What is akai?

Akai is a Japanese consumer electronics company founded in 1929. Initially, they were known for manufacturing radio components. Over the years, they expanded into a wide range of audio and video equipment.

Akai became a significant player in the audio industry, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s, famed for their reel-to-reel recorders, cassette decks, and amplifiers. Their products were highly regarded for their build quality and sonic performance.

In the late 1980s, Akai entered the digital audio workstation (DAW) market with their Akai MPC series, which became hugely influential in hip-hop and electronic music production. The MPC series combined sampling, sequencing, and drum machine capabilities in a single unit.

Over time, Akai's ownership and focus shifted. The consumer electronics division was separated and eventually acquired by Grande Holdings, while Akai Professional, which focuses on music production equipment, continues to operate under different ownership. Akai Professional is known today for its range of MIDI controllers, synthesizers, and drum machines, maintaining a strong presence in the music production world.