Akai MPC Key 61 Standalone Music Production Keyboard Synthesizer

The Akai MPC Key 61 is a standalone music production keyboard synthesizer that combines the renowned MPC (with a vast plugin instrument offering) with a semi-weighted 61-key keybed. The keyboard synthesizer comes with 16 velocity-sensitive RGB drum pads with aftertouch, two onboard high-end mic preamps, AD/DA converters, phantom power, an assignable Touch Strip controller, Q-LINK knobs and a wide selection of inputs/outputs. In addition, the unit is clad with all the tools and functions required to personalise sounds and generate ideas.

The MPC Key 61 is the first MPC to introduce a 61 semi-weighted key bed inclusive of velocity and aftertouch. As a result, it has formed a complete music production tool for modern music creators that can plan, create, record and perform from a whole unit.

The keyboard features a 7-inch multi-gesture colour display that can be used to browse thousands of presets. Transport can be used to lay down rhythms and sequences, whilst presets can be finalised using premium effects from AIR Music-Tech. Effect parameters can be assigned and controlled using the four 360 rotary Q-LINK knobs.

The Key61 comes with an array of input and output options, allowing complete flexibility for placement within a studio environment. The Class Compliant USB ports can be used to connect devices such as audio interfaces, MIDI controllers or removable storage components. In addition, there are eight 3.5mm CV/Gate outputs where modular and synth gear can be connected. There are also dedicated Pitch Bend/Mod Wheels to add expanded control, texture and depth. Finally, the onboard TRS ¼” audio outputs can be configured into dual-stereo or four-mono signal paths, whilst the two XLR ¼” inch combo inputs allow for sampling and recording from microphones, instruments or Line-level sources through the precise and clear preamps and premium AD/DA converters.

Traditional MPC

MPC has been used as a basis for contemporary production for many years. The platform provides precise sampling workflow and lock-tight sequencing. Introducing the standalone element was a natural progression for MPC and its technology and builds upon its history of instrument plugins and innovative mixing through intuitive user interfaces.

Sound Power

Within the MPC Key, 61 are twenty-five unique plugin instruments with modern sound design textures and tonality that cater for all musical genres.

The sounds with the keyboard synth go from timeless acoustic to futuristic synth and run the entire harmonic spectrum. The flagship power synthesiser is Fabric XL which offers a wide selection of presets powered by an innovative multi-sample-based synthesis engine for pioneering sound and performance. Next, there is OPx4, a powerful 4-operator FM synthesizer engine that provides the classic FM sound.

A whole range of sounds come from acoustic and electromechanical instrument plugins, including the Stage Piano comprising of Steinway® grand and Bechstein® upright. Session Strings are a collection of orchestral instruments, including solo violins to a complete ensemble of bowed instruments, set to add layers of depth and dimension. Stage EP includes classic keyboards such as FM Electric Piano, Rhodes, Wurlitzer® and more. And finally, the Organ plugin replicates the sound of the mighty B3 through the Leslie speaker simulation.