APC 40 Mk2 : Handy control board

all controllers are "tweakers" or "launchers-triggers" or "keyboards". This one tries to cover all.

As a Keyboard Akai APC 40 Mk2 is not good. Pads are not velocity sensitive - not nice for recording drums or instrument parts - but still you can do it at on-the-go conditions.

As a "Launcher" - I personally find it very nice. 8 channel scenes is cool. When I work at the live sport events I need a variety of samples at my fingertips - Akai APC 40 Mk2 just shines here! I created my own template based on the default one.

As a Tweaker Akai Apc 40 Mk2 offers you 8 knobs-per-selected channel + 1 knob on the top - These knobs are endless spin with a nice travel. But it is often not enough. When Dj - I use a different Template and here I need an extra "Tweaker" to expand tweaking abilities of the device (I use DJTT Twister which is an amazing tweaking device) and for the reset (quick set-to-default) feature.

Mechanically Akai APC 40 Mk2 seems to be proof enough. Not a single issue while using it for 2 years (carefully but intensevely)

Faders and knobs are reliable not flimsy. I would recommend a plastic cover to lingering the lifetime of the device.

so Pro's:

- Universality and functionality within live or studio conditions

- Great launcher (Trigger)

- Fair Tweaker

- Made quality

- light weight

- Well thought Templates available

- Keeps your eyes away from the computer screen

- Foot controller switch functionality

- USB powering

- Price for all that

Con's:

- Not for a Keyboard-ing or Drum Pad-ing

- Not as compact as you may think (not a Con for me though)

- Volume faders a bit tricky to spot on the "0" level (I use fabric tape)

- Triggered clip is indicated in green weakly pulsing (I avoid green color when colouring the steady clips and miss hard pulsing)

I would recommend it for Ableton users as a "Launcher" ("Trigger") controller to pair it with some other "tweaker" deviceand keyboard if needed for a beautifull setup !