The APC20 from Akai is a compact controller, designed in conjunction with Abelton for use with the software manufacture's Live series of products. The APC20 is the ideal controller for performers who like to perform in a small amount of space for maximum portability and thanks to its small footprint, perfect for players who want to combine multiple controllers in their setup.
The APC20 is the link between a performer and computer that perfectly balances analytical parameter control with creative expression. Whether you are an electronic music artist and Live is your canvas, a DJ using Live to mix or remix tracks, or a more traditional musician using Live on stage or in the studio, you will find the APC20 to the intuitive, powerful instrument that directly links your inspiration with Ableton Live.
- Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC20 specifically for use with Ableton Live
- The controller is plug-and-play, so no need to install drivers
- First-time setup is literally 3 steps - load the included Ableton Live software, plug in and power up the APC20, and select the APC20 as Ableton Live's controller - that's it
- The APC20 comes pre-mapped for instant use with Ableton Live software
- Every single button and fader on the APC20 can be custom-mapped to completely customize the controls for preferred workflow
- The controller talks directly to Ableton Live, and Live talks directly to the APC20
- The bidirectional communication provides feedback from the software and displays it on its Clip Launch matrix
- The Clip Matrix gives you an instant view of clip status - what's loaded, what's playing, and what's being recorded
- Each state displays in the grid in a different color so you can get a quick picture of clip state
- You can shift your clip focus and get an overview of the clips you have loaded for your set
- Ableton selected Akai Professional as its partner in developing the APC20 because of Akai Pro's leadership position in great-feeling controllers that are rock solid, rugged and precise
- From the legendary MPC series that changed the way music is made to the industry-standard MPD and MPK controllers, Akai Professional is revered by musicians, DJs and producers everywhere for creating the feel that aids their creativity
- The APC20 is built with a rugged, metal chassis and slip-proof rubber detailing
- No flimsy plastic
- Faders are solid and precise for pinpoint performance
- Includes Ableton Live Akai Professional APC Edition software, which is fully functional for performance and production
- Owners of standalone editions of Ableton Live 7 or 8 can also work seamlessly with the controller
- Live 7 with the latest automatic update has full support for the APC20 and all versions of Live 8 are APC20-ready
- The controller also enables special clip-status views and feedback that only the APC20's matrix can display
- The matrix is not limited to only 40 clips - you can scroll and shift, enabling you to access, control and perform with an unlimited number of cells
- 9 faders, which can be assigned to volume control, pan, sends and a choice of 3 user-mapped modes
- Special controls include tap tempo, tempo nudge, record enable, solo/cue and 2 assignable footswitch inputs
- Special User Mode enables you to use the Clip Launch buttons to control instruments and the Drum Rack