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Akai Professional APC40

^# 5

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$72.00

4.5 (196)

1 Critic Review

46 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Akai Professional APC40 MKII

$299.00 - $350.00

4.5 (96)

Find out who is using Akai Professional APC40

5 community setups

138 wishlisted

472 saved

Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

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5.0 (10)

$72.00 18 available Used

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Description

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Immerse yourself in the world of music with the Akai Professional APC40 Ableton Performance Controller, a groundbreaking device co-developed with Ableton. This controller pioneers in its field, offering a comprehensive grid for launching clips and a mixing interface for managing up to eight tracks. This device lets you take charge of the master volume and cue mix, adding to its versatility. The APC40 features two banks of eight encoders, allowing you to manipulate macros, effects, instruments, and sends depending on your chosen mode. Its navigation and transport controls make performing Ableton Sets an entirely hands-free experience. Despite being superseded by the compact APC40 mkII and Ableton's new Push series, the APC40 remains an exceptional tool for Ableton users desiring an inexpensive MIDI controller with instant mapping capabilities.

Key Features:

Co-developed with Ableton for seamless integration
Comprehensive grid for launching clips
Mixing interface for managing up to eight tracks
Control over master volume and cue mix
Two banks of eight encoders for manipulation of macros, effects, instruments, and sends
Navigation and transport controls for hands-free performance
Instant mapping capabilities for Ableton users.

Product specs

Brand	Akai
Model	APC40
Finish	Black
Year	2010s
Made In	United States
Categories	DJ Controllers

FAQs

Is the Akai Professional APC40 compatible with all versions of Ableton Live?: The Akai Professional APC40 is designed specifically for integration with Ableton Live, offering seamless plug-and-play functionality. It is compatible with all versions of Ableton Live, but for optimal performance, using it with Ableton Live 8 or later is recommended.
Does the Akai Professional APC40 require any additional drivers for setup?: No, the Akai Professional APC40 is a plug-and-play device and does not require any additional drivers for setup. Simply connect it to your computer, launch Ableton Live, and select the APC40 as your controller.
What are the primary features of the Akai Professional APC40?: The Akai Professional APC40 features a clip-launching grid, rotary encoders, faders, and dedicated transport controls, all designed for intuitive control over Ableton Live. It offers hands-on control for live performances and studio productions, enhancing workflow and creativity.
Can the Akai Professional APC40 be used with DAWs other than Ableton Live?: While the Akai Professional APC40 is optimized for Ableton Live, it can be used with other DAWs that support MIDI mapping. However, users may need to manually map controls for full functionality in non-Ableton environments.
Does the Akai Professional APC40 come with any bundled software?: Yes, the Akai Professional APC40 typically includes a version of Ableton Live Lite, which provides essential features for music production and performance. Check the product packaging or manufacturer details for specific software bundle information.

Videos

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Ableton

Touch - Introducing the APC 40

Ableton

Akai Pro APC40: Introduction

AkaiProVideo

Akai Pro APC40: Live Performance

AkaiProVideo

Akai Professional APC40 Summer NAMM demo

Sweetwater

Reviews

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PROS

Robust build quality, feels durable
Seamless integration with Ableton Live
Offers hands-on control, reducing reliance on mouse
Versatile, with many knobs, faders, and buttons for control
Supports custom mapping for personal workflow optimization
Suitable for both studio and live performance use
Automatic MIDI mapping simplifies setup
Can control additional software like Resolume
Encourages creativity and experimentation in music production
Compact enough for gigging despite being slightly bulky

CONS

Bulkier design requires more setup space
Requires external power source, not USB powered
Knob caps and faders prone to physical damage
Some users find the layout and shape unintuitive
Faders not motorized, can cause issues with track alignment
Tap tempo button and proximity of crossfader to transport buttons can be inconvenient
Stock sliders may send ghost signals, affecting performance
Some features missing compared to newer models like Ableton Push
Not ideal for users seeking a lightweight, highly portable controller
Older technology may feel outdated to some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai Professional APC40.

Software and compatibility

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Some users report the APC40 MKII doesn't require updates, maintaining its functionality consistently across different versions of Ableton Live.
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Users report that the APC40 MK1 functions well with Ableton Live 12, even on newer Apple silicon machines.
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Mods and upgrades

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The MIDI Fighter Twister is recommended by users for additional encoder needs, complementing the APC40 MK2's existing controls effectively.
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Users recommend overriding APC pads with MIDI commands for additional control, like mapping EQ band on/off switches.
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User experience

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Some owners use the MK1 and MK2 side by side for different tasks, highlighting its flexibility and reliability in various settings.
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Owners who use the APC40 for mixing in Ableton often integrate multiple units, using one for individual tracks and another for VCA-style control.
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Multiple users report that the tactile feel of knobs and faders is significantly more conducive to creativity compared to touch interfaces.
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Comparisons

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The APC40 MK2 faders are described as cheaper in feel compared to the MK1, but still adequate for most users.
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The APC40 is often compared to the Ableton Push, with users noting the APC40's superior live control capabilities but the Push's edge in studio environments.
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The APC40 MK2 is noted for being more compact and sleeker than the MK1, though some users prefer the original's layout.
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Features and functionality

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While the MK2's pads are rectangular and multi-colored, some users note that not all colors transition perfectly from Ableton, though they find this generally helpful.
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The APC40 MK2 does not require an external power adapter, a convenience over the MK1's setup.
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Some users find the dedicated record enable button on the APC40 critical for live use, something not present on other controllers like the Push.
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MK1 lacks multi-colored launch buttons, considered a drawback for some users who desire clearer visual feedback.
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Value and pricing

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The recent re-release of the APC40 MKII has made it easier to find new units, previously being sold for double the price due to scarcity.
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Build quality

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Certain owners report issues with the stiffness of the sample launching pads, which can detract from the live performance experience.
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Original faders reportedly die frequently but are repairable with standard replacements from Mouser.
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Use cases and applications

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The APC40 MKII excels in live performances, particularly for launching loops and mixing, with users often pairing it with other synthesizers for more comprehensive setups.
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The APC40 is frequently used for live performances, with its layout considered ideal for triggering clips and mixing.
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Setup and maintenance

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Fader issues can be temporarily fixed with Deoxit fader lube, but permanent repairs might be necessary.
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Critic Reviews

Akai APC40 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Akai Professional APC40 impresses with its intuitive integration for Ableton Live 8 users, boasting a robust build and a user-friendly button layout that could easily sell the device. However, its hefty size may pose placement challenges, requiring users to rethink their setup. While the tactile controls are well-arranged, some may find the knob functions less intuitive. Ultimately, the APC40 shines for live performers seeking a reliable Session View controller, though it may not cater to every user type without some workflow adaptations. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those willing to meet it halfway.

positive

Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 46 Reviews and 196 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

jp_belanger

619

about 4 years ago

4 Stars at its birth, less now

Akai APC-40 was truly a pioneering product; it was the first affordable complete controller for Ableton Live. So many launch pads, knobs, faders, buttons, etc.

There are two main issues with the APC-40:

Knob caps will fall off whatever you do
Faders bend real easily, and once it's bent the unit looks clunky

Aside from these two this is a perfectly capable unit that can be used for a myriad of multimedia applications and with the right software can control basically anything. It has a killer look that is sure to impress anyone who looks at it.

Even by today's standards, it's one of the best Live controllers and except for a few bells and whistles the APC-40 MKII is not that much more advanced, same with Novation Launchpad.

Things I liked about it: the crossfader, the 4 way direction buttons, the transport section, the number of channels available, the dedicated cue level knob.

Things I disliked: the horrible tap tempo button with click, the close proximity of the crossfader to transport buttons making almost any technical move risky, the dumb exterior shape, the small "Activation" buttons, the Nudge buttons which could have served a way better purpose.

jhon_shepherd

407

almost 7 years ago

Ace Controller

I'm not sure where to begin with expressing my love for this controller. Build quality is a good start, I am thoroughly impressed with Akai's attention paid to engineering solidly built controllers. With the APC40 MK1 you get 16 solid knobs seperated into two groups, One for track adjustments (panning, sends, ect) The second for device racks within ableton. It truly is a software controller that absolutely has the feel and structure of a hardware device.

djkiske

104

over 3 years ago

It works great, albeit a bit bulky

It is an absolute delight to use, and offers physical knobs and buttons for effects. Only dislike is that it is a bit bulky and requires a power brick. But besides those I love it.

Roles:

Music Producer DJ Podcasters & Streamers

Genres:

Electronic Progressive house Edm

the_last_factory

1798

about 6 years ago

Useful for studio and live use

I mainly use this as a controller for when I'm mixing something in the studio, but since I sometimes bring my Mac with me to shows I also use it to trigger the samples I have during my sets. It's very intuitive and straightforward. It's not as good the Ableton controller, but it works.

engineeermusic

415

over 10 years ago

Pretty good controller

If you want to launch clips in Ableton and want some really good endless knobs, then this controller is for you! The APC 40 integrates perfectly with Ableton. I've seen people controlling other Software like Resolume with it, too. As said, the endless LED knobs are really good, and the clip launch buttons are well made. The faders are a cool idea, but I wish they would be motor faders. When you have more than 8 tracks and you start moving the tracks around, the faders are often in the wrong position, which causes the typical jumping issues ... The built quality is really good. I own the APC since quite a while and no issues. Would I buy it today? Probably not. The Ableton Push has way more features.

el3ktrnx

over 11 years ago

Amazing for studio

This was the first hardware investment I made for production and I am so glad I made that investment! I first used this for djing, but I didn't like it, so I put it in my studio and just use it when I am at the studio. I have had it for a good 3 years now, and I have noticed no problems as of yet. I have dropped it so many times, and it still works great!

thetimeripper

218

over 12 years ago

Ideal MIDI Controller for Ableton Live Beginners

MIDI Maps automatically to Ableton Live, it's a good way to familiarize myself with external controllers in general, my first one and (for now) my last...it suits all my needs, plenty of knobs and faders to map to.

nes_culturemusic

almost 9 years ago

Great machine but breaks easily

Don't take me wrong, I love both my apc40, but the stock sliders are probably the worst ever made to a dj gear. They break all the time and keeps sending ghost signal. If you want to use it to make fast cuts with the sliders go with mkii

chasecaffey

176

over 11 years ago

The Launchpad!

This is such a good tool to have in your arsenal - whether it's playing a life show or just mixing around some new ideas. This APC40 is great for staying organized and connected with Ableton. Much Loved

Cheers,

Chase Caffey

hunter

127

over 10 years ago

Hunter

This is possibly the best MIDI controller I've ever owned. I has all the controls you need if you mainly perform using Ableton. It's super flexible and can map to almost everything with is faders, knobs, buttons, etc. If you use Ableton and you use it to perform get this now! I also prefer this over the new MKII version.