New Akai APC Live standalone music production system leaked
Images of a new Akai APC Live have surfaced, it’s not yet confirmed although there are some exciting features.
The biggest feature by far is that it’s a standalone system, inspired by the workflow and playability of Ableton Live, however not limited to use with a laptop! Think of it as an MPC Live standalone system with the hands-on performance capabilities of something like the Ableton Push 2. The new Akai APC Live features a large display which will host the MPC Live software, alongside various parameters for navigating and browsing the platform.
Above the Push-style pad layout are eight encoders, each with their own parameter display. This probably means that multiple parameters can be assigned, while the display shows you which parameter you’re currently editing. It looks like Akai have also opted to go with the new 3.5mm mini-jack standard of MIDI, alongside four CV/Gate outputs for connecting up to a modular system. The Akai APC Live features an audio input which is selectable between line and mic levels, with phantom power for condenser mics. There are four individual outputs for main and monitor outputs or sending a second signal to effects processors.
Will it play nicely with a computer-based DAW?
The new Akai APC Live features a SD Card slot and dual USB3 ports, which I presume can be used to load samples and other information into your projects. I presume the system will also sync up with Akai’s MPC Software, and hopefully other DAWs such as Ableton Live. That would make the new standalone performance system perfect for studio and live performance. The fact that it already mimics the layout and workflow of one of the most popular DAWs on the market is a huge calling card for the Akai APC Live.
At this point Akai have not confirmed or denied whether the leaked photos are real, so this is all purely speculation. That being said, I think this is the type of product that a lot of us have been waiting for, so let’s see how it pans out.
