Not to be left out as NAMM quickly approaches, Akai have announced a new range of keyboards / MIDI controllers which are sure to excite a lot of digital DJs and producers. The APC40 has sold terrifically well since first coming into the country a few weeks ago so demand for this new range is expected to be very high.

The top of the range is the new MPK61 – a full 61 key USB/MIDI controller which also features 16 velocity and pressure sensitive MPC pads. The MPK61 is designed to work with all normal sequencers and production software and comes included with Ableton Live Lite. The new Key Split feature allows you to use the keyboard to control two different programs from the keyboard at the same time.

Ensuring it’s credentials as a powerhouse, you can use the MPK61 to control up to 72 parameters via 24 assignable Q-Link knobs, faders and buttons. This really is one of the best featured keyboard controllers we have seen in a while and will be perfect in any scenario from production in the studio to live performance. We don’t have exact dates or pricing on the MPK61 yet but we are expecting it to ship in October.

The LPK25 on the other hand sacrifices functionality for form factor. It may not have the feature set of the MPK61 but it is incredibly portable meaning you can take it with you anywhere for whenever inspiration strikes. Also fully MIDI compatible, the LPK25 features 25 velocity-sensitive keys as well as octave up and down controls, tap tempo and four programmable memory banks for total control over your music.

Last but not least comes the LPD8 Laptop Pad Controller. Once again, size is the order of the day here with the LPD8 easily fitting into a laptop bag or backpack so it is always there when you need it. Fully MIDI compatible, this controller features eight backlight, velocity-sensitive drum pads, eight Q-Link knobs and four programmable memory banks. The LPD8 will work with virtually all audio software and like the LPK25, should be shipping towards the end of August for £49.