The Essentials to Know About the Akai MPC Key 37 Synthesizer
- Standalone MPC workstation with a 37-note aftertouch keyboard, 16 RGB pads, and a 7-inch touchscreen for computer-free creation.
- MPC OS 3.0 redesigned: linear arranger, studio mixer, advanced keygroups, Channel Strip XL, and ultra-smooth MPC workflow.
- 8 instrument plugins, over 100 effects, 1000+ presets, and 10 GB of sounds for immediate sampling, sequencing, and synthesis.
- Complete connectivity: USB 2x2 audio interface, MIDI, 8 CV/Gate outputs, WiFi, Bluetooth, USB ports, and SD card.
The Compact Link in the MPC Family
The MPC Key 37 condenses the legendary MPC DNA into a more compact keyboard format, combining the famous pad matrix with a 37-note keyboard. It carries the standalone MPC experience while adding immediate playability for composition, arrangement, and live performance, powered by the MPC 3.0 OS and generous sound content.
For Beatmakers, Producers, and Keyboardists in Studio and on Stage
Ideal for ambitious beginners as well as experienced users, the MPC Key 37 excels in hip-hop, trap, electro, techno, pop, ambient, synthwave, or soundtrack music. In the studio, it becomes a standalone production hub and a controller/audio interface for your DAW. On stage, its aftertouch keyboard, responsive pads, and MPC sequencer ensure solid and creative performances.
Features and Innovations
Powered by a quad-core ARM processor, the MPC Key 37 offers a reference sampling engine and built-in virtual instruments (VA, analog models, sample-based) covering everything from bass design to cinematic pads. The MPC sequencer allows real-time and step recording, with Time Correct, Swing, and Quantize, a dedicated arpeggiator, and a linear arranger to structure your tracks. The 7-inch multitouch screen and Q-Links enable fast editing, while over 100 effects and a Channel Strip XL facilitate sound design and mixing. On the integration side, the USB 2-in/2-out audio interface, MIDI I/O, 8 CV/Gate outputs, WiFi (Ableton Link, updates, Splice), and Bluetooth MIDI make it a modern hub capable of controlling synths, modules, and DAWs.
Technical Specifications
System and Content
- Powered by MPC OS 3.0: redesigned interface, enhanced Main mode, linear arranger, studio mixer, advanced keygroups, Channel Strip XL.
- 8 instrument plugins (including Hype, Odyssey, Mellotron) and over 1000 presets.
- More than 100 effects and studio-quality audio processors.
- Includes over 10 GB of sounds and instruments from MPC plugins and Akai's Xpansion library.
- Native Instruments MPC Play Edition plugin and Native Instruments MPC Expansion Series expansion packs (additional paid content).
Keyboard, Pads, and Controls
- 37-note synthesizer-style keyboard with aftertouch.
- Individual pitch and modulation wheels.
- 16 MPC pads sensitive to pressure and velocity, with polyphonic aftertouch and 16 Levels.
- 7-inch color multitouch screen.
- 4 Q-Link encoders for real-time editing.
- 1 Data encoder with push function.
- 38 dedicated buttons: transport, arpeggiator, pad banks, sample editing, shortcuts.
Performance and Storage
- Quad-core ARM processor, 2 GB RAM.
- 32 GB internal storage (22 GB available).
- SD card slot and USB-A/USB-B ports for removable media.
Audio, MIDI, and CV/Gate
- USB audio interface 2 in / 2 out with MIDI.
- 2 TRS line-level inputs for capturing and sampling audio.
- 2 TRS outputs and headphone output.
- 2 MIDI I/O and 8 CV/Gate outputs for controlling modular devices.
Networking and Integration
- WiFi connection for loading plugins, performing updates, and connecting to Splice.
- MIDI over Bluetooth, Ableton Link compatibility.
- Includes MPC Software (full DAW) and VST/AU plugin for integration with FL Studio, Logic, Ableton, Pro Tools, Studio One, etc.
Power and Dimensions
- Power supply: 12 V 3.0 A via AC adapter.
- Weight and dimensions: 4 kg; 582 x 314 x 104 mm.