Akai MPD32 - USB/MIDI Pad Control Unit
The MPD32 from Akai is a velocity-sensitive pad controller for musicians and DJs, modeled after the extremely popular MPC series of drum samplers. Long coveted for the rhythm musicality inherent in the MPC series, the unit allows for expressive and intuitive programming of percussion and rhythm material, without the expense of having to buy a full blown sampler.
The controller includes 16 MPC-style velocity and pressure sensitive pads, 4 selectable pad banks for a total of 64 playable pads, 8 assignable faders and 8 assignable, 360° knobs for transmitting MIDI Control Change data. Three selectable control banks extend the number of available faders, buttons and knobs to 24 each. Also featured are transport controls for interfacing with DAW/sequencing applications.
A fully reprogrammable controller, the MPD32 is a malleable and multi-functional tool that fits perfectly within any production or performance environment.
- Rhythm controller with 16 velocity and pressure sensitive pads
- 4 selectable pad banks for a total of 64 pads
- 8 assignable faders for transmitting MIDI Control Change data
- 8 assignable, continuously variable rotary encoders
- 3 selectable control banks extend the number of available faders, buttons and knobs to 24 each
- 30 user-definable Presets for various DAW and software applications
- REW, FF, STOP, PLAY and REC buttons that transmit MMC (MIDI Machine Control) messages to DAW/sequencing applications
- MIDI synced note-repeat with MPC swing
- 2 assignable Foot Switch inputs and an assignable Foot Pedal controller input
- Backlit, easy to read LCD display
- MIDI and/or USB operation
- USB powered or via optional AC adaptor
| Triggers | 16 velocity-sensitive pads |
| Presets | 30 (user definable) |
| Controllers |
8 x Assignable continuous controller sliders 8 x Assignable buttons 8 x Control/Pad/Preview bank buttons 3 x Function buttons 8 x Buttons and 1 x Rotary control for navigation/menu display 8 x Assignable continuous controller rotary controls 5 x Transport control buttons |
| Connectors |
1 x USB 1 x MIDI Out 1 x MIDI In 1 x 1/4" TRS phone Expression pedal 2 x 1/4" TS phone Foot Switch 1 x 6VDC Power Adapter In |
| Display | Custom LCD with backlight |
| System Requirements |
Mac running OS X PC running Windows XP Available USB port |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 15.2 x 12.1 x 2.75" (308 x 384 x 64 mm) |
| Weight | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Specialties | Two assignable footswitch inputs and an expression pedal input |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 6 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (4)
- Versatile (4)
- Good audio (3)
- Lightweight (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Home studio (3)
- Performances (3)
- Pro audio / DJ / mixing (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Experienced (5)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 6 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-6
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Akai MPD32 - USB/MIDI Pad Control Unit:
The price is much better than other retail stores. shipping was due between about the 7th working from time of purchase, but unit actually came a day early than scheduled. Awesome site, Awesome prices, will buy from again!
- Primary use:
- Personal
- Computer Platform:
- PC
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Professional Recording
Comments about Akai MPD32 - USB/MIDI Pad Control Unit:
Excellent. Has many features for producing your own beats. Would recommend.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
- No rubber feet
Best Uses
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about Akai MPD32 - USB/MIDI Pad Control Unit:
The MPD32 is a great tool for any producer, DJ, or all around audio techy. The drum pads are good (not great) but they just need getting used to. Some things that should be noted: the control knobs are full rotation knobs (which i like), meaning that they can be rotated in either direction infinitely. Useful to some, nuisance to others. Every button and knob and pad is very precise when it comes to sensitivity and setting. The informative bright blue LED display is my favorite feature on the MPD32. When first plugged in, the default contrast setting makes it easiest to read from a desk position. But the many settings (which include contrast setting) make this easy to change if needed. However there were some issues i've run across, like the 'tap tempo' feature practically fails and the note repeat somehow stumbles for me (unknown reason). One last comment, i don't know if its a factory glitch or something, but on the bottom of the hefty device, there aren't any feet/rubber pads that help it from sliding all over the place during use. I advise looking into this before buying.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
- Breaks Easily
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
Comments about Akai MPD32 - USB/MIDI Pad Control Unit:
I'm using the MPD32 on a musical tour of Aventura has worked excellently me Thanks BH & AKAI ...
Pros
- Compact
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Studio
Comments about Akai MPD32 - USB/MIDI Pad Control Unit:
I bought the MPD to replace an aging MPC-2000 that I have had for about 5 years. I have gradually moved more and more towards doing all my production work in Logic, so I didn't really need the MPC's sampling capacity any more. Not to mention the hassle of booting from a floppy drive (this is 2009!).
The MPD 32 works well with Logic. Pads are easy to use and the thing is basically plug and play. Note repeat works just like on the MPC (one of the main reasons I finally went for the MPD). I was pleasantly surprised at how useful the controllers are, as well. I have assigned them to EQ, effects, etc. and it's nice to have real faders for each of the parameters.
All in all, I'm very happy with this. The only real negative I've found so far is the lack of a power button. You have to unplug the USB cable any time you don't want the very bright screen illuminating your room. I worry that I may want to back to the simplicity of an MPC sequencer someday, but for now, I'm happy with just having a big ol' set of pads to use!
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Akai MPD32 - USB/MIDI Pad Control Unit:
This this is amazing. BH has one of the best prices around. This thing can handle live performance, all the way down to a beginner, and It's easy to learn and adjust parameters and settings as well. If you don't need a keyboard (most of them stink anyway), I would def. suggest this thing! Pads are awesome, and you can finally control parameters with your own hands. A must have.
Displaying reviews 1-6
Batteries & Power
- Price: $19.00
Digital Cables
- Price: $4.39
Stands & Support
- Price: $69.00
Virtual Instruments
- Price: $250.00
Cases & Protection
- Price: $44.99
What's in the Box
- USB Cable (1 m)
- One (1) Year Warranty
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