Akai Introduces MPK Mini Plus II

Noise Harmony

30 minutes ago

2 min read

Akai Professional has introduced the MPK Mini Plus II, an updated version of its compact 37-key MIDI controller. The second-generation model features an improved mini keyboard, a full-color display, expanded creative performance tools, and integration with the MPC3 ecosystem. It also brings USB-C connectivity while retaining a compact three-octave format designed for music production and live performance.

Deep integration with MPC Standalone and MPC Desktop puts transport, pads, Q-Links and clip launching on the controller. SOURCE: Akai Professional

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to buy through them, I’ll get a small kickback - at no extra cost to you. It helps me keep Noise Harmony going. Thank you!

Updated Keyboard and Performance Controls

The MPK Mini Plus II features 37 velocity-sensitive mini keys, eight RGB-backlit MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity, eight assignable 360-degree knobs, and a push-button encoder. Dedicated pitch bend and modulation wheels provide additional expressive control, while a new 160 × 80 full-color LCD displays parameters and software information.

Akai MPK Mini Plus II seen from above on a white background — Top view of the MPK Mini Plus II, a compact 37-key MIDI controller. SOURCE: Akai Professional

The controller also introduces expanded Arpeggiator, Chord, and Note Repeat modes, alongside creative functions such as Glitch, Mutate, Freeze, and Strum. These tools provide additional possibilities for generating melodic ideas, exploring rhythmic variations, and experimenting with chord progressions directly from the hardware.

MPC3 Integration and Connectivity

One of the key additions is integration with MPC Standalone and MPC Desktop running MPC3. The controller provides hands-on access to transport functions, track navigation, plugin presets, mixing controls, and clip launching. It also supports popular DAWs, with real-time parameter feedback available through the integrated display.

Connectivity includes USB-C, a 5-pin MIDI output, three CV/Gate outputs, and a sustain pedal input, allowing the controller to work with software instruments, external MIDI hardware, and modular synthesizers.

Rear panel of the Akai MPK Mini Plus II with USB-C, sustain pedal input, three CV/Gate outputs and a MIDI DIN output — Rear connections: USB-C, 1/4" sustain input, three 3.5 mm CV/Gate outputs and a 5-pin MIDI out. SOURCE: Akai Professional

Included Software and Sounds

The MPK Mini Plus II comes with the Akai Pro Studio Instrument Collection, featuring more than 1,000 sounds from AIR Music Tech, Moog Music, and Akai Professional. The software bundle also includes Native Instruments Komplete Select (Akai Edition), MPC Beats, and Ableton Live Lite, providing a selection of virtual instruments and music production tools.