Akai MPK Mini Plus II 37-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller
The Akai MPK Mini Plus II combines a 37-key keyboard, MPC pads and hands-on controls in a compact MIDI controller. Creative performance tools help develop melodies, rhythms and chord ideas, while flexible connections support software and hardware setups. A practical production companion for beatmakers, songwriters and musicians working across workflows.
Akai MPK Mini Plus II 37-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller
The Akai MPK Mini Plus II, also referred to as the 2nd Generation model, brings keyboard performance and production control together in a compact workspace. It suits musicians who want to develop ideas through playing, finger drumming and hands-on sound adjustment.
Use the keys for melodies and harmonies, then bring the pads and assignable controls into your production workflow. A colour display provides feedback while you navigate functions and adjust parameters.
Chord and arpeggiator tools offer ways to explore musical variations, helping turn a starting idea into a more developed performance. Integration with supported software keeps frequently used functions accessible from the hardware.
Connections accommodate both computer-based production and compatible external instruments. Plan your setup around the sound sources, software and monitoring equipment you intend to use.
This is a MIDI controller: it controls compatible software or external sound-generating equipment. It does not provide onboard instrument sounds or built-in speakers.
Is the Akai MPK Mini Plus II Right for You?
- Beatmakers: Combine keyboard parts and finger-drumming techniques.
- Songwriters: Develop melodic and harmonic ideas through playing.
- Home producers: Add physical controls to a software-based workspace.
- Hardware musicians: Plan a controller around compatible external instruments.
- Mobile creators: Build a compact production setup for different locations.
Choose around your preferred keyboard size, software workflow and the connections your instruments require.
Choosing Your Akai MPK Mini Plus II Setup
| Workflow | Purpose | What to plan |
|---|---|---|
| Computer-based production | Play software instruments and control supported applications. | Computer requirements, software installation and audio monitoring. |
| Compatible MPC workflow | Add keyboard and performance control to your production system. | Supported hardware, firmware and USB connections. |
| External MIDI instrument | Control compatible sound-generating hardware. | MIDI cabling, power and the instrument's audio outputs. |
| CV/Gate setup | Control compatible analogue or modular equipment. | Voltage compatibility, settings and suitable patch cables. |
Plan the complete signal path: controller, sound source and audio output equipment.
Complete Your Akai MPK Mini Plus II Setup
Build your production workspace around the software, instruments and monitoring equipment you use.
- Compatible computer: Check the requirements for your chosen software.
- Audio interface: Choose suitable audio connectivity for your recording and monitoring needs.
- Headphones: Explore headphones for production and practice.
- Studio monitors: Plan speakers and positioning around your workspace.
- Sustain pedal: Check compatibility before choosing a pedal.
- MIDI and patch cables: Select appropriate connections for external instruments.
- Transport protection: Choose a bag or case with suitable internal dimensions.
Register the controller and follow the software setup instructions before starting your first project.
Akai MPK Mini Plus II Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the MPK Mini Plus 2nd Generation?
Yes. Akai's official model name is MPK Mini Plus II.
How many keys does it have?
It has 37 velocity-sensitive keys.
Does it make sound by itself?
No. It controls compatible software instruments or external sound-generating equipment.
Can I use it without a computer?
It can control compatible external hardware when appropriately powered and connected. Your external instrument supplies the sounds.
How is it powered?
It receives power through USB-C.
Does it have a MIDI output?
Yes. A 5-pin DIN MIDI output is provided.
Can it control modular equipment?
Pitch, Gate and Mod outputs support compatible equipment. Check voltage requirements and settings before connecting.
Does it work with every DAW automatically?
MIDI control is widely supported, but deeper integration depends on the application, version and installed mapping.
Do I need an account for the included software?
Yes. Follow the registration and redemption instructions to access your software.
Does it replace an audio interface?
No. Plan suitable audio output equipment for your computer or external instruments.
Akai MPK Mini Plus II Key Features
- 37 velocity-sensitive keys: Compact keyboard layout.
- Eight RGB MPC pads: Velocity- and pressure-sensitive performance control.
- Eight assignable knobs: Hands-on parameter adjustment.
- Colour display: Hardware feedback for settings and workflows.
- Pitch and modulation wheels: Dedicated expressive controls.
- Creative functions: Arpeggiator, Chord, Note Repeat, Strum and Mutate tools.
- USB-C connectivity: MIDI communication and power.
- Hardware connections: MIDI output, sustain input and CV/Gate outputs.
Included Software
- Studio Instrument Collection
- Ableton Live Lite 12
- MPC Beats
- Native Instruments Komplete Select – Akai Edition
Software requires registration, download and compatible equipment. Check the current redemption terms for each included title.
Akai MPK Mini Plus II Technical Specifications
| Product type | USB MIDI keyboard controller |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | 37 velocity-sensitive keys |
| Pads | Eight velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads |
| Assignable knobs | Eight 360° knobs |
| Navigation | Push encoder |
| Display | 160 x 80 full-colour LCD |
| USB | USB-C for MIDI and power |
| MIDI output | 5-pin DIN |
| CV connections | Three 3.5mm TS outputs: Pitch, Gate and Mod |
| Sustain input | 6.35mm TS |
| Power | USB-C bus power or suitable external USB power source |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 493 x 192 x 54mm |
| Weight | 1.46kg |
Included Software: Minimum Computer Requirements
- Mac: macOS 13 or later; Intel Core i7 2.5GHz or Apple Silicon.
- Windows: Windows 10 or later, 64-bit; Intel Core i7 2.5GHz.
- Memory: 4GB RAM.
- Storage: 11GB free disk space.
Individual applications and demanding projects may require additional resources. Check compatibility with your chosen software before purchasing.