Akai Professional MPK 49 vs Arturia KeyLab 49
SOURCE ARTICLES
Akai MPK49 49-Key MIDI Controller User Reviews
www.zzounds.com
The Akai MPK49 MIDI Controller is praised for its solid build, practical features, and value for money. The reviewer appreciates the compromise of having 49 keys instead of 88, as it fits well in their recording area. They highlight the controller's sound quality, arpeggiator, and ease of use. The sturdy frame, high-quality knobs, sliders, and buttons are also commended. The reviewer mentions the pads being a bit hard to push but still satisfactory. They compare the controller to the Novation controller and express their preference for the Akai. The reviewer has had positive experiences with Akai products in the past and mentions the manufacturer's support. The red and black design and the overall professional look of the controller are also mentioned. Overall, the reviewer gives the Akai MPK49 a perfect rating in all categories.
Can the Akai Professional MPK49 be played on stage like a regular musical keyboard?
www.harmonycentral.com
The Akai Professional MPK49 is a controller keyboard, not a synthesizer. To allow the audience to hear the sounds, you would need to connect your laptop to an amplifier or PA system. It is recommended to have your own monitor system for smaller venues, but larger venues may provide multiple monitor feeds. Using a laptop for live performances has pros and cons, with great sound quality but potential technical issues. Consider getting a used keyboard instrument instead of a keyboard controller.
Akai MPK49 review
www.musicradar.com
The Akai MPK49 is a compact keyboard with a range of control options. It features eight knobs, faders, and switches, as well as pitchbend and modulation wheels. The keyboard also includes 12 MPC pads for sampling sequencers. The MPK49 allows for assigning three different sets of data for the controls, giving a total of 72 assignable parameters. Installation is easy, and presets are available for popular software and plugins. The MPC pads offer a firm and responsive feel, and the keyboard includes an arpeggiator and note repeat function. Overall, the MPK49 is a feature-packed keyboard that performs well.
Akai MPK 49/61
The Akai MPK 49/61 MIDI/USB controllers are known for their solid build quality and ruggedness. They feature a semi-weighted keyboard that is stiffer but highly responsive, making it suitable for trained pianists. The controllers also include pitch bend and modulation wheels, 12 pads with adjustable sensitivity, an arpeggiator, transport section, faders, and encoders. The drum pads may require some adjustments to improve sensitivity. The controllers come with presets for popular DAWs but may require manual configuration for other software. The MPK 49/61 are priced similarly to other premium controllers in the market.
Akai MPK49
The Akai MPK49 is a USB MIDI controller with a large panel and spacious controls. It features a 49-key semi-weighted keyboard with velocity and aftertouch sensitivity. The controller also includes 12 MPC-style percussion pads, eight knobs, eight faders, and assignable buttons. It has a bright-blue backlit display and comes with a preset editor and librarian application. The MPK49 offers hands-on improvisation with features like Tap Tempo, Note Repeat, and an arpeggiator. It is a user-friendly controller that prioritizes intuitive playability.
Review: Arturia Keylab 49 — AudioTechnology
The Arturia Keylab 49 is a well-built and affordable controller keyboard. It comes with the Analog Lab software, which provides access to 5000 sounds from Arturia's V-series instruments. The software is compatible with various operating systems and offers simple editing options. Overall, the Keylab 49 is a versatile and practical tool for musicians.
Arturia KeyLab Essential Mk3 review
The Arturia KeyLab Essential Mk3 is an upgraded version of the affordable KeyLab Essential range. It features a new display, improved backlit buttons and pads, and USB-C connectivity. The top panel has been reworked around the new display, with multifunction buttons for keyboard split and switching between parts. The controller offers different program modes for controlling Arturia synths and DAWs, with full parameter feedback on the display. The KeyLab Essential Mk3 has a hybrid synth-piano feel and comes with a solid software bundle. Overall, it delivers great controller features, quality design, and easy DAW integration at a good price.
Arturia KeyLab Essential
The Arturia KeyLab Essential is a budget-friendly controller keyboard that offers flexible MIDI control, DAW control, and access to the Analog Lab software/plug-in. It has a lightweight and plasticky build, but retains the stylish Arturia look. The keys have some lateral play and inconsistent straightness. The controller has a good selection of controls, including knobs, faders, and pads. The Analog Lab software contains over 5000 synth patches and allows easy searching and filtering. The controller also offers DAW control, but the fader control in Pick-Up mode can be sketchy. Overall, the KeyLab Essential is an affordable option for those looking for a controller keyboard with a deep bank of quality synth sounds.
Arturia Keylab Essential 49 review
The Arturia Keylab Essential 49 is a well-made and affordable controller keyboard. It comes with starter software and has features like MIDI out, chord mode, and pitchbend wheels. The keyboard action is tight and quiet, and it integrates well with DAWs. The Analog Lab integration is excellent, allowing for easy editing and browsing of patches. The MIDI Control Centre app allows for customization of controls. Overall, it's a solid controller keyboard with good build quality and core features.
Arturia Keylab 49 Review
The Arturia Keylab 49 is a solid and heavy keyboard with good knobs and faders. However, there were some initial issues with keys not working and knobs not functioning properly. After troubleshooting and updating the firmware, the keyboard is now working fine. The reviewer is happy with the purchase and hopes that others with similar problems can find a solution instead of returning the product.
Review: Arturia Keylab Essential Mk3 — AudioTechnology
The Arturia Keylab Essential Mk3 is a versatile controller that seamlessly integrates with Analog Lab and V Collection instruments. It offers automatic mapping of virtual faders and pots, allowing for easy control of tone and effects levels. The controller's nine pots and faders correspond to the Controls section of Analog Lab, while the central encoder and touch-sensitive pads enhance the user experience. The Mk3 also features an improved Arp section and creative functions like Chord and Scale. Overall, the Keylab Essential Mk3 is a valuable tool for exploring and customizing sounds.
Arturia KeyLab Essential Mk3
The Arturia KeyLab Essential Mk3 is a budget-friendly controller keyboard with deep integration with various DAWs. It has a solid build and a good key feel. The keyboard offers a range of features including Chord mode, Scale options, and an Arpeggiator. The integration with DAWs like Bitwig, Cubase, and Ableton Live is seamless, allowing control over mixer functions, device parameters, and clip launching. However, there is no way to shift control to other devices directly from the keyboard in Bitwig and Live. The Cubase integration is also somewhat limited. Overall, the KeyLab Essential Mk3 offers a clean and tidy design with solid DAW integration, making it a good choice for those looking for a budget-friendly controller with deep DAW integration.
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AI COMPARISON
Comparison Table
| Feature | Akai Professional MPK 49 | Arturia KeyLab 49 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Keys | 49 | 49 |
| Number of Faders | 8 | 9 |
| Number of Drum Pads | 12 | 16 |
| Number of Knobs | 8 | 10 |
| Encoders | 1 | 2 |
| Thickness | 63 mm | 70 mm |
| Display | Yes | Yes |
| Volume | 13348 cm³ | 16500 cm³ |
| Weight | 5896 g | 6500 g |
| Backlit LED Buttons | Yes | Yes |
| Octave Buttons | Yes | Yes |
| Tap Tempo | Yes | No |
| Arpeggiator | Yes | No |
| Bank Button | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation Buttons | Yes | No |
| Transport Section | Yes | Yes |
| Modulation Wheel | Yes | Yes |
| Pitch Wheel | Yes | Yes |
| Keys Type | Semi-weighted, Aftertouch | Weighted, Aftertouch |
| Pads Sensitivity | Pressure and Velocity Sensitive | Velocity Sensitive |
| MIDI Ports | In, Out, USB | In, Out, USB |
| Sustain Pedal Input | Yes | No |
| Expression Pedal Input | Yes | Yes |
| Compatible with Windows/Mac | Yes | Yes |
| Special Software Integration | No | Analog Lab, Hybrid Synth |
Summary
Key Similarities: Both the Akai MPK 49 and Arturia KeyLab 49 feature 49 keys, compatibility with Windows and Mac, MIDI via USB, and transport sections. They are also equipped with backlit LED buttons and provide extensive control options like knobs, faders, and drum pads, which enhance versatility in studio setups and live performances.
Key Differences: The Arturia KeyLab 49 offers more faders and drum pads than the Akai MPK 49, potentially offering better control over software and sound manipulation. It also includes unique features like hybrid synth integration and the Analog Lab software, which provides access to thousands of synth sounds. The Akai MPK 49, meanwhile, offers semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, tap tempo, and an arpeggiator, features that are particularly valuable for performance dynamics.
The Akai is noted for its solid build quality and responsiveness, especially with its aftertouch feature, while the Arturia is recognized for its weighted keys and extensive software integration, making it perhaps better suited for studio work due to its broader range of controls and sound options.
Recommendations
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For Live Performers: The Akai MPK 49 with its semi-weighted keys, arpeggiator, and tap tempo will likely better suit live performers who need dynamic and responsive control.
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For Studio Musicians and Producers: The Arturia KeyLab 49, with its integration with Analog Lab and additional control options, makes it a great choice for studio environments where software integration and sound variety are important.
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For Beginners: Both keyboards are user-friendly, but the Arturia KeyLab might offer more for beginners due to its included software, making it easier to start creating music right away without additional investments.
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