Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can the MPK61/MPK88 be synced to external devices?

Answer: Yes, the MPK61/MPK88 can receive MIDI Clock through both the USB and the MIDI IN connection. This means that you can synchronize tempo-based features, such as Note Repeat and the Arpeggiator, to an external source. To synchronize the MPK61/MPK88 to an external MIDI Clock source, please enter Global Mode, scroll to MIDI Clock and select “External”.

Question: Do I need to use a power adapter if I am using the MPK61/MPK88 with a computer?

Answer: No. The MPK61/MPK88 will draw power directly from the USB port. However, if your USB port does not supply enough power or if you are using a USB hub, it may be necessary to use the adapter.

Question: What software applications is the MPK61/MPK88 compatible with?

Answer: The MPK61/MPK88 is compatible with any software or hardware device which supports the MIDI protocol. Please consult your specific hardware or software device’s documentation for instructions on enabling the MPK61/MPK88 as a MIDI input device.

Question: Can I use the MPK61/MPK88 as a MIDI interface for other MIDI devices?

Answer: Yes. The MPK61/MPK88 functions as a MIDI interface and can be used to send or receive MIDI from other MIDI devices connected to it.

Question: Can I control multiple devices with the MPK61/MPK88?

Answer: Yes. The MPK61/MPK88 can transmit information on 16 MIDI channels on 2 ports for a total of 32 different MIDI Channels .

Question: How many different Presets can the MPK61/MPK88 hold?

Answer: The MPK61/MPK88 can hold 30 Preset settings, which allow you to store different configurations for use with various software and hardware modules. Presets can easily be copied, edited and stored for quick recall of desired configurations.

Question: Can I send Program Change messages to my software or hardware devices?

Answer: Yes. You can send program change messages in Program Change mode. In addition, pads and buttons may also be assigned to transmit program change messages.

Question: What type of pads is used on the MPK61/MPK88?

Answer: The MPK61/MPK88 features the same pads which are used on the Akai MPC1000.

Question: Are the pads on the MPK61/MPK88 velocity and pressure sensitive?

Answer: Yes. The MPK61/MPK88 sports MPC-style velocity and pressure sensitive pads. This allows you to be extremely expressive with your programming and performance.

Question: What is the octave range of the keyboard?

Answer: The MPK61 has a 5-octave physical range (61 keys). You can access the full range of MIDI notes by simply transposing the keyboard up or down with the [OCTAVE] buttons.

The MPK88 has a 7-octave physical range (88 keys). You can access the full range of MIDI notes by simply transposing the keyboard up or down with the [OCTAVE] buttons.

Question: Does the MPK61/MPK88 function as an audio interface?

Answer: No. The MPK61/MPK88 does not have a built-in audio interface.

Question: Are the knobs on the MPK61/MPK88 endless?

Answer: The knobs on the MPK61/MPK88 are endless pots. This allows you to limit the range of the knobs, as well as use them as increment/decrement controls. Please note that your software application must be able to receive and recognize NRPNs for Increment/decrement functions to work.

Question: I see 8 knobs, 8 faders, 8 buttons, and 16 pads. Is that all I get?

Answer: No. The MPK61/MPK88 features multiple banks of controllers and pads, which can be accessed with the [PAD BANK] and [CONTROL BANK] buttons. This allows you to access significantly more parameters than the amount of physical controllers. There are 3 control banks, which effectively give you 72 (3x24) controllers. There are also 4 different pad banks which give you a total of 64 (4x16) pads.

Question: Are the Pitch Bend and Mod wheels freely assignable?

Answer: The Pitch Bend wheel transmits dedicated pitch bend information and cannot be freely assigned to another controller value. The Mod wheel, on the other hand, can be assigned to transmit CC information on any MIDI CC#.

Question: Does the Note Repeat feature on the MPK61/MPK88 work similarly to Note Repeat on the Akai MPC series?

Answer: Yes, the MPK61/MPK88 features the same Note Repeat algorithm as can be found on the legendary Akai MPC series. This feature allows you to perform and program rhythm patterns that would otherwise be nearly impossible to do by hand.