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Akai APC40 Ableton Live Performance Controller

The Akai APC40 is the most streamlined way to use Ableton Live to transform your laptop from a production tool into a true performance instrument. 14 People rated this product: Rate and Review This Product
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Product Description

Unlock Ableton Live's full potential with the Akai APC40. This performance controller is designed specifically to work with Ableton Live, and it delivers an accurate, physical manifestation of Live's interface.

The APC40's physical control layout mimics the Live workspace so accurately that all 72 of its knobs, pads and faders are laid out in the same way as their virtual equivalents. And, because it's programmed as a dedicated controller for Live, it's ready to control Ableton right out of the box.

Clip Launch

Just like the scene view in Live, the APC40 features a bank of buttons that associate with the clips matrix in your session. If a slot has a usable clip loaded, it's lit read. To start playing that clip, simply press the lit button, and it turns into a blinking green button. This simple and instantaneous feedback is what makes it such a revolutionary controller: the two-way communication between software and hardware makes the Akai Ableton Live Performance Controller like a second computer monitor that can be interacted with. The five-by-eight button matrix can be targeted at any section of a Live session's clip collection, and the lights change depending on which section is highlighted.

Mix Control

Eight channel faders provide instant level, pan, and solo/mute control over any bank of eight channels in Live, plus there's a master fader. Additionally, a replaceable, DJ-mixer-style crossfader gives the APC40 old-school control over any two channels assigned as an A/B pair.

Device Control

Two groups of eight rotary controllers provide access to Ableton's track and global devices. Select a device and the knobs automatically correspond to that device's parameters, and a lighted ring around the knob displays the current setting level. Switch between track devices without ever reaching for the mouse. It can even record device and fader moves as automation, all from the controller itself.

Tough and Sturdy

The APC40 is a performance-ready tool with a performance-grade build. It's housed in a sturdy, drummer-resistant rubber chassis and is fitted with high-grade rubber feet to keep it from sliding. Taken right from the classic MPC design, the clip launch buttons have a satisfying resistance and rubberized feel, and the knobs are sturdy and smooth.

The Akai APC40 is the most streamlined way to use Ableton Live to transform your laptop from a production tool into a true performance instrument.

Features of the Akai APC40

- Designed in partnership with Ableton
- Unique clip matrix with multicolor lighting displays current clip status
- No mapping required for use with Ableton Live
- Exclusive bidirectional communication between the controller and Ableton Live
- Professional feel with rugged, metal chassis and premium controls
- Comes with Ableton Live Akai Professional APC Edition
- USB plug-and-play connection for Mac and PC
- Premium controller with rugged, metal chassis

Akai

As the makers of the legendary MPC series, Akai has been producing groundbreaking technology-based instruments for decades. They continue to build upon their reputation by designing professional-grade products for today's composers, DJs and performers.

*Ableton and Ableton Live are trademarks of Ableton AG. zZounds is an authorized dealer of Akai products.
Includes
- APC40 Ableton Live controller
- USB Cable
- Power Supply
- Software CD
- Ableton Live Lite
- User Manual
Dimensions and Weight in Packaging
Shipping Weight: 8 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 22 x 16 x 6 in
Akai Warranty If you have additional warranty questions, please call the manufacturer at 401-658-4032
Our extended 30-Day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee applies on this product. Buy it, and if it isn't just right for you, return it!
What Our Customers Are Saying About zZounds "Once again, I am blown away by zZounds' price matching service. It's amazing." - customer on May 10th, 2012
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Customer Reviews
5 out of 5 (14 ratings) Rate and Review This Product
zZounds has verified that this customer bought this product from us. "The beast that does it ALL !!!"
Sound: midi Controller. not a sound maker. Feature: comes with usb cord and power suply wich must be used to be powered. (it's a beast) . It's 17 inches wide by 14 inches long. It's bigger than I thought it would be. but now that I have it in my set up it really sits well with everything else. Ease of Use: Well, you have to have ableton 7 or later. I have ableton ver 5 and it does not reconize the mapping. One must map it out for itself. But It comes with vers 7 le. and I mean it's limited to what it can do. so anyways I downloaded ver 8...Unfreaking real....Wow it really makes things so easy. everything is so perfectly mapped out. Played with it a couple hours to get acquiented with both Ableton 8 and the Akai... they are a match made in heaven. Everything is very well spaced out on the controller. The mapping also can be over written to change the mapping it came with. Quality: Absolutely well made. this is not a kiddie toy. it's meant for a pro. the buttons have a strong pushback to them, the knobs are strong, the faders have a good feel to them. Built to last for many many many many...... gigs, sessions, tours, recordings. Value: Listen I have bought many controllers to control the software. One for the dj set up, one for the recording sessions, one for performances, so in the long run I believe this akai has just eliminated all them with one shot. So value wise, its really worth it to purchase one at the time since they just came out. Stop wasting money on others, if you use Ableton. because this puppy is really a compliment to the software. Manufacturer Support: Haven't had the chance to chit chat with them, been too busy getting to know my new companion. The Wow Factor: I'm so excited for now, that I really can't find other controllers that can do as much as this piece of equipment can do . I can not express "enough" how much this controller can do. I guess the only thing that maybe it might add in the future is some keynotes. ( it's a thought). but for now Overall: Overall I'm totally satisfied with the purchase. Absolutely no regrets. It really really really makes working with Ableton Soooo much easier.
Style of Music: Electronica
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zZounds has verified that this customer bought this product from us. "The Beast That Tames The Wild Music"
Sound: This product does not generate sound. It is a MIDI controller. Feature: The must useful features are, well, all of them! It's like having a hands on, physical interface into Ableton Live's virtual interface. I run Ableton Live, but it feels like I'm playing an instrument, bringing back a much missed element to working with music. I used to own an Akai MPD32 MIDI controller which is also a fine product, however when working with Ableton Live they two controllers can't compare. The APC40 is designed to mimic Live's interface so well that it's a natural extension to it. Ease of Use: The APC40 is totally easy to use. If you're familiar with how Live works then you'll immediately understand how the APC40 works too. Quality: The product does appear to be of high quality, however its plastic casing does feel like a solid drop would crack it. That being said, the usable features such as buttons, knobs, and sliders do feel to be quite sturdy and will probably last a long time. It's not a toy. It's definitely made for performing professionals. I expect to get years of service from this device. Value: The price for such a high quality, feature rich device so appropriate for working with Ableton Live is completely reasonable in my opinion. If you can't easily afford its price tag then I strongly suggest saving up for it. It won't disappoint if you're an avid user of Ableton Live. Manufacturer Support: I actually haven't had to deal with the company at all. My product worked right out of the box and continues to work just fine. I have heard good things about Akai's support team though. By reputation they are very accommodating, and quick to resolve. The Wow Factor: The APC40 has a high level of appeal among the community of Ableton Live users. I know lots of people that already have it, and even more that are planning on buying one. I've been able to use Ableton Live for years without it and produce just fine, however the APC40 opens up a lot of creative freedom, and gets my hands away from my mouse and keyboard. Overall: I expect to be satisfied with this product for years to come. The only other controller I'm interested in getting is an 88 key weighted keyboard controller for being able to play in chords and melodies without having to use the mouse to add my MIDI notes.
Style of Music: Dubstep, Electro, Trance, Drum n' Bass, House, Classical
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