Akai MPX16 (2010s)
Compact USB-powered sampler and MIDI drum controller with 16 velocity-sensitive pads, 64-voice polyphony, and 48MB sample memory.
Overview
The Akai Professional MPX16 is a portable sampler, sample player, and USB/MIDI drum controller announced in 2014 at Musikmesse. It succeeds the MPX8 and is Akai’s smallest, lightest, and most affordable sampler as of 2015. The unit features 16 velocity-sensitive backlit pads with polyphonic aftertouch, a built-in stereo microphone above the LCD screen, and supports sample loading via SD or SDHC card. Samples are transferred via USB with drag-and-drop functionality, though a file conversion utility is required for import and has been reported to truncate sample tails to 128kb. The device operates on 48MB of RAM, allowing up to 48MB of samples to be loaded simultaneously in 16-bit stereo .wav format.
Specifications
| Production Years | 2010s (announced 2014) |
| Memory/RAM | 48MB |
| Maximum Sample Memory | Up to 48MB of samples at one time |
| Polyphony | 64 voices |
| Sampling Resolution | 16-bit |
| Sample Format | .wav |
| Audio Format | 16-bit stereo audio files |
| Filter | Resonant 24dB low-pass filter per pad |
| Audio Connections | Stereo inputs and outputs (quarter-inch jacks), headphone socket (quarter-inch jack) |
| MIDI Ports | MIDI IN, MIDI OUT, USB MIDI |
| USB Port | Yes, carries power |
| Storage | SD or SDHC card slot |
| Built-in Microphone | Built-in stereo mic above LCD screen |
| Pads | 16 velocity-sensitive backlit pads |
| Pad Aftertouch | Polyphonic aftertouch |
| Effect | Reverb (no adjustable parameters) |
| Power Supply | USB or external power supply |
| Display | Blue backlit screen, white on blue text |
| Dimensions | 29 x 14.5 cm |
| Colour | Black, Red |
Design
The MPX16 has a red and black plastic shell with a textured chassis and glossy control panel. Most editing is done through a 4x5 matrix accessed by a single button and four encoders labeled A–D, with a value encoder serving as the primary control. The pads light in amber, green, and red to indicate sample assignment, playback, or edit mode. The built-in display conveys kit selection and panning information. Despite being constructed with high-quality materials and feeling durable enough for transport, the D/A stage is described as "really cheap," and pots have "a little wobble," though dials feel robust.
Context
The MPX16 is a successor to the Akai MPX8 and was positioned as Akai’s most compact and affordable sampler at the time of its 2014 announcement. It was designed for live sample triggering and on-the-fly idea capture, emphasizing portability and integration with USB workflows.
Market
As of April 2, 2026, the used market price for the MPX16 is $145.35. Common issues include flawed sample playback that variably cuts off the first 1–2ms of transients and a file conversion utility that truncates sample tails. Loading a 32MB WAV file takes 1 minute 48 seconds, accompanied by a constant whine from the USB power draw. Some users report the D/A converter sounding worse than that of a $20 Chinese MP3 player.
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