Great video man!! I like how in-depth you are getting. I also love it when they do that inverted color thing with the white and black keys on the keyboard. I just got the M-Audio Code 49. I have been looking for a 49 key controller keyboard for a while but it had to fit in my shelf under my desk which is less than 3.25" tall. The Code 49 was the only keyboard that would fit. I also just ran all my synths into a Motu MIDI interface and now I can control everything with the one keyboard. So stoked! It makes creating music so much easier. Keep up the great work man!
Great unboxing video! Very informative and I learned a lot more than I expected to from an unboxing video. Thank you for sharing the 411. Cool T-shirt btw also loved your in the backgroud NEVER GIVE UP!! Right on!
It is definitely helpful for things like seeing time divisions for note repeat, swing amount for note repeat, knowing what program you are on for the controller and more. Gives a good amount of information.
Hey Matt I'm new to the midi keyboard akai mpk mk3 and I was wondering if you can do an explanation video of how the buttons work and how to use them to your beat making
Hey there! Two things. First, got to say I love the enthusiasm you bring to your videos. It's obvious you are passionate about what you do. Second, how do the keys compare to the MKII? I wasn't a fan of the MKII keys at all as they just felt terrible to me. Do they feel similar or do you notice a significant difference in them? My gold standard for midi keys for now is the Arturia Minilab MKII. They just feel so nice! This seems like a slick device though...definitely going to keep it on my radar.
Thanks for that! The keybed is greatly improved from the previous version. It is a "gen 2 enhanced dynamic keybed". I have not used a Arturia Minilab MKII so I can't compare. I know the keypads on Akai mini MK3 vs Akai mini MK2 are way better.
Mathew is it me or in order for your vst to play loud you have to press pretty hard on the keybed. I just want to make sure I don't have defective device. I know there is a such thing as velocity sensitivity but the full level button seems to be only for the pads. So is there a way I dont have to press the keybed fast and slightly hard to get the velocity i want. Hope this makes sense and you can give me some tech support feedback lol akai sucks at tech support
Zach Manuel your not by yourself, I downloaded the MPC Beats software and i listen to Matthew Stratton and got the Akai MPK mini, Yes just the mini. Now i'm seeing MPK 2 MPK 3 and tomorrow there be a MPK 4. So now i got a MPK 1, had to Upgrade it and now this.. Was this a Big old Promotional Gimmick. This reminds me of When i Got the MPC One and AKAI Comes Out with, Yes you Guest it, The MPC LIVE 2. So what about the MPC One, did AKAI just forgot about it. I was Better of with my Guitar and Bass. and a Regular Keyboard. But Since i got these things i might as well put them to Good Use. Thanks a lot AKAI.
Hello. I hope you do put your equipment to good use! That being said, if you bought a controller off of my recommendation it was likely within the past couple weeks in which case you should contact the reseller and try to get an exchange for the new version (or simply get a refund and buy the new version). You certainly don't need 3 MIDI controllers.
Hello. Can MPK Mini Mk3 works nicely with MPC One (as it works with MPC Beats) ? Is there a MIDI mapping setting included in MPC One to works "out of the box" with MPK Mini Mk3 ? How to tell MPK Mini MK3 Qlink knobs to work with MPC One (as they do in your video with MPC Beats) ? I thought that the operation between MPC one and MPK Mini MK3 would be "plug and play" (both are Akai and USB connected) , but that does not appear to be the case and I did not find in the manual of the MPK how to setup it with the MPC One. Do you plan to do a video on "How to use MPK Mini Mk3 with MPC Live / One ?". Thank you.
Down loaded the software but neglected to copy the authorisation code which has not been retained on my account so if I launch a feature I'm asked for an activation code that I do not have. So if you download this software make sure there are no distactions to make you misnavigate
Mine arrived from Amazon with the tape sealing the box cut open, the device not in a bag at all, the usb cable lying loose in the box and the manual and other papers also lying loose in the box.
hi guys i need help, when i normally press the keys i can barely hear the notes but when i press the keys harder the sound is waaay louder. How can i play my keys all at the same volume? Sorry for my english
I don’t have one of these units yet so I can’t tell you where specifically you adjust this on this unit. However what you’re looking for is velocity sensitivity.
Does the Pads / Knobs map the MPC (Live for example) in Standalone ? I mean...can the Knobs do what the QLinks do in Standalone , or only conected to the Software in Controller mode ?
You can assign knobs to custom controls in the MPC Live standalone. For example, you can control the volume level of a drum program. You cannot control global parameters in with MIDI controllers on the MPC Live standalone, only with the software. Therefore, you cannot control screen Q-links with an external controller in standalone mode.
Damn, I just bought a MK2 the same day MPC Beats dropped last week and now this is the same price $119. Is there a new firmware update for the MK2 and a software update to MPK Editor available for the MK2 peeps?
Zach. I don't know if there is an upgraded editor or not. Have you tried exchanging your keyboard for the new one (or returning it for a refund and buying the new one). It would be worth a shoot. I don't want you to feel like you got ripped off or anything.
HELLO it s me again... i have a question, i dont understand what is" CC" touch on pad control, and the CC parameter in mpk editor what is it for? sorry i m french and everything is in english , not easy and i m a noob...
When you have CC selected it will make the pads send CC values. CC values are used to control external gear or software. For example, you can assign the play button in MPC Beats to a CC value so when you tap the pad on the MPK mini it will start play back in MPC Beats.
When you register your MPK Mini MK3 with your log in you get access to all the software. I outlined the set up process in this video: ua-cam.com/video/FqU2F31dJiw/v-deo.html
Yup, that was very helpful and that worked. When I just downloaded the free MPC Beats without registering the MK3 product, it was not compatible. I also wish there were tutorial on using the MK3 controller with Beats to make music. I particularly don't understand how you switch track (instrument) in the middle of loop/recording like they seamlessly do on other videos. EDIT: found it at your MPC Beats beginner video where you can turn a knob to switch tracks
There is a new keybed: "Gen 2 Enhanced Dynamic Keybed". It is way more responsive than the previous model. So the keybed is improved but no one can really say how long they last as it only has been out 1 day.
Is this just me or the pads are actually pretty hard to press to a max level? I have to push pretty hard to get on 127. I'm very new to music production and MPK Mini MK3 is my first MIDI, so I'm not sure how it should feel😅 Is it ok, or mine is somehow defective?
What up i got the akai mpk mini mk3, So my only issue is when i hit record, it will record whatever im playing but when i try to record over that melody with the same instrument instead of it adding extra melodies it replaces the melody i use fl studio 20
@@MatthewStratton hey thanks for all the info, if you can check my video titled "questions about akai" just had a few questions figured its easier to show than type up and please leave a comment, if you charge for any info let me know, ill pay if need be
I have AKAI MPK MINI MK2 and it is most cheap build keyboard from all that I had ever seen. Feels like cheap China build toy for kids. And what I have - that "hollow" keys bottom. Arturia is incomparably better build quality and fill solid AT THE SAME PRICE. Nice review though, interesting that they change limited knobs to encoders thank!
Hello. Which Arturia keyboard do you have at the same price? (just curious not trying to argue or anything) I haven't used any of the new Arturia MiniLab keyboards, but I did have the MiniLab MK1 when it first came out and got rid of it quickly. I do have an Arturia Beatstep now and the build on that is way better than I remember the MiniLab being, so I bet the MiniLab MK2 is better too. That being said, I think the pads on the MPK mini MK3 are better than the beatstep. Also, I like the feel of the smooth encoders better on the MPK mini MK3 as well. The encoders on the Arturia Beatstep are really nice, but they have a slight click to them ever time you turn them and it just doesn't feel as good to me when using the MPC software. I do have a keystep and the build on that is great too. The keybed has been upgraded on the MPK mini MK3 so the keys feel way better than the old mk2 keybed. I still need to put this thing to the full test, but I really think Akai Professional did a great job on this controller, especially at the price point it is at.
@@MatthewStratton MiniLab MK2. Honestly I have 2 of them, and second one is kind of less quality, so might be depend part to part (so might be will return), but anyway much better than AKAI keyboard. I have beatstep as well and some people tell me the point and it make sense - on beat step encoders are with "steps" because you change notes, so one step is one note shift. That why they are "stepped" type. On MiniLab MK2 encoders are normal type and very smooth.
@@rendermanpro Yeah, the whole "step" thing with the beatstep makes a lot of sense. It is actually fun using it to program basslines and different synth parts using the encoders on it. Sounds like Arturia has mad some improvements over time on the MiniLab MK2. Nice. Thanks for replying.
This would be a solid buy if they put a play stop record to control daws native instruments m32 is my go to travel still I do own the mk2 white version though 👍🏽maybe the m32 can take the mk3 on a date And have a baby 🤣🤣
I added it to the description after DjAjonra asked this question. It wasn't out yet when I wrote the description that is why she didn't see it. I have found it on Sweetwater (black one) and Musicians Friends (white one, black one, black on black one) website so far.
Just bought this today. For the most part I'm coo with but something not mentioned here nor me thinking about (because I assumed it worked) but the pad panel buttons don't seem to work..ie the tap tempo, note repeat nor full level. Whats up with that.
i knew Akai was going to release something good when they released MPC beats for free. got to get me one :)
I think they work well together. I even got the note repeat function on the MPK mini MK3 to sync up properly with the MPC Beats software.
@@MatthewStratton awesome!
It's marketing 101. Giveaway free software and then upsell you the controller.😭🤔✌
Damn I just bought a MK2 ☹️
@@MatthewStratton how????
Hit the like button people! These guys put in the time to help you out and give you info. The least you can do is help promote em!
I appreciate you.
Mine should arrive tomorrow excited to start playing around with it
Looking at the black one 😍😍 glad the keys are a bit better than the mark 2 it bothered me how soft they were I hope these have a good weight
Thanks the tip about setting the control option in preferences was something that was making me crazy in getting the pads to line up correctly!
Just got one about 4 hours ago. Never had one, but always needed on. Hope this will be good!
Nice. Let me know what you think.
Where did you purchase
@@Dimelo_Rai guitarcenter has tons of them i work there
I just got this!! Can’t wait to use it
I love the poster on your door ❤️ Never give up buddy❤️
💯
Cool video and unboxing Matt, and I'm ordering mine this week! Can't wait to see the next interview too homie!🙏🏾✊🏾
Thanks man! It is a nice controller, works well with the MPC Software. The next interview will be out soon. 👍
Hey Matt, I operate without a DAW, so do you think it'll plug and play with my MPC Live?
Great video man!! I like how in-depth you are getting. I also love it when they do that inverted color thing with the white and black keys on the keyboard. I just got the M-Audio Code 49. I have been looking for a 49 key controller keyboard for a while but it had to fit in my shelf under my desk which is less than 3.25" tall. The Code 49 was the only keyboard that would fit. I also just ran all my synths into a Motu MIDI interface and now I can control everything with the one keyboard. So stoked! It makes creating music so much easier. Keep up the great work man!
Finally ordered a white today wuhu
Great unboxing video! Very informative and I learned a lot more than I expected to from an unboxing video. Thank you for sharing the 411. Cool T-shirt btw also loved your in the backgroud NEVER GIVE UP!! Right on!
thanks man! loved the review
You're welcome!
Well i upgraded my MPK Mini to a MPC Mini Mk3. But i Still Love my MPC One. What will AKAI Come Out with Next. 🤔
Same screen on the Fire. Dope.
It is definitely helpful for things like seeing time divisions for note repeat, swing amount for note repeat, knowing what program you are on for the controller and more. Gives a good amount of information.
Hey Matt I'm new to the midi keyboard akai mpk mk3 and I was wondering if you can do an explanation video of how the buttons work and how to use them to your beat making
Hey there! Two things. First, got to say I love the enthusiasm you bring to your videos. It's obvious you are passionate about what you do. Second, how do the keys compare to the MKII? I wasn't a fan of the MKII keys at all as they just felt terrible to me. Do they feel similar or do you notice a significant difference in them? My gold standard for midi keys for now is the Arturia Minilab MKII. They just feel so nice!
This seems like a slick device though...definitely going to keep it on my radar.
Thanks for that! The keybed is greatly improved from the previous version. It is a "gen 2 enhanced dynamic keybed". I have not used a Arturia Minilab MKII so I can't compare. I know the keypads on Akai mini MK3 vs Akai mini MK2 are way better.
@@MatthewStratton That's fantastic news! The keybed was my biggest complaint about the MKII. Might have to give one of these a shot.
@@ndguardian the keybed still suck, it has a little improve but not so much, if you are mainly use the key , you would choose arturia.
El Vad do you have one did you try? Looking for a little more weight that my mark ii
Can I play with this direct from the box or I need the pc ? Can I power to a speaker and star run out beats ?
Mathew is it me or in order for your vst to play loud you have to press pretty hard on the keybed. I just want to make sure I don't have defective device. I know there is a such thing as velocity sensitivity but the full level button seems to be only for the pads. So is there a way I dont have to press the keybed fast and slightly hard to get the velocity i want. Hope this makes sense and you can give me some tech support feedback lol akai sucks at tech support
Infinite encoders. Best feature. All the rest seems the same as the old. Aftertouch?
Do i need a computer to play the piano or i can power it with a charger and a power bank pls reply
There are no sound internally. You need to connect it to a device that can give it power and has sounds like a computer or MPC.
@@MatthewStratton thx
Great vid, Can I ask if you need a longer cable for Akai MPK mini MK3 what would I need? Really new to this and your videos help out :)
hello, is this keyboard useful with an MPC one? I love its design but I hesitate with the Arturia at the same price which is more complete in / out :)
Just bought mine today
Zach Manuel your not by yourself, I downloaded the MPC Beats software and i listen to Matthew Stratton and got the Akai MPK mini, Yes just the mini. Now i'm seeing MPK 2 MPK 3 and tomorrow there be a MPK 4. So now i got a MPK 1, had to Upgrade it and now this.. Was this a Big old Promotional Gimmick. This reminds me of When i Got the MPC One and AKAI Comes Out with, Yes you Guest it, The MPC LIVE 2. So what about the MPC One, did AKAI just forgot about it. I was Better of with my Guitar and Bass. and a Regular Keyboard. But Since i got these things i might as well put them to Good Use. Thanks a lot AKAI.
Hello. I hope you do put your equipment to good use! That being said, if you bought a controller off of my recommendation it was likely within the past couple weeks in which case you should contact the reseller and try to get an exchange for the new version (or simply get a refund and buy the new version). You certainly don't need 3 MIDI controllers.
Thank You! Bought one from Sweetwater!
Enjoy!
Hello. Can MPK Mini Mk3 works nicely with MPC One (as it works with MPC Beats) ? Is there a MIDI mapping setting included in MPC One to works "out of the box" with MPK Mini Mk3 ? How to tell MPK Mini MK3 Qlink knobs to work with MPC One (as they do in your video with MPC Beats) ? I thought that the operation between MPC one and MPK Mini MK3 would be "plug and play" (both are Akai and USB connected) , but that does not appear to be the case and I did not find in the manual of the MPK how to setup it with the MPC One. Do you plan to do a video on "How to use MPK Mini Mk3 with MPC Live / One ?". Thank you.
Down loaded the software but neglected to copy the authorisation code which has not been retained on my account so if I launch a feature I'm asked for an activation code that I do not have. So if you download this software make sure there are no distactions to make you misnavigate
is the akai software is same for mk2 and mk3 or they are different?
How would you compare this to the Arturia mini lab?
How to save sounds and software in
Mine arrived from Amazon with the tape sealing the box cut open, the device not in a bag at all, the usb cable lying loose in the box and the manual and other papers also lying loose in the box.
does this comes with Ableton light . and is it compatible with Reaper?
Does it have or can you setup transport controls with the MPC software so you don't have to use the computer? Thx!
I wish they'd make a newer version of the bigger one.
They probably will in time. They have upgraded their bigger controllers before so I imagine they would keep upgrading them. Possible?
So pissed dude! I wanted the white edition and didn't know it was out yet. Ordered the standard edition from Sweetwater.
Hi I'm new here but I saw 16 qlinks but the midi controller only had 8 how do you control the other 8 left with the midi controller?
12:38
hi guys i need help, when i normally press the keys i can barely hear the notes but when i press the keys harder the sound is waaay louder. How can i play my keys all at the same volume? Sorry for my english
Same here...🤦🏼♂️
I don’t have one of these units yet so I can’t tell you where specifically you adjust this on this unit. However what you’re looking for is velocity sensitivity.
Does the Pads / Knobs map the MPC (Live for example) in Standalone ? I mean...can the Knobs do what the QLinks do in Standalone , or only conected to the Software in Controller mode ?
You can assign knobs to custom controls in the MPC Live standalone. For example, you can control the volume level of a drum program. You cannot control global parameters in with MIDI controllers on the MPC Live standalone, only with the software. Therefore, you cannot control screen Q-links with an external controller in standalone mode.
Damn, I just bought a MK2 the same day MPC Beats dropped last week and now this is the same price $119. Is there a new firmware update for the MK2 and a software update to MPK Editor available for the MK2 peeps?
you probably can just read my Comment to Matthew.
Zach. I don't know if there is an upgraded editor or not. Have you tried exchanging your keyboard for the new one (or returning it for a refund and buying the new one). It would be worth a shoot. I don't want you to feel like you got ripped off or anything.
Nice review! Thank's a lot!
You're welcome.
How well does it work with the MPC Live/One/X standalone? It would be cool if the screen would work kinda like the little q-link screens on the X.
HELLO it s me again... i have a question, i dont understand what is" CC" touch on pad control, and the CC parameter in mpk editor what is it for? sorry i m french and everything is in english , not easy and i m a noob...
When you have CC selected it will make the pads send CC values. CC values are used to control external gear or software. For example, you can assign the play button in MPC Beats to a CC value so when you tap the pad on the MPK mini it will start play back in MPC Beats.
Nice review M!
More to come!
Nice video!!
Thanks!
@7:17
Where did you get the sotware? From the website there is no link to downloads for MK3, just for MK II.
When you register your MPK Mini MK3 with your log in you get access to all the software. I outlined the set up process in this video: ua-cam.com/video/FqU2F31dJiw/v-deo.html
Yup, that was very helpful and that worked. When I just downloaded the free MPC Beats without registering the MK3 product, it was not compatible.
I also wish there were tutorial on using the MK3 controller with Beats to make music. I particularly don't understand how you switch track (instrument) in the middle of loop/recording like they seamlessly do on other videos.
EDIT: found it at your MPC Beats beginner video where you can turn a knob to switch tracks
They need a new MPK249 and Bluetooth
What is the program? Sorry, i'm russian and didnot understand
MPC Beats. Free software. I use it on my tablet for free, will be getting this for a controller.
@@JEZLIVE2010 thank you!!
Just need mpk mikro now...
I didn’t get the mk2 because I heard the keys snap on the inside over time did they fix that issue?
There is a new keybed: "Gen 2 Enhanced Dynamic Keybed". It is way more responsive than the previous model. So the keybed is improved but no one can really say how long they last as it only has been out 1 day.
How hard are the pads? I tried the MKII's and got I bit hurt in the tips of my fingers😞
Damn why u hitting it so hard u just abusing the pads 😂
Is this just me or the pads are actually pretty hard to press to a max level? I have to push pretty hard to get on 127. I'm very new to music production and MPK Mini MK3 is my first MIDI, so I'm not sure how it should feel😅 Is it ok, or mine is somehow defective?
I pretty much always use FULL LEVEL for the pads to so it doesn't really matter how hard I hit them. 🤣🤣🤣
I had to return mine. It was impossible to learn to play. Their tech support is also impossible to get through.
Right on, what did you get instead?
Where can I Purchase one?!?!?!?!? Please share a Link 🙏🏼
amzn.to/31hJdhv
Does it work on a laptop Or ?
Yes. It will work with laptops.
Looks rad
For sure. I think it is really a nice improvement from the previous version.
hi, when this will be available ? please :)
You can buy from Musician's Friends website (multiple colors in stock) or Sweetwater (black only in stock) right now.
I wish they had put transport control instead of the arpeggiator. Who really uses it? Pretty much all DAWs have arps built in.
Hopefully they will release editor software to edit what the pads can control.
do the keys feel any different from the mk2?
Yes. Way better and more responsive. New Gen 2 keybed in the MK3.
What up i got the akai mpk mini mk3, So my only issue is when i hit record, it will record whatever im playing but when i try to record over that melody with the same instrument instead of it adding extra melodies it replaces the melody i use fl studio 20
I don’t use fl studio, but in other DAWs you need to use overdub instead of record to add to and existing track.
@@MatthewStratton o ok i figured it out. Thanks man
@@MatthewStratton hey thanks for all the info, if you can check my video titled "questions about akai" just had a few questions figured its easier to show than type up and please leave a comment, if you charge for any info let me know, ill pay if need be
I have AKAI MPK MINI MK2 and it is most cheap build keyboard from all that I had ever seen. Feels like cheap China build toy for kids. And what I have - that "hollow" keys bottom.
Arturia is incomparably better build quality and fill solid AT THE SAME PRICE. Nice review though, interesting that they change limited knobs to encoders thank!
Hello. Which Arturia keyboard do you have at the same price? (just curious not trying to argue or anything) I haven't used any of the new Arturia MiniLab keyboards, but I did have the MiniLab MK1 when it first came out and got rid of it quickly. I do have an Arturia Beatstep now and the build on that is way better than I remember the MiniLab being, so I bet the MiniLab MK2 is better too. That being said, I think the pads on the MPK mini MK3 are better than the beatstep. Also, I like the feel of the smooth encoders better on the MPK mini MK3 as well. The encoders on the Arturia Beatstep are really nice, but they have a slight click to them ever time you turn them and it just doesn't feel as good to me when using the MPC software. I do have a keystep and the build on that is great too.
The keybed has been upgraded on the MPK mini MK3 so the keys feel way better than the old mk2 keybed. I still need to put this thing to the full test, but I really think Akai Professional did a great job on this controller, especially at the price point it is at.
@@MatthewStratton MiniLab MK2. Honestly I have 2 of them, and second one is kind of less quality, so might be depend part to part (so might be will return), but anyway much better than AKAI keyboard. I have beatstep as well and some people tell me the point and it make sense - on beat step encoders are with "steps" because you change notes, so one step is one note shift. That why they are "stepped" type. On MiniLab MK2 encoders are normal type and very smooth.
@@rendermanpro Yeah, the whole "step" thing with the beatstep makes a lot of sense. It is actually fun using it to program basslines and different synth parts using the encoders on it.
Sounds like Arturia has mad some improvements over time on the MiniLab MK2. Nice.
Thanks for replying.
This would be a solid buy if they put a play stop record to control daws native instruments m32 is my go to travel still I do own the mk2 white version though 👍🏽maybe the m32 can take the mk3 on a date And have a baby 🤣🤣
Akai would likely have to extend the mpk mini to 32 keys to fit the transport controls on it.
Matthew Stratton nothing wrong with a few more keys lol 💪🏼💯🔊🎶
True that.
Where’s the link to the device?
Check Sweetwater, going for $120 USD
I added it to the description after DjAjonra asked this question. It wasn't out yet when I wrote the description that is why she didn't see it. I have found it on Sweetwater (black one) and Musicians Friends (white one, black one, black on black one) website so far.
Matthew Stratton awesome thanks Matt!
Just bought this today. For the most part I'm coo with but something not mentioned here nor me thinking about (because I assumed it worked) but the pad panel buttons don't seem to work..ie the tap tempo, note repeat nor full level. Whats up with that.
*nice.*
Good stuff
@@MatthewStratton 😂
is that USB-C? I guess not right? ah you showed later :P
USB - B, and there is a port for sustain pedal.
@@MatthewStratton I was confused with an interface Glenn Fricker showed the other day, that thing does have USB-C
Just the knobs and screen
There is actually a new keybed in the MK3.
@@MatthewStratton i can't find it on amazon
@@jannybravo8429 It is right here: amzn.to/2PmmwDm
@@MatthewStratton wow
@@MatthewStratton same price as da old 1
Hey I have that same mom mini I’m having popping noises on play back and when I record can you help
Unboxing takes 20 seconds, just show us the instrument
I did show the instrument.
Just when I told myself that won’t be buying any new gear !! Lol
Well...if you need a MIDI controller it is kinda worth it 🙂
@@MatthewStratton what
@@koaoi9172 Can you clarify?