Akai Professional APC Key 25 - Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live

New in the APC Family

In 2009, Akai Professional, in collaboration with the creators of Ableton Live – the music production and performance application – introduced the original Ableton Performance Controller – APC40. This groundbreaking controller revolutionized the market by integrating hardware and software in an unprecedented way, becoming the main controller used by Ableton Live users worldwide. Now, after five years of experience and valuable feedback from APC users, Akai Professional introduces three new APC controllers – APC40 mkII, APC Key 25, and APC Mini.

Universal Keyboard

Designed for performing creators and composers, the APC Key 25 is the first Ableton Live controller from Akai Professional to feature a high-quality keyboard. The clip-launching section of pads in the APC Key 25 allows real-time control of the Ableton Live application, while the 25 mini keys with a synthesizer action enable sound creation, melodies, bass lines, and chord playing. The Octave Up, Octave Down, and Sustain buttons increase creative expression, offering access to a full range of sounds and piano-style sustain.

Colorful Pads

A key element of the APC Key 25 is the section of multicolored pads arranged in a 5x8 grid, used for launching clips. The pads can be used to trigger clips or build songs from scratch with 40 responsive buttons. The tricolor backlighting indicates the current status of each clip, informing you whether the clip is loaded, playing, or recording. Additionally, the Shift button and arrow buttons allow you to change the grid view.

Precise Control

The APC Key 25 features eight knobs that are always practical. The Volume, Pan, Send, and Device buttons switch the functions controlled by the knobs. You can adjust clip levels, panning, reverb levels, and other effects on the fly. Each knob can be mapped to different functions, offering greater flexibility.

Easy Integration

APC Key 25 is pre-mapped to Ableton Live functions, allowing you to start performing or working on your tracks immediately. When you connect the APC Key 25 to your computer, the hardware controls will work 1-to-1 with Ableton Live functions – no additional setup is required. Experienced APC users can quickly map the controls to different functions, tailoring the settings for performances or production styles. APC Key 25 also functions as a primary MIDI controller for various applications, including virtual instruments, plugins, and DAWs.

USB Power and Universal Drivers

The APC Key 25 is USB-powered and operates in plug-and-play mode, requiring no additional power supply or drivers. Its compact size allows musicians to use this controller alongside other equipment, including larger APC controllers.

Production Tools Included

The APC Key 25 comes with the Ableton Live Lite application, two premium virtual synthesizers, and a set of professional samples and loops, ready to use right out of the box. Ableton Live Lite is an intuitive audio/MIDI program enabling musicians to spontaneously compose, record, remix, and edit their musical ideas. Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech is a high-quality synthesizer ideal for electronic musicians, DJs, and producers. SONiVOX Twist is a virtual instrument using spectral morphing synthesis, offering solid sound with a straightforward set of controls. Toolroom Records artists have prepared a collection of trendy electronic sounds, providing a superb sample pack created exclusively for Akai Professional.

Features

• Controller for Ableton Live with a keyboard
• Seamless 1-to-1 integration with Ableton Live
• 40 pad clip-launch grid with tricolor backlighting indicating clip status
• 25 mini keys with synthesizer action
• 8 customizable knobs mapped to Ableton Live, controlling volume, sends, and other functions
• Shift button and directional arrows for grid view navigation
• Dedicated Octave Up, Octave Down, and Sustain buttons
• USB-powered, plug-and-play operation with Mac and PC
• Production suite: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist, and Toolroom Records artist packs (downloadable version)

System Requirements

• Macintosh: Intel® Mac with Mac OS X 10.5 or later
• Windows: Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8; multicore processor; 2 GB RAM; Windows-compatible sound card (ASIO driver support recommended), QuickTime support recommended
• Free USB port

Note: Original product from Polish official distribution.