Akai MPK Alternative? | Donner DMK25 Pro (setup and demo)!

Check out the Donner DMK-25 Pro!
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In this video I share my thoughts on the Donner DMK-25 Pro mini midi keyboard controller. I had a lot of fun using this 25 key MIDI keyboard controller in the video and I hope you enjoy it! Special thanks to Donner for sending this keyboard for review! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
Akai MPK Alternative? | Donner DMK25 Pro (setup and demo)!
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#Donnermusic #DMK25PRO

[@Eric_In_SF]

As if somehow Akai is the brand to beat. I've had three mpks over the past 10 years and all three were garbage that I eventually just got rid of for one reason or another. Terrible software laggy performance, drum pads that need to be modified with paper etc etc. People only love it because they don't know any better and want to use the same brand as their favorite pro

[@RogerRCarvajal]

Yesterday May 24th I received my DMk25 to start the learning curve and to be able to pruduce some songs of my own! this MIDI Controller even though it is not a high end equipment, it is a good tool to start with. very good and sincere reference! Greetings from Anaco, Venezuela!!!! \m/

[@bh4vvy33t]

I've seen this exact comment before, is it that good?

[@jackthemurray]

I can’t speak for that commenter, but I am still happy with my DMK25. It’s obviously not my only or my main midi controller. But I keep mine in my bag with me and use it fairly frequently. It’s not perfect, but for a portable backup I think it’s more than good enough.

[@RogerRCarvajal]

@@bh4vvy33t Hello, it is obvious that it is not an Arturia Mini Lab of 25 keys, but you really have the same features, and the quality/price ratio, it is one option among many! Greetings!

[@tanuzzoproduction5976]

Hi! I’ve been looking into buying a MIDI controller, and after doing some research and watching your videos, I think I’ve narrowed it down to the Akai MPK Mini Plus and this Donner. I’ve been a guitarist for many years, but when it comes to piano, I can play standard chords, so I’d consider myself a beginner. Also, as a university student living away from home, I’d like something portable, maybe something that could fit in a backpack and that I can take on a plane. I think I’d primarily use the MIDI controller to make backing tracks for my guitar, but also to start learning how to play more complex chords and perhaps a few simple melodies on the keyboard. Do you think those 12 extra keys would make a difference? Or for what I’d use it for, is the Donner already good enough? Because the difference in dynamics seems really big, especially regarding the pads, so I’m leaning towards the Donner, but I’m afraid I might feel too limited in the future because of the lack of keys.

[@jimshunamon2512]

I bought this keyboard this past weekend. Apparently Donner has made some changes. Mine does not have the trs midi out (which I wanted) it has a sustain pedal input instead. And the keys on mine don't have aftertouch either. I wish DONNER had made clear what ports and functions were on this (newer ?) version. I purchased directly from Donner and they won't take it back and refund me because I opened the box! I should have known better. This is the 3rd (and will be my last ever) Donner product I bought, the other two being guitar pedals. Both of those pedals sropped working after only 4 or 5 short uses and Donner refused to honor the one year warranty. Terrible company to do business with which is a mistake I won't let happen again.

[@EricHanuise]

Just received mine, and super disappointed : Donner removed the midi out to replace it with a sustain in. No indications whatsoever of the change, product is still called DMK25 pro, but no midi out. Buyer beware, if you need a midi out, this is not the product you're looking for :(

[@andesneko]

Oh, that sucks. Who travels with a pedal! All we need is MIDI out.

[@EricHanuise]

@@andesneko Yup. Plus the 'satisfied or money back' claims on the site are not what I experienced at all. Had to send lots of emails, then request a refund with the payment processor to finally get them to comply. I would not recommend buying direct from Donner to anyone after such a lousy experience.

[@bh4vvy33t]

I have seen this exact comment on other videos wow

[@Myguitar-951]

What the first thing it shows is the midi out 😂 need glasses perhaps

[@EricHanuise]

@@Myguitar-951 I suggest you read the whole thread. The device initially came with a MIDI out port, but they revised it without changing the device reference, and it now comes without a MIDI out. The jack is now for a sustain instead.

[@Stanley_P_Whirl]

Is there a loop?

[@alexandromcdonogal4126]

Just received mine and this video was extremely helpful ❤

[@jackthemurray]

Thanks bro!!

[@SammyCSection]

@@jackthemurray where is the access code on a card

[@davey5422]

Is there a reason why I have no sound? I have drivers set up to computer settings and still nothing I see the volume mixers going all crazy but no audio in my headphones or speakers

[@SammyCSection]

does the donner come with the code

[@jackthemurray]

Be sure to check the packaging, manual, and other literature. If you didn’t receive the code with the Donner, you’ll want to contact the company support and request the license code.

[@mehar061]

Where is the volume knob

[@thisismune]

So good

[@jackthemurray]

Appreciate you!

[@jaydenguerra1172]

What if your computer is ran by chrome os?

[@Dizzy_Man266]

i got my first DMK 25 pro from your videos but a issue im running into is when i play something with it on cubase cubase has a response to it but the sound isnt coming back into my headset through my monocaster. how would i fix this? or am i missing something any tips?

[@jackthemurray]

Did you check that the audio output device is set properly on your software settings? This issue likely wouldn’t be caused by the DMK 25

[@thaniaruiz2034]

Hi, I’m currently trying to set up my new DMK-25 Pro Donner keyboard on my Samsung laptop, but I’m stuck. I downloaded Cubase, and went into Studio, Studio Setup, my device shows up and is active in MIDI Port Setup, but when I go to MIDI Remote to start creating the digital version of my keyboard, and I go to press “Open MIDI Remote in Lower Zone” it’s unavailable for me to click. There’s a message above that says “No MIDI Remote Controller available. Controllers can be imported or created in the MIDI Remite Manager”. How do I go about doing this? I’m completely new to this software and music production in general, so I would appreciate simplified but detailed instructions on what to do to be able to move forward. Thank you for your time!

[@jackthemurray]

Hi, from my experience the issue here is Cubase. I feel it’s far too complicated for the average user. No other DAW software makes it this complicated to use a MIDI controller. I use my DMK-25 with Ableton Live and it’s plug and play. If you’re just getting started, are you open to considering other software? That would be my first recommendation. Hope that helps

[@DipAryaMusic]

So sick bro 🔥🔥🔥

[@jackthemurray]

Thanks bro!

[@musicnfilm3372]

HI Jack! I'm following your tutorial to the letter but after I set up the MIDI surface, when I click "Go to Mapping Assistant" it says all the controls are "incorrect" (and highlighted orange) and it deletes the board. I am about ready to send the thing back! Any ideas?

[@jackthemurray]

Hi. Would love to help but it’s very difficult without pictures and more info on what software you’re using with the board. I’m on instagram as @jackthemurray. Feel free to message me there and send photos/screenshots. I should be able to help there. Thanks!

[@domdom4798]

I got this for Christmas as a gift and HVE NO IDEA how to set this up. It wont play lol but your video was the best to lead me in the right direction. I'm just not sure if i setup cubase correctly

[@jackthemurray]

Let me know if you have any additional questions! Happy to talk through it further!

[@bmc81770]

When I go to studio setup, midi port setup looks fine. But midi remote doesn’t allow me to open midi remote in lower zone. Any ideas on what to do?

[@jackthemurray]

I’m not sure I understand the question. Could you further clarify what software you’re using with the Donner, and what you’re trying to accomplish?

[@jonnsmith4902]

Just bought the novation 25. Not sure about it. My question is does this keyword have sound's ready to plsy..?

[@jackthemurray]

This keyboard is just a MIDI controller. MIDI controllers don’t typically have any built in sounds. They need a computer or order sound source to play.

[@jonnsmith4902]

​@jackthemurray thank u for ur reply. Appreciate it 🙏

[@crmusica]

Great tutorial, thanks! One question...: I'm trying to assign the Drum Pads to different notes and octaves than the rest of the keyboard to use as key switches for orchestral libraries. Is this possible to do on the DMK25? Thanks.

[@jackthemurray]

Yeah! You’d need to figure out what midi CC or notes the plug-in is mapped too, and then remap the individual pads accordingly. I’d have to check the manual to recall exactly how to do that. I can make a quick video if needed. Let me know

[@crmusica]

Hey Jack! Thanks, I was able to figure it out. Just needed to change the pads to CC-12 to CC-17 and CN to Midi Channel 1 to create the key switches. Thanks anyway! @@jackthemurray

[@R3dGl0w]

Keyboard doesnt make any sound when plugged in, shouldnt it output sound as soon as i plug it in to the computer?

[@jackthemurray]

It is a midi controller. No sounds on its own. Needs to be connected to DAW software with virtual instruments loaded in in order to make sound.

[@R3dGl0w]

@@jackthemurray I have Cubase installed, I see the keyboard in Cubase, but it doesnt come up with the Keyscape and still does not play any sounds like you did, even before making the keyboard virtually in the program.... It looks like u just plugged it in, opened Cubase and it played sounds...... mine does. any help would be good. Ive done everything in this tutorial. but still nothing

[@xIDONT]

Hey great video am having a problem with the outpot port i cant find the midi in it

[@jackthemurray]

What kind of adapter/cable are you using and what kind of device are you trying to control?

[@michaelaguilar6209]

Could I use it on fl studio too?

[@jackthemurray]

Yep!

[@jackalexande]

My name is also Jack Murray

[@jackthemurray]

Yo that’s cool!

[@benjaminforest2830]

where do you find your cubase code thing

[@jackthemurray]

This was a sponsored deal, so they sent me the code when they sent me the board. I’d imagine that you will receive the code via email when you purchase. But I’m not 100% sure. If you don’t have the code, I’d recommend emailing their customer support.

[@benjaminforest2830]

@@jackthemurray How do you get the code if you ordered off of Amazon

[@jackthemurray]

I’m not 100% sure unfortunately. It obviously should’ve been bundled in the hardware box. I don’t know why they don’t include it. I would send them a support request via their website/email: m.donnermusic.com/support/contact Hope that helps!

[@benjaminforest2830]

@@jackthemurray thank you

[@williamfreeman9995]

Thanks!

[@jackthemurray]

Woah, thanks William! That’s a first for me. Thank you much!!

[@CampbellCornLab]

Save yourself time if you bought this and your a boomer, have no experience with DAWS, can't understand most of what they say in this video, you don't use apple products, you lookied for the registration code after you opened and entered every number you can find, and your time is valuable. Repackage and gift it to a kid who never gets outside and lives in his parents' basement. Then buy a keyboard that does notinterface with a computer. :)

[@jackthemurray]

Tbh, I agree with this

[@onemaxlight]

Hi Jack, I had the opportunity to try a Donner DMK 25. PROS: PITCH and MOD slides are MUCH better than AKAI joystick - comfortable faders and wheels, better than AKAI Knobs. CONS: Sensitivity of keys is better than AKAI but with a shocking DEFECT: the next note PLAYS only if you hit it after having completely lifted your finger from the key. If you play fast notes and don't completely detach your fingers, the keys DO NOT PLAY. NEGATIVE!

[@jackthemurray]

Hey max, thanks for sharing! I noticed a similar CON that you listed - but I think I was able to fix it. I can’t exactly remember how. But I’ll pull out the DMK and mess around with it and if I can fix it I’ll report back.