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Akai 49 Key Semi-Weighted Keyboard Controller
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Your Price: $599.00 CDN
or from $63 CDN/mo
You're In Control
Engineered to be an all-in-one controller solution, the Akai Professional MPK249 is a performance pad and keyboard controller that combines deep software integration, enhanced workflow, and core technologies from the iconic line of MPC workstations. Each member of Akai Pro's MPK series comes fully loaded with a comprehensive interface for manipulating virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAWs, and more. MPK249 features 49 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 8 assignable knobs, faders, and switches, 16 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback, and onboard transport buttons. Three banks expand the number of knobs, faders, and switches (up to 24 each), and four pad banks expand the number of pads (up to 64 total). Plus, MPK249 is optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC with USB power and plug-and-play connectivity.
Made To Play
MPK249 comes equipped with 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys and a premium piano-style keybed for unprecedented response and natural feel. Each key is velocity-sensitive and outfitted with aftertouch for dynamic, expressive performances and recordings. In addition, onboard Octave Up and Down controls allow players to access the entire melodic range; play bass lines, piano harmony, solo leads and much more.
Genuine MPC Functionality
Classic MPC Swing, MPC Note Repeat, MPC Full Level, and 16 Levels are all onboard for further inspiration. With MPK249, musicians and composers can incorporate genuine MPC workflow into their productions and create with the tools that producers have relied on for years: MPC Swing lets MPK249 users obtain that tight, organic groove that made Akai Pros groundbreaking MPC music-making machines so legendary. MPC Note Repeat and 16 Levels make it easy to build beats and construct short melodic sequences using the MPC-style pads. In addition, an arpeggiator, with adjustable resolution, range, and patterns, enables users to explore complex melodic ideas, effortlessly.
Production Software
MPK249 is armed with powerful production softwareAbleton Live Lite and MPC Essentialsfor out-of-the-box music creation. Ableton Live Lite is a fluid audio/MIDI environment that enables musicians and producers to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit musical ideas. MPC Essentials, a groove/beat production and sample-triggering software, can integrate directly into any DAW, such as Ableton Live Lite, or run standalone. In addition, it extends the power of MPK249 by adding up to 8 pad banks and 4 samples and insert effects per pad.
Virtual Synthesizers
Two high-definition virtual synthesizers bring the best of synthesis technology to MPK249 users. Hybrid 3, by AIR Music Tech, is a versatile virtual synthesizer that combines the warmth of legendary analog synths with a full range of futuristic, digital manipulation capabilities. SONiVOX Twist, a spectral morphing synthesis virtual instrument, makes it easy to create serious sounds using simple controls. Together, these powerful instruments give MPK249 users professional music-creation tools that can jumpstart any project.
FEATURES
• 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch
• 16 RGB-illuminated MPC pads each with 4 banks for 64 pads
• 24 assignable Q-Link controllers include knobs, faders, and switches (8 of each)
• Revamped control layout with backlit LCD screen
• iOS compatibility using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output
• Comprehensive transport and parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration
• MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator for advanced rhythmic and melodic manipulation
• MPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with dynamics and tempo
• Pitch bend, modulation, and octave controls for expressive recording and performing
• 1 assignable footswitch jack and 1 expression jack
• USB power and plug-and-play connectivity
• Production software package included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, and Akai Pro MPC Essentials (downloads)
SPECIFICATIONS
• Number of Keys: 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch
• Pads: 16 pressure- and velocity-sensitive, light-up MPC-style pads x 4 banks
• Q-Link Controls: 8 control knobs, 8 faders, and 8 backlit switches
• Computer Interface: USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output
• Octaves: 10 with Octave Up and Down
• Arpeggiator: Yes
• Additional Controls: MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, MPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time Division
• Additional Inputs: (1) 1/4" (6.35mm) TRS expression pedal input and (1) 1/4" (6.35mm) TS sustain pedal or footswitch input
• Power: USB power; no power adapter required
• Dimensions: 29" x 12.25" x 3.38"
• Weight: 12.6 lbs
REQUIRMENTS
• Macintosh: 1.25 GHz G4/G5 or faster (Intel Mac recommended), 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended), Mac OS X 10.4.11 (10.5 or later recommended)
• Windows: 1.5 GHz Pentium 4 or Celeron compatible CPU or faster (multicore CPU recommended), 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended), Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista or Windows XP, Windows compatible sound card (ASIO driver support recommended), QuickTime recommended
Available USB Port
Engineered to be an all-in-one controller solution, the Akai Professional MPK249 is a performance pad and keyboard controller that combines deep software integration, enhanced workflow, and core technologies from the iconic line of MPC workstations. Each member of Akai Pro's MPK series comes fully loaded with a comprehensive interface for manipulating virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAWs, and more. MPK249 features 49 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 8 assignable knobs, faders, and switches, 16 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback, and onboard transport buttons. Three banks expand the number of knobs, faders, and switches (up to 24 each), and four pad banks expand the number of pads (up to 64 total). Plus, MPK249 is optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC with USB power and plug-and-play connectivity.
Made To Play
MPK249 comes equipped with 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys and a premium piano-style keybed for unprecedented response and natural feel. Each key is velocity-sensitive and outfitted with aftertouch for dynamic, expressive performances and recordings. In addition, onboard Octave Up and Down controls allow players to access the entire melodic range; play bass lines, piano harmony, solo leads and much more.
Genuine MPC Functionality
Classic MPC Swing, MPC Note Repeat, MPC Full Level, and 16 Levels are all onboard for further inspiration. With MPK249, musicians and composers can incorporate genuine MPC workflow into their productions and create with the tools that producers have relied on for years: MPC Swing lets MPK249 users obtain that tight, organic groove that made Akai Pros groundbreaking MPC music-making machines so legendary. MPC Note Repeat and 16 Levels make it easy to build beats and construct short melodic sequences using the MPC-style pads. In addition, an arpeggiator, with adjustable resolution, range, and patterns, enables users to explore complex melodic ideas, effortlessly.
Production Software
MPK249 is armed with powerful production softwareAbleton Live Lite and MPC Essentialsfor out-of-the-box music creation. Ableton Live Lite is a fluid audio/MIDI environment that enables musicians and producers to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit musical ideas. MPC Essentials, a groove/beat production and sample-triggering software, can integrate directly into any DAW, such as Ableton Live Lite, or run standalone. In addition, it extends the power of MPK249 by adding up to 8 pad banks and 4 samples and insert effects per pad.
Virtual Synthesizers
Two high-definition virtual synthesizers bring the best of synthesis technology to MPK249 users. Hybrid 3, by AIR Music Tech, is a versatile virtual synthesizer that combines the warmth of legendary analog synths with a full range of futuristic, digital manipulation capabilities. SONiVOX Twist, a spectral morphing synthesis virtual instrument, makes it easy to create serious sounds using simple controls. Together, these powerful instruments give MPK249 users professional music-creation tools that can jumpstart any project.
FEATURES
• 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch
• 16 RGB-illuminated MPC pads each with 4 banks for 64 pads
• 24 assignable Q-Link controllers include knobs, faders, and switches (8 of each)
• Revamped control layout with backlit LCD screen
• iOS compatibility using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output
• Comprehensive transport and parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration
• MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator for advanced rhythmic and melodic manipulation
• MPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with dynamics and tempo
• Pitch bend, modulation, and octave controls for expressive recording and performing
• 1 assignable footswitch jack and 1 expression jack
• USB power and plug-and-play connectivity
• Production software package included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, and Akai Pro MPC Essentials (downloads)
SPECIFICATIONS
• Number of Keys: 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch
• Pads: 16 pressure- and velocity-sensitive, light-up MPC-style pads x 4 banks
• Q-Link Controls: 8 control knobs, 8 faders, and 8 backlit switches
• Computer Interface: USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & output
• Octaves: 10 with Octave Up and Down
• Arpeggiator: Yes
• Additional Controls: MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, MPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time Division
• Additional Inputs: (1) 1/4" (6.35mm) TRS expression pedal input and (1) 1/4" (6.35mm) TS sustain pedal or footswitch input
• Power: USB power; no power adapter required
• Dimensions: 29" x 12.25" x 3.38"
• Weight: 12.6 lbs
REQUIRMENTS
• Macintosh: 1.25 GHz G4/G5 or faster (Intel Mac recommended), 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended), Mac OS X 10.4.11 (10.5 or later recommended)
• Windows: 1.5 GHz Pentium 4 or Celeron compatible CPU or faster (multicore CPU recommended), 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended), Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista or Windows XP, Windows compatible sound card (ASIO driver support recommended), QuickTime recommended
Available USB Port
Q & A
There are currently no questions for this product.
Reviews
3.142.98.111
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Uncompatible with Logic Pro M1 chip 1 of 6 customers found this review helpful
Features
Quality
Value
Overall
Product Experience I own it
Closest Store Edmonton Highlands, Alberta
Just recently I've had the chance to plug in to my MacBook to discover that Akai has an issue on their side causing Logic Pro to not recognize this controller. Still haven't figured it out, and I don't have time to waste troubleshooting. Do not buy Akai if your Mac has the M1 chip. It does work with GarageBand on the older iMac. I can't comment on the features and quality. Very disappointed here, and that's my review.
Posted by Dion on Dec 24, 2023
I'm keeping it now 0 of 0 customers found this review helpful
Features
Quality
Value
Overall
Product Experience I own it
Closest Store Cobourg, Ontario
I use Cubase and this unit (I bought used 1 1/2 yr ago) was an entry level controller for me (I'm entry, not the unit). I have been looking for a midi controller that is mapped in Cubase 12 and now this is, finally! Now I have no reason to change to something else. This does everything (for me).
Posted by Ralph on Feb 17, 2023
Not your daddy's MIDI keyboard. 7 of 7 customers found this review helpful
Features
Quality
Value
Overall
Product Experience I own it
Closest Store Victoria, British Columbia
This keyboard is a joy to play. It's solid as heck, the keys are whisper quiet but perfectly weighted to coax smooth, fast scales and fingerings. Considering my first MIDI keyboard was a Roland JX-3P purchased back in the mid-80's, I can definitely say they've come a long ways.
For starters, if you're expecting a synth, don't buy this. It doesn't make sound internally in any way, it's just a device to tell other things what to do. Kind of like the most incredible mouse a keyboard player could buy - doesn't do anything by itself but man can you control software with it.
Having said that, if you are a beginner to music, music production or keyboards, this probably isn't for you either. The setup requires you to have at least a basic understanding of music production, DAW's, VST's and hardware. Some of the included software is fairly involved and the keyboard itself requires certain DAW-specific tweaks for proper MIDI clock sync.
If however, you are still reading you're probably the type of person who would love this thing to bits. I do. Man, what a joy to use. It's not going to change your life completely but it's definitely going to make it a whole lot easier to live in. As I mentioned, the keybed is very high quality, as is the overall build. The pads are solid, yet responsive and include aftertouch information, which is pretty fun on a synth or something. The sliders and knobs map effortlessly to anything you can imagine and feel great to spin and slide. It includes transport buttons as well, for easy control and will flat up map to your mixing controls practically by itself.
Speaking of synths, it comes with VIP, a pretty clever piece of software that rounds up all your virtual instruments and effects and allows you to play them stacked or individually as a standalone app. It's actually pretty handy and has some powerful features that amount to the user having the ability to take this keyboard, a laptop, and an interface directly to a gig, plug in to the board and hit go on an entire live performance without ever opening your DAW.
A quick note on the pads, keys, note repeat and the arpeggiator. I've seen on the interwebs that people are losing their minds over trying to get them all to work and it boils down to a few simple concepts. First, if you want to sync to your DAW, you have to set the keyboard to accept external clock signals. Second, and I can't stress this enough, the note repeat only works on the pads. The arpeggiator only works on keys. Period.
In conclusion, this is the best investment I've made in a MIDI controller in a long time. It is far more compatible with every DAW than any current offering from Native Instruments, the most obvious comparison. There are other controllers that will do similar for less, but nothing is going to beat my Akai for performance, features and price. You'll pry this from my cold dead hands.
Posted by Kelly on Dec 19, 2020
Amazing Midi 2 of 3 customers found this review helpful
Features
Quality
Value
Overall
Product Experience I own it
Closest Store North York (Steeles), Ontario
Truely an amazing keyboared. Amazing featurs, love the fadrers and knobs and probebly the best pads I've played.
The keys feel great and the softwares are amazing. Super easy to change things to your prefrence using the LED screen after you get the hang of it.
Posted by Jacob Eisen on Apr 23, 2017
Great MIDI Keyboard 3 of 3 customers found this review helpful
Features
Quality
Value
Overall
Product Experience I own it
Closest Store Burlington, Ontario
Bought this after selling my Machine MK1 and an M-Audio Oxy64 for an all in one experience. Syncs really well with Ableton Live (9.5) but I did have to do some key mapping, which is easy to do through the keyboard itself. The Pads work beautifully and the keys have a good amount of feedback.
Posted by anonymous on Dec 2, 2015
Incredible 4 of 5 customers found this review helpful
Features
Quality
Value
Overall
Product Experience I own it
Closest Store Port Coquitlam, British Columbia
Great functionality, great keys, and the best pads in the business. Bundled software is fantastic too. Worth every penny.
Posted by anonymous on Apr 7, 2015
awesome. 7 of 7 customers found this review helpful
Features
Quality
Value
Overall
Product Experience I own it
Closest Store Edmonton Mayfield, Alberta
I'm more then happy with this purchase.
The 249 has increasingly helped my work flow, making it easier for me to get my ideas right out then and there.
hybrid, mpc essentials and twist were neat additions too! overall, great machine! Right now its the same price as the mpk49 so i would defiantly suggest getting the 249 for the new features and bonus plug-ins.
Posted by anonymous on Jul 13, 2014
Protect your investment with the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty
A warranty can be a very important factor when making a buying decision. Because repairs can be very expensive in terms of parts and labour costs, manufacturers usually only provide one year limited warranties that generally only cover items that malfunction due to a manufacturer’s defect. With an important purchase such as a musical
instrument or piece of studio gear, however, many people want to have the peace of mind in knowing that their investment will be protected should the product no longer be performing at 100%.
Because of this, Long & McQuade provides our customers with a FREE one-year Performance Warranty on most of our products. The Long & McQuade Performance Warranty supplements the manufacturer’s warranty to ensure that our customers receive complete “no hassle” warranty coverage within their first year.
How does the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty differ from most manufacturers' warranties?
- Performance Guarantee: Normal wear and tear is covered, so your product will be performing as well as the day you purchased it for the entire duration of the coverage. Band and Orchestral Performance Warranty does not include replacing pads or cleaning for woodwind instruments, unless deemed necessary by our repair staff. Ultrasonic cleaning for brass instruments will be provided if deemed necessary by our repair staff, but is not routinely offered under the Performance Warranty.
- Product Replacement: If your product cannot be fixed or costs too much to fix, we will replace it with the equivalent model for no additional charge. If this is not possible, a full refund will be provided.
- No Lemon Policy: Your product will be replaced should the same problem occur multiple times.
- Convenient: Easy drop off and pick up of the product at any Long & McQuade location.
- Guitar Setup: Guitars purchased at Long & McQuade come with 1 free setup, to be redeemed within 1 year for new guitars and 90 days for used guitars.
- Loaners Available: A loaner product may be given while the product is being repaired.
- Power Surge Protection: Your product is covered even if damaged from a power surge.
- Accessory Coverage: Any peripheral devices or accessories that come with your product (i.e. foot pedal, case) are also covered.
- Commercial Use Coverage: Music and recording professionals who purchase gear for “heavy-use” commercial purposes will still be covered.
Long & McQuade reserves the right to restrict the purchase of additional years of Performance Warranty. Used products come with a 3-month Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Some products (i.e. computers, software, cymbals and other items) are covered only by the manufacturer‘s warranty. Consumables (i.e. strings, reeds, drum sticks, batteries, tubes, cross faders) are excluded as they are designed to be replaced. Cosmetic Damage, Accidental Damage, or problems caused by Humidity or Temperature Issues are not covered. Speakers damaged by overpowering are generally not covered. Our coverage does not provide compensation for loss of use. As of June 2018 the Performance Warranty is no longer transferable. The warranty is only valid in Canada.
Purchasing additional years of coverage
Some manufacturers provide warranties for longer than 1 year; however, these are usually limited warranties that do not provide the same coverage as the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Customers interested in more complete and convenient (but not necessarily longer) coverage are still able to purchase additional years of the Performance Warranty.
If you are interested in receiving this coverage for longer than one year, you have the option of purchasing additional years of the Performance Warranty. The pricing is as follows:
- NEW products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- USED products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to increase the warranty from 3 months to 1 year. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- GUITARS: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year. $45 maximum. An additional free setup is not included with additional purchased years of Performance Warranty.
- BAND and ORCHESTRAL instruments: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year.
Great Additions
Reserve in Store
| Product | SKU | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| 49 Key Semi-Weighted Keyboard Controller | 418964 |
