Housed in a slimmer design, the Akai MPK261 features RGB backlit trigger pads lifted straight from the MPC Renaissance and a 20-character LCD screen with comprehensive parameter feedback. Designed to erase the line between hardware control and software performance, the new MPK family also includes the ability to send QWERTY-style commands using soft-controls, a low-power mode for iOS connectivity via the Camera Connection Kit and enhanced response from the refined keybed. The latest members of the full-size MPK series also come with advanced music production software titles including Ableton Live Lite and MPC Essentials – a powerful sample-based groove production application – and spectral morphing synth Twist from SONiVOX. Owners of the MPK249 and MPK261 will also receive AIR Music Tech’s high-definition Hybrid 3 virtual synth, while MPK261 owners also receive SONiVOX Eighty-Eight Ensemble.

Key Features:

• 61 semi-weighted, full-size keys
• 16 MPC pads with RGB illuminated feedback; 4 pad banks
• 8 assignable control knobs; 3 knob banks
• 8 assignable faders; 3 fader banks
• Able to send computer keyboard commands for pad assignable shortcuts
• Updated control layout with backlit LCD screen
• USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output
• Comprehensive transport & parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration
• Pitch bend, modulation & octave controls for dynamic performances
• Expression & sustain pedal jack inputs
• Comprehensive production software package included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, SONiVOX Eighty-Eight Ensemble & Akai Pro MPC Essentials