AKAI Professional updates the LPK25 and LPD8 mini controllers
3,6 / 5,0 | 
AKAI LPK25 and LPD8 · Source: AKAI Professional
AKAI LPK25 · Source: AKAI Professional
AKAI LPD8 · Source: AKAI Professional
AKAI Professional has updated the LPK25 and LPD8 USB MIDI controllers. The tiny keyboard and the pad controller have received a new, modern look. But there are some changes under the hood, as well.
AKAI updates the LPK25 and LPD8
The LPK25 and LPD8 came out no less than 13 years ago, so it was about time for a refresh. The concept remains the same: Tiny USB MIDI controllers that fit into your backpack and are perfect for sessions on the go. Both controllers have received facelifts and a new look that’s more in line with the manufacturer’s other current products, such as the MPK mini Mk3. In addition to this, AKAI has taken the opportunity to make some changes to the hardware.
AKAI LPK25
LPK25 · Source: AKAI Professional
Like the previous version, the newly refreshed AKAI Professional LPK25 offers 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys. But the keybed is now the same as the one used in the MPK mini Mk3, which should improve the playability. The rest remains pretty much the same. To the left of the keys are six buttons for octaves, sustain, extended functions, and the arpeggiator. The arpeggiator has received a new swing parameter, which is adjustable in five steps. The LPK25 is configured via a free software editor and can store up to eight presets.
AKAI LPD8
LPD8 · Source: AKAI Professional
Instead of the predecessor’s monochrome pads, the new LPD8 offers eight backlit RGB pads. According to AKAI, they’re the same heavy-duty pads used in the MPC X. In addition to MIDI notes, they can transmit MIDI CC events and program changes. The eight rotary knobs are useful for controlling plugin parameters and software instruments. The LPD8 is also configured using a free software editor. It can store up to four presets.
Prices and availability
The AKAI LPK25 and LPD8 are now ready to order from Thomann* for €59 each. Deliveries should begin within the next couple of weeks.
More information about the AKAI LPK25 and LPD8
Videos
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from YouTube. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from YouTube. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
* This post contains affiliate links and/or widgets. When you buy a product via our affiliate partner, we receive a small commission that helps support what we do. Don’t worry, you pay the same price. Thanks for your support!
This might also interest you
6 responses to “AKAI Professional updates the LPK25 and LPD8 mini controllers”
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from Facebook. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
More InformationYou are currently viewing a placeholder content from Instagram. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
More InformationYou are currently viewing a placeholder content from X. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
More Information
Its almost 2023, and yet Akai decides to launch a brand controller with USB-B. Good lord guys…
Whats to do with $current_year? I take that anytime over -C, way more robust. Whats you issue? Just get the appropriate cable.
C is, albeit being better than Micro, just another hype. No rational reason for non-mobile compute devices, other than shaving of a couple of millimeters and this is not needed here.
These are LITERALLY travel controllers. So now you’ve got to bring a USB-B to USB-C cable just for your little controller with you? Stupid. And I have seen no evidence that USB-B is more robust than USB-C. I think you’re assuming that simply because it’s larger. There’s no reason to use USB-B other than it probably saved them 50 cents per unit.
Also, USB-C is not just hype. Its a universal standard. That’s something we’ve never had in the computer world until type C. We should absolutely be shaming every company that doesn’t implement it into their products.
well at least USB-B is better than micro USB…. looking at you, elektron model range
apc40 mk3 plox
the old ones looked kinda ugly nowadays, I like the new, more modern look. sadly seems like they don’t offer wireless, but could be worse, at least they are pretty compact.