If you're an up-and-coming producer looking to create some new sounds but don't have all the necessary equipment to do so, Akai might have something to add to your arsenal as they're dropping a new production keyboard with all sorts of fixes.
Engadget reports that Akai has just announced the new MPC Key 37 production keyboard that allows users to create and cook beats from scratch without having to use a real computer, laptop or DAW. Of course it will come with some limitations, but the keyboard seems like a dream come true for many aspiring producers looking to get into the game.
Engadget reports:
There are 37 full-size keys, with aftertouch. There aren't that many stand-alone devices with a full keyboard, so this should excite musicians new to Akai-style pads. This device has 16 velocity-sensitive pads for positioning drum parts and triggering samples, so it's a “best of both worlds” type situation.
The Key 37 comes with 32GB of built-in storage, although 10GB is consumed by the operating system and audio packs are included. Fortunately, there's a slot for an SD card to expand storage — these standalone devices fill up quickly.
You get the same 7-inch multi-touch color display and four assignable Q-Link knobs as the company's Key 61 workstation. This is great for making system adjustments and checking effect plugins and the like. In fact, the whole layout is reminiscent of the Key 61, although this new version is slightly less powerful.
While the Key 37 understandably lacks some of the key aspects of its Key 61 predecessor (such as 2GB of RAM, compared to the 61's 4GB, and few microphone inputs), the keyboard features Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity for wireless streaming to platforms such as Ableton link. That has to count for something, right?
The MPC Key 37 is currently available for $900 at inMusic and authorized retailers across the city. Would you be interested in tackling one? Check out the keyboard video below and let us know in the comments section.