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Average Price: $304
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$99
$300+
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Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Akai Professional APC40 MKII". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Akai Professional APC40 MKII, a music controller that takes your creative process to a whole new level. Crafted from the essence of five years of user feedback, this device is a reimagined successor of the original APC40, showcasing a sleek design and several enhancements tailored to meet the needs of the modern musician.
The APC40 MKII features a 5x8 RGB clip-launching grid that not only facilitates the creation of your music from scratch but also offers the ability to perform it. With 40 responsive triggers, this device provides visual feedback via three clip statuses (loaded, playing, and recording), allowing you to perform with minimal reliance on your computer. Color code your clips with the RGB lighting, and use the shift button and directional arrows to manipulate the scope of the grid.
The APC40 MKII is designed for seamless integration with Ableton Live, offering an instant performance and production setup. Its hardware controls perfectly correspond with Ableton Live's interface, meaning no additional configuration is required. And when it comes to customization, all of the APC40 MKII's controls can be re-assigned on the fly to suit your performance or production style. It's powered over USB and supports plug-and-play connectivity, making it perfect for use in the studio, on stage, or anywhere else you want to make music.
Key Features:
- Provides hands-on control of Ableton Live
- Seamlessly integrates 1 to 1 with Ableton Live
- 5x8 clip-launch matrix with RGB feedback for clip status and color coding
- 9 channel faders, 8 control knobs, and 8 device controls interface with Ableton Live
- USB-powered and plug-and-play connectivity for Mac and PC
- Sends button for quick access to 8 send buses
- Assignable A/B crossfader for dynamic mixing on the fly
- Shift button and directional arrows manipulate the scope of the grid
- Revised knob layout with in-line controls for streamlined workflow
- Production package included: Ableton Live Lite with Puremagnetik Effect Racks, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist, Prime Loops sample packs, and Toolroom Records artist launch packs (downloads)
Owner's manual
Akai Professional APC40 MKII User ManualProduct specs
| Pads | 40 |
| Encoders/Pots | 18 |
| Faders | 8 x Channel Faders, 1 x Master Fader |
| MIDI I/O | USB |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Hardware Requirements - Mac | Intel Processor, 2GB RAM minimum |
| Hardware Requirements - PC | Multicore Processor, 2GB RAM minimum, ASIO compatible |
| OS Requirements - Mac | OS X 10.8 or later |
| OS Requirements - PC | Windows 7 SP1 or later |
| Power Supply | USB bus powered |
| Height | 1.8" |
| Width | 16.7" |
| Depth | 10" |
| Weight | 3.97 lbs. |
FAQs
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Is the Akai Professional APC40 MKII compatible with Ableton Live?
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Yes, the Akai Professional APC40 MKII is specifically designed for seamless integration with Ableton Live, making it an ideal choice for live performance and production.
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Does the APC40 MKII require an external power supply?
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No, the APC40 MKII is USB bus powered, meaning it draws power directly from your computer via the USB connection.
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How many pads does the Akai Professional APC40 MKII have?
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The APC40 MKII features a 5x8 clip-launch matrix, providing a total of 40 pads for triggering clips and samples.
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Can the APC40 MKII be used with DAWs other than Ableton Live?
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While the APC40 MKII is optimized for Ableton Live, it can be mapped to work with other DAWs, although some features may require manual configuration.
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What are the system requirements for using the APC40 MKII with a Mac?
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The APC40 MKII requires a Mac with an Intel processor, at least 2GB of RAM, and OS X 10.8 or later.
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Does the APC40 MKII have any pedal inputs?
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Yes, the APC40 MKII includes one 1/4" pedal input for additional control options.
Videos
Doctor Mix
The Akai APC40 Mk2 In Action
The Akai APC40 Mk2 In Action
Doctor Mix
Akai Pro APC40 mkII Performance featuring Carl Rag
AkaiProVideo
Akai Professional APC40 mkII - Demo, Features, and Operation in Ableton Live
AkaiProVideo
The all-new APC40 mkII | Akai Professional
AkaiProVideo
Comparison: Ableton Push vs Akai APC40 MKII - Which one is best for you?
SoundsAndGear
Akai APC40 MKII Control Surface Demo - Sweetwater Sound
Sweetwater
Akai Professional APC40 mkII Review of New Features
AkaiProVideo
Akai APC40 MKII Ableton Live Controller Review - SoundsAndGear.com
SoundsAndGear
A Really Quick Guide To Using The Akai APC40 MkII
Tony Tyson
APC-40 MK2 // STILL the Best Ableton Live Controller ?
Liam Killen
Alex Fain - 66 min Live - Deep House - Apc40 MKII
Alex Fain
Reviews
PROS
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Seamless integration with Ableton Live enhances creativity and workflow
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Portable and USB powered, convenient for mobile setups
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Versatile for live performances and studio production alike
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Compatible with third-party plugins and software
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Affordable compared to similar controllers
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Durable build quality, feels solid and reliable
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Intuitive layout with smooth faders and knobs for precise control
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Enhances live looping and DJ setups with ease
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Offers hands-on control over mixing and effects without needing a mouse
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Complements other MIDI controllers for expanded functionality
CONS
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Some users may find the pads not optimal for finger drumming
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Faders wear out with heavy use, requiring replacements
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Lacks a built-in screen for visual feedback
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Not designed with velocity-sensitive pads for dynamic performances
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Missing sequencing functions and scale mode for more advanced control
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai Professional APC40 MKII.
User experience
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Owners report issues with the hard keys becoming unresponsive unless manually adjusted, indicating potential durability concerns over extended use.
Source -
Owners report that while the APC40 MKII is highly suitable for DJ and VJ applications, the discontinuation has led to inflated second-hand market prices, sometimes exceeding $650.
Source -
Some owners integrate the APC40 MKII with a MIDI Fighter Twister for additional knob control, enhancing their setup for complex live performances.
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Users report that while the MKII's pads are suitable for clip launching, they lack velocity sensitivity, limiting their use in live rhythmic playing.
Source
Value and pricing
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The APC40 MKII's price has surged in the second-hand market due to discontinuation, with listings as high as $650, prompting some to consider custom alternatives.
Source
Use cases and applications
Comparisons
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Yaeltex custom MIDI controllers offer higher build quality than the APC40 MKII and allow for personalized configurations, albeit at a higher price point.
Source -
Some users prefer the APC40 MKII's hands-on fader control for mixing over the Push 2, citing its effectiveness in live settings despite Push's advanced studio features.
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The APC40 MKII faders, while not motorized, are compared to Behringer's BCF2000, highlighting a desire for more advanced control features.
Source
Build quality
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The internal ribbon cables in the APC40 MKII can be fragile, potentially causing issues with controls that can be resolved by reseating the cables.
Source
Features and functionality
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The APC40 MKII's unique combination of faders and buttons is ideal for VJing, offering extensive control over clips, effect transitions, and cue points in one package.
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The APC40 MKII features rectangular, multi-colored pads that reflect Ableton's clip colors, aiding in navigation beyond the 8x5 grid.
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The APC40 MKII's crossfader can become unreliable with heavy use, particularly for precise operations like live sound design, where smoother, more sensitive faders are preferred.
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The knobs have been relocated in the MKII model to a single 2x4 bank on the right side, with an additional row of 8 across the top.
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The MKII model eliminates the need for an external power adapter, streamlining setup and reducing cable clutter.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 11 Reviews and 96 Ratings
5455
So far, so far...
Making, playing live, or mixing music this guy is awesome.
So far for my purposes just having the dedicated linear faders, mute/solo, etc. is a huge improvement to my workflow. The macros are also awesome but a bit less precise than the Push 2, but still work great for most applications.
It's the closest I felt to tracking and mixing on an actual console.
Not how it sounds of course, but the intuitive nature of having hands on faders, being able to quickly solo or mute channels, used in combination with the Push 2 being able to control multiple effect parameters in real time & ditch the mouse entirely with the bevy of options that provides.
That said it's good for far more than just mixing. It's incredibly fun to create with this pairing. My first day with it it was intoxicatingly fun making music with the both of these. I hardly had to look at the screen and I never touch the mouse.
Lastly there was a question in my mind about getting something with motorized faders. So far, while that would be nice it doesn't at all feel necessary for me currently. You can quickly draw in any automation in multiple tracks as needed and move along. So I'm very happy with the purchase.
I got mine for just over $200 and I already can't imagine creating or working without it.
For its price point I expected it to feel much more flimsy and plastic but that's not the case at all. It feels like a sturdy satisfying piece of hardware.
Highly recommend the Apc40 mkii
1527
Great controller for Ableton Live 11
I have this controller - Akai APC40 MKII - and a Novation Launchpad Pro MK3, and they're great working together ! The Akai is better for live, devices and mix controls, and the Novation - also able to control devices, but becoming more difficult with pads than knobs - to play instruments. The synergy between them is great as you can play using pads on the Novation while applying effects through the Akai. I don't have any experience with the Ableton Push, but I think that having the possibility of controlling through two different devices at the same time - one hand on each - open wider possibilities when comparing with those you have with the Push, at a lower price - both together, the Akai and the Novation -
104
Surprised
I used to be a big fan of the first APC40 and I didn' think very highly of this one. I must say I was surprised when I finally got it. Much bigger than I expected, pretty solid feel in comparison to my APC KEY 25, usb powered which is very handy and very comfortable sliders, knobs and pads. These pads are good for launching clips and such but maybe not so good for finger drumming, for that you may want a controller from the MPD series. It has everything you need for Ableton live mixing, the grid can make bigger steps than the APC KEY 25 which can only move by one row or one column at a time. The top knobs can control pan, sends or user defined parameters. If you're looking for a controller for Ableton Live djing this might be the one for you! I'm really happy with this one so far.
And what do ou think about the AKAI MPD 232 is a better option to control Ableton for live sets. Pads can be used to launch clips, step secuencer included, layering pads can be used as a finger drum, faders and knobs with 3 layers and assignable... and LCD screen, and 100€ CHEAPER. ok, can not see all the clips, but bigger clips are safe for live!
What do u think ?
104
Not my favorite MPD but looks great too. Depends on what you want to do really... The APC 40 MKII is kind of limited in the sense that it only works for basic clip launching and DJ style mixing, I mean you can do other stuff but I think it was designed for that function. If you're into finger drumming then you should definitely chose an MPD over the APC 40 MKII, I've been wanting to get an MPD myself for a while now. Sorry for the late response!
143
Small enough to pack, big enough to perform with.
When i first started using Ableton I was pretty clueless as to what was out there as far as hardware. After taking a year to learn how to use Ableton Live, i purchased the APC40 mk2. Now my launches, channel faders, and DAW controls are at my fingertips and the controller is small enough to fit in most 17 inch laptop cases.
206
Workflow!
Even though this Ableton controller is great fun to use for live applications for all the obvious reasons, I'm most pleased with what it has done for my workflow in production. Being able to manipulate Ableton while recording in the way that this device allows has not only dramatically shortened the time it takes for me to arrange my work, it also makes it a much more creative and enjoyable process.
213
Best studio/DJ companion.
Best studio/DJ companion.
With Ableton, this is the best controller to trigger clips and mix your session live OR in the studio. I use this at small DJ gigs (weddings, reunions, graduations), or anywhere they need tracks/sound effects with flawless transitions.
The APC40 MkII is a fantastic alternative to decks while DJing. You might not look as cool, but you can DJ just as well on an APC-40 as you can on CDJ's for 1/10th of the price.
Great, but...
This is the cornerstone of my DJ sets, but I wish it had sequencing functions and velocity sensitive pads. I use WM's template to add a drum sequencer, but it's clunky. Feel like Akai could have easily added these functions. Still a great piece of equipment.
323
Best complement controller for Push 2 and Ableton
Lots of mappings available online ultra useful for features and a effects mapping to ableton or any other software.
177
Good tool
It's a very good tool for my livesets, too bad that a scale mode is not available ! For Step Sequencer, Will Marshall's script is perfect.
Artist usage
Add artist
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As seen in his bag at his instagram: https://instagram.com/p/6oftAGzYpS/
In this video "Studio Science: Disclosure" where the duo details their live set-up, at 2:52 Guy Lawrence points out their Akai APC40 MKII Ableton Live Controller. They use the APC 40 for "controlling Ableton."
FKJ uses the APC40 MKII to record/launch clips and control FX parameters.
DJ Shadow uses the Akai Professional APC40 MKII during his live performances, as shown in a user-uploaded photo.
In his performance at the Sydney Opera House, Chet Faker uses the Akai Professional APC40 MKII, visible at the 12:45 mark of the video.
In this picture of Odesza performing at Squamish Valley Festival an APC40 MKII can be seen on the right side.
Andy posted his (noticeably smokey) set-up to his story on Instagram, and the APC40 MKll could be seen next to his laptop.
Akai Professional APC40 MKII can be seen throughout the video in the middle of the frame.
can be seen in this post from July 23, 2022
In the video by Insomniac, "Zeds Dead - Nocturnal Wonderland Virtual Rave-A-Thon" Zed's Dead can be seen using the Akai Professional APC40 MKII Pad Controller. Around 2:10 the camera zooms in and "APC40" can be seen written on the back of the unit. Zeds Dead looks to be using this controller to run the whole live set.
Posted on Clams Casino's official Instagram page captioned, "Thanks @wearenovation x @nickhook for the launchpad Also picked up the new apc @akai_pro"
Justin Broadrick as JK Flesh. You can noticed this gear in this photo and in this video too: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuTbNqCqPbE
Album Usage
The Akai Professional APC40 MKII has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai Professional APC40 MKII, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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Community setups
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