Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus II review

The Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus II is a compact 37-key controller that pairs USB-C host control with five-pin MIDI Out and three analog CV/Gate outputs. That combination gives it a broader hardware-routing role than a computer-only keyboard, but its short mini-key range, 19.4-inch body, and requirement for compatible external sound sources still shape who should consider it. This is a source-based assessment of Akai's current product page, product-specific FAQ and control-voltage guidance—not a hands-on test.

Thirty-seven velocity-sensitive keys in a compact format

The Plus II provides 37 velocity-sensitive keys, a useful three-octave working span for bass, melody and compact two-handed material. That is a meaningful step beyond a 25-key controller when frequent octave changes interrupt a part, but it is not a piano-range bed: passages that need a wider simultaneous reach still call for more keys. The manufacturer positions it as a compact MIDI keyboard; it does not publish a measured key width or a key-action test in the material reviewed here.

Akai documents velocity response on the keys, but the reviewed specification does not establish keyboard aftertouch. The model's pressure-sensitive pads are a separate surface. Do not treat pad pressure as proof that a held keyboard note can send aftertouch, and try a keybed in person if key spacing or touch is decisive. No ownership or playing evaluation is claimed here.

Eight pressure-sensitive pads and a detailed control surface

The specification lists eight RGB pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity, eight assignable encoders, one push encoder, pitch and modulation wheels, transport buttons and a 160-by-80 full-color display. Those controls provide more direct input than a bare keybed when their mappings line up with the software or hardware you use. Akai's support FAQ confirms eight drum pads. A separate Control Voltage article refers to “16 drum pads” in its routing discussion; that phrasing does not establish sixteen physical pads, so this assessment retains the technical page's eight-pad count and leaves the deeper bank/source interpretation unresolved.

The page advertises MPC integration, DAW maps and current software offers. The FAQ describes the Studio Instrument Collection and Ableton Live Lite 12, with registration through an Akai account. These are computer-software and partner offers, not sounds generated by the keyboard itself. Bundle contents, eligibility, licensing and supported software versions can change, so check the current model-specific offer and your exact host requirements instead of treating every promotional tile as a permanent package feature.

USB-C, DIN and CV are different control routes

USB-C carries MIDI to and from a compatible host and supplies bus power. A separate physical five-pin DIN socket is MIDI Out; Akai's FAQ describes using it either to forward USB-host data or to send the controller's internal performance data. The physical I/O list does not show a DIN input. If a computer-free DIN arrangement matters, the FAQ and product page describe separate USB-C power from an adapter or power bank. The exact supply is not assumed to be in a seller's package.

Three 1/8-inch TS CV/Gate outputs provide another connection family, identified in Akai's support article as Pitch, Gate and Mod. CV is not five-pin MIDI, USB audio or power for the receiving module. Confirm the voltage range, input type, patch cable and receiving device before relying on that route; compatible analog gear must still be powered and connected to an audio-monitoring system. For a computer-based session, verify the class-compliant USB MIDI path, software setup and any DAW mapping you need.

Check the actual desk limit, not only the note count

Akai lists the body at 19.4 inches wide, 7.6 inches deep and 2.1 inches high, with a stated weight of 3.2 pounds. A 20-inch body cap admits it on paper, but leaves only 0.6 inch of nominal width before connector bends, nearby equipment and hand room. Treat published chassis dimensions as a first screen rather than a complete ergonomic or stand-fit measurement. If a strict 19-inch limit is real, this model does not clear it; a narrower board may fit but could differ in key count, direct DIN or pads.

Where it sits among Akai's compact options

Compared with the 25-key MPK Mini IV, the Plus II provides twelve more keys and adds three documented CV/Gate outputs, at a larger 19.4-inch width versus the Mini IV's 13.68 inches. Both are documented with USB-C, pressure-sensitive pads and five-pin MIDI Out, but their key ranges and footprints answer different constraints. The original MPK Mini Plus is a distinct earlier model: Akai's FAQ contrasts its USB Type-B connection and lack of a color display with the Plus II's USB-C and full-color screen. Do not substitute one generation's port list or package for the other.

The Plus II is a reasonable current-reference candidate when the three-octave range, direct DIN path and analog control outputs will all be used. It is less compelling if 37 compact keys are still too short, a physical DIN input or confirmed keyboard aftertouch is essential, or a 19.4-inch body will crowd the desk. Check the exact Plus II suffix, current documentation, seller condition and included package; neither a product page nor a successful matching result establishes stock, price, compatibility with every host, or suitability for your hands.

Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus II product page · Akai MPK Mini Plus II FAQ · Akai MPK Mini Plus II Control Voltage support article.