What is it?

The MPD26, with its 4x4 grid of trigger pads, is a MIDI controller that gives more than a nod to Akai’s classic MPC series. The pads on the MPD26 come straight over from the MPC range, complete with velocity and pressure sensitivity. There are four banks on each pad making an effective total of 64. Beyond the pads there are six faders and six rotaries, plus dedicated DAW transport controls.

The MPD26 can be powered via USB or mains and, in keeping with its studio heritage, has physical MIDI ports around the back.

What can I do with it?

It's not much of a stretch to suggest that the MPD26 will appeal to DJs looking to make heavy use of cue-point triggering, loop firing and one shot samples. Ableton DJs might prefer the smaller form and stripped back number of controls compared to the ubiquitous APC40, but users of other software, particularly those who use sample decks/players and want to bring that part of their performance to the forefront, could do worse than to look at something like the MPD26.

Use this alongside a platter-based controller like the Otus Raw and you have a formidable range of options available that would satisfy even the most demanding of digital DJs.

Find out more about Akai MPD26