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The Akai APC20, introduced at the 2010 Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA, retails for about $200.

Akai APC20 Features:

Description:

Akai Professional worked with Ableton to create the APC20, the second control surface created by Akai for performance with Ableton Live software. Like the APC40, adding the APC20 transforms the user’s experience from one of constructing tracks with a keyboard and mouse to composing and performing with a fully integrated hardware/software musical system.

Like the APC40, the APC20 centers on its five-by-eight Clip Launch grid. This bank of multicolor triggers not only start and stop clips playing in Live, they also show cells’ status in the software – whether a clip is loaded or not, whether it is playing or not, record-armed status and more. Clip Stop triggers, transport controls and faders round out the control surface. Users can switch the APC20’s faders between volume control, pan, sends and three different user-mapped modes. A new Note Mode enables musicians to use the Clip Launch buttons to control virtual instruments and Ableton Live’s Drum Rack.

Because Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC20 for use with Ableton Live software, the system is plug and play, although advanced Live users will appreciate that the APC20 enables them to remap every one of its controls to suit their own style.

The APC20 will be available from pro audio and musical instrument retailers in January 2010. It has a U.S. Retail Price of $299.00 and an estimated street price of $199.00

Mike Peacock2005 posted a photo:

Microkorg, Korg Kaossilator, Stylophone and Akai AX80