AKAI MPC KEY 37 GEN2 Standalone Music Production Workstation

The MPC KEY 37 GEN2 shrinks the full MPC workflow into a compact, standalone instrument that never needs a computer. Unlike controller-only keyboards, this unit runs the complete MPC platform on its own quad-core processor, so you can sketch, sequence, and perform entire tracks from a single piece of hardware. The Gen 2 synth-action keybed with aftertouch gives you expressive control over both the built-in instruments and external gear, while the 16 RGB pads deliver the classic MPC feel for drums, chops, and one-shots. A 7-inch multi-touch display puts every editing and mixing task within reach, and the four assignable Q-Link knobs plus touch strip make real-time tweaking immediate. With over 100 GB of included sounds, 25+ instrument plugins, and 100+ effects, this is a self-contained production environment that fits in a backpack.

Highlights

• Standalone MPC OS – no computer required for full music production
• 37-key Gen 2 synth-action keybed with aftertouch for expressive playing
• 16 velocity-sensitive RGB MPC pads with aftertouch
• 7-inch multi-touch colour display for intuitive control
• Quad-core ARM processor with 2 GB RAM and 32 GB internal storage
• Over 100 GB of sounds and samples, 25+ instrument plugins, 100+ effects
• 4 TRS CV/Gate outputs for modular and vintage synth integration
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless sync and file transfer

In daily use

The MPC KEY 37 GEN2 feels immediate: power on, load a plugin, and start playing. The keybed is responsive and quiet, with aftertouch that lets you add vibrato or filter movement without reaching for a knob. The pads are equally expressive, perfect for finger drumming or laying down melodic ideas. The touchscreen keeps menu diving minimal – drag, pinch, and tap your way through sequences, samples, and mixer settings. When inspiration strikes, the built-in sampler and looper capture ideas instantly, and the SD card slot or USB-A port expand storage for large sample libraries. For live performers, the dedicated transport controls and assignable Q-Links mean you can trigger scenes, mute tracks, and tweak effects on the fly. The metal chassis is built for the road, and the included power adapter keeps everything running reliably.

Full specifications

• Keyboard: 37-key Gen 2 synth-action keybed with aftertouch
• Pads: 16 velocity-sensitive RGB MPC pads with aftertouch
• Display: 7-inch multi-touch colour display
• Processor: Quad-core ARM processor
• RAM: 2 GB
• Internal storage: 32 GB (over 25 GB user storage)
• Expandable storage: SD card slot, USB storage via USB-A host port
• Audio outputs: 2x 1/4" TRS main outputs, 1x 1/4" stereo headphone output
• Audio inputs: 2x 1/4" TRS line inputs
• MIDI I/O: 1x MIDI In, 1x MIDI Out (5-pin DIN)
• USB connectivity: 1x USB-A host port, 1x USB-B device port
• CV/Gate outputs: 4x TRS CV/Gate outputs (8 total outputs)
• Wireless connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• Controls: 4 assignable Q-Link knobs, touch strip controller, dedicated transport controls
• Included software: MPC2 Desktop Software license, over 25 instrument plugins, over 100 effect plugins
• Sound content: Over 100 GB of sounds and samples included
• Operating system: MPC OS (standalone)
• Power supply: External DC power adapter (included)
• Construction: Robust metal chassis
• Compatibility: Standalone operation, also functions as a controller for MPC2 Desktop Software

Final note

For producers who want a portable, all-in-one MPC experience with a quality keybed and deep CV integration, the KEY 37 GEN2 is a serious creative tool that stands on its own.