Akai MPK261 specs
A 61-key studio controller built on a semi-weighted, piano-style keybed rather than synth-action keys. Around it sit 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads across four banks, eight faders and eight encoders across three banks each, plus MPC Note Repeat and an arpeggiator so patterns can be played without touching a DAW. At 6.84 kg it stays on the desk.
Brand: Akai
7.2/ 10
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Sixty-one semi-weighted keys, 16 pressure-sensitive pads and three banks of faders and encoders at 6.84 kg.
#22 of 25 MIDI controllers · full ranking| Status | current |
|---|---|
| Keys | 61 |
| Key action | MPK261 comes equipped with 61 semi-weighted, full-size keys and a premium piano-style keybed |
| Aftertouch | ("Each key is velocity-sensitive and outfitted with aftertouch"); type channel/poly unspecified |
| Pads / faders | 16 pads; velocity- and pressure-sensitive; 4 banks; 8 faders (3 banks); 8 360-degree encoders (3 banks); 8 switches (LED-backlit, 3 banks) |
| Sounds / presets | 3 |
| Sequencer | an arpeggiator, with adjustable resolution, range, and patterns; MPC Note Repeat |
| Weight | 6.84 kg |
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Strengths
- 61 semi-weighted full-size keys, not synth-action keys
- 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads in 4 banks
- 8 faders and 8 encoders, each with 3 banks
- MPC Note Repeat and an arpeggiator work without a computer
Weaknesses
- 6.84 kg - the heaviest controller in this set
- Akai's text does not say whether aftertouch is channel or polyphonic
- No price is published on the official product page
Compare the Akai MPK261 with
Spec source: www.akaipro.com — verified 2026-10-10