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Akai Pro & Native Instruments | Seamlessly Integratedplay button

Akai Pro & Native Instruments | Seamlessly Integrated

Zaytoven Creates on the Akai MPC with new Native Instruments Integrationplay button

Zaytoven Creates on the Akai MPC with new Native Instruments Integration

Akai Pro MPC3 with Native Instruments Integration - Overviewplay button

Akai Pro MPC3 with Native Instruments Integration - Overview

AKAI Professional MPC Key 61 Demo and Overview with Tim Kelleyplay button

AKAI Professional MPC Key 61 Demo and Overview with Tim Kelley

Akai Professional

collapse expand iconDescription

The Akai Professional MPC Key 61 production synthesizer is a groundbreaking standalone keyboard that brings together decades of MPC innovation with cutting-edge virtual instruments and effects, creating a complete creative ecosystem without the need for a computer. Featuring a responsive 61-key semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch, a full suite of plugin instruments and effects, and seamless DAW-less production capabilities, the MPC Key 61 is engineered to be the centerpiece of your music-making environment. With the introduction of MPC3, users now gain access to powerful new features like Enhanced Main Mode, Linear Song Arranger, Studio Mixer, Advanced Keygroups and the XL Channel Strip, delivering a faster, more intuitive workflow for producers and musicians at every level.

An Unmatched Sound Engine With Premium Virtual Instruments

Inside the MPC Key 61 keyboard workstation, users can explore a library of over 25 plugin instrument engines and more than 6,000 expertly crafted presets. Each instrument features advanced synthesis engines, rich parameter controls and built-in effects that are fully integrated with the MPC's vibrant touch interface. The Plugin FX suite, which includes over 100 world-class effects for mixing and mastering, empowers users to finish tracks with clarity and punch—all within the standalone environment.

Performance-Driven Hardware With Creative Controls

The MPC Key 61 synthesizer keyboard is designed for dynamic, hands-on production. Its 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads bring the classic MPC drum programming experience, while iconic features like Time Correct, Swing and Note Repeat remain essential for developing signature grooves. Additional performance controls include assignable touch strip, pitch bend and modulation wheels, providing expressive control over synths, samples and effects in real time. The MPC Key 61 inspires musical exploration and delivers a tactile experience that unites sound and feel.

Full Vocal Production Capabilities in a Standalone Format

As the first MPC to integrate full vocal production features, the MPC Key 61 standalone workstation includes a built-in 24-bit audio interface with high-end preamps and phantom-powered combo XLR/TRS inputs. The inclusion of the AIR Vocal Suite provides modern vocal processing tools like tuning, doubling, harmony generation,and creative effects, allowing users to track, edit, and mix vocals directly on the device. With additional main and sub outputs, a headphone output and full multi-track recording functionality, the MPC Key 61 becomes a powerful standalone recording and sampling hub for full-scale music production.

Studio Connectivity and Expansive Workflow Options

Built to connect with everything in your setup, the Akai MPC Key 61 standalone synth supports up to 32 MIDI devices via USB with MIDI Multi support, plus 8 CV/Gate outputs for controlling modular and Eurorack gear. Traditional MIDI In/Out/Thru ports, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and an additional SATA bay for SSD expansion provide flexibility for any studio or live environment. Ableton Link support and class-compliant audio interface compatibility allow for extended configurations. Whether building an expansive studio network or performing with modern and vintage hardware, the MPC Key 61 bridges every workflow with precision and stability.

Premium Sound Packs and Expansion Options

The MPC Key 61 production keyboard includes a 16GB factory library of rich, expressive sounds and supports additional expansion through Akai's extensive library of MPC instruments and plugins. Users can also explore and purchase Native Instruments Play Series instruments and NI Expansions directly from NI, such as Analog Dreams, Cloud Supply and Homage, or genre-specific sound packs like Global Shake and Faded Reels. While NI content is sold separately, Akai includes a massive suite of onboard instruments and FX that make the MPC Key 61 a complete production tool right out of the box. With its powerful standalone engine, advanced features and endless expansion possibilities, the MPC Key 61 is the most versatile production synthesizer Akai has ever built.

Akai Professional MPC Key 61 Production Synthesizer
Akai Professional MPC Key 61 Production Synthesizer
Akai Professional MPC Key 61 Production Synthesizer

collapse expand iconFeatures

  • Expressive keybed with aftertouch
  • Vibrant 7" color touchscreen with multi touch and gestures
  • Sounds button for fast browsing
  • 25 cutting-edge instrument plug-ins
  • Powerful 128-track MIDI sequencer
  • Assignable Touch Strip controller
  • 16 RGB velocity-sensitive MPC drum pads with note repeat
  • Two mic/line inputs with high-end preamps
  • Audio interface with high-quality AD/DA converters
  • Accepts class-compliant audio interfaces and MIDI devices
  • Onboard Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
  • Four assignable Q-Link controller knobs
  • 4GB RAM/quad-core ARM processor
  • Pitch bend/modulation wheels
  • Dedicated transport section
  • Four discrete line outputs
  • Eight audio tracks
  • Eight CV/gate output jacks for modular integration
warning

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Diisononyl phthalate (DINP), which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

collapse expand iconSpecs

General
  • Peamps: 2
  • Q-Link controller knobs: 4
  • MIDI sequencer: 128 tracks
  • MPC drum pads: 16 RGB velocity sensitive
  • Touch Strip: Yes
  • Pitch/bend modulation wheels: Yes
  • Onboard Wi-Fi/Bluetooth: Yes
Keybed
  • Keys: 61
  • Aftertouch: Yes
  • Action: Semi-weighted
Touchscreen
  • Size: 7"
  • Color: Yes
  • Features: Multi touch, gestures
Inputs
  • Mic/line (XLR/1/4" combo): 2
Outputs
  • Main: 2
  • Sub: 2
  • Headphone: 1
  • CV/gate: 8
System
  • RAM: 4GB
  • Internal SSD: 32GB
  • Processor: Quad core ARM
  • Factory Library: 16GB
  • USB-A: 2 ports
  • SATA bay for SSD expansion: Yes

Featured Articles

collapse expand iconReviews

4.89

18 Reviews

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend

Filters
Best Uses
  1. Electronic Music8
  2. MIDI7
  3. Accompaniment4
  4. Learning4
  5. Concerts2
Cons
  1. No Speakers3
  2. Difficult to Use1
  3. Poor Action1
  4. Loading time, no suitable for life performance1
  5. Basic quality keybed but good1
Describe Yourself
  1. Experienced13
  2. Professional Musician3
  3. Novice1
Pros
  1. Easy to Use16
  2. Good Audio14
  3. Responsive / Good Action14
  4. Touch Sensitive Keys13
  5. Portable3
  • You get alot for your $$$$

    5

    submitted4 months ago

    byAngel

    fromSan Jose CA

    Easy to get started on it and make music It has alot to offer for the money and though its not perfect im thoroughly satisfied with it so far

  • This thing is great!!

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitted7 months ago

    byAaron

    fromMiddletown, CT

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    The interface is both powerful and simple to use. I was up and running and making music in the first few hours.

  • AKAI MPC ~ Nobody can Touch This!

    5

    submitteda year ago

    byPaul

    fromDetroit

    The MPC is the most powerful stand-alone workstation bar none. I've used every type of keyboard/synth from every major manufacturer. I've used Steinberg Cubase and numerous other MIDI Sequencer applications on the PC and Mac for literally decades. This unit does it ALL and doesn't even require a computer or a hard drive to do it! It's a breeze to load Drumkits and make beats - all in glorious MIDI - so you can edit notes, patterns, tempo, velocity, and anything else using your fingers and the simple pattern editor. Pinch and Zoom, copy and paste, you name it's in there! It's got massive number of Synths, Pianos, Strings, Brass, Basses and SFX. As a former user of Native Instruments Maschine and many other products from Roland, Yamaha, Alesis and Korg, I can tell you that nothing touches AKAI MPC for - so stop searching and buy it.

  • Only workstation on the market that does what it says

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitteda year ago

    byBill

    fromMyrtle Beach

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    I have a fantom that I love but sequencing is a real pain. MPC really is a stand alone workstation. Wonderful built in instruments and wonderful workflow. It's become the center piece of my studio

  • Great update from the MkII

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitted2 years ago

    byBart

    fromDenver Colorado

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    This is a great update and refinement of the MkII. Well work the upgrade. The single screen is a game changer for what NI is trying to do with this. It makes it infinitely easier to control software plugins and browse presets. The key bed is superb.

  • woulld try if i had too

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitted2 years ago

    byarchard

    fromdetroit michigan

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    i like doing my own little, music products at the house.

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collapse expand iconQ&A

Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.

  • asked bybailey22

    fromSeattle. WA

    How much does it weigh? Is this a good choice for a keyboard you'd want to move fairly often?

    How much does it weigh? Is this a good choice for a keyboard you'd want to move fairly often?

    Open Reply - Thomas
    12 lbs. Easy enough to move as it is a keyboard.
  • asked byZantik24

    fromWestchester NY

    Does it have built in speakers?

    Does it have built in speakers?

    Open Reply - Thomas
    No, it doesn’t
  • asked byMike

    fromundisclosed

    What is the length of the keyboard? I want to make sure it fits on my desk.

    What is the length of the keyboard? I want to make sure it fits on my desk.

    Open Reply - Thomas
    38.8” x 12.3” x 3.8”
  • asked byDragon

    fromNashville

    How much does it weigh?

    How much does it weigh?

    Open Reply - Thomas
    30 lbs
  • asked byROBERT

    fromundisclosed

    DOES THIS KEY BOARD HAVE PERSIAN RHYTHM? IF YES HOW MANY?

    DOES THIS KEY BOARD HAVE PERSIAN RHYTHM? IF YES HOW MANY?

    Open Reply - Thomas
    I’m sorry, I don’t know. Please see "https://www.akaipro.com/mpc-key-61"
  • asked byVickie

    fromCo

    How much does it weigh?

    How much does it weigh?

    Open Reply - Thomas
    29 lbs.
  • asked byMadmanofbno

    fromPhiladelphia pa

    Why did Thomas say the storage isn't expandable when it clearly says you can upgrade storage via sata? However you can't upgrade the ram

    Why did Thomas say the storage isn't expandable when it clearly says you can upgrade storage via sata? However you can't upgrade the ram

    Open Reply - Thomas
    We appreciate your feedback.
  • asked byFreako

    fromMaryland

    what plug ins are included??

    what plug ins are included??

    Open Reply - Thomas
    Please see "https://www.akaipro.com/mpc-key-61"
  • asked byPterodaniel

    fromPlacerville ca

    Is the storage expandable

    Is the storage expandable

    Open Reply - Thomas
    No, it isn’t.