Akai Professional released the MPK Mini Plus II today, the next version of its 37-key mini keyboard controller. The update adds pressure-sensitive pads, a color display, and a new set of generative tools. It’s available now for $169 (£134.99, €159.99) through authorized dealers.
The hardware changes start with an upgraded keybed and eight RGB MPC pads that respond to both velocity and aftertouch. A 160 × 80 color screen shows which parameter each knob is controlling, so you’re not glancing back at the laptop every time you turn something. Pitch and mod wheels, eight 360-degree knobs, a push encoder, and transport controls round out the top panel.
The new creative tools are called Glitch, Mutate, Strum, Freeze, and Follow, and they sit alongside an expanded arpeggiator, Chord Creator, Note Repeat, and custom chord progressions. The bigger pitch is how many setups it fits into. The MPK Mini Plus II works directly with MPC Standalone and MPC Desktop, so MPC users can play parts, launch clips, tweak plugins, and move between tracks from the keyboard. It also ships with scripted control for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase, and MPC 3, plus NKS support for Native Instruments’ Komplete Kontrol. On the hardware side, a five-pin MIDI out and three CV/Gate outputs let it drive outboard synths and modular systems.
“MPK Mini has introduced a lot of creators to hands-on making music, and MPK Mini Plus II is built for the creator who’s ready for the next step,” Andy Mac, Akai’s executive manager of content, artist relations, and business development, said in a statement.
The keyboard comes bundled with more than 1,000 sounds from AIR Music Technology, Moog, and Akai, plus Native Instruments Komplete Select (Akai Edition) and MPC Beats. It runs on USB-C bus power and has a 1/4-inch sustain pedal input.