Akai Professional MPD218 Pad Controller

Stuff About Akai

Akai, a Japanese company, made their biggest impact with the MPC series of samplers. The MPC revolutionised hip hop, R&B, and beat-driven music. Modern Akai still make powerful MPC units that combine standalone hardware with DAW integration. They also produce popular controllers like the MPK series. If sampling and beatmaking is your world, Akai’s legacy and present-day gear are second to none.

The Important stuff

MIDI Controllers —

MIDI Controllers are hardware or software devices that send Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) signals to control instruments, sounds, and effects. They don’t produce sound on their own but act as the hands-on link between you and your music software, synths, or hardware modules.

Controllers come in many forms — from piano-style keyboards and drum pad grids to fader/knob surfaces and even guitar-style designs. They allow you to play notes, trigger samples, tweak parameters, and automate performance details with precision.

Essential for producers, performers, and studio setups, MIDI Controllers provide flexibility, creativity, and control over modern digital music.