AKAI Professional APC64

Akai APC64 – Next‑Gen 8×8 RGB Clip‑Launch Controller & Standalone Sequencer

The APC64 combines a professional 8×8 RGB velocity‑sensitive pad grid with polyphonic aftertouch and eight touch strips into one cutting‑edge Ableton Live controller. It also doubles as an 8‑track, 32‑step standalone sequencer with CV/Gate and MIDI I/O, delivering pro-grade performance and studio versatility.

Key Features

• 64 RGB velocity‑sensitive pads with polyphonic aftertouch: Precision clip launching, note performance, and chord playing in Ableton
• 8 assignable touch strips: Continuous faders for device control, volume, pan, sends, or automation
• Standalone 8‑track, 32‑step sequencer: Create beats and melodies with internal sequencing, pattern probability, and mutate options
• 8 CV/Gate outputs + 3 MIDI TRS ports: Integrate modular synths, drum machines, and external gear without a computer
• Built-in color OLED display & encoder: Visual feedback for parameters, track navigation, tempo, and scene management
• Transport, mute/solo, scene controls: Tactile workflow in both Live and standalone modes

Customer Benefits

The APC64 offers deep, expressive control whether you’re performing live or working standalone. Its touch strips bring smooth automation, while CV/Gate outputs expand your studio setup. Effortlessly navigate Ableton or go completely standalone—this unit adapts to your workflow.

Quick Specs

• Pads: 64 RGB pad grid—velocity-sensitive with polyphonic aftertouch
• Touch Strips: 8 assignable capacitive strips with LED feedback
• Sequencer: 8 tracks, 32 steps, probability & mutate functions
• CV/Gate: 8 outputs via 3.5 mm TRS
• MIDI I/O: 1 input, 2 outputs via TRS jacks
• USB: USB‑C for power and Ableton integration
• Display: Color OLED with push encoder
• Transport & Controls: Play/Stop/Record, 8 mute/solo, navigation arrows
• Dimensions: 37.1 × 27.2 × 3.45 cm
• Weight: ≈ 1.6 kg

What’s in the Box

• Akai APC64 controller
• USB‑C to USB‑C cable
• USB‑C to USB‑A adapter cable
• 3 × TRS-to-5-pin MIDI adapters
• Software download card (Ableton Live Lite + plugins)
• Quick-start guide

Use Cases / Ideal For

Perfect for Ableton Live performers, electronic producers, and modular synthesists seeking hands-on control, expressive sequencing, and deep hardware integration—all in one unit.

Compatibility

Fully integrated with Ableton Live (plug-and-play). Works standalone for DAW-free sequencing via USB power and CV/MIDI outputs. Compatible with Windows and macOS; class-compliant on USB.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Dual-use as Ableton controller and standalone sequencer
• Polyphonic pad aftertouch and expressive touch strips
• Extensive I/O including CV/Gate for modular gear

⚠️ Cons:

• Pads are a bit smaller and less responsive than some competitors
• Standalone functionality adds complexity—may overwhelm users seeking simpler grid control

The Akai APC64 is a transformative tool for producers and performers, offering progressive clip launching, expressive sequencing, and hardware connectivity in one sleek package.