The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a compact, feature-packed MIDI keyboard and pad controller designed for music producers, composers, and performance musicians. Combining versatile functionality with a small footprint, it delivers powerful music creation tools to users who need portability without compromising on performance. This third-generation model builds upon the success of its predecessors, offering advanced controls, increased usability and an updated style.
Earning its name as ‘mini’, the MPK Mini MK3 boasts an impressively tiny size. Yet, within its petite frame it houses 25 velocity-sensitive keys, eight MPC-style pads, and eight 360-degree knobs. However, the improvements extend way beyond aesthetics and size. The Mini MK3 features some major tweaks, such as a new keybed for improved key response, an OLED display for instant feedback, and a no-nonsense software suite designed to catapult your music production workflow into the stratosphere.
This review will delve into the significant upgrades and performance of the Akai MPK Mini MK3, providing an in-depth look at how this compact, powerful device might serve as a versatile tool in your music production arsenal. Whether you’re a pro on the go, a bedroom producer, or you’re just starting out, the MPK Mini MK3 promises to deliver on top-level controls in a compact package.
Contents
Unboxing and First Impressions
Upon first unboxing the Akai MPK Mini MK3, you will be immediately struck by its sleek, compact design. The device is neatly packaged in a box that offers good protection and ensures that no damage befalls the MPK Mini during transportation. With a weight of only 1.65 pounds, this miniature keyboard is extremely lightweight and portable, making it an ideal choice for artists frequently on-the-go.
The MPK Mini MK3 has an all black exterior, with the keys, drum pads and knobs all having a uniform matte black finish. The glossy Akai logo etched in the center adds a nice touch to the minimalistic design of the machine.
In terms of physical upgrades from its predecessor, the MPK Mini MK2, the MK3 features a new joystick design that offers a smoother and more responsive feel. Additionally, there are two new touch-sensitive knobs for volume and modulation, which prove to be more intuitive for musical expression.
The device is also redesigned with a more intuitive layout. The keys, knobs, and drum pad are all within reach, without the need to unnecessarily stretch your fingers. Furthermore, the moment your hands touch the newly improved keybed, you will quickly realize the improvement Akai has brought in terms of the response and tactile feedback of the keys. They have a professional feel, making the device look and play like higher-end models.
In terms of accessories, the box includes a standard USB cable for connecting the MPK Mini to your computer, as well as a comprehensive owner’s manual. The manual offers clear instructions on how to start using the device and even provides some useful tips on getting the most out of the MPK Mini.
Overall, first impressions of the Akai MPK Mini MK3 reveal a useful, compact, and highly portable MIDI controller, designed with functionality and user-experience in mind. The device presents a perfect blend of stylish aesthetics and comfortable operation, all packed in a compact size.
| Product Name | Amazon Link |
|---|---|
| Akai Professional Controller Production MPKMINI3 | Find more info on Amazon here! |
| Professional Keyboard Controller Production Software | Find more info on Amazon here! |
Key Features and Functionality
The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a compact, portable MIDI keyboard controller that integrates multiple music production tools in a small package. The device is designed for musicians, producers, and DJs who need a comprehensive tool for making music on the go. There are several key features and functions that make this product stand out.
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25-Key Keyboard: The MPK Mini MK3 features a 25-key keyboard. These keys are velocity-sensitive, which means that they respond to the speed at which they are pressed. This allows for more expressive playing and can give a more human feel to your productions.
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8-Backlit MPC-Style Pads: These pads are also velocity-sensitive and are great for creating drum patterns or triggering samples. The lights give a visual feedback helping you keep track of your beats.
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8 Control Knobs: The device includes 8 assignable control knobs that can be used to manipulate sounds and effects in real time. Each knob can be mapped to a different function within your DAW, giving you lots of control over your sound.
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Built-in Arpeggiator: One of the standout features of the MPK Mini MK3 is its built-in arpeggiator. This tool can automatically play chords in a pattern or sequence, helping you come up with interesting melodic ideas quickly and easily.
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Octave Up and Down Buttons: These buttons allow you to quickly and easily change the range of the keyboard, giving you access to lower or higher notes as needed.
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Sustain Pedal Input: This input allows you to connect a sustain pedal, which can be used to hold notes while you’re not pressing any keys.
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Portability: At only 1.65 pounds and measuring 12.5 x 7.13 x 1.75 inches, the MPK Mini MK3 is highly portable. It’s USB-powered and doesn’t require any additional power source, making it ideal for music production on the go.
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Software Bundle: Akai also includes a comprehensive software bundle with the controller, including MPC Beats, six virtual instruments, and two effects plugins. The software provides a complete music production suite right out of the box.
Through these features and functionalities, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 offers music makers a vast range of creative options in a compact and portable package. Despite its small size, it doesn’t compromise on performance and is a versatile tool for music production.
Sound Quality and Performance
The Akai MPK Mini MK3 delivers outstanding sound quality and stellar performance that is a definite step-up from its predecessor, the MK2. The newly improved Gen 2 dynamic keybed ensures that players have a piano-style keybed to work with, which improves the responsiveness and the overall feel of the keys, while the eight backlit, velocity-sensitive pads provide a great degree of expressiveness.
Akai has made professional sound quality more accessible to home studio producers with this iteration by providing the complete MPC Beats software. This feature-rich program suite houses plenty of virtual instruments, MPC samples and loops, resulting in a robust and intuitive production experience. In this package, the software adds to the performance versatility of the MK3, making it an efficient tool for sound design, beat production, and live performances.
Further enhancing its performance, MK3 features eight assignable Q-Link knobs for mixing, tweaking plug-ins, and more. Users have been particularly satisfied with the ‘Note Repeat’ and ‘Full Level’ buttons intended to deliver expressive, full-bodied performances.
The built-in arpeggiator on the MK3 is another standout feature worth noting. This tool can be a real-time saver for producers, sparking creativity with its range of customizable options, including adjustable resolution, range, modes, and patterns.
Despite packing in all these features, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 manages to deliver clear, crisp and detailed sounds. It shines in delivering both high-pitch notes and deep bass tones. Whether you are producing electronic music, hip-hop beats, or cinematic scores, the MK3 proves itself as a durable and versatile tool to express your musical ideas.
Overall, in terms of sound quality and performance, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 surely punches above its weight and is set to enhance any home or professional studio setup with its wide range of high-quality features.
Connectivity and Integration
The Akai MPK Mini MK3 boasts a wide range of connectivity options, making it not just pocket-friendly in terms of price, but also highly flexible in terms of integration with your current setup.
The MPK Mini MK3 interfaces with your computer through a standard USB connection. This USB port not only serves as a means of data exchange between the MPK Mini and your computer, but it also powers the unit, freeing you from an extra power adaptor that would otherwise take up much-needed socket space. This makes the MPK Mini an excellent choice for those looking for an easily portable MIDI controller.
The MPK Mini also comes with a sustain pedal input, giving you more dynamic control over your playing. The device itself does not include a pedal in the package, so this would be an additional purchase if you require this functionality.
The controller’s clever integration doesn’t end at the hardware level. It also comes loaded with a selection of powerful software titles, including MPC Beats, six virtual instruments, and a selection of MixReady drum kits. This software suite is a welcome addition for those looking to start producing music without having to spend extra on additional software. Starting your production journey or even expanding your existing setup has never been easier.
With the bundled software, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 offers seamless integration with popular Digital Audio Workstations. It includes presets for programs such as Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro X, ensuring you can jump right into making music regardless of the DAW you use. The DAW integration takes the workflow possibilities to another level by allowing you to map the MPK Mini’s controls to virtually any parameter in your software.
The connectivity and integration offered by the Akai MPK Mini MK3 make it a suitable option for beginners and seasoned producers alike. Its comprehensive selection of hardware and software tools, together with the ability to power over USB, makes it a highly versatile and practical addition to any music production session.
Pros and Cons
When it comes to the Akai MPK Mini MK3, both advantages and downsides exist to consider. Let’s delve into them.
Pros:
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Design and Build Quality: Akai Pro maintains its superb reputation for build quality with the MPK Mini MK3. With a sturdy feeling that retains portability, this little MIDI controller feels like it can withstand the rigors of use on stage and in the studio.
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High-Quality Pads and Keys: One of the standout aspects of the MPK Mini MK3 is the high-quality feel of the keys and pads. They have a nice, weighty feel to them which is better than other mini-keys on the market. The MPC-style pads also have a pleasing, tactile quality about them.
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Versatile Range of Controls: The MPK Mini MK3 offers a good range of controls for such a compact controller. These include pitch and modulation controls, an onboard arpeggiator, a built-in sustain control, and eight control knobs that are assignable to your desired function.
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Great Bundled Software: The Akai MPK Mini MK3 comes with a comprehensive software suite that includes MPC Beats, six virtual instruments, and a range of mixing and mastering plugins. It provides a fantastic starting point for beginners or excellent additional tools for more experienced producers.
Cons:
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Limited to USB Power: The MPK Mini MK3 operates via USB power, which limits its flexibility somewhat. If you’re a performer who requires mains power for any reason, you may find this to be a problem.
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No Output for Sustain Pedal: There is no output for a sustain pedal on the unit, which means that players who often need the pedal may find the MPK Mini MK3 somewhat limiting in terms of functionality.
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Restricted Control Over DAWs: Users have noted that the MPK Mini MK3’s control over various DAWs can be somewhat limited in comparison to other MIDI controllers. While setting up the device is straightforward enough, serious producers might find the controller lacking in this regard.
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Fewer Controls than Larger Models: The MPK Mini MK3 naturally has fewer controls than its larger counterparts due to its compact size. Therefore, this is more suited for those who need something portable rather than a comprehensive studio setup.
Comparisons with Other Products
When it comes to compact MIDI controllers, the Akai MPK Mini Mk3 faces tough competition. There are a few other products in the market that serve similar purposes, but each comes with its own strengths and weaknesses.
One such product is the Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3. Unlike the Akai MPK Mini Mk3 that features 25 mini keys, the Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3 offers 16 RGB-sensitive launch pads that makes it cater primarily to Ableton Live users, creating a difference in terms of user preference. Moreover, the Akai MPK Mini Mk3 steps up with an improved key-bed and a sleek OLED display which the Novation lacks.
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Arturia Minilab Mk II. This too comprises of 25 mini keys but the touch of these keys can be a bit on the heavier side compared to the Akai MPK mini mk3. Also, it’s worth noting that the Arturia Minilab lacks the inbuilt arpeggiator that the Akai MPK Mini Mk3 boasts, allowing users to create complex sounds and tune variations with ease.
Another worthy competitor is the Nektar Impact LX25+. Although it provides full-sized keys, it lacks some features that Akai MPK Mini MK3 excels in such as pad performance and arpeggiator function.
Overall, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 offers a great balance between functionality and portability. Its most direct competitors either lean towards specialized functions or compromise in terms of interface and design. The Akai MPK Mini MK3 stands out with an excellent build quality and unique features such as the 4-way joystick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, an upgraded key-bed for enhanced performance, and an attractive OLED display.
Price Point and Value for Money
The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is priced in the mid-range bracket for mini MIDI controllers. For the array of features and the brand reputation it carries, many users would deem it excellent value for money.
It strikes a great balance between functionality and affordability. For both experienced producers and beginners alike, the MPK Mini MK3 provides a comprehensive solution for music production, beat making, and live performance without burning a hole in your wallet.
Moreover, one must consider the added perks of bundled software, including ProTools First, MPC Beats, and a variety of virtual instrument plugins. For anyone starting with music production, these programs are essential tools and add greatly to the value of the MPK Mini MK3.
Yet the MPK Mini MK3 does not compromise on its quality. Key features such as the velocity-sensitive keys, eight backlit and velocity-sensitive drum pads, onboard arpeggiator, and thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, are usually found on more premium products. These robust features, combined with the portable form factor, make the MPK Mini MK3 a steal in its price range.
In comparison to similar products, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 stands out for its wealth of features and quality build. The various controls are reliable and responsive, and the compact size does not compromise on playability or versatility.
Hence, the Akai MPK Mini MK3’s price point is not only justified but also puts it ahead of its competition. It is no surprise that it is a popular choice among music producers globally, serving as a testament to its outstanding value for money.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is much more than just a cosmetic upgrade. It demonstrates a significant evolution from its predecessors, showcasing Akai’s dedication to continually refining its products and staying ahead of the curve. The MPK Mini MK3 marries aesthetics with functionality and offers several features and improvements that music producers of all levels will appreciate.
From the new improved keybed to the upgraded MPC Beats software, the MPK Mini MK3 offers an elevated user experience. What stood out most was the addition of the OLED display, which provides real-time feedback and aids in navigation and functionality. This gadget’s compact design does not compromise its fully-packed features making it a great tool for mobile musicians and producers.
The improved pads are soft to touch but fairly responsive, enabling the user to feel each beat as they’re creating them. The 8 360-degree knobs provide ample room to tweak and fine-tune sounds to perfection. They offer precise control, which is crucial in a live performance setup.
The built-in arpeggiator takes the playability to a different level. You can generate complex sequences and change arpeggiator patterns on the fly, making live performances more impressive. And it’s worth mentioning the vast bundle of software that it comes with. It includes not just virtual instruments but also a variety of production software and sound libraries to help kickstart your creative journey.
It’s also worth considering who the Akai MPK Mini MK3 is for. It’s perfect for newbies looking for an affordable way to dive into music production – but only if they’re willing to overcome a steep learning curve. The wide array of capabilities might be overwhelming to a newcomer, but it provides a great platform for growth.
More experienced producers who are looking for a portable and feature-packed MIDI controller will also appreciate the MPK Mini MK3. It’s perfect for setting up a mobile studio or for those days when you want to work out of your conventional setup.
In summary, the new Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a fantastic portable MIDI controller that provides a range of features typically only found in more expensive models. No matter your experience level, if you’re in the market for a portable, feature-packed, and affordable MIDI controller, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 could be just what you’re looking for.