AKAI has teased the Sample Key. The keyboard sampler features an open-source operating system and a compact keybed.
In a brief Instagram reel, AKAI has shown the upcoming Sample Key. The instrument appears as a keyboard version of the MPC Sample and relies on an open-source operating system.
Hardware and Controls
The unit features a 24-key keybed alongside pitch and modulation wheels. Other visible components include:
- A built-in speaker
- Rotary knobs identical to the MPC
- Dedicated track buttons
The system lets musicians sample directly onto individual keys and set up key splits across the keybed.
Open-Source System and Customization
AKAI highlights support for AI and the vibe-coding community, allowing the device to run custom code. Examples showed Claude writing an 808 beat played using the keys and pitch wheel, while another workflow used Claude to install a version of Native Instruments Massive on the instrument.
Source: Gearnews
