So I've been looking at the MPK25 cause everyone says it's the shit but

I've been wondering, what's the function of the pads? If it's just mainly for drums, why not just trigger them via the keyboard? It's for this reason that I'm looking at the M-Audio Oxygen 25, which is much cheaper..

But if you can convince me otherwise, have at it

yeah u have a point u can pretty much do it all with a a basic pad + ableton (or other programs) its more for the efficiency instead of having a whole heap of controllers u can have 1 that dose a heap of things. but the there's better multi function units out there. you should check out the roland groove box's and the akia mpc series they look good for drum loops. im in the process of looking at converting usb game pads into midi boxes. sorry about the ramble not actually sure if i got any point in all that hope i helped out though

Well... In my case I feel like its a matter of style. I love making beats with it, I do everything with my triggerfinger. The only reason why I dont use a keyboard is because I see no benefit in a 2 octave keyboard, I can do exactly that with the pad controller. I am still saving for a 49+ keys keyboard, I wish I could find one cheap with just the keys (good keys, with aftertouch and all) as I do not need anymore pads or knobs. Then I would be all set. You can also do all your music by filling in the midi notes, but it just doesnt feel the same. You can also do your beats with your keyboards but it will never feel as good as doing it with the pads, again its just a matter of taste....

BassDubba I hope you see this in time then!

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Oxygen2-49

Sweetwater selling Oxygen 49 for $99 as a black friday deal.

As a keyboardist I was into keyboard based MIDI production for many years. The MPD-32 changed that for me. Consider this:

Keyboards have been the standard controller since the 80's, and predate the MPC. The MPC style of control and manipulation is therefore newer = fresher. Modal and 12 tone systems of composition are also older than electronic, experimental, noise and sample based systems of composition.

Missed it!! But I live in Mexico so shipping and import duties would have probably made it cost the same or a little bit cheaper than here. I used to have an ozone a long time ago and I was happy then I got an axiom and I would never look back at oxygen's cheap keys. I wonder if the oxygen's keys have gotten better now.

Pads are really good, but when you are working in a complex melody with chords or many octaves I feel like they fall short. For me they are awesome for beats and bass, I am looking to sell my Triggerfinger and buy maschine with the kore crossgrade offer before this year ends.

I think portability is key.. Usually when I am away, I'll bring my MPD, because I can use it in Studio and DJ settings.. I'm thinking of picking up an MPK mini, although I am using drumpads in my productions less and less, there is the comfort component.. I didn't have room to bring my keyboard controller down south with me, and I am definitely missing it...