At the 2013 NAMM Show, Akai Pro introduced the MAX25 – a new MIDI controller that offers CV/Gate output, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, a built-in step sequencer, expanded arpeggiator, and LED touch faders for gradual or instant parameter value changes.
The new MAX25 is a smaller version of last year’s MAX49. Where MAX49 has 49 keys, 8 faders, and 12 pads, MAX25 has 25, 4, and 8, respectively.
MAX25 will come with AkaiConnect automatic-mapping software and Mackie Control and HUI modes for instant compatibility with many DAWs.
Features:
- 25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 4 LED touch faders
- Included AkaiConnect software automatically maps to VSTs
- 8 MPC pads, MPC Note Repeat, and MPC Swing
- 4 pad banks, 4 fader banks: 64 assignable pads, faders, and buttons
- Step sequencer and expanded arpeggiator
- CV & Gate outputs (1V/Oct)
- Mackie Control and HUI modes
Pricing is expected to be around $350.
I was sort of expecting a MAX61 as well, then this could be my new controller for all duties. 49 is just a wee bit small.
Small, but it’s SO RED!!!!!
Red is my fave, but in this photo it looks a wee bit too orange.
Gotta check it out in proper daylight before replacing the old li’l one.
oh, and maybe try out the weightedness and aftertouch too.
Perfect for controlling your crazy-overpriced new stylophone!
akai staying relevant.
I think this one and the new M-Audio Axiom Air is way better than the new Novation Launchkey. I’m not shure about the touch faders in the Akai and I’m a little bit frustrated by the lack of real knobs, besides that it have CV/Gate output and red color! But this new Axiom have compatibillity with the Hypercontroll software, and I maybe the quallity of the keys is better than the previous generation.
I like the new size, and with the growing popularity of analog gear (including modulars) Akai shows that they are staying alert. Unfortunately my experience with the MAX49 was not very good, so I think I’ll pass on this one until it matures a generation or two…
I was just going to buy one, can you please tell me what is wrong with the MAX49 in your experience.
In what areas should it be more mature?
Thank you in advance
I had problems with the arpeggiator not syncing properly to clock, the touch faders were wonky, the included software was buggy and a few other annoyances. I wrote up a short review here:
http://glitzerstrahl.com/2012/12/18/akai-max49-review/
Personally I love encoders (endless encoders more than knobs…)
but I played with the MAX49 at the local musik shop
and you can easily move a few touch faders together.
Despite my love for encoders, you can’t move more than two at a time
(unless you have more than two hands of course)
in other words, imho touch faders give you much more live control.
guess what you can achieve with a bit of trained “autonomous/magician fingers”
I’m also in the list of “I was expecting a MAX61 as well”
but I can understand why they decided to go for the 25 keys
this I could bring with me on a trip, the 61 not so easily
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ab_Ox7NXDkk Prophet 12!
meanwhile the prophet 12 have been released
I was expecting a MAX88 …
( and would it be too much to ask for polyphonic aftertouch? )
new LPD8 style as well, CV, SD card, neat lookin
http://www.musicradar.com/news/tech/namm-2013-akai-mpx8-eight-pad-sample-launcher-announced-569966
How many cv outs?
I’m guessing it will be just one of each.. I hope it’s more :s