Akai Professional APC40 MK II

Akai APC40 MK II USB MIDI Controller Including Ableton Live Lite

The Evolution Of The APC40

In 2009 Akai Professional, in collaboration with Ableton Live, developed the first Ableton performance controller: the APC40. The instrument impressed with its clear layout and seamless software integration. Soon the APC40 became the worldwide standard for Ableton Live users. Building on years of experience and extensive user feedback, Akai Professional developed the successor, the APC40 mkII.

Almost every aspect of the original APC40 was rethought, redesigned and further improved. The result: expanded functionality, countless new possibilities and a smoother workflow. APC40 veterans will spot the most obvious changes at a glance — the new RGB clip matrix, a beefed-up fader design, the intuitive control layout and much more.

The Matrix

The APC40 mkII offers a 5x8 clip-launch matrix with RGB illumination that invites experimentation. With these 40 pads you can launch clips, play virtual instruments, control plug-ins or arrange songs. The RGB lighting provides visual feedback and shows the current clip status — eliminating the need to keep glancing at your computer during performance. You can color-code clip lights to visually group track segments. Use the arrow keys to move the 5x8 matrix freely across Ableton's Session View.

Total Control

The APC40 mkII features numerous assignable faders and controls: nine enhanced faders and eight pan/send/user controls are arranged in-line per channel, creating an intuitive layout and optimal workflow. The eight illuminated device buttons let you adjust parameters quickly and clearly. The Send button lets you cycle through all eight send buses directly from the APC40 mkII. The A/B crossfader was also redesigned and can now be assigned without a mouse.

Seamless Integration

The APC40 mkII ships preconfigured for Ableton Live. The controller becomes active as soon as you connect it to Ableton Live — no additional setup required. All controls can be reassigned in real time and setups can be fully customized. The APC40 mkII only needs a USB connection for power and offers true Plug & Play — so the controller is ready to use anywhere.

Comprehensive Software Package

The APC40 mkII includes a comprehensive software package for music production. It includes a version of Ableton Live, a high-definition virtual synthesizer, as well as professional samples and loops. With Ableton Live Lite, musicians and producers can compose, record, remix and work in an intuitive audio/MIDI environment. Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech is a virtual synthesizer that covers synth sounds from retro to modern. SONiVOX Twist is a spectral morphing synthesizer with a dynamic interface, a professional pattern generator and built-in effects. Also included is a 5 GB sound library from Prime Loops, featuring dynamic and customizable drum and percussion samples. Finally, Toolroom Records delivers the latest electronic music samples with the included Artist Launch Packs, exclusively created for Akai Professional.