Macbook 2021 not connecting/compatible with my midi keyboard Akai MPK 249

From AKAI's website:

"At this time, all Akai Pro hardware and software should be considered not supported for use with these new M1 processors. "

However, according to the website they are testing a new version of the MPK essential software which includes new drivers for the MPK 249.

As for Windows:

"We encourage all our users to remain on their current Windows OS until all necessary hardware and software products have been qualified for use with the new Windows 11 operating system. "

so, same boat for both OS

I bought last year a Mac Mini M1 and yes MPC software doesn't work, however I can use my MPK 249 with Logic Pro, all Midi controller features are working fine.

However I recently bought a Macbook Pro with a 1M Pro processor, I tried to use it with my MPK 249 and it didn't work, I made some investigation, because both are on Big Sur latest version. AND I got it also working on my Macbook Pro, though when I direct connect it using a USB-A to USB-C connector (since the AKAI provide cable is USB-A), it provides power to the MPK 249, but Logic Pro doesn't recognise the MPK 249.

When I switched to the setup I'm using for my Mac Mini, Logic Pro DOES see the MPK correctly, you need to restart Logic Pro, while during start Logic Pro looks at your connected devices, so Logic should see the MPK 249 during the start and you need to select it. Difference is : now I'm using my Dell 2720DC connected to my Laptop (using USB-C) and using its build in USB 3.0 / 3.1 hub to connect the MPK 249.

While I just got my Macbook, I still need to get an USB-C hub, but I will look for one with USB 3.0/ 3.1 compatibility.

But the good new is, the MPK 249 CAN be used with the M1 with Big. Sur and Logic PRO, though a compatible (to USB-A 3.0)/3.1 USB-C hub is required! Of course AKAI should update their software, while the M1 is out there for more than a year and still their software can not run (also not using Rosetta 2) on any M1, M1Pro, M1Max.

My MacBook is the 2021 “16in that came out October 2021. I already contacted Akai and was informed they are Working on the update for now. Please note that my Mac works with MacOS Monterey . But I will try out your suggestion all the same

Monterey is not the issue, forgot that I upgrade it too, so indeed both are running on it. My Macbook is a 2021 14" 1M Pro, also released in October ;-) so yes it already had Monterey on it . I suggest to connect your AKAI MPK 249 with your Laptop using a HUB . ONLY when Logic Pro detects the AKAI during startup it will work, other methods to connect were not successful. It would also be strange if this doesn't work, while you "only" use the MIDI interface using USB-C, and if this would work, no devices could work either. In order to check if it's connection : go to : Logic Pro (at the menubar), Preferences, MIDI and select the last "tab" / button : Inputs. Here you should find several entries define the AKAI MPK. Success!

Ok, here are my 2 cents…

You do not need a “hub.” I have Keyboards from M-Audio, Alesis, Akai, ROLI and other audio interfaces from Steinberg, Yamaha and mics from Aston, Shure and NEAT . They all work perfectly fine on a clean install of MacOS Monterey and with the M1 SOC. I use them with GarageBand, Cubase and Ableton Live. Just make sure you have a good cable that is USB-C to USB-B / micro-B (or whichever plug your instrument uses, no need for an extra adapter ). The hub might be good for some but it might also add complexity / hardware problems to a simple setup…

Thank you so much. I tried your suggestion . After selecting Input. I see 2 items marked : my audio interface Scarlett USB and another item referred to as IAC Driver Bus 1(Could this be the MPK249). Because only the my Scarlett and the midi is connected to the MacBook

But I also noted on the selected 2 items a statement : Deactivate Midi input ports for midi hardware that communicate with other software applications . Could that be the challenge . Is there a way to activate the MPK on Logic alone for now while the MPC beats is having compatibility issue? I hope my questions are understandable?

Literally in the same situation, just wasted 3 hours trying to figure it out. So ridiculous for a computer modeled for "professionals".

Yes I have 2 different hubs and have tried it on both