all aspects I am interesting in. But I still have some questions... On the AKAI website metioned: "...the onboard polyphonic 2-track step/live Sequencer captures new melodic and drum patterns on the fly. 8 notes of polyphony per step...". So STEP\LIVE is just the way I can create sequence like on Rolands or Monolgue where I can record it "live" or program each step, correct? And also there are two tracks so I can control two synthesizers on two different channels simultaneously, correct? Are there any kind of patterns\scenes, so can I save sequences and load them? Or I just can operate with one sequence per channel? Thank you!
Thanks Vladimir! To answer your questions: The Step/Live sequencers are shared but separate. So you can input a sequence for the step and then record a live sequence on top afterwards. They both share step length, sub division, and midi channel. I guess technically it's just the input method (whether you want step input or live overdub record). The drum pads are on a separate channel and appear to have a separate track for recording that you can clear independently. But the Step/Live keyboard sequences share the same midi channel and clearing the sequence will clear both the Step and Live seq. I totally forgot to mention you can save your sequence with the program. So there's 8 program slots for the memory and each one can hold a saved sequence. Cheers! Tefty
@@TeftyMeems You are the man!! :D Thanks a lot, very good news about saving and not so good about just one sequenced track, anyway I am still aimed to purchase this one! Have a nice day!!
@@TeftyMeems When you say save the Sequence with the Program, is that directly from the hardware or only through the Editor? Loopop said you can do it from the hardware... just wanted to confirm. Thanks, Tefty!
thanks for the video my friend! If you have the midi cable connected to an external module and the power is on an iPad (controlling the Minimoog app simultaneously), wouldn't the sound work either? Thankss
So if i understand right, IO couldn't control a sequence on a synth with the live sequencer AND a drum machine or other synth simultaneously with the step sequencer? If so what is the point of 2 seq tracks? Great review btw, really helping my decision between this and the keystep37...
I'm after some advice. I'm completely new to learning music and piano, but what I want is a 37 key keyboard that has wireless capabillity and has bluetooth, for headphones/earbuds. Is there something out there that has those things? I really want to be able to jump in bed in the evening and play around with it and not make any noise. Many thanks for any advice! :)
Here to say: "Aw hey why's my MIDI port fucked up?" happened to me on a Mac. That seems like a DUMB design decision, but...y'know. Once you're aware of it you can work around it. But yeah would love a software toggle. Otherwise the MPK Mini Plus is lovely.
Thanks for watching! If you're planning on subscribing and want more 'Music Tech' related content, then sub to our new tech channel 'Tefty Music Tech' here: ruclips.net/channel/UC_0rGx4ifn3dufNhicjh06g
All future technical music related content will be on that channel going forward. All future music 'performance' related content will stay on this channel!
Cheers 🙏
Tefty & Meems
1w
would be nice if you answered some of the comments.
im 20 and im just getting into music cuz i live in an eastern household that sees it as something taboo! i dont know half the stuff you're explaining to me but ive bought an MPK mini plus as my first ever musical device and i can't wait to learn more as time goes on. leaving this comment cuz u said to do so :-)
Same!!! Im going to get it in the next 2ish months and I'm excited for first hardware piece!
Always love how in-depth you go with your reviews. Much more than others who are usually "this is GREAT! A game-changer! Perfection!" - real talk and deep knowledge of the whole midi thing is always appreciated. Thanks for always keeping it real.
After trying MPK Mini mkIII and Novation Launchkey Mini I settled on this one and am SO pleased with it.
This is the first time seeing your channel. I must say this may be the best review I’ve seen by far. You explained everything in detail. Thanks for your hard work.
I have watched quite a few reviews on the mini plus and even though loopop does a great job of being comprehensive, none of the reviews from anyone included comparisons to vastly more expensive options. It is likely because they consider it outside of a purchasers possible comparison scope. But I like to know as many alternatives as possible and knowing what you get. I'm one of the people that MIGHT have bought a full blown synth instead of strictly sticking to a midi controller. So thank you for your thoughts on more expensive and more powerful options. Keep using all of your gear in this way. Even if it's way "apples to oranges", I don't care. I want to consider as many things as possible before I feel comfortable making a decision. Sure people might chime in and say "why would I consider a $600 synth when I am looking at buying a $150 controller?" but ignore those people. It was helpful, and no one else is doing it.
Fr
Found out about that switch with the midi connectivity by accident. Cool that you reached out and got an answer.
I have one of these coming today! Should have had it yesterday but missed the delivery. Hopefully I get it today and can start messing around with it hooked up to my MPC One to control my instrument plugins on there....
I’m returning it because of what you describe here at minute 11…..! Incredible
This is really useful information, albeit some of it over my head, but I’m sure it’ll come in handy as I go along. Thank you!
Thank you for pointing out the issue with the usb connection to the computer preventing the midi port from working! I couldn't figure out why I wasn't able to connect the mini plus to my Korg Kross 2 via midi.
One of very few channels where to find HONEST reviews and not only those crappy bla-bla words provided by the marketing departments of all those companies. So often products didn‘t fulfill my expectations which were based on reviews published by some those well known liers. They always tell you that each and every product they review is the absolute best, but so often as soon as I got my hands on one of these devices, I was absolutely disappointed. What makes me really angry is, when they even don’t tell their viewers about all the bugs they MUST have recognized during their „review“. Thank you soo much for being way different! 🙂 I‘m really looking forward to what‘s coming next. Have a great day 👍
So 8 months later … did Akai listen to ANY of your comments? Update ANY of your suggestions?
Just a small correction or expansion. You mentioned several times that you have to power it from a USB battery bank if you don't want it to power it from a computer, but you can also use one of those wall socket AC-to-USB power supplies (like ones to charge your phone from a wall outlet). A lot of USB-power-only music gear that I have bought recently even come with one.
It works plugged directly into an mpc standalone
Great review! You're an amazing resource of information and it's awesome that you are so humble and don't mind sharing your hard earned knowledge with the rest of us! Thank you and Merry Christmas (while we're at it)!!!
Fantastic video! I'm loving your content! Very honest and informative! Thanks for sharing!
I appreciate the wide range of comparisons. You made me realize I may already have a very competent midi controller for the DAW in my Hydrasynth Explorer. That said, I am looking for one with a better Reason integration, and it looks like the new Arturia Minilab 3 that was just announced has that.
I have the Explorer as well. I chose to get this additional keyboard so I can control other things with it and be able to play my Explorer live on top. Basically creating badass multi Tim real synth experience w Explorer on one hand and all my ipad apps w the Mini Plus.
If you're existing midi controller is MCU compatible (Mackie Control Unit) then you can manually integrate the functionality such as transport controls in reason or any DAW with MCU support.
Oh my god you really helped me unlock this things full potential
I read all the comments and to me it seems most dont understand how to make flow with your daw. To me it works perfect in cubase once set up and the small size fits perfect in my studio. Templates and Qkeys work great. Just like I set it up. Love the joystick cos I can do bends like with the nord keyboards wooden stick. Keys feel are lame but ive learned to play with them anyway. I wish the knobs had better feel. All in all an 8/10 for the price. To yall out there struggling with mpc compatibility, most of the time just needs to be set up better.
You're such an amazing reviewer!
The cobalt sound niiiice. Great patch!
Yes your right probability would be a good feature, I would like to be able to set the arpeggiator on random and leave it to evolve over time. Anyway back to what I wanted to say,
Really excellent review, and thanks for sharing.
Around 4:19 you mentioned not being able to split functions across other devices. Is there any kind of firmware/feature update list that might show any changes after all this time?
This might be too simplistic a view but the issue with the MPK not showing up automatically on the MPC software may be because the software is synced with the MPC and not the MPK. The latter being an independent module. The answer then would be to send across MPK software as opposed to MPC but given the vast price difference, Akai has more than likely given preference to the more costly one and has said 'we cannot do both (lazy or otherwise difficult to do), so you will have configure this module within the software provided to use it' Almost treating MPK as a B'stard to the MPC.
I love your reviews, but it's so difficult to review keybeds. I returned the Hydrasynth Explorer because of the keys :-) I own also the Korg XD, and those are playing much easier (no aftertouch unfortunately) and natural. It's not a Summit or a Motif but yeah, price differences, you mentioned it :-) Keybeds are so personal. Keep up the good work, love it !!
11:08 where do I get one of those from Amazon I don’t know what I need to get and I have a pc and I’m going to get this MIDI keyboard or whatever it is and I’m just starting out. Can someone help me?
the dude is consuming a quarter of a nuke powerplant to run all his rack towers ...look in the background 🥶
Could you share the ableton script? Also do the 8 knobs work as macro controls, and how do I set the sync so the arp and note repeat follows abletons tempo? Thanks.
Dope so glad ya brought up aftertouch my keystep 🎹 can remain safe for now
The Keystep is still fantastic 🙌
so thats why my TD-3 connected to MIDI doesnt want to play the notes, when im also connected to the PC. it doesnt send the notes to the MIDI Ports. Thats bad... maybe they can change that with a new firmware.
Very helpful overview 👏👏👏👏
Very informative and helps decision choice. Thanks very much.
Great work dude! Thanks! I am totally struggling with my new MPK machine, it is not working with Pro Tools (using MacOS). -That is, the pads work but not the keyboard. It does work fine with: Logic Pro, Garageband, MPC Beats. My KORG Microkey works with Pro Tools. I have tried both with USB connection and using the MIDI ports.
Awesome!... Thank You for sharing!
Shouldn’t they have taken away the ‘mini’, rather than adding the ‘plus’
The "mini" stands for mini sized keys. So even though it is bigger the keys are still mini
@@The_Sonic_Oasis ah i see
There is also a full size MPK
Im waiting for Mini Play Plus :)
Man, I agree with you on the software integration issue. I bought this thing thinking it was plug-and-play but no. Only the keys and pads were working and not the rest of the knobs and buttons. And that is on both MPC Beats and Logic. So frustration. To make matters worse, on the small screen, they make it seem like you can select a program template to work with your DAW. That is also not the case. Man! 😅
I just got the AKAI PROFESSIONAL MPK MINI PLUS and about to return it. I am just a beginner and not a computer savvy, having to use a computer and a software too much complicated for me!
For $169 which is a way better deal for the 37 piano keys than the mini mk3. It is just too bad that is not built in sound like the mini mk3. It would've been much easier to use on the go with batteries included as well. It could be the next generation AKAI i hope?
I am a bit frustrated the fact that i wanted to use it in the band for some gigs. I am gonna try one more thing, to plug it into my Yamaha Synthesizer and see if i can get the sound out. Will see what happens 🤔 if it doesn't work i am definitely replace it with the mini mk3 😑 or maybe not , ugh!!
For live use, a midi controller isn’t what you want unless you have a laptop.
@NewHopeAudio I actually plugged it into an external sound module and to my husband's guitar Amp, and guess what? I got the sound out of it and could play it. However, the sound was weak 😑
Oh well, I tried 🤪 I am definitely returning it. Too bad 😔
Question. I’m basically an akai pro one trick at the moment. I’m not a beginner per say but I’ve stepped away from making beats for a few years and an looking to grind away again. I currently have the advance 49 and love the VIP integration. How would this controller map out in comparison if you’re familiar with what I’m talking about? And in case you need clarification, yes I use the MPC software. Along with the MPC X
@19:24 are you able to see if you can set the pads to CC mode and then sequence the pads to see if it'll send a CC message to a midi channel during a specific step? I'm trying to see if this could kind of work as a hacky way of automating the CC messages. Thanks!
Be aware that with mini keys the velocity sensitivity is basically marketing, in practice the keys are just too small to reliably give expression. I've adjusted the velocity curve until the cows came home and it made little difference. If you get this controller your keys are basically on/off. They are very playable though, with good response and quiet. Just don't imagine you'll be playing chopin on it. If keybed feel is important to you, you'll need to stretch to $300+ in the midi controller range to get nice full sized keys.
Any black version available anytime soon ?
Nice review! But the lack of info about the additional jack plugs on the back is disappointing...
Good review 👍. A more interesting product than I thought it would be. I have the MPC One but because I primarily sample in the One rather than using MIDI, if I bought this I'd be using it for my synth modules.
Yup, it'd be a good option for synths. I almost always use a small midi keyboard with my MPCs.
Keystep is missing note repeat and full level options
Have they updated the ability to change midi channels of the knobs?
Great review. Thanks a lot.
Just can’t decide between this and the Oxygen Pro Mini! Which should I get (as a beginner)?
I've returned the Oxygen Pro Mini, so that I could get/try a full 3 octave keyboard, like Akai Mini Plus or Novation Launchkey Mini 37 MK4.
I noticed it doesn’t integrate well with the MPC One hardware. I’ve had to many map almost everything. The transport buttons don’t work at all. It ingrates perfectly with the mpc beats software but what a shameful missed opportunity to out of box integrate with the mpc one hardware
So if I'm DAW-less situation and connect the MPK to a Moog Minitaur using MIDI then it will work as long as the MPK is powered with Wallwart/Battery/Dumb power?? OR.... I have to configure the MPK using a PC and then the MPK remembers if it's powered up without connection to the PC that it's supposed to send key info to MIDI?
BTW, I agree.. this is ridiculously silly... It's a controller. Seems what they've done is configure this product as a MIDI IN/OUT accessory for your PC.. ?? As a controller, one would expect it would be that the IN/OUT on the back panel should by default do as expected: Send/Receive MIDI from the keys.
You can run it with your every day usb charger. Buy as long cabel as you wish. Midi needs a littlw bit of power. If you think about it, it is pretty smart solution. Pretty neat not needing to have a special adapter/charger huh?🎉
Does it works with ipad well? i mean without additional power. I tried Akai Mini Play (mk1) with ipad, it works fine, but Akai mpk249 works only with active usb hub.
Can i just connect Akai Mini Plus directly to (using usb cable) Ipad and have stable work with it?
i have bought the MPK mini Plus and tried to connect it with logic. but the compatibility is not so good. for example it doesn't show up in the list of logic midi controllers. you can find all kinds of other controllers even from Akai but not the mini plus.
so there is no Auto mapping for the cc information (Knobs or Joystick) and do ing it manually works just for some synths but not all. does anyone have an idea or can help me?
Im not sure why the didnt just put the midi in and out on a mini mk3 🤷🏽♂️
Excellent demo, thank you. I’ve just bought one of these to plug into my MacBook. And I spent a long time looking for voices, FX and instruments in my MPC Beats. To realise it’s just a glorified drum machine (hence the name I guess, “beats”). I cannot afford additional hardware or software(Albeton), so I am using Garageband and funnily enough, my Korg software, as I have a 25key Korg keyboard.
This is quite new for me, as I usually use my Yamaha keyboard or Roland JD-Xi, which has everything built in. Although, whilst the pitchbend a mod wheels work perfectly, the Joystick doesn’t do anything, even though I can see the parameters move within the small window on the controller. What am I doing wrong, or haven’t set correctly?
I'm always surprised no one talks about the build quality on novation launchkey. As a long time mpk user, I gave it a try recently. When I opened the box I couldn't believe how cheap it feels. Knobs are almost unusable, pads are worst than previous models and everytime you play, there's the plastic sound as it's about to break.
Sent back right away.
I regards to the midi ports to PC. Theoretically couldn't you just disable the driver temporarily and still have it recieve power since it's bus powered?
Are the Akai MPK Mini Plus encoders mapped to MPC's Q-Links ? Or are they only usable via MIDI learn (where Q-Links can't be targeted) ? Also, the transport buttons of the otherwise excellent Launchkey don't work at all with MPC - they are meant for Ableton... Seeing them as purely decorative placeholders infuriates me !
Terribly. The bottom row is row 2 in MPC Beats, and the top row is row 1 (bottom row) in MPC Beats..... Akai... meh.
Will this work on IOS garageband?
It should work on all daw's
In German. Bärtiger Mann Tefty 😉 Ein ehrlicher Test. i like this.
im actually super pumped on this, it has a sequencer also? I was thinking of the keystep 37 but this matches the aesthetic of my MPC one, the CC out and CC edit feature is great for my modular set up. this might be the one.
Interested in this but unfortunately can't find any release notes / info on firmware updates...
Excellent informative video!
A question about the Midi-Out problem: Does this blocking of the Midi sockets also occur if I have connected the Akai to a tablet or smartphone (Android), for example?
Can I still control hardware via the Midi sockets?
That would be very important to know!
Thank you! ❤
Needs a/b bank for qlinks. How has akai over looked this
I HATE the keys on the Akai mk2...
In Brazil there are not much stores to test them....
Are these keys any better?
I have the mini mk3 and want more keys so I can use both hands. I’m also using Logic on a Mac. Can this just plug and play?
Part two question: Your Cobalt doesn’t look like it’s connected to the Mini Plus directly (At 15:24 in video) so when do you use midi in/midi out ports?
Thanks.
Does this also work with the MPC software that comes with it? Also, Sheraton? Thanks!
What happens when you plug it directly into your mpc one? Does it interested easily? Is it easy to use the drums from the mpc one on the mini plus?
Great review
Regarding the keys is better the Novation or the akai? Still undecided between the novation mk3 37 vs the akai
bravo!!
dou vient le logiciel a la minute 3.07? il est bien!
merci
Great video, returning this mini plus.
Too many glitches. Going with the
alternate brand known as best in
class. Too many headaches here
Do you have a video like this for the AKAI MPK mini
Watched this because I recently downloaded Logic Pro and ordered an MPK Mini Plus to play with. Now realising I'm completely out of my depth and need to go back to some basic learning ;(
cool video....but is possible to connect it directly with a jack to an ampli?
Oh wow, I'm between this mini controller and the oxygen pro mini and the knobs stuck to global midi channel is deal breaker for me. The MAudio oxygen Pro mini let's you select separate midi channel out for faders and knobs or even buttons! 32 keys still way better than just 25. 😮
OK so what would you go with. The Akai seems cheaply made I'm leaning toward the Arturia.
Is it possible to share the script for Ableton please ?
Thank you very much for your video!
Do you know if I can use it with android devices?
Thank you very much.
Regards.
Akai's response to the Keystep?
Thanks for the review! Is there any support for Reason among the DAW pre-configurations?
thanks for the video.
how about this controller with reason ? is it a good option?? Thanks
Still new, so if one wamts to use free beats or purchased beats do you even need a midi keyboard or a DAW?
Mines connected it plays well apart from play, record section o the keyboard how can I activate it?
Great video ! Where on earth can I find the the editor for this beast ? AKAI always hides their editors so you have to search for them. Please help.
i learned to play the accordion but i want to learn to play the piano is this controller a good way to learn piano, when i say learn piano i just mean like playing a melody on it and following the notes
What are your thoughts on LPD8 mk 2. Would br great to get w review and comparison with other slim controllers (no keys)
Excellent, Thanks
Super helpful mate. Answered all my question but I am interested to see if the sustain peddel can be re-configered in the DAW to opperate an expression peddel.
Did you find out? I wanna know aswell 😘
@@andersnilssondvm Hey mate. No response, and I have not found any info online.
Hello Tefty. First of all - thank you for this review, you covered almost all aspects I am interesting in. But I still have some questions...
On the AKAI website metioned: "...the onboard polyphonic 2-track step/live Sequencer captures new melodic and drum patterns on the fly. 8 notes of polyphony per step...".
So STEP\LIVE is just the way I can create sequence like on Rolands or Monolgue where I can record it "live" or program each step, correct?
And also there are two tracks so I can control two synthesizers on two different channels simultaneously, correct?
Are there any kind of patterns\scenes, so can I save sequences and load them? Or I just can operate with one sequence per channel?
Thank you!
Thanks Vladimir! To answer your questions:
The Step/Live sequencers are shared but separate. So you can input a sequence for the step and then record a live sequence on top afterwards. They both share step length, sub division, and midi channel. I guess technically it's just the input method (whether you want step input or live overdub record).
The drum pads are on a separate channel and appear to have a separate track for recording that you can clear independently. But the Step/Live keyboard sequences share the same midi channel and clearing the sequence will clear both the Step and Live seq.
I totally forgot to mention you can save your sequence with the program. So there's 8 program slots for the memory and each one can hold a saved sequence.
Cheers!
Tefty
@@TeftyMeems You are the man!! :D Thanks a lot, very good news about saving and not so good about just one sequenced track, anyway I am still aimed to purchase this one! Have a nice day!!
@@TeftyMeems When you say save the Sequence with the Program, is that directly from the hardware or only through the Editor? Loopop said you can do it from the hardware... just wanted to confirm. Thanks, Tefty!
I haven't been able to use transport controls with ableton using my mini plus. Can you share the script, is there another way.
Please make a video using Mpk Mini Plus + Elektron boxes 😊
thanks for the video my friend!
If you have the midi cable connected to an external module and the power is on an iPad (controlling the Minimoog app simultaneously), wouldn't the sound work either?
Thankss
How is the portability especially with backpacks?
❤❤❤
So if i understand right, IO couldn't control a sequence on a synth with the live sequencer AND a drum machine or other synth simultaneously with the step sequencer? If so what is the point of 2 seq tracks? Great review btw, really helping my decision between this and the keystep37...
What did you choose and are you happy with it?
@@jacobseal I was on a budget so bought a used Keystep. Does what I need at the moment!
I'm after some advice. I'm completely new to learning music and piano, but what I want is a 37 key keyboard that has wireless capabillity and has bluetooth, for headphones/earbuds. Is there something out there that has those things? I really want to be able to jump in bed in the evening and play around with it and not make any noise. Many thanks for any advice! :)
Is this Tefty that was on planet destiny?
think so, wild to see him again haha
@@APERTURE_SC use to love the planet destiny videos. Listed to Tefty, Patrick and briar talk a lot! Haha
Here to say: "Aw hey why's my MIDI port fucked up?" happened to me on a Mac.
That seems like a DUMB design decision, but...y'know. Once you're aware of it you can work around it.
But yeah would love a software toggle. Otherwise the MPK Mini Plus is lovely.
MPK Mini Plus 37 key or Arturia minilab 3?