Yes, the MPK Mini Plus is a class-compliant, USB-MIDI keyboard. This means that instead of creating sound on its own, it will send MIDI messages to the software on your computer to generate sound and control your music production software. Incorporating the same keybed from the MPK Mini, the MPK Mini Plus enhances this expressive design with the addition of dedicated Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels. Providing added expression for both live performances and studio sessions, the inclusion of the wheels expands your sonic palette, allowing you to make on-the-fly changes to timbre and pitch. The Gen 2 keybed has been optimised to capture every nuance of your performance, providing maximum expression for highly accurate articulation. From creating loops and full songs, the MPK Mini Plus provides you with everything you need to get there.

Akai needs slow down with new releases and focus on improving the integration between the software and hardware.All new & used goods supplied by Music Matter are warranted free from defects for 12 months from the date of supply (unless otherwise stated). This is simply because this keyboard has the perfect amount of 37 keys for me, just like the MicroKEY and the iRig Keys 2 but it is an extra bit smaller, Build quality:- had the first one returned as the drum pads were really not responsive (I had the same problem with the regular mini, also had to return one of that one) As I read on the internet it is a common problem with AKAI minis, that the build consistency of the drum pads are not so great, so are better, some are worse. The replacement that I got is also not the best in terms of responsiveness, but I can live with it. Lukid: “Dance music can be a bit snobbish about melody - but for me, the marriage of rhythmic and melodic elements is where the magic happens” The MPK Mini Plus is a class compliant device, which means it can be connected to any computer without the need for additional drivers.

The MPC Beats installer is located in the i nMusic Software Center and does not require an authorization code to use. Simply install the software and start making music! Although I wasn't in a great need to get an extra keyboard, I am very happy to be able to add the MPK Mini Plus to my collection and it will probably be used more often than the other keyboards on the long term. Start creating music straight out of the box thanks to the MPC Beats DAW music software. MPC Beats is an intuitive DAW that allows you to record, edit and arrange music with advanced controls and in-depth sound design capabilities. Craft your songs from thousands of melodic sounds, drum samples, loops and virtual plugin instruments. Included within MPC Beats are powerful plugin instruments such as Electric and Tubesynth that provide everything from eclectic soundscapes to soaring leads and smooth pads.Something else that’s new is proper pitch bend and mod wheels – AKAI is selling this as a performance keyboard, so tactile wheels are a great addition. The keyboard is more accomplished than the unit’s size might suggest, too. There are 37 mini keys which use a ‘2nd gen’ dynamic keybed. These are surprisingly pleasant to play, reacting well even to more complex playing styles. It’s certainly light years ahead of what you used to get from small keys and feels like you’re sacrificing far less now when trading off portability for responsiveness. There’s 3 full octaves meaning two-handed chord playing is a reality, plus of course easy transposition as well as scale and chord modes that let you program chords to single notes and also ensure you never play an off-key note. The AIR team has released standalone software versions of the Hybrid, Mini Grand, and Velvet plugins. These apps will install on your computer when you run the plugin installers from the MPK mini Software Manager. These standalone programs are great to play with if you're not looking to use a DAW and just want to plug in the MPK and make some noise! Very complicated to use at first. Needs a simple first use guide. Because its new out not a lot of help on the web either. The Sequencer allows you to program a combination of notes and rhythms that can be sent to your DAW or hardware synths, MPC, or any other device that accepts midi. Yes! The Firmware will need to be updated before you begin using your controller. Please follow the link below for detailed instructions on updating the firmware.