Review MIDI keyboard Akai MPK 249. Where to buy it?

Akai Professional has been one of the most influential producers of music production equipment in the world since 1984. I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of this Akai MPK 249 keyboard. Then you have a video or two, purchase links and useful comments from other users and then you have one of the most useful parts; comparison tables with similar keyboards so you can compare.

• 49 full-size semi-weighted keys
• 16 MPC pads with RGB illuminated feedback
• 4 banks of pads
• Q-Link Controls: 8 control knobs, 8 faders and 8 backlit switches
• Control template with backlit LCD display
• Capable of sending computer keyboard commands for shortcuts assignable to the pad
• Integrated transport and parameter controls for practical integration with the DAW
• Pitch bend, modulation and octave controls for dynamic performances
• Jack inputs for expression and sustains pedals
• Includes software pack (downloadable): Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials
• Dimensions: 737 x 311 x 89 mm
• Weight: 5.71 kg

This MIDI keyboard usually costs around €325/£289/$333 and offers 49 keys, that is a 4-octave keyboard, which will allow us to intone different compositions always using samples from the DAW of our preference.

We also have 16 MPC (Midi Production Center) pads with RGB (RedGreenBlue) backlighting, 8 assignable knobs, 8 assignable faders (very useful for mixing) and 8 backlit switches, which will allow us to have more control and agility in the audio software we are using.

It has the interesting ability to send commands from the computer keyboard for shortcuts assignable to the pad, as well as transport controls (rec, play, stop, pause, ect.) and integrated parameters for a practical integration with the DAW.

Other features include pitch bend, modulation and octave up and down for greater availability in the keyboard range and also has inputs for expression and sustain pedals.

And finally, we can comment that the Akai MPK 249 includes software pack (downloadable): Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials.

Now that we’ve seen the features of this Akai MPK 249 keyboard, watch these related videos to learn more.

Posts you may be interested in

• Ranking with the best midi keyboards
• My selection of cheap midi keyboards.
• Best MIDI Software to work with.
• MIDI Basic Guide.
• Midi Keyboards by Brand.

Akai MPK 249 vs Akai APC Keys 25

The Akai MPK 249 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €325/£289/$333 while the Akai APC Keys 25 is priced at €72/£64/$73. Having a big difference of 253 Euro between them, we will see their face to face.

• The Akai MPK 249 has 49 full-size semi-weighted keys, while the Akai APC Keys 25 offers 25 speed-sensitive mini keys with synthesizer action.
• The Akai MPK 249 offers 16 MPC pads with RGB backlighting, 8 assignable knobs, 8 assignable faders and 8 backlit switches. In addition to integrated transport and parameter controls for convenient DAW integration and pitch bend, modulation and octave up/down controls.
• The Akai APC Keys 25 is a specially integrated controller for the Ableton Live DAW, featuring a 5×8 clip launch matrix with RGB lighting for clip status indication, an octave and sustain switch, as well as 8 assignable faders that Ableton Live recognize.
• Both are USB-powered, requiring no external power source. Both have a sustain pedal input, and the Akai MPK 249 also has an expression pedal input.
• When the Akai MPK 249 includes the (downloadable) Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials software package, the Akai LPK 25 includes a Software Editor for Mac and PC.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

In the first comparison, we found two good MIDI controllers of the same brand. In this case, the Akai brand, the MPK 249 models, which as a MIDI controller is an excellent choice having 49 semi-weighted keys, 8 control knobs, 8 faders and 8 backlit switches, and also the Akai APC Keys 25

And here’s a video of the Akai APC Keys 25

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai APC Keys 25 review.

Akai MPK 249 vs Akai MPK mini MK2

The Akai MPK 249 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €325/£289/$333 when the Akai MPK mini MK2 is priced at €79/£70/$81. With a difference of €237 between them. Let’s move on to the face-to-face:

• The Akai MPK 249 has 49 full-size semi-weighted keys, when the Akai MPK mini MK2 offers 25 speed-sensitive mini keys with synthesizer action.
• The Akai MPK 249 features 16 MPC pads with RGB backlighting, 8 assignable knobs, 8 assignable faders and 8 backlit switches. In addition to integrated transport and parameter controls for convenient DAW integration and pitch bend, modulation and octave up/down controls.
• The Akai MPK Mini MK2 features a 4-way thumbstick for dynamic tone/modulation control, 8 MPC pads with note repeats, an Arpeggiator button and 8 assignable control knobs.
• Both are USB powered, no external power supply is required. Both have a sustain pedal input, and the Akai MPK 249 also has an expression pedal input.
• The Akai MPK 249 includes the software package (downloadable): Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials, while the Akai MPK Mini MK includes the full production software package (downloads): Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Once again we have two Akai branded MIDI controllers, the Akai MPK 249 which we have already discussed, and the Akai MPK Mini MK2 which in its price range is one of the best controllers with more features than the competition, with its compact and lightweight design and the control features that make it a small giant. If you are concerned about the touch of the keys and need the comfort of a full-size keyboard, the Akai MPK 249 will be your choice. On the contrary, if you want something portable and powerful, the Akai MPK Mini MK2 will be your best choice.

And here is a video of the Akai MPK mini MK2

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai MPK mini MK2 review.

Akai MPK 249 vs Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25

The Akai MPK 249 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €325/£289/$333 while the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 is priced at €135/£125/$137. Let’s see the face-to-face:

• When the Akai has 49 full-size semi-weighted keys, the Native Instruments has 25 full-size keys with semi-weighted and sensitivity.
• The Akai MPK 249 offers 16 MPC pads with RGB backlighting, 8 assignable knobs, 8 assignable faders and 8 backlit switches. In addition to integrated transport and parameter controls for convenient DAW integration and pitch bend, modulation and octave up/down controls.
• The Kontrol A25 offers a 4-way pushbutton encoder, 8 encoders with sensitivity to control more specifically the parameters of the DAW in general or some plugins and pitch bend and modulation wheels.
• The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 has intuitive control over Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Cubase and Nuendo. This means that it is compatible with
• Both are USB powered, they do not need any external power source. Both have a sustain pedal input, and the Akai MPK 249 also has an expression pedal input.
• The Akai MPK 249 software package (downloadable): Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC EssentialsC, and the Kontrol A25 includes Komplete effects and instruments: The Gentleman, Monark, Scarbee Mark I, Reaktor Prism, Reaktor Blocks Wired, Reaktor 6 Player, Kontakt 6 Player, Guitar Rig 5 Player, Komplete Kontrol Software, Maschine Essential.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Our first comparison where we don’t have two types of equipment of the same brand, now we have the Akai MPK 249 that we have already analyzed before, against the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25, which has 25 semi controllable keys, 8 touch-sensitive encoders, tone and modulation wheels and a 4D push-button encoder, with similar functions to the Akai in comparison. If you need 4 octaves for your compositions or general use the Akai MPK 249 will be your choice, but if with 2 octaves, i.e. 25 keys you feel comfortable, you will save money by purchasing the Komplete Kontrol 25

And here is a video of the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 review.

Akai MPK 249 vs Akai LPK 25

The Akai MPK 249 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €325/£289/$333 and the Akai LPK 25 is priced at €42/£37/$42. Having a huge difference of €283, and we must say that it is a somewhat unfair comparison we have. This is their face to face:

• When the Akai MPK 249 has 49 full-size semi-weighted keys, the Akai LPK 25 has 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity in MIDI language).
• The Akai MPK 249 features 16 MPC pads with RGB backlighting, 8 assignable knobs, 8 assignable faders and 8 backlit switches. In addition to integrated transport and parameter controls for convenient DAW integration and pitch bend, modulation and octave up/down controls.
• The Akai LPK 25 offers octave up/down buttons, sustain button and tap tempo; it is plug and play and works with virtually all audio software.
• Both are USB powered, no external power supply is needed. The Akai MPK 249 also has an input for expression and sustain pedals.
• The Akai MPK 25 includes a software pack (downloadable): Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials, and the Akai LPK 25 includes a software editor for Mac and PC.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Again we have a comparison of two Akai controllers. On the one hand the Akai MPK 249 with its features and functions and analyzed and on the other hand the Akai LPK 25 a more minimalist MIDI controller with much fewer functions than its competition, but with certain relevant points, like its great compatibility and its compact design. In short, if you need a MIDI controller with normal keys and a number of keys to feeling comfortable

And here is a video of the LPK 25 Akai keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai LPK 25 review.

Akai MPK 249 vs Novation Impulse 49

The Akai MPK 249 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €325/£289/$333 and the Novation Impulse 49 is priced at €223/£205/$228. With a difference of 76 Euro between them. Let’s see the face-to-face:

• They both have 49 full-size, sensuous semi-weighted keys, and the Novation ones have aftertouch.
• The Akai MPK 249 offers 16 MPC pads with RGB backlighting, 8 assignable knobs, 8 assignable faders, and 8 backlit switches. In addition to integrated transport and parameter controls for convenient DAW integration and pitch bend, modulation and octave up/down controls.
• The Novation Impulse 49 offers 8 backlit Drum Pads, 9 55mm Faders, 9 assignable buttons, 8 rotary controllers, 6 transport keys and pitch bend and modulation wheels.
• Both are USB powered, no external power supply is required. Both also have input for expression and sustain pedal.
• The Akai MPK 25 includes a software pack (downloadable): Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials, and the Novation Impulse 49 includes Xcite+ Software Pack, with Ableton Live Lite.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

In our latest comparison, we have the Akai MPK 249 MIDI controller which we have already analyzed many times, it offers us the moderate functions of a controller. And we also have the Novation Impulse 49 with functions very similar to its competition, both have 49 semi-weighted keys, pads, faders, assignable buttons, knobs, pitch and modulation wheels. So it brings us a somewhat difficult comparison, as a personal opinion, I would go for the Akai MPK 249 because of its higher number of pads and better quality in them.

And here is a video of the Novation Impulse 49 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Novation Impulse 49 review.

Which is the best of these MIDI keyboards if I am a beginner on a low budget?

While the answer to this question lies mostly in what specific need you have, for example, if you want to have a keyboard with the widest range of notes possible, or if you want to have as many control functions as possible, or perhaps a mix between the two, that is without leaving behind the different connections and software licenses that most MIDI controllers offer, we will give an objective opinion according to our experience in music production and thus also with the price demanded by the controllers, a kind of value for money.

In this post we can mention the Novation Impulse 49 as the best option in the quality-price ratio that we found. Thanks to its semi-heavy keyboard and its great set of control functions, in addition to its two pedal inputs, and the licenses it offers, and all this makes the Novation Impulse 49 one of the best options for a beginner to the world of music production,

Where to buy the keyboard Akai MPK 249

Thomann

• Free Shipping.
• Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
• 100% reliable payment.
• A leader in trouble-free shipping.
• Usually the Best price.
• Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalog and information.

Amazon

• Free Shipping and the possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
• Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
• Sometimes a better price.
• He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

Also, look at these models with a similar price and features:

• Roli Seaboard Rise 25
• Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition
• Roli Songmaker Kit Studio Edition
• Haken Audio ContinuuMini
• Roli Seaboard Rise 49
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2
• Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 Black
• Akai MPK 249
• Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White
• Novation 49SL MKIII
• Korg Triton taktile 49
• Keith McMillen K-Board Pro 4
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2
• Novation 61SL MKIII
• Novation Impulse 61
• Arturia KeyLab MkII 61 White
• Arturia KeyLab MkII 61 Black
• Nektar Panorama P6
• Akai MPK 261
• Nektar Panorama T6
• Studiologic SL73 Studio
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2
• Studiologic SL88 Studio
• Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII
• M-Audio Hammer 88
• Studiologic SL88 Grand
• Studiologic Numa Stage
• Doepfer PK88 GH
• Doepfer PK88 GH without Case