Being the first-ever standalone synthesizer from Akai, the MPC Key 61 is an all-encompassing music production centre, providing all the tools you need to create powerful and emotive music. With a fully standalone design, Akai has incorporated 25 cutting-edge instrument plugins that span everything from classic FM synthesis to meticulously multi-sampled acoustic instruments. Each plugin instrument is unique in style and sound, including classic real-world sounds such as stage pianos, organs, session strings and more. The exceptional sonic versatility of the MPC Key 61, makes it a powerhouse for music production. All in all, the MPC Key 61 features over 6,000 sound presets, allowing you to get started straight out of the box.
World-class acoustic sounds such as the iconic Steinway grand piano and the Bechstein upright are included as well as a range of other rich piano tones. Utilise the power of an orchestral string section via ‘Session Strings’, with in-depth parameters for articulation and more. As well as classic, real-world sounds, the MPC Key 61 also features cutting-edge synth engines such as ‘Fabric XL’. This flagship virtual synthesizer provides you with one of the most dynamic and versatile synth engines ever created. Fabric XL comes complete with a myriad of presets which are all powered by a ground-breaking, sampled-based synthesis engine.
While you can use the MPC Key 61 alongside your favourite DAW/music software, its standalone design allows you to create without boundaries. At the heart of the MPC Key 61 is a semi-weighed keybed with aftertouch, providing exceptional expressivity when playing in melodies, drum patterns and more. The MPC Key comes equipped with 4GB of onboard RAM with a powerful Quad-Core Arm processor, allowing you to quickly navigate between sounds and settings for an optimised workflow.
The powerful 128-track MIDI sequencer allows you to create massive soundscapes and fully-fledged songs using the intuitive arrangement capabilities and powerful onboard controls. It even features built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity which can be used in a variety of different ways. You can use the onboard WiFi connectivity to access Ableton Link wirelessly, allowing you to sync your arrangements and sounds across multiple applications from the MPC Key 61.
The original MPC pad design helped to shape modern music creation, providing a new and unique way to interact with sounds and interact with samples. Because of this, it was championed by the hip-hop and dance community and revered over the years for its unique workflow and easy-to-use design. The MPC Key 61 takes this classic design concept a step further; incorporating the classic MPC pad design with velocity-sensitive backlit pads on the main control panel. You can use these pads for chopping samples, finger-drumming, creating melodies and a whole host more. The pads feature aftertouch and note repeat functionality, which aids in creating rhythms and melodies.
You can also interact with sound and effects using the onboard assignable touch strip controller. The touch strip has long been a staple in modern MIDI controllers and keyboards, allowing you to swipe your finger to trigger effects and control parameters from created sounds. For example, assigning the touch strip controller to the LFO of a bass patch will allow you to create classic, dubstep-style bass sounds by moving your finger up and down the touch strip.
The MPC Key 61 is a one-stop-shop for all your music production and recording needs. It even features a built-in audio interface with premium-quality AD/DA converters to ensure every nuance is captured from your vocal/instrument performance. The audio interface combined with the powerful production capabilities makes the MPC Key 61 the ultimate portable studio. You can navigate between settings, sounds and parameters using the onboard 7-inch colour touch screen. The multi-gesture screen allows you to control sounds and effects using the award-winning AIR Music tech. You can also assign and control parameters using the 360-degree rotary Q-Link knobs – perfect for automation!.
Continuing its all-encompassing design, the MPC Key 61 features two mic/line instrument inputs complete with premium-grade mic preamps. You can use these preamps to capture studio-grade recordings from condensers and other studio mics. Designed to blend into any studio setup, the MPC Key 61 features a variety of connectivity including 8 x CV/gate outputs (3.5mm) – perfect for incorporating modular/synth gear. Class-compliant USB ports allow you to connect a range of digital devices including MIDI controllers, audio interfaces and even removable storage. 1/4-inch TRS audio outputs feature a dual-configuration design, allowing you to use them as dual-stereo or four-mono signal paths. If that wasn’t enough, the MPC Key 61 comes complete with MPC2 desktop DAW software for use with PC/Mac.