Notes: *** Update February 2025- NKS Integration available with this product ***
Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) is a technical standard that connects plugins to hardware controllers with no setup required. The NKS ecosystem includes over 2,000 virtual instruments and plugin effects by over 250 acclaimed developers.
NKS enables users to load instruments and effects, tweak parameters, browse and manage presets with tangible controls, keeping creators' minds and hands on the music. No time is wasted creating, saving, and resetting controller parameter mappings.
Key features include:
Unified Control: NKS maps plugin parameters directly to hardware controls, allowing for hands-on adjustments without navigating computer menus.
Efficient Workflow: It streamlines browsing, loading, and editing presets, enabling producers to stay focused on creativity.
Broad Compatibility: Many third-party developers support NKS, offering a wide range of compatible sounds and effects.
For Our Products: This integration allows Akai and M-Audio compatible devices to fully utilize all NKS workflow features.
Here are some key points to take note of:
Current users will receive the software bundle once they register their device.
Both existing and new owners will receive the software bundle once their hardware is registered.
NKS Software Partnerships
For years, Native Instruments has partnered with world-class software manufacturers, including Arturia, Heavyocity, Korg, Output, Spitfire Audio, and many more, to bring thousands of instruments and effects plugins into the NKS ecosystem. Together with Native Instruments' own instruments and effects, this creates the most extensive database of any auto-mapped hardware controller ecosystem.
Until now, NKS hardware controllers were only available from Native Instruments, such as the Kontrol S-Series and Komplete Kontrol A-Series keyboard controllers.
NKS Hardware Partner Program [New]
At NAMM 2025, NI announced opening up NKS compatibility for third-party, non-NI hardware, allowing millions of performers and producers worldwide to enter the NKS ecosystem.
***
Compact but powerful all-rounder for control over software, plugins and hardware. Typical high-quality Akai build, with a combination of keys, pads, rotary controllers and transport controls for versatility.
Supplier's Notes:
37-key MPK Mini keyboard with advanced connections and controls
The MPK Mini keyboard line revolutionized portable music-making for producers and beat makers all over the world. The new MPK Mini Plus builds on that innovation by empowering musicians with full creative control that delivers ultimate feel and expression, along with next generation performance tools. Advanced connectivity easily and fully unites all your favourite studio devices for complete and expanded hardware integration in a compact 3-octave design.
Full Portable Creative Control
While maintaining its compact footprint, MPK Mini Plus offers extensive controls providing deep command over a wide range of features. 8 velocity-sensitive RGB-backlit MPC drum pads are the backbone for not only playing dynamic beats and programming drums, but for also assigning pro-gram changes and triggering additional CC parameters. Dial in effects with the 8 assignable 360-rotary knobs for every function including filters, automation, pan controls, and more. For the first time on any MPK Mini, enjoy dedicated Transport controls for total integration into your DAW. Eliminate needless back-and-forth from your QWERTY keyboard or mouse and stay engaged in the creative workflow with dedicated Play, Stop, Record, Loop, and Locator buttons.
Ultimate Feel and Expression
As with all MPK Mini controllers, performance starts with the keys. MPK Mini Plus features 37 keys with the Gen 2 Dynamic Keybed for expanded melodic and harmonic creation. 3 full octaves mean more room for two-handed chords, arpeggiation, and laying down solos or soundscapes. The Gen 2 Dynamic Keybed features incredibly playable keys with a wider velocity range, delivering a world-class level of note dynamics and response. With more keys, your music will need new ways to add feel and expression, so the MPK Mini Plus adds dedicated Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheel controllers to help all keyboard performances truly come alive. Alongside the iconic Joystick Controller, there's no shortage of tactile interaction for near limitless expression.
Advanced Connectivity and Standalone Operation
For those spontaneous creative moments or quick jams sessions, MPK Mini Plus can operate with standalone functionality. The new polyphonic Step Sequencer is convenient for capturing new ideas on the fly. Record notes and drum patterns simultaneously for some serious standalone music creation. Connect to any Class-Compliant USB or 5-pin MIDI device and use the CV/Gate connectors to plug into your rack and other modular synths. The MPK Mini Plus is versatile enough for the serious beginner looking to grow their creative space, and also for those seasoned pros who want to get the most out of their studio gear.
Includes MPC Beats DAW for Mac and PC
The bundled MPC Beats software DAW for Mac and PC offers the iconic MPC workflow right on a desktop or laptop computer, and also includes thousands of sounds, drum samples, loops, and plugin instruments to create your next hit song. With more keys on the 37-note Gen 2 Keybed, MPC plugin instruments like Electric and Tubesynth will come alive with extended sonic range. Set the MPK Mini Plus on a desktop and connect with standalone MPC devices to control Mellotron and Hype plugins.
Even with 3 octaves, MPK Mini Plus will fit in your gig bag to easily transport alongside everyday music production items. It's simple math; adding MPK Mini Plus to any workflow equals expressive creativity and intuitive control for modern music creation and beat making.
Connectors
USB Type-B port
(5) 1/4" (3.5mm) CV Outputs
(2) MIDI DIN In/Out Ports
(1) Sustain input
Power Via USB type-B (bus powered or connected to wall adapter).
Dimensions (width x depth x height)
17.76" x 7.08" x 2.04"
45.11 cm x 18.0 cm x 5.2 cm
Weight
2.78 lbs.
1.26 kg
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