Akai Professional XR20
- 12 trigger pads, backlit blue, note repeat
- Over 700 sounds: drums, one-shot hits, bass, synth
- Reverb, EQ and compression built in
- Microphone input for mixing vocals with beats
- Wall or battery power, 1 kg
- 1-year parts and labor warranty
Updated 2 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A portable beat station with sounds, effects and a microphone input, aimed at hip-hop and R&B production. The package contents are listed as not included.
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ASIN: B005OUE3FOModel: XR20Category: Drum Machines
Overview
Not a blank controller waiting on a computer, this Akai is a self-contained beat production centre with its own sound library. Pads trigger drums and one-shots, and Pattern Play mode assigns different patterns to each pad.
Hands-on beats anywhere is what it offers: sounds are pre-loaded, effects are onboard, and power comes from either the wall or batteries. The weak spot is the box contents, which the listing leaves unconfirmed.
Who it's for
Beatmakers and MCs who work on the go can sketch tracks and mix vocals directly. Musicians who want a keyboard, piano roll or confirmed accessory list should compare other products.
Pros and cons
- Pre-loaded sound library
- Built-in reverb, EQ, compression
- Battery or wall power
- Included items unconfirmed
- Compatibility listing is mixed
- Sample storage details missing
Performance notes
Pre-loaded drum, bass and synth sounds are triggered from the pads, and the onboard effects shape the mix. In Pattern Play mode each pad launches a different pattern, so a beat can follow the energy of a performance. Backlit pads follow the rhythm.
Specifications
| Brand | Akai Professional |
|---|---|
| Model | XR20 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Weight | 1 kg |
| Construction & materials | |
| Color | Black |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Hardware interface | USB |
| Included components | |
| Included Components | Not included |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty Description | 1 year parts and labor |
| Supported software | Ableton Live |
| Other details | |
| Connector Type | 6.35mm jack |
| Trigger pads | 12 |
| Sounds | Over 700 |
| Effects | Reverb, EQ, compression |
| Mixer channels | 4 |
| USB ports | 1 |
| Platform | PC and Mac |
Closest rivals on specs
Roland TR-8S Rhythm Performer Advanced Drum Machine- Item Weight 2.2 vs 2 pounds (+10%)
Alesis SR-16 Standalone Drum Machine- Item Weight 2.2 vs 2.5 pounds (-12%)
Behringer RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-6-SR Analog Drum Machine with 8 Drum Sounds- Item Weight 2.2 vs 2.65 pounds (-17%)
Frequently asked questions
What is in the box with the Akai XR20?
The listing says included components are not included, so confirm whether a power adapter or cables ship with it.
Does the Akai XR20 run on batteries?
Yes. The description says it runs on wall or battery power.
Can I record vocals on the Akai XR20?
It has a microphone input for mixing vocals with your beats. The listing does not describe recording.
Does the Akai XR20 have a keyboard?
No. The sounds are played from 12 trigger pads rather than keys.