This page is for my M set.  If you have arrived at this page, it is because you own an AKAI MPK Mini, or LPD8 electronic pad controller and are not satisfied with the drum pad response. You have an instrument with great portability, so don't let your investment go to waste - The sometimes un-uniform pad molding and sensor screw placement of the Mini makes it difficult to create a universal kit, which leaves very little margin for variance, but this is the same solution that I created that has worked well for my own Mini that can allow you to make the pads a bit more sensitive and expressive than the stock set-up. For most, this mod will not make your pads "touch" sensitive. This is a more subtle change that should give you improved usability over the stock set-up.  These inserts are not compatible with the MPK25/49/61/88. See "seller's other items" for kits compatible with those units.  See general video review at bottom of page.

This is a simple solution.  If you can spare 15 minutes and feel comfortable opening your case, place these 8 tinted ultra-thin inserts between your existing pad / sensor insert / sensor board configuration and gain some extra responsiveness for your Mini.

Bottom line: If you have previously modded/tweaked your unit and are happy with the response, then you should probably not get this kit.

The pad set shown in the picture on this page is not included in the kit- it is intended to give a general idea of where the inserts will be placed in your pad assembly. This kit will not replace any parts of your unit.

Inserts will not harm sensors, requires no modification of existing components, are non destructive (will remain in place without tape, glue, or adhesive), and are easily removable.

GO WITH AN ORIGINAL. Imitation is said to be the best form of flattery, and some other companies and individuals have "borrowed" my original idea using other materials. Some have even gone as far as to try and trick you by mimicking my page, product, and trademarked product name. These copycats will cost you in the long run. I feel my solution is the best, most cost effective, and will allow you to stop focusing on the interface...and concentrate on making music.

Don't accept using electrical tape: takes a long time to cut, you'll get inconsistent results, and will have to redo it after repeated use.

My solution: easy drop-in installation, will not shift, will help extend the life of your sensors (because you won’t have to strike as hard), and will not interfere with your LEDs. Whether you consider the stock pad response a design error or a design choice, this kit can help you achieve better performance.

What my solution won't do:

• Won't win a beauty contest (nothing fancy here...the inserts are not much to look at, but they are high quality and are undetectable in the finished installation)
• Won't make you a better musician (but the increased sensitivity will give the pads an enhanced dexterity)

Is this solution effective in every application? The MPK Mini is a  precision instrument designed with built-in tolerances to allow for manufacturing variances, not necessarily to accept mods. While I am confident that most will have improved performance, there is the possibility that these will not work for you as intended, and there are many variables that could contribute to this. Errors in installation, previous mods or damage (if second-hand), instrument variations or deviations, intended use, stacked tolerances or a combination of these or other factors can play a part.

I hate to admit it, but I am not perfect. If I make an error, I believe in customer service, and will try my best to make things right, if given the chance. If they don't work for you, send them back.

Note 1: Installation is fairly simple. The Mini is constructed similarly to the LPD8 and uses some common components. Most disassembly requires only a small-head Phillips screwdriver. Scissors and a hole punch may be helpful. If you need additional instruction, it may be helpful to check enthusiast sites, forums, or popular video sites. I will provide (for reference) visual examples from the MPK Mini and MPK25 to illustrate the concept.