Korg Forums

[Jericho-79]

I used to own a Casio CTK-6250 portable keyboard that had built-in tones. In addition to the Korg Kronos, I'm interested in the Akai Professional MPK49 (or MPK61).

From what I understand, Akai Professional MPK49 is a MIDI/USB "keyboard controller" that creates sounds via computer software digital audio workstation. Apparently, it is very useful in the studio.

But what about live performances?

Can the Akai Professional MPK49 be played on stage like a Korg workstation synthesizer?

I mean- I was thinking that I could just go on stage, hook up the Akai Professional MPK49 to a power source, turn on the main power, and start playing a piano melody (using a built-in tone).

Or does the Akai Professional MPK49 need to be interfaced with a computer (with the DAW running) at all times?

Can the Akai Professional MPK49 act as a stand-alone instrument at gigs?

Is it accurate that Akai Professional MPK49 will not produce any musical sounds unless it is networked with computer software?

Please advise, everyone.

[MarPabl]

Let me try this analogy:
- The Akai MPK is the computer keyboard. Is will just send the "letters" (keys) you press.
- The Kronos, the CTK-6250 and the DAW (digital audio workstation) are the computer. Those are the "programs" which produce the actual sounds.

So the Akai MPK will never produce any kind of sound by its own (it doesn't have any "built in sound"). It needs to be connected to a sound engine (CTK-6250, Kronos or DAW in a computer) to make them produce the actual sound.

If you want a controller with built in sounds, try something like the TRITON Taktile.
_________________
Current gear: Access Virus TI2 Whiteout Keyboard (111/150), Access Virus TI2 Polar DarkStar Special Edition, Gibson Custom Lite 2013, Roland MV-8800

[kgardner53]

I have MIDI controllers: Behringer FCB1010, Akai professional LPK25, M-Audio Axiom 49 MIDI controller , M-Audio Axiom 25 MIDI controller .

In my opinion , the Akai line is good value. I had an AKAI MPK-88 controller and enjoyed it but traded it in on another gear purchase.
I use the two Axiom boards with my PA3x and Kontakt, Miroslav, Sonar X1 Producer and MusicLab soft synths. I carry the AKAI LPK-25 in my laptop bag when I want to have a keyboard to work on my configurations in a cafe while travelling. Although other brands may boast better key action, as a pianist, I always felt that the touch of the AKAI MPK-88 (see http://www.akaipro.com/product/mpk88) was pleasant under the fingers especially once you get a good piano sound sample emerging!
To quote their promotional site: