[Musikmesse] New Akai MPC unveiled

Akai will introduce tomorrow at Musikmesse 2014 the MkII version of its flagship APC40 controller for Ableton Live. This new version responds to many user requests and includes a matrix of 5×8 RGB backlit LED pads, an A/B assignable fader, 8 rotary encoders, 8 channel faders and a Send button for quick access to the bus send. Its is USB-powered and the device is plug-and-play.

The APC40 mkII ships with a software suite that includes the AIR Music Technology Hybrid 3, the SONiVOX Twist, as well as Toolroom Records and Prime Loops sound libraries.

Along with the large model, Akai unveils in Frankfurt the ultra compact Mini version with an 8×8 multicolor pad matrix to trigger clips, 8 channel faders and a master fader, and the device is also USB-powered. The APC Mini ships with the Hybrid 3 and the Toolroom Records sound packs.

Last, Akai offers beginners and Live users a version with 25 mini-keys of its APC controller. The APC Key 25, along with the keyboard, features a 5×8 tricolor pad matrix to trigger clips in Live, 8 assignable encoders to control volume, sends, etc. Note that the faders disappeared on this USB-powered version. The included software bundle features Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3, SONiVOX Twist and the Toolroom Records sound packs.

The three new APC MIDI controllers for Live will be available this summer with the following US pricing:

• APC40 MkII: $399.99
• APC Key 25: $129.99
• APC Mini: $99.99