Akai Professional MPC Key 37 Gen 2

Full Description

Built for producers who write with keys

Unlike traditional pad-focused production systems, the MPC Key 37 Gen2 places melodic performance at the centre of the workflow. Its 37-note synth-action keybed features aftertouch for greater expressive control, making it well suited to composing basslines, chord progressions, lead parts and evolving textures directly from the instrument.

Dedicated pitch and modulation wheels further enhance performance possibilities, while the inclusion of Akai's established MPC pad system ensures drum programming and sample triggering remain immediately accessible. This combination creates a workflow that feels equally capable for harmonic composition, rhythmic production and live performance.

Significantly expanded standalone performance - NEW G2 eight-core processor

The G2 eight-core processor represents one of the most important upgrades in the platform. Delivering four times the processing performance of the previous generation, it provides the headroom required for larger projects and more demanding production techniques.

Support for up to 32 plugin instruments allows extensive layering and sound design within a single session, while 16 stereo audio tracks create space for recording vocals, hardware instruments and additional production elements. Combined with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, the system is designed to handle increasingly sophisticated standalone workflows without compromising responsiveness.

A more complete production environment

MPC3 introduces a workflow that feels considerably more aligned with modern production practices. The track-based architecture allows projects to remain organised as they grow, while the Linear Arranger provides a clearer framework for building complete song structures. Producers can move from sketching ideas to developing full arrangements without switching environments or relying on external software.

The seven-inch multitouch display serves as the centre of this experience, providing direct access to sequencing, editing, mixing and sampling functions. For producers seeking a hardware-first approach, MPC3 offers one of the most comprehensive standalone production environments currently available.

Ready for hybrid studio workflows

While the MPC Key 37 Gen2 is designed for independent operation, its connectivity ensures it integrates effectively into larger production setups. USB-C supports 24x24 audio streaming, MIDI communication and data transfer through a single connection, simplifying studio routing and session management.

Ableton Live Control Mode alongside project import and export functionality strengthens compatibility with software-based workflows. Additional MIDI I/O, CV/Gate outputs, pedal inputs and USB host connectivity allow the keyboard to function as a central control point for external hardware. This flexibility makes the MPC Key 37 Gen2 equally suitable as a standalone production instrument or the foundation of a hybrid studio environment.

Features

• Next-generation Gen2 eight-core processor delivers four times the processing power of the previous model for larger projects and faster performance
• Create complete tracks from start to finish without needing a computer
• 37-key synth-action keyboard and legendary MPC pads provide expressive control for melodies, rhythms, and sampling
• MPC3 software delivers a streamlined track-based workflow with advanced song arrangement tools
• Supports up to 16 stereo audio tracks for recording and producing complete songs in standalone mode
• Runs up to 32 instrument plugins for rich, layered sound creation and expanded creative possibilities
• USB-C connectivity enables 24x24 audio streaming, MIDI communication, and data transfer through a single cable
• Seamlessly integrates with Ableton Live through control features and project transfer support
• Sample directly from phones, tablets, and external devices for faster creative workflows
• Expanded factory sound library and bundled instruments inspire immediate music production
• 7-inch full-color multitouch display provides intuitive hands-on navigation and editing
• Increased memory and internal storage support larger sessions, faster loading, and smoother operation
• Fully standalone design delivers a focused production experience while fitting easily into hybrid studio setups
• Pitch and modulation wheels add expressive performance control for keyboard-based production

Specifications

• Digital Audio System:
  • ADCs: 24-bit
  • DACs: 24-bit
  • Digital signal processing: 32-bit floating point
• Line Inputs (1–2):
  • (2) balanced 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS or unbalanced 1/4” (6.35 mm) TS
  • Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0.2/−0.5 dB)
  • Signal-to-noise ratio: 107 dB (1 kHz, +6 dBV, A-weighted)
  • THD+N: 0.004% (1 kHz, +6 dBV, 0 dBFS)
  • Max input level: +12 dBV
  • Sensitivity: −10 dBV
  • Gain range: 27 dB
• Line Outputs (1–2):
  • (2) impedance-balanced 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS
  • Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0.2/−0.5 dB)
  • Dynamic range: 112 dB (A-weighted)
  • THD+N: 0.004% (1 kHz, 0 dBFS)
  • Maximum output level: +6 dBV
  • Output impedance: 100 Ω
• Headphone Output:
  • (1) 1/8” (3.5 mm) stereo headphone output
  • Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0.2/−0.5 dB)
  • Dynamic range: 112 dB (A-weighted)
  • THD+N: 0.006% (1 kHz, 10 mW per channel into 32 Ω)
  • Maximum output level: 40 mW RMS (per channel into 32 Ω)
• Mechanical:
  • Keys: 37 synth-action keys with aftertouch
  • Wheels: Pitch bend and modulation wheel
  • Pads:
    • (16) velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB-backlit pads
    • (8) banks accessible via Pad Bank buttons
  • Knobs:
    • (4) 360° touch-sensitive Q-Link knobs
    • (4) Q-Link knob columns accessible via Q-Link button
    • (1) 360° data encoder with push function
  • Buttons: (38) dedicated function buttons, white/red/green backlit
  • Display: 7” (177 mm diagonal) full-color LED-backlit touchscreen
• CPU:
  • Processor: Eight-core ARM® processor
  • RAM: 4 GB
  • Internal storage: 64 GB
• File System Compatibility:
  • File systems:
    • exFAT (read/write, recommended)
    • FAT32 (read/write)
    • NTFS (read/write)
    • EXT4 (read/write)
    • HFS+ (read only)
  • Audio formats: AIF/AIFF, FLAC, MP3, OGG, WAV
• Wireless:
  • Wi-Fi frequency: 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz
  • Wi-Fi standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
  • Wi-Fi max power:
    • 2.4 GHz: +17 dBm
    • 5 GHz: +17 dBm
  • Bluetooth version: 5
  • Bluetooth profile: HID
  • Bluetooth max power: +10 dBm
• Connections:
  • (2) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS inputs (1 stereo pair)
  • (1) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS sustain pedal input (TS compatible)
  • (1) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS footswitch pedal input (TS compatible)
  • (1) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS expression pedal input (TS compatible)
  • (2) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS outputs (1 stereo pair)
  • (1) 1/4” (6.35 mm) stereo headphone output
  • (4) 1/8” (3.5 mm) TRS CV/Gate jacks (8 outputs total)
  • (1) USB 3.0 Type A host port
  • (1) USB 3.0 Type C host/device port
  • (1) 5 pin MIDI input
  • (1) 5 pin MIDI output
  • (1) power adapter input
• Power: 12 V, 3 A, center positive (via included power adapter)
• Dimensions & Weight:
  • Dimensions (W × D × H):
    • 22.9” × 12.4” × 3.3”
    • 58.2 × 31.5 × 8.5 cm
  • Weight:
    • 9.61 lbs
    • 4.36 kg
• Product Code: MPCKEY37GEN2