Akai Professional MPD218 Pad Controller

Full Description

Thick backlit MPC pads

The Akai MPD218 Pad Controller is a compact and streamlined production unit featuring 16 thick backlit MPC pads for that authentic vintage MPC feel. The backlit pads help in low-light environments, perfect for live and studio performances. The thick and robust pads give you optimal control over your samples, allowing you to trigger everything from drum hits, loops, vocal shots and FX, the MPD218 Pad Controller gives you everything you need to create complex productions and performances.

The pads are configured in 3 banks, giving you a total of 48 assignable pads, allowing you to switch between banks for complex live sets as well as allowing you to arrange your samples. In addition to the backlit pads, there are 18 assignable 360-degree potentiometers accessible via three banks, allowing you to control automation, volume, pitch and a range of other parameters. The MPD218 also features Note Repeat and Full Level functions, perfect for creating stutters and changes in dynamics when it comes to performing live.

Versatile compatibility

The Akai MPD218 production unit features an integrated plug-and-play USB interface, compatible with both Mac and PC, allowing you to get started and setup within minutes. The built-in USB connection is also used to power the MPD218, eliminating the need for external power supplies (which can also be used in live situations). In addition to the improved functionality, Akai has also added iOS compatibility using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately), allowing you to connect and use your MPD218 with a range of iOS devices.

Music software suite

Complete with The MPD218 comes complete with over £300 worth of software, allowing you to get started straight out of the box. The bundled software includes: Akai Pro MPC Essentials, Big Bang Drums, Bang Cinematic Percussion from Sonivox, Ableton Live Lite, and Software Preset Editor. This versatile range of software provides you with high-quality samples and the means to produce, record and arrange your MPC218 performances with ease.

Free MPC Beats Software

Bring the iconic MPC work format and sounds to your computer, for free! Included with this controller, is the new MPC Beats software. With MPC Beats, you’ll find the iconic layout of the 4x4 drum sample grid, sample library browser, which is filled with 2GB of samples from the MPC Expansion packages. Sounds that defined a genre with the original MPC series. MPC Beats can be used as standalone software or a plugin for your DAW, and with a variety of Beat Templates, and a multitude of effects and processors, you can start producing immediately.

Features

• 16 Thick Fat backlit MPC Pads with Velocity and Aftertouch
• 48 assignable pads accessible via 3 banks
• 18 assignable 360-degree potentiometers accessible via 3 banks
• MPC Note Repeat and Full Level
• iOS compatible using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
• 16 configurable presets
• Includes Ableton Live Lite
• USB powered, no AC adapter required

Specifications

• Pads:
  • 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, red-backlit
  • 3 banks accessible via Pad Bank button
• Knobs:
  • 6 x 360-degree assignable potentiometers
  • 3 banks accessible via Control Bank button
• Buttons: 6 buttons
• Connections:
  • 1 USB port
  • 1 Kensington lock
• Power: via USB connection
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 23.9 cm x 20.1 cm x 4.1 cm
• Weight: 0.75 kg (1.65 lbs.)
• Product Code: MPD218