How To Install Akai Mpk Mini

Akai MPK Mini Featured Image

In this guide, we will show you how to set up and get started with the Akai MPK Mini. You'll learn how to register the device, download and install the bundled software, and also set it up within a DAW. Follow the sections below to get started.

Register the MPK Mini
Download & install the software
- MPC Beats
- AIR Hybrid and Wobble
Connecting the MPK Mini
Keyboard & DAW controller guides

Before you start using the MPK Mini, you need to register the device on the Akai website. By doing so, you'll be able to access all of the bundled software, including MPC Beats, the AIR Hybrid, and AIR Wobble virtual instruments. Keep your Sweetwater invoice handy, as you'll need that during the registration process.

Log into your AKAI account. If you don't have one, click Create Account, then fill out the necessary information.
On your account homepage, click REGISTER NEW PRODUCT, enter the Serial Number, which is located on both the bottom of the unit as well as the back of the MPK Mini Owner's Manual.
Click CHECK SERIAL, fill out the required information, then click REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT.

Click the image to register your AKAI MPK Mini

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Download and install the software

After the device is registered, the next step is to download and install the bundled software using the MPK mini Software Manager. The MPC Mini comes with free copies of MPC Beats, AIR Music Tech virtual instruments, a license to MPC Beats Academy, and much more! Follow these steps to download and install the bundled software.

Go to the bottom of the page on your account page, clickMPK Mini Software, then click installer for your OS.
Navigate to yourDownloadsfolder, launch the MPK mini Software installer file, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
During the installation process, you will be asked to connect your MPK mini and choose the software you wish to download.
- All instruments and sound packs will be located in the MPC mini Software Manager, so feel free to download and install them at any time you'd like.

Hybrid, Mini Grand, and Velvet software activation

Hybrid, Mini Grand, and Velvet are third-party virtual instruments that are activated via iLok. Once your MPK has been registered, AKAI will deposit iLok registration codes into your account, which you will then need to enter to activate your instruments.

Visit iLok's registration page and complete the registration form.
- Please take note of your User ID and password, as they are case sensitive .
Open the iLok Account Activation email and click on the verification link.
Download and install the iLok License Manager.
Launch the iLok License Manager app and sign in to your account.
- (Optional) Connect an iLok and when prompted, click Yes to register the dongle to your account.

Click the image to download iLok License Manager.

In the My Products section of your AKAI account, click SEE DETAILS, DOWNLOADS, AND OFFERS
Go to the Software downloads section, then click GET ACTIVATION CODE.
- The serial number that is revealed will be your iLok activation code.
Launch iLok License Manager, click Licenses, then click Redeem Activation Code.
Copy and paste the Serial Number located in the Software downloads section, click Next, then follow the on-screen instructions.
All three virtual instruments are now activated.

Location of your iLok code

Connecting the MPK Mini is simple. Just connect the USB cable from the device to a computer to power it on. The MPK Mini is class-compliant, which means no additional drivers are necessary.

It's also bus-powered, but we recommend connecting it directly to the computer or using a powered USB hub. Connecting it to an unpowered hub can result in loss of connectivity and performance. Follow these steps to get connected.

Connect the USB cable into the computer or powered USB hub.
Navigate to your computer's device settings to ensure that the device is recognized.
- PC: Go to Device Manager, then click Sound, video and game controllers to verify it's listed.
- Mac: Go to Applications, then click Utilities and System Information. Verify it's listed in the USB section.

If the device is powering on but not being recognized by your computer, be sure that the cables are fully connected and check out our guide for troubleshooting MIDI devices.

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MIDI keyboard and DAW controller guides

Not only does the MPK Mini work as a MIDI keyboard, but it also can be used as a DAW controller. If you own GarageBand, Logic, FL Studio, or Ableton, it's even more integrated. All you need to do is press and hold thePROG SELECTbutton, then tap one of the eight pads. The DAW it will be integrated to will be displayed on the screen.

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