Engineered to be an all-in-one controller solution, the AKAI Professional MPK249 is a performance pad and keyboard controller that combines deep software integration, enhanced workflow, and core technologies from the iconic line of MPC workstations. The MPK249 features 49 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 8 assignable knobs, faders, and switches, 16 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback, and onboard transport buttons. There are three available banks of knobs, faders, and switches for a total of 24 each, as well as 64 pads accessible via four pad banks. Plus, MPK249 is optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC with USB power and plug-and-play connectivity.Equipped with 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys and a premium piano-style keyboard for unprecedented response and natural feel, each key is velocity-sensitive and outfitted with aftertouch for dynamic, expressive performances and recordings. In addition, onboard octave up and down controls allow players to access the entire melodic range; play bass lines, piano harmony, solo leads and much more. With MPK249, musicians and composers can incorporate genuine MPC workflow into their productions and create with the tools that producers have relied on for years. Our famous MPC Swing lets MPK249 users obtain that tight, organic groove that made Akai Pro’s groundbreaking MPC music-making machines so legendary. MPC Note Repeat and 16 Levels make it easy to build beats and construct short melodic sequences using the MPC-style pads. In addition, an arpeggiator, with adjustable resolution, range, and patterns, enables users to explore complex melodic ideas, effortlessly.You also get powerful production software like Ableton Live Lite and MPC Essentials—for out-of-the-box music creation. Ableton Live Lite is a fluid audio/MIDI environment that enables musicians and producers to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit musical ideas. MPC Essentials, a groove/beat production and sample-triggering software, can integrate directly into any DAW, such as Ableton Live Lite, or run standalone. In addition, it extends the power of MPK249 by adding up to 8 pad banks and 4 samples and insert effects per pad.Two high-definition virtual synthesizers bring the best of synthesis technology to MPK249 users. Hybrid 3, by AIR Music Tech, is a versatile virtual synthesizer that combines the warmth of legendary analog synths with a full range of futuristic, digital manipulation capabilities. SONiVOX Twist, a spectral morphing synthesis virtual instrument, makes it easy to create serious sounds using simple controls. Together, these powerful instruments give MPK249 users professional music-creation tools that can jumpstart any project.Features49 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch16 RGB-illuminated MPC pads each with 4 banks for 64pads24 assignable Q-Link controllers include knobs, faders, and switches (8 of each)Revamped control layout with backlit LCD screeniOS compatibility using the Apple iPad CameraConnection Kit (USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & outputComprehensive transport and parameter controls forhands-on DAW integrationMPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator foradvanced rhythmic and melodic manipulationMPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with dynamics and tempoPitch bend, modulation, and octave controls for expressive recording and performing1 assignable footswitch jack and 1 expression jackUSB power and plug-and-play connectivityProduction software package included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, and Akai Pro MPC Essentials (downloads)SpecificationsNumber of Keys: 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouchPads: 16 pressure- and velocity-sensitive, light-up MPC-style pads x 4 banksQ-Link Controls: 8 control knobs, 8 faders, and 8 backlit switchesComputer Interface: USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input & outputOctaves: 10 with Octave Up and DownArpeggiator: YesAdditional Controls: MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, MPC Full Level, 16 Levels, Tap Tempo, and Time DivisionAdditional Inputs: (1) 1/4" (6.35mm) TRS expression pedal input and (1) 1/4" (6.35mm) TS sustain pedal or footswitch inputPower: USB power; no power adapter requiredDimensions: 29" x 12.25" x 3.38"Weight: 12.6 lbsSystem Requirements:Macintosh: 1.25 GHz G4/G5 or faster (Intel Mac recommended), 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended), Mac OS X 10.4.11 (10.5 or later recommended)Windows: 1.5 GHz Pentium 4 or Celeron compatible CPU or faster (multicore CPU recommended), 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended), Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista or Windows XP, Windows compatible sound card (ASIO driver support recommended), QuickTime recommendedAvailable USB Port AKAI MPK 249 49-Key MIDI Controller.