This controller comes with Akai’s Virtual Instrument Player (V.I.P) 3.0 software, offering universal compatibility with VST plug-ins from any MIDI controller and fluid, intuitive creative workflow for musicians, engineers and producers. VIP 3.0 allows any user to catalogue, control and map their entire VST collection to the MIDI controller of their choosing, whilst 3rd party developers have the option to create their own maps for greater integration going forward.
The Akai MPK225 Performance Keyboard Controller With Midi Pads is the latest addition to Akai’s hugely popular MPK Range of Controller Keyboards.
The MPK225 from Akai offers a host of quality features including 25 semi-weighted, full size keys and 16 RGB illuminated MPC Pads, technology taken from their legendary MPC Pad controllers and beat production units. The MPK Range also includes 8 assignable control knobs. The MPK261 has two quality pitch bend and modulation wheel controls, as well as jack inputs for expression pedals and sustain pedals.
Akai’s MPK225 also features 8 assignable faders and a redeveloped control layout with backlit LCD Panel Screen and additional functionality from the fully featured transport and parameter control sections to use with your DAW of choice. A USB-Midi interface with 5-pin Midi input and output offers ultra flexibility.
The MPK range ship with a highly rated software package which includes Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX, Twist 2.0, SONiVOX Eighty-Eight Ensemble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials.
I had several 25 key midi keyboards along several years, and till now this is my favourite, not only because of the built quality (great pads, knobs, and keys) but also versatility. It feels like a workstation with remote control for a DAW, the pads, knob controls and easy access to midi features like arpeggiators and time division. The Akai MPKII mini its also a great alternative if you want a more portable solution, it have many of those features.