Akai MPC Key 61

The MPC Key 61 brings the famous MPC beat-making workflow into a full-size keyboard, so you can sample, sequence, play and mix a complete track without switching on a computer. On the left sit the classic 16 MPC pads for drums and chops; across the front you get 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch that feel good for chords, basslines and leads. A large colour touchscreen makes editing quick and visual, while the Q-Link knobs put sound tweaking right under your fingers. Inside there is a big library of built-in instruments, from synths and electric pianos to strings and organs, plus a wide range of mixing effects. Two mic/instrument preamps let you record vocals or guitar straight into your project, and plenty of MIDI and CV/Gate connections let it act as the heart of a studio full of other gear. It also works as a controller with MPC software on your computer when you want to go further.

• 61 full-size semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, plus pitch-bend and mod wheels
• 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB MPC pads
• 4 touch-sensitive 360-degree Q-Link knobs and a multi-touch colour display
• Standalone: runs the MPC operating system, 4 GB RAM, 32 GB internal storage, SATA bay for an extra SSD
• 25 built-in plugin instruments with thousands of presets and 100+ effects
• 2 mic/instrument inputs with preamps for recording vocals and guitar
• MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB host for MIDI devices and audio interfaces, and 8 CV/Gate outputs