Open Box Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key Controller Level 1

Most Liked Positive Review

Nothing Better for the Price!!!

I am a long time touring DJ, and I had an unfortunate mistake a few nights ago where a few of my essential tour items "disappeared." Freaking out, I immediately Googled the nearest Guitar Center, and drove there with the thought in mind that I would end up settling for something that I didn't really want, just because they had noting better in stock. I didn't really go in with a budget in mind, I just needed something that would hold me over for the rest of my current tour. The MPK Mini was WAY too sloppy, and the higher models were a bit of overkill for the tasks I needed it to do. So, I picked up the MPK 225, then that magical question that everyone asks themselves after they purchase anything electronic came up, "How much of a pain is this going to be to hook up, and to sync all of my current packs/plug ins with it?" As soon as I got on the bus and plugged it in, it picked it up. Given, I pretty much solely use Akai products, so your results may vary, but instantly I was up and running. It went straight into Ableton Live 9 with no needed downloads or updates, and once again, depending on your DAW, your results may vary. It only features 25 keys, but with an easy-to-reach Octave up/down button, I have never felt the stress of being limited to only 25 keys. I also really like the pads it comes with, which are the main things I use on stage. I have put these things through hell the past few nights, and still completely responsive, no damage, and all is good. Something else about the pads on this controller compared to others, is the fact that it has a "Full Level" button, allowing you to not have to worry about how hard you are hitting the pad to get the same sound, as well as a "Note Repeat" button which makes good for times when you may need fast snares or hi hats. The construction is solid, and as hard as I run my equipment, this bad boy definitely stands up to the test. Not trying to ramble, but especially with music equipment, a general rule-of-thumb is "More expensive usually means better quality." Not true in this case at all. I picked it up for $$ and I have already got my money's worth back from it. Not to mention that it comes with a few free programs. I have not yet delved into the included software since I am in the middle of a tour now, and I do not like to download anything until I get home to prevent unexpected computer problems that may occur, but they look quite promising, especially since they came for free with the controller. All in all, great quality, great sound, great feel, and easy to use, pretty much right out of the box. If you are a DJ, a soloist, an engineer, a producer, just looking to get into music with some quality equipment without the high price tag, or if you are just a space-saver like myself the Akai MPK225 will not disappoint. If you are questioning buying it, don't question it anymore. GO GET IT!!!