Akai MPC Key 37 review

The Akai MPC Key 37 is the latest model in the MPC series and combines a classic MPC with a 37-key keyboard, merging everything into a kind of all-in-one workstation. Despite the compact format, the device is positioned not only as an entry into the MPC world but also as a serious competitor to established workstations and production platforms.

Table of Contents

• Build Quality and First Impression
• User Interface & Keys
• Connections & Storage
• Software & Plug-ins
• Pads & Q-Links
• Practical Use & Workflow
• Strengths
• Weaknesses and Limits
• Comparison: MPC Key 37 vs. Key 61, One+ and Force
• A Comparison with the Native Instruments World
• Our Impression

Build Quality and First Impression

First impression after opening the box: The packaging of the MPC Key 37 is surprisingly large, mainly due to the protected transport of the device. When taking it out, you immediately notice how light the device is – despite its solid build. The low weight clearly shows that the MPC Key 37 is also suitable for mobile use and flexible studio environments.

Included in delivery: Besides the device itself, the package contains a power supply (12 V DC, 3.0 A), a plug for EU power grids and one for US power grids, a printed quickstart guide, and a download link for the MPC2 desktop software for Mac and PC. This software greatly expands the possibilities, especially when used with a computer.

The MPC Key 37, despite its plastic housing, gives a stable and well-thought-out impression. The plastic is thick-walled and conveys a solid feeling in handling. The color scheme is striking: a red that is lighter than on the MPC One+, yet still distinctive and professional.

The pads are velocity-sensitive and pressure-sensitive and come in the slightly smaller version, as known from the MPC One or Key 61. They can be played precisely, are well-suited for finger drumming, and react very quickly. The capacitive touchscreen is the familiar 7-inch model from the MPC series. It responds reliably and quickly to multitouch gestures, has very good viewing angles, and supports smooth navigation through menus, effects, and plugins.

An important ergonomic point: The slightly angled arrangement of the screen and the proximity of the buttons to the keyboard significantly ease the workflow – especially when working with complex projects or longer sessions. The good placement of frequently used buttons directly below the screen integrates the touchscreen optimally into the production process.

With a weight of around 4 kg, the device is pleasantly light and thus well suited for mobile use. Nevertheless, you don’t get the feeling of holding an unstable device – the MPC Key 37 feels compact, robust, and portable at the same time.

User Interface & Keys

The MPC Key 37 offers a wide selection of physical controls – more than the MPC One or Live II. The focus is on the comfortable integration of classic keyboard functions. Directly accessible are keys for octave switching, arpeggiator, a programmable chord mode, and a dedicated button for key splits and layer zones. These functions make the MPC Key 37 clearly more keyboard-oriented than other MPCs.

The keyboard itself is equipped with 37 semi-weighted keys that offer a smooth but controlled synth action. The key length is about 13 cm, which is somewhat shorter than on many other synthesizers, noticeable especially with broad playing styles. The key travel is about 1 cm and fairly long. So there is a certain distance per keystroke. The white keys offer very good control and response, while the black keys require a somewhat firmer pressure. Overall, the keyboard conveys a direct and precise playing feel – suitable both for rhythmic playing and expressive melodies. In the menu, both keyboard and pads can be adjusted in velocity sensitivity, so you can adapt the hardware behavior to your own playing style.

A special feature is the monophonic aftertouch: It allows controlling modulation or other parameters by changing pressure on pressed keys. The implementation on the MPC Key 37 is successful – on the white keys, the usable control range is about 2 mm of pressure travel, on the black keys somewhat less. The control over aftertouch is sensitive, allows precise control, and fits well into expressive playing styles – especially for synth leads, FX, or modulated pads. However, it requires a rather strong downward pressure, which can sometimes feel unhealthy for the keyboard.

The keyboard is identical to that of the MPC Key 61 but lacks its backlighting. In practice, this is less noticeable since all other controls are clearly labeled and sensibly positioned.

A small criticism concerns the six function keys directly below the touchscreen. These look and are arranged very similarly to the tabs of the user interface and can be easily confused at first. With some practice, you quickly get used to the assignment. Nevertheless, it sometimes happens that you press the function keys instead of the touchscreen keys.

Overall, the MPC Key 37 delivers a well-thought-out and practical implementation regarding playability and usability for all who want to integrate keys into their MPC productions.

Connections & Storage

The MPC Key 37 offers a basic but well-designed connection setup. Some points are clearly designed for mobility and compact design but come with certain limitations:

• Audio: There is a stereo output that is mirrored on the headphone output. This means separate mixes or a dedicated metronome signal on headphones are not possible – a limitation especially for live performers. The headphone output is located on the back of the device, which is less comfortable than front placement on some other MPCs.
• Inputs: Two balanced line-ins (6.3 mm jack) are available. XLR inputs or microphone preamps (Mic Gain) are missing. If you want to record vocals or microphone sources, you need an external audio interface.
• MIDI: Classic via 5-pin DIN (In/Out) – complemented by USB-MIDI via the USB-B port. The latter is new in the MPC lineup and allows direct sequencing of external devices via USB, e.g., via USB-to-MIDI host or directly with compatible synths and grooveboxes. This significantly expands connectivity in daily studio work, especially when no MIDI interface is available or DIN ports are already occupied.
• CV/Gate: The four TRS jacks on the back can be expanded to up to eight CV/Gate outputs using optional split cables. So you can control modular synthesizers directly – but only via adapters. Other MPCs (e.g., Key 61, Force) offer more direct outputs without additional hardware.
• USB Ports: The MPC Key 37 has a USB-A port for storage devices or class-compliant audio and MIDI interfaces. Unlike other models like the MPC X or Live II, there is only one port, not two. For stable use, an SD card for plug-ins and content downloads is recommended so the USB port remains free for controllers or interfaces.
• Storage: Internally 32 GB is installed, of which about 22 GB is freely available. Storage can be expanded via an SD card (slot on the back) or a USB stick. An internal SSD – as upgradeable on the Key 61 or Force – cannot be installed.
• RAM: The working memory is 2 GB, with about 1 GB practically available for projects. In comparison: MPC Key 61 or MPC X offer 4 GB RAM, which positively impacts large sample libraries or many plug-ins. If you work with extensive instruments or multi-track arrangements, you might reach limits on the Key 37. However, in my projects with 10 tracks or more, I never hit a limit.

The variety of connections is sufficient for many production scenarios but reduced in detail – focusing on a compact design. External interfaces can be easily added, provided storage is expanded via SD card and the USB port remains free. Anyone buying an MPC Key 37 should check beforehand whether the offered connections are enough. Generally, incredible connection variety in a modern studio is no longer as necessary as in earlier times since everything can be exported directly from the MPC to the SD card and then be available for further processing on the computer.

Software & Plug-ins

The MPC Key 37 is based on the same operating system as all current standalone MPCs from Akai. This system combines classic MPC functionalities like sequencing, sampling, and effect processing with a modern touchscreen interface. Operation is largely identical to models like MPC One+, Key 61, Live II, or X. Differences mainly arise in physical equipment and the extent of included content.

The included library on the MPC Key 37 is significantly smaller compared to the Key 61. While the bigger sibling contains nearly the entire Akai plug-in package preinstalled, the Key 37 only has a basic selection of instruments – including some synth engines and factory expansions. One of several paid plug-ins can be unlocked by registering the serial number directly with In-Music. Additional instruments like Minimoog or Juno emulations or studio strings/pianos must be purchased separately. These can then be downloaded directly via Wi-Fi connection to the device. The available storage is ample for this. Plugins should be installed on internal storage for faster loading times.

The following eight plug-ins are included by default:

• Hype – A versatile all-round synthesizer with over 1500 presets covering all areas. A solid synth. Versatile use with consistently good factory presets.
• Air Mellotron – Emulates the legendary tape-based sound of the Mellotron. Especially suitable for vintage sounds, lo-fi aesthetics, and ambient productions.
• Odyssey – Emulation of the ARP Odyssey with two oscillators. Offers classic analog leads, sound effects, and modulated sound textures.
• AIR Solina – String ensemble emulation with warm, wide pads. Perfect for retro-inspired pads and orchestral layers.
• AIR Drumsynth – Modular drum synthesizer with diverse sound design options. Creates individual kicks, snares, and percussion sounds.
• Air Bassline – Emulates classic monophonic analog bass synths like the TB-303. Ideal for electronic basslines with character.
• Tube Synth – Virtual analog synthesizer focusing on classic subtractive sounds. Good for leads, pads, and analog basses.
• AIR Electric – E-piano plug-in with classic sounds like Rhodes and Wurlitzer. With adjustable amp, pickup, and effects.

Additional plugins and sound expansions can be purchased in the MPC store, including synthesizers and effects from AIR and Native Instruments, covering all modern areas and sounding very high-quality.

The standalone functionality is fully given: projects can be created completely without a computer – including multi-track sequencing, sampling, mixing, and export. Despite the limited RAM size (about 1 GB usable), using multiple instrument tracks and sample layers is possible. For very complex arrangements, the system reaches its limits earlier than the larger MPCs with 4 GB RAM.

In connection with a computer, the MPC Key 37 can be seamlessly used as a controller for the free MPC 2 software. Projects can be transferred back and forth between hardware and software versions. Control is either fully via hardware or directly in the DAW – including synchronization of parameters, tracks, and plugins. This integration is particularly helpful if you gather ideas on the go in standalone mode and then finalize mixing or arranging in the studio with the software.

An often overlooked but very practical aspect of the MPC Key 37 is the ability to download firmware updates and sound packs directly via a Wi-Fi connection. The Wi-Fi integration lets you get new content, expansion packs, or system updates without detouring through a computer – a real advantage for mobile use or spontaneous sessions.

One missing point: Ableton Live control is not available. Unlike other MPCs that offer a dedicated Live mode, this is missing on the MPC Key 37 – as of now. Access to Ableton is therefore only via MIDI or Ableton Link (Wi-Fi based), not via the native control interface.

Pads & Q-Links

The MPC Key 37 is equipped with 16 velocity-sensitive and pressure-sensitive pads. Compared to the larger models in the MPC series – such as the MPC X or Live II – these pads are somewhat smaller. Their size corresponds to those of the MPC One, so rather compact. Nevertheless, they offer very good playability: they respond precisely, have an even pressure distribution, and can be played in a controlled way even during fast finger drumming. For classic pad playing, clip triggering, or performance effects, they are absolutely sufficient. MPC-typical is the relatively hard attack, but velocity sensitivity can be adjusted up or down in several steps in the menu.

Compared to the larger pads of the MPC X, you notice the size difference especially when playing with multiple fingers simultaneously or very expressively. If you work a lot in finger drumming, MPC-style performance, or sample launch, you might wish for more surface or physical feedback during longer sessions. For studio and precise triggering in the context of a keyboard, however, the pad layout is sufficient.

The Q-Link section is minimal, as with many smaller MPCs: four endless encoders without their own displays. These encoders control up to 20 parameters over five switchable layers (Q-Link banks). In practice, this means you can conveniently reach filters, envelopes, effects, or volumes in various plugins or tracks – but always only in groups of four.

The lack of OLED displays (like those in the MPC X or Force) means you have to read on the screen which parameter is currently controlled. This is functional but not as intuitive as devices with integrated visual feedback per control. This can limit overview especially in live use or sound design.

For many studio applications, however, the Q-Link implementation is usable – especially if you primarily work with the touchscreen or mainly with prepared presets and automation.

Practical Use & Workflow

The strength of the MPC Key 37 lies in integration: sampling, sequencing, sound design, and keys – all in one compact device. The workflow is designed for speed, clarity, and intuitive operation, especially supported by the smart placement of function keys under the touchscreen.

Beat production starts classically via the pad layout: samples, one-shots, or drum kits are loaded and triggered via the 16 pads. These are sensitive enough for dynamic finger drumming and can be used very performatively in combination with the arpeggiator or note repeat. Pads can be reassigned ``` , effects assigned, or sample start points edited quickly and without interrupting the creative flow via the touch interface.

A central element is the sequencer. In the typical MPC clip view, patterns (“sequences”) are created per track. Each sequence can consist of several tracks, each containing different sounds or instruments – e.g., drums, bass, pads, or leads. Within a sequence, each step can be manually set, deleted, or moved via touch gestures or encoder. Notes can be simply removed by tapping or edited via the step editor – a practical function for quick fine-tuning and rhythmic corrections.

Switching presets or instruments happens – depending on the plugin – surprisingly fast: While seamless transitions between sounds (as on large workstations) are missing, the possibility to hold multiple tracks with different instruments simultaneously allows smooth switching between finished setups – including layering and splits on the keyboard.

The transport controls on the right side allow quick starting, stopping, recording, or jumping back in the arrangement. The undo and overdub function lets you record spontaneous ideas and undo them immediately if needed. The shift function is also helpful: a double-click on a key activates its alternative function – e.g., for quantization, automation, or mute. Compared to the MPC Key 61, the transport section was somewhat reduced, which is unfortunate. Especially the buttons with the jump mark to the next bar were removed, making the workflow in the sequencer somewhat more cumbersome. Also, the buttons are plastic and produce a distinct clicking sound when pressed. The MPC Key 61 buttons are rubber, almost silent, and generally convey a more premium feeling.

The MPC Key 37 offers a full standalone workflow that proves reliable and production-ready in practice – from sample to finished song, everything is easily possible.

Strengths

The MPC Key 37 offers a well-thought-out overall package for musicians, producers, and performers who want to work efficiently and creatively both in the studio and on the go. The combination of practical operation, MPC workflow, good playability, and full standalone functionality makes it a true production center – especially for those who want to achieve as much as possible with little space and equipment.

Strengths at a glance:

• Compact design with integrated keyboard: 37 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch and good playing feel for expressive performances.
• Full MPC workflow: sampling, sequencing, mixing, and effects processing without a computer.
• Powerful touchscreen: 7-inch capacitive screen with multi-touch and fast response time.
• Standalone functionality: no computer needed for complete music production, including audio recording, arrangement, and export.
• Varied performance features: arpeggiator, chord mode, note repeat, and live effects directly accessible.
• Wi-Fi integration: convenient downloading of system updates, expansions, and sound packs without a PC.
• Q-Links and pads: 16 velocity-sensitive pads plus four assignable encoders for parameter control.
• Seamless integration with MPC software: projects can be synchronized and further edited directly with a computer.
• Versatile connectivity: MIDI, USB, CV/Gate, audio in/out – sufficient for many setups in studio or live contexts.
• Expandability: the keyboard can be expanded with additional instruments and plugins from the MPC store. Also, a huge arsenal of sample packs is available in the MPC store and from third parties.

Weaknesses and Limits

The MPC Key 37 offers a very good feature set in many areas – especially relative to price and compact form factor. Still, there are some limitations that may be relevant for certain users and should be known before purchase:

• No SSD upgrade option: Unlike the MPC Key 61 or Akai Force, no internal SSD can be installed. Users of large sound libraries must work with SD cards or USB sticks.
• Only 2 GB RAM: Usable working memory is limited compared to larger MPCs (4 GB). Complex arrangements, many layers, or large sample instruments may become tight here.
• No separate click-out (metronome): The headphone output delivers the same signal as the main output. A separate metronome track for live use is thus not possible.
• No touchstrip (like on the MPC Key 61): The useful touchstrip for effect control, modulation, or note repeat is completely missing. Control of such parameters is only possible via touchscreen or external controllers.
• Long loading times with some sample instruments: Especially larger plugins or multi-sample instruments require noticeable loading time. This can slow the creative flow, for example in live use or frequent preset changes.
• Only four Q-Link encoders: While the MPC X or Force use up to 16 Q-Links with displays, control on the Key 37 is limited to four encoders without visual feedback. This complicates complex sound design or spontaneous parameter adjustment.
• No full song arranger like on the Force: The MPC Key 37 uses the classic MPC song model with a chain of sequences. A flexible clip launcher or real arranger view – like on the Force – is missing.
• No seamless sound transitions when switching presets: When switching plugins or projects, there are short dropouts. Seamless transitions between sound states – as with some workstations – are not possible.

Comparison: MPC Key 37 vs. Key 61, One+ and Force

To better understand the positioning of the MPC Key 37 within Akai's product line and compared to similar devices, a direct comparison with sibling models is useful. The following table presents the key features and differences of the MPC Key 37, MPC Key 61, MPC One+, and Akai Force – regarding hardware, connections, storage, as well as functions and operating concepts.

A Comparison with the Native Instruments World

An interesting comparison can be drawn with the world of Native Instruments – especially with Maschine and Komplete Kontrol products. While Maschine strongly relies on the combination of controller and software and primarily functions as a hybrid production system, the MPC Key 37 offers a fully standalone workflow without computer dependence. Komplete Kontrol also provides high-quality sound generation in connection with NI software but always requires a computer. The MPC Key 37 scores here with real standalone functionality, while solidly integrating into PC-based production environments via the MPC software.

A current and noteworthy aspect: Akai and Native Instruments are now collaborating. As part of this, several Native Instruments plug-ins have become available for the MPC platform. This opens the door to a significantly expanded sound palette – including well-known instruments from the Komplete series – directly on MPC hardware, without detouring through the DAW. This cooperation could lead to an even tighter ecosystem combining the best of both worlds in the long term.

Our Impression

The Akai MPC Key 37 convinces as a compact production solution for musicians who want to combine sampling, sequencing, sound design, and keyboard performance in one single device. It offers a wide range of functions that go well beyond what is normally expected in this price range – especially regarding standalone capability, direct control via touchscreen and pads, and the versatile sequencer.

Its biggest advantage lies in the successful integration of keyboard, MPC workflow, and compact housing. This makes it especially attractive for mobile producers, live performers, and anyone who wants to be productive on the go. Despite limited RAM and some savings in connections, complete tracks can be produced with it – from the first drum loop to the fully arranged song.

The workflow is consistent and well thought out. The combination of touchscreen, Q-Link encoders, physical keys, and velocity-sensitive pads allows direct access to sounds, samples, and arrangements. The sequencer is powerful, offering step editing, real-time recording, automation, and easy editing. The possibility to play instruments directly via the keyboard, combined with layering, chord modes, and aftertouch, opens creative spaces that many classic workstations in this class don’t offer.

Compared to the larger MPC Key 61, the Key 37 requires some compromises – especially in RAM, factory library, and audio and CV output equipment. But it is significantly cheaper, lighter, and more portable. So if you don’t need complex orchestral libraries or simultaneous multi-output setups, you will hardly notice any limitations.

Last but not least, the MPC Key 37 is also excellent as an entry into the MPC world. It conveys the typical MPC workflow, is fully standalone capable, but can also be seamlessly connected with a computer and the MPC software. This offers maximum flexibility for different workflows – in the studio and on the go.

So who is the MPC Key 37 suitable for? For anyone looking for a real all-rounder in a compact space – with strong standalone performance, sensible keyboard integration, and solid expandability via SD, USB, and MIDI. Limitations must be considered, but the offered performance is well thought out, practical, and musically convincing.