In 2009, Akai Professional collaborated with the creators of Ableton Live, a powerful music performance and production software environment, and introduced the original Ableton Performance Controller—APC40. The instrument raised the standards of controller design, revolutionised hardware and software integration, and proved to be an essential tool for Ableton Live users everywhere. Building upon this original partnership, Akai Professional now introduces an all-new, remained Ableton Live controller—APC40 mkII.

The new APC40 mkII incorporates five years of user feedback into its design. Almost every aspect of the original APC40 has been deliberated, reworked, and improved to provide extended controller functionality, countless musical capabilities, and a smarter workflow. In addition to its sleek look, veteran APC40 users will immediately notice the enhancements that include an RGB clip-launching grid, reinforced fader design, revised knob lay out, and much more.

APC40 mkII features a 5x8 RGB clip-launching grid that’s built for dexterous exploration: launch clips, play virtual instruments, control plugins, and create your song from the ground up using 40 responsive pads. RGB lighting provides visual feedback and displays three clip statuses—loaded, playing, and recording—so you can intelligently perform without looking at your computer. You can also color code your clips with the RGB lighting for advanced visual organisation, and use the Shift button and directional arrows to manipulate the scope of the 5x8 grid.

APC40 mkII comes pre-mapped to Live for an instant performance and production setup. When APC40 mkII is plugged into your computer, its hardware controls correspond 1 to 1 with Ableton Live’s interface—no additional configuring is required. In addition, all of APC40 mkII’s controls can be re-assigned on the fly for customised setups that change with your performance or production style. APC40 mkII is also powered over USB and supports plug-and-play connectivity, allowing you to take this controller from the studio to the stage or wherever you go. Whether you are an electronic music artist and Live is your canvas, a DJ using Live for performance and real-time mixing, or a more traditional musician using Live on stage or in the studio, you will find the APC40 mkII to be the intuitive, powerful instrument that directly links your inspiration with Ableton Live.

APC40 mkII comes packed with a music production suite that includes a version of Ableton Live, two high-definition virtual synthesisers, and professional samples and loops for immediate out-of-the-box music creation. Ableton Live software enables musicians and producers to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit musical ideas in a fluid audio/MIDI environment. Hybrid 3, by AIR Music Tech, is a virtual synthesiser for electronic musicians, DJs, sound designers, and music producers who love to get their hands dirty. Create anything from fat, retro synth sounds to edgy, modern leads and everything in between. SONiVOX Twist is a spectral morphing synthesis virtual instrument. Comprised of a dynamic interface, an advanced pattern generator, and onboard effects, Twist lets you create serious sounds using simple controls. An exclusive 5GB sample library, curated by Prime Loops, includes dynamic and customised drum and percussion samples for unprecedented beat production. Finally, Toolroom Records artist launch packs bring you the coveted sounds of electronic music with a premium collection of sample packs, produced exclusively for Akai Professional. Produce, compose, and remix with professional sounds curated by the world's premier electronic music label.

Features

• Provides hands-on control of Ableton Live and includes a copy of Ableton Live Lite
• Seamlessly integrates 1 to 1 with Ableton Live
• 5x8 clip-launch matrix with RGB feedback for clip status and colour coding
• 9 channel faders, 8 control knobs, and 8 device controls interface with Ableton Live
• USB-powered and plug-in-play connectivity for Mac and PC
• Send button for quick access to 8 send busses
• Assignable A/B crossfader for dynamic mixing on the fly
• Shift button and directional arrows manipulate the scope of the grid
• Revised knob layout with in-line controls for streamlined workflow
• Production package included: Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist, Prime Loops sample packs, and Toolroom Records launch packs (downloads)

For more information, please visit the manufacturer's website.