Using a USB cable to connect to PC or Mac, the MPD32 is Akai Professional's new flagship pad controller for musicians and DJs, allowing hardware control of music programs such as Reason, Ableton Live and GarageBand. With 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive genuine MPC pads, the controller allows eight each of assignable faders, switches and 360-degree knobs, with three selectable control banks and four pad banks, extending the options even more. It can work as a master clock for MIDI sequencers and has a built-in Tap Tempo button so musicians can control tempo in real time during performances. And it also features transport controls for interfacing with DAW/sequencing applications like Sonar, Cubase and Logic.

The MPD32 will be available in the second quarter of the year for $499; for more info and images, check out www.akaipro.com/prodMPD32.php.