# Compact Battery-Powered Instruments The MPK Mini Play Serves as an Impressively Compact Keyboard By Justin Lam | Published 2018-10-16 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mpk-mini-play References: [engadget](https://www.engadget.com/2018/10/12/akai-mpk-mini-play-portable-keyboard-midi-controller/) & [akaipro](http://www.akaipro.com/products/keyboard-controllers/mpk-mini-play) Portable AA battery-powered instruments are rarely considered impressive, but the Akais MPK Mini Play hopes to change this perception. Loaded with 128 sounds and 10 drum kits, this powerful [portable instrument](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/opxy) serves as a more compact version of the original MPK Mini. The MPK Mini Play also comes equipped with [eight backlit drum pads](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/launchkey-mk4) and a four-way joystick for additional control. All of these features come alongside a 25-key keyboard and the ability to use the device as a USB MIDI controller. All of the features contribute to an impressive musical instrument but the true appeal of the MPK Mini Play lies in its portability. Requiring just three AA batteries, the instrument comes with a [built-in microphone](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boya-mini) and a headphone jack for more discreet monitoring. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.5/10 - Popularity: 67% | Activity: 31% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Portable Battery-powered Instruments:** There is an opportunity for manufacturers to create a variety of truly portable and lightweight musical instruments that operate on AA batteries. - **Compact MIDI Controllers:** Manufacturers can capitalize on the trend of smaller and more portable MIDI controllers for music production on-the-go. - **Integrated Audio and Studio Instruments:** An opportunity exists for manufacturers to create more instruments that integrate audio features for discreet monitoring and efficient music production on-the-go. ### Where This Applies - **Consumer Electronics:** Consumer electronic companies have the opportunity to create cutting-edge portable instruments that meet the needs of musicians who want a compact, powerful, and versatile music-making experience. - **Musical Instruments:** An opportunity to produce more compact, portable musical instruments that are versatile and available at a variety of price points. - **Audio Recording and Production:** Companies can benefit from creating portable audio production tools and devices that are easy to use and accessible for musicians on-the-go. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Travel-Friendly Practice Amps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boss-katanamini-x.md) - [Battery-Powered Digital Pianos](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/loog-piano.md) - [Portable Battery-Powered DJ Decks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/korg-handytraxx-play.md) - [Portable Miniature Music Studios](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tracker-mini.md) - [Mini Illuminated Digital Pianos](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-portable-piano.md) - [Digital Motion-Sensing Pianos](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/roli-piano.md) - [Portable Connected Musician Amplifiers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/positive-grid-spark-mini.md) - [Portable Music Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-midi-controller.md) - [Pocket-Sized Beat Makers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stylophone-beat.md)