Miniature module, true APC spirit

Bringing full Ableton Live control to a small-size performance powerhouse, many production professionals are praising Akai's APC Mini Mk2. Like its predecessor, an 8-inch x 8-inch matrix takes up most of the control surface, with each of its 64 RGB-backlit buttons vividly representing your active screen session. Nine multifunctional sliders adorn the bottom quadrant, fully assignable for pan, mix, FX functions and more. Scene launch buttons are found on the right side, while navigation and utility functions can be managed on the bottom row. Flexible playback modes are accompanied by the included Ableton Live Lite software, as well as numerous plug-ins from the renowned AIR Music Technology.

Performance-driven workflow

With the APC Mini Mk2, the main grid's increased knob sizes not only provide greater visual feedback, but increase the performance headroom to accommodate a variety of groovebox-adjacent methods. By redesigning the surrounding buttons to be polygonal in shape and aligning their labels to be on axis, visual clutter is drastically reduced, allowing you to focus on what matters. Each slider is individually assignable, with a satisfying tactility that feels chunky yet balanced, letting you dial in your parameters with ease.

accommodation functionality

Programmable keys and dedicated scroll functions allow seamless navigation through menus, modes and sounds, all without leaving the APC Mini Mk2. Musicians of all persuasions will appreciate the APC Mini's playback options. Drum Mode was designed to work specifically alongside Ableton Live's Drum Rack, allowing you to combine the beat-smith approach of a classic 4x4 quadrant, leaving the remaining pads assignable to any other function, sample or instrument in your session. With Smart Scale View, real-time visual feedback is displayed as you navigate keys and scales. Notes Mode offers a new approach to performance, offering musical parts synchronized with keys that are played on the pads, ensuring you never lose tune.

Inspired, straight out of the box

To take full advantage of the APC Mini Mk2's performance potential, the included Mac and PC compatible software includes Ableton Live Lite, plus several plug-ins from acclaimed sound designers AIR Music Technology. His award-winning prowess is explored on iconic polyphonic synths with the Hybrid 3; lush acoustic pianos via Mini Grand; and scorching vintage electric wrenches courtesy of Velvet.

Characteristics

• The 64-button matrix lets you launch and manage clips in realtime for modular presentations;
• RGB backlighting provides reliable visuals that better represent your screen session;
• The increased size of the Mk2 button increases the opportunity for variations in playstyles;
• Right-side softkeys let you launch scenes, while dedicated shift functions expand the scope of DAW management;
• Navigation keys on the bottom row allow for flexible placement of the grid in your session, all without leaving the controller's surface;
• 9 assignable faders feature satisfying tactility with unlimited customization;;
• The redesigned UI features greater geometric balance to reduce visual clutter and distraction;
• Drum, note, and smart scale play modes offer versatile and inspiring options for musicians and producers of any style
• Included software includes Ableton Live Lite and plug-ins from award-winning AIR Music Technology (Mac/PC).

Specifications

• Type: Ableton Live Controller;
• Pads: 64;
• Faders: 9;
• USB: 1 x Type B;
• Programs: Ableton Live Lite, AIR Music Tech;
• Power Source: USB bus powered;
• Dimensions: 24.1 x 21.1 x 3.3cm
• Weight: 0.81kg.