Akai LPD8 MKII
The LPD8 MKII, from Akai, is a USB-MIDI Controller especially suited for use with portable setups oriented around a laptop. It measures less than 13” and weighs less than 1lb, making it easily transportable via an array of different protective enclosures. The unit’s MPC-style control affords musicians, producers, and DJs the ability to step away from the mouse and keyboard and produce music more intuitively and expressively while still making use of the power of their laptop.
In terms of features, the LPD8 MKII's 8 velocity-sensitive pads that can be used to program rhythms and melodies or send program-change information to various software applications. Speaking of software interfacing, the controller’s 8 Q-Link knobs can be assigned to any software parameter for seamless control. The unit’s plug-and-play operation and USB bus power round out this robust feature set by affording musicians the ability to make use of the controller in a variety of settings without the need for drivers or wall power.
LPD8 MKII Features
- USB-MIDI controller works with virtually all audio software
- Eight backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads can send note or program changes
- Eight Q-Link knobs for controlling virtually any parameters in software
- Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation
- Small enough to fit in a backpack or laptop bag and ultralight
- Four programmable memory banks
- Comes with editor software for Mac and PC
- USB bus powered — no additional power cable needed
- Dimensions: 12.1” x 3.2” x 1.3”
- Weight: 0.86 lb.