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WNAMM02:Akai's New MPC Drum Pad
US
New - USB/MIDI DRUM PAD - 16 pads from MPC series 24/01/02
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Hoping to capitalise on the huge success the Akai MPC series machines have enjoyed in the hardware drum sequencing field, Akai is introducing a new product aimed at simplifying drum programming for other users. The PD16 is a stand alone unit which connects via USB and/or MIDI to computers and other machines such as the new Akai Z4 and Z8 samplers which include drum program set-ups as well as the standard keyboard assigned programming.
The functionality of the PD16 is designed with simplicity in mind. The main point is to use this Pad to enter the drum sequence comfortably, instead of by keyboard, with no fancy extra functions. 16 Drum pads (similar to those on the MPC machines) generate Note On with velocity when tapped. In Full Level mode it produces data with velocity value of 127, regardless of the velocity of the pad tapped and into 16 Level mode it allows you to generate the note velocity in 16 steps with 16 pads. The active pad (note number) is the last pad played just before the 16 LEVELS key was pressed. A 'Bank' key switches between banks 1 and 2 allowing you to access different sounds on each of the banks. The 'Active' key activates the slider which outputs MIDI Control Change.
The various parameter settings, e.g. MIDI Note Assign, MIDI channel, MIDI Control Change, etc. are assigned from the computer via USB which requires the Utility software CD-ROM provided. Driver software for PC/Mac is also included on the CD-ROM. Powered from USB port when used via USB an AC Adaptor (MP-9) is required when MIDI port is used.
Target Price: £239 (inc VAT)/$349us
Availability: May 2002