MPK 249

The Akai Professional MPK249 is a comprehensive and intuitive solution for creative control over virtual instruments, effects, and digital audio workstations (DAWs). Engineered to be an all-in-one controller for both studio and stage, it merges a high-quality 49-key semi-weighted keybed with a vast array of assignable controls, including genuine MPC pads, faders, and rotary knobs. This powerful combination empowers musicians and producers to seamlessly bridge the gap between their creative ideas and musical output. At its core, the MPK249 is designed as a central hub for your production workflow, providing the tactile and responsive control necessary for a more immersive and expressive creative process.

The foundation of the MPK249's playability is its 49-note, semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch, offering a responsive and dynamic playing experience suitable for nuanced performances. Complementing the keyboard is a set of 16 genuine MPC-style drum pads—arranged in four banks for 64 total assignments—that bring a classic beat-making workflow to the controller format. These RGB-backlit, velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads are perfect for triggering samples with precision. Furthermore, the MPK249 incorporates classic features like MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and a full-featured arpeggiator, enabling the creation of complex rhythmic patterns and infectious grooves with ease.

Designed to be the central nervous system of your studio, the MPK249 offers a complete set of assignable controls to command your entire production environment. With eight knobs, eight faders, and eight backlit switches (expandable to 24 of each via 3 banks), it provides extensive hands-on control over your DAW's mixer, plugins, and more. A large LCD screen offers real-time parameter feedback, while dedicated transport controls streamline your workflow. With both USB-MIDI and 5-pin MIDI I/O, the MPK249 integrates seamlessly into any setup, whether you're working entirely in the box or controlling external hardware synthesizers and sound modules.

Features:

• 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch: For an expressive and responsive playing experience.
• 16 RGB-illuminated MPC pads: Each with 4 banks for 64 pads, providing a classic beat-making workflow.
• 8 assignable control knobs, 8 faders, and 8 backlit switches: With 3 banks each for a total of 24 of each control.
• Comprehensive transport and parameter control: For deep integration with your music software.
• Classic MPC functionality: Including MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and a full-featured arpeggiator.
• Large LCD screen: Provides real-time feedback on control assignments and parameter values.
• USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output: For seamless integration with both software and hardware.
• Sustain and expression pedal inputs: For enhanced performance control.
• Comprehensive software production package included: Featuring Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, and Akai Pro MPC Essentials.
• DAW integration: With presets for many popular digital audio workstations.