I like the new APC40 a lot, nice that they moved the transport buttons up top so no more accidental REC presses! Ditto on the knobs finally being above the channels now.
Looks smaller than the first version. I don’t know why they stuck with just the 5 scene layout.
I also don’t know why I think performance demands at least 8 scenes…the metric system of music. As an American I should like a count that doesn’t conform to any kind of logic or consistency.
I find Akai's strategy interesting. They acquire m-audio, these devices have a Novation Mini vibe, they integrate AIR, and they come out with a $200 beat machine to compete with Roland/Korg offerings.
While the APC40 MkII does look really sexy, I think the APC Mini is the real game-changer here. Launchpads were the go-to budget controller seen everywhere, but when you can get the same thing with faders for $60 less?
I foresee the Mini getting sold like crazy. The MkII will too, because it does look impressive, but for the price point, that's a lot of functionality for $100.
The MKII does look real nice, and much more sensibly layed out, and I agree the Mini will probably sell like hotcakes.
I'd rather buy a Push than the MKII though. Not that much more expensive, it can do everything the MKII does and a hell of a lot more(although no crossfader).