Description
The Akai APC Key 25 is a MIDI controller that combines the functionality of a keyboard with that of a clip launch controller. The device is designed to work seamlessly with Ableton Live, allowing users to create, mix and perform music with ease.
The first thing that stands out about the APC Key 25 is its compact size and portability. With its slim design and lightweight frame, this device can easily be taken to gigs, public spaces, and recording studios. The controller measures less than 12 inches across and weighs only 1.6 pounds, making it a breeze to carry around.
Despite its small size, the Akai APC Key 25 packs a punch when it comes to functionality. The controller features 25 keys that are velocity-sensitive and offer aftertouch, as well as a bank of eight velocity-sensitive pads that can be used to launch clips, create beats, and trigger samples.
There are also eight rotary encoders that allow you to adjust parameters in real-time. These controls can be assigned to a variety of functions such as pan, volume, and synth parameters. Additionally, there are dedicated buttons for shifting the octaves and controlling sustain.
The Akai APC Key 25 is designed to work seamlessly with Ableton Live, one of the most popular digital audio workstations used by musicians and producers. The device comes with Ableton Live Lite, a scaled-down version of the software that provides everything you need to create and produce music.
One of the standout features of the APC Key 25 is its integration with Ableton Live’s clip launching system. The eight pads on the controller can be used to launch clips, and their colors match those of the clips in Ableton Live’s session view. This makes it easy to see what clips are playing and provides visual feedback on which ones are queued up.
Overall, the Akai APC Key 25 is an excellent MIDI controller that is perfect for musicians and producers who are looking for a compact and versatile device that can perform a variety of functions. It offers a range of features and integrates seamlessly with Ableton Live, making it a great choice for anyone looking to create, perform or produce music.
Akai APC Key 25 properties
| Product name | APC Key 25 |
| Brand | Akai |
| Type | Keyboard Instruments |
| Keyboard Instrument | MIDI Keyboard |
| Pads | Yes |
| Rotary Controls | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
Serus –
A solid product, I am very satisfied with the product itself, and as a key and a DAWA controller. ..maybe a bit power-hungry for a computer, but ok .. but integration with one studio and probably other niche Dawami – a road through the torment, fortunately one tutorial on YouTube shows it well, and in the end everything flashes, but there were moments that I wanted to send back with for this reason, because miracles were happening in DAWA .. and from Arturia herself, you will not find out about this topic. Soft for Midi editing – known for basic matters, not necessary, but unintuitive, very weak
Avery Foley –
Akai APC Key 25 seems like a decent product, but its integration with DAW can be quite troublesome and frustrating. While the controller itself works well enough, the software support leaves much to be desired. The tutorial on YouTube may help ease some of these issues, but it still highlights how difficult it can be for users to get up and running smoothly.
Furthermore, Arturia’s lack of transparency regarding known issues only adds to the sense of helplessness experienced by consumers who invest in this product. The softwares for MIDI editing are also not user-friendly, which further compounds the problem. Overall, APC Key 25 might be a decent choice if you’re willing to put up with some frustration and are comfortable troubleshooting on your own or relying on third-party resources. However, for those seeking a seamless and hassle-free experience, this product may not be the best option.