Akai Showcases 37-Key MPC Sample Key Mods as It Seeds Open-Source Devices to Developers
Updated
Updated · The Verge · Oct 28
Akai Showcases 37-Key MPC Sample Key Mods as It Seeds Open-Source Devices to Developers
1 articles · Updated · The Verge · Oct 28
Summary
Akai is previewing community-built mods for the unannounced MPC Sample Key, including clips showing Native Instruments Massive, virtual analog and FM synths, and even a fully custom OS running on the device.
The 37-key unit will ship with open-source firmware, and CEO Jack O’Donnell said Akai plans to seed early hardware to modders while also open-sourcing some software and offering an SDK.
The keyboard appears to adapt the budget MPC Sample software for keys, pitch and mod wheels, replacing the higher-end MPC Key 37’s pad-based workflow with sample playback from the keyboard.
Akai also showed similar vibe-coded synth mods on the regular MPC Sample, signaling the company could extend open-source and community features beyond the new keyboard to the broader MPC Sample platform.