Archive notice: This article was originally published on January 15, 2010. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
Modelled on the extremely successful APC40, the APC20 gives musicians, producers and performers the opportunity to dispense with keyboard and mouse: a fully integrated hardware and software system for creative composition and performance. Like the APC40, the APC20 offers the Session View matrix with 8 x 5 multicolour illuminated buttons, eight convincing-quality faders and bidirectional communication with Ableton Live. Further features include three operating modes, integrated options for individual customisation and a host of new, clever tricks: the same large matrix in a smaller space.
The key possibilities and functions of the Akai Professional APC20
Large matrix, small dimensions
The APC20 is a slightly smaller version of its big brother, the APC40. Nevertheless, it offers the same 40-button matrix for direct control of clips in Ableton Live’s Session View. This compact version is ideal for anyone who already owns various controllers, has little space in the studio or is looking for the most affordable solution possible.
Reinforcement for the APC40
Thanks to the new Combination mode, APC40 users can simply dock an APC20 and then automatically use both controllers together. This allows you to control 16 tracks simultaneously and work with an impressive 80-button matrix. It is also possible to connect up to six APC20s together.
Robust, professional hardware
The Akai Professional name stands for quality: a standard fully met by the APC20 as well. From the pads with multicolour LED backlighting and smoothly operating faders to the travel-ready metal enclosure: the APC20 is robust and feels good all round.
Note mode
In Note Mode, the matrix pads play MIDI notes instead of Session View clips. This allows you to control Live’s Drum Racks or virtual instruments to record beats or melodies quickly and easily.
Flexible faders
The APC20’s faders can not only control channel levels, but can also be switched to panorama or various sends - easily, without complicated mapping. In the additional User Banks, you can also assign the faders to other control functions: tempo, effect balance, global tempo - or whatever you want.
Adaptable
Beyond the User Banks for the faders’ control functions, producers and performers can flexibly adapt the APC20 to their own personal working style through Ableton Live’s easy-to-use MIDI assignments. Every control element on the APC20 can control any function in Ableton Live.
Availability of the Akai Professional APC20
The Akai Professional APC20 will be available worldwide from music retailers from the second quarter of 2010. Please note that this product is not available through Ableton’s web shop.
Hardware + software: Ableton Live Akai Professional APC Edition
The Akai Professional APC20 also comes with customised software: “Ableton Live 8 Akai Professional APC Edition” is a version of Ableton Live 8 with eight audio tracks, eight MIDI tracks and twenty Session View scenes. Live’s large selection of effects makes the package a powerful complete solution for studio and stage.
