Tags: Budget MIDI controller

Notes: Total Mixing Performance in a Small Package:

MIDImix is a portable compact high-performance mixer that has the unique ability to control your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) with the press of a single button, giving all musicians and producers complete, uncomplicated mastery over mixing and processing of their digital music creations on the go.

Until now, you had to build and layer your mixes at the performance site first, then transfer that mix at a later time to your DAW for post-mix processing and manipulation. What a pain. This is not the way you'd like to do it, because of the time lag between constructing the initial mix and then not being able to work on it until later in your DAW. This meant you only had a limited ability to create the exact mix you wanted in real time.

The On-Site Mixing Problem Solved:

Akai Professional's portable MIDImix solves this problem completely. With Akai Professional's famous build quality and cutting-edge engineering, it combines a high-performance mixer with 8 individual line faders and a master fader, 24 control knobs arranged 3 per channel and 1 to 1 mapping with Ableton Live (Ableton Live Lite is included). You can send all the mixer's settings to their DAW with a single press of a button, for unprecedented management and precise control over your DAW's functionality. This is great - it means that you can mix and modify/manipulate your projects concurrently in real time, giving you a much wider array of creative options as a result of the far greater creative flexibility afforded by MIDImix.

Nothing Else Like It:

Up until now, there was just no solution for musicians and producers who needed a compact, easily portable way to mix and process their projects on site. But MIDImix is the best solution for portable mixing on the go. MIDImix offers an intuitive, familiar mixer layout, solid connectivity with the most popular DAWs, and legendary Akai Professional quality. MIDImix is exactly what you need to do great mixes and professional processing on site - at the same time.

Notes: Compact USB bus-powered 64-button clip launcher for Ableton Live

The APC Mini Mk2 clip launching controller for Ableton Live is the ultimate compact solution for music creation in any environment. APC Mini delivers dynamic control of your Ableton Live sessions in a powerful yet efficient footprint, perfect for creative looping, remixing, and experimenting in the studio or on the stage.

Focus on your performance

64 brilliant RGB-backlit pads

APC Mini features 64 new RGB-backlit pads for a brilliant and precise representation of your Ableton Live session clips. Whether in the studio or on stage, the scrollable RGB-enabled pad matrix will boldly shine through. In the heart of your most creative moment, launch and activate loops, instruments, vocals, and more with confidence.

Launch an immersive music-creation experience

APC Mini allows you to trigger individual loops, samples, and melodies or entire Scenes for the most imaginative and inspirational music creation performances. Even with your largest projects, the 64 RGB-backlit pads across the customizable 8x8 grid accurately reflect clips from your Ableton Live Session and are always in reach for the ultimate creative experience.

Simple controls for powerful music making

A more powerful Ableton experience
Enjoy serious hands-on control for a powerfully creative Ableton Live experience. APC Mini features 9 faders to adjust volume, pan, insert effect sends and more for smooth, intuitive control of your sessions. Tweak reverbs, sweep filters, or write automation that will bring your music to life. Shape your sounds instantly using the assignable fader controls.

Precise intuitive control

Create your own distinct sounds with ease. With Device Mode, the APC Mini faders are automatically mapped to the eight Macro Controls of Ableton Live's selected device. Control multiple parameters with one fader to generate totally innovative sounds. Get more hands-on control with Soft Keys for easy access to Solo, Mute, Stop and Record arm functions.

Inspiring features to empower your creativity

Drum mode for Ableton Drum Rack

Drum Mode provides seamless integration with Ableton's Drum Rack isolating a 4x4 quadrant of the APC Mini to control Ableton, while still giving you the ability to assign the remaining pads. This allows for ultra-customized pad layouts and equally inventive and creative performances-not achievable with any other APC controller.

Real-time key and scale control

The Smart Scale View provides instant visual feedback while you change keys or scale types. In this mode, the musical key currently selected is also visible across the pads to ensure you know what scale you're in. The Notes Mode delivers a new performance workflow, allowing you to play pitch-perfect musical parts in Ableton without playing wrong notes

Ableton Live Lite and Air Technology software bundle

Launch with Ableton Live Lite

APC Mini includes Ableton Live Lite software. Start creating and making music with this powerful clip launching DAW packed with instruments, mixing effects, samples, and the ability to record and mix audio and MIDI. Ableton Live Lite offers all the tools to transform your musical ideas into exciting songs and performances.

Elevate your sound with AIR
Elevate your sound with the included virtual instrument pack from award-winning sound design company AIR Music Technology. In addition to Ableton Live Lite, APC Mini also includes multiple world-class plugin instruments including Hybrid 3 - a powerful polyphonic analog synth, Mini Grand - an acoustic piano instrument, and Velvet - a vintage electric piano instrument.

Drum Mode

Drum sample mode featuring seamless integration with Ableton Drum Rack.

Notes Mode

Melodic control of plugin instruments and sounds for inspirational performances.

Smart Scale Mode

Visual feedback of current Note Mode key across the 8x8 pad matrix.

Technical Specifications

Power: USB-bus-powered
Dimensions: 9.5" x 8.3" x 1.3" 240 x 210 x 32 mm (width x depth x height)
Weight: 1.79 lbs. | 0.81 kg

Notes: Still one of the best value pad controllers on the market, Akai's trusty LPD8 offers eight MPC-style pads and eight rotary controls. Simple, effective and compatible with most hardware and software.

Supplier's Notes:
Premium pad performance

Great things come in small packages and the the LPD8 delivers in a big way. The sleek MIDI pad controller features 8 velocity-sensitive RGB pads from the flagship MPC X and is up to any pad performance-based duties for the modern beat-making music producer. Produce beats, trigger one-shot samples and loops, or connect to any general MIDI-based DAW for easy hands-on controlling and creation.

Legendary pad performance

LPD8 features the same pads from the top-of-the-line MPC X standalone hardware. The sturdy yet super responsive pads are the standard for any music maker looking for dynamic performance without compromising creativity.

Assignable knob controls

LPD8 features 8 assignable rotary knobs for precise control of parameters and values in your DAW. Adjust reverb or delay wetness, dial in parametric eq, trim loops and samples, and so much more with the accuracy you need for your music creation workflow.

Sleek compact design

LPD8 fits in wherever you need it. Sit it on your desk, neatly against your laptop computer for a streamlined process, or pack it into your producer bag with your headphones and accessories ensuring you're always ready to create anywhere.

MPC plugin instruments

Innovative sampling and efficient sequencing are only a part of the iconic MPC experience. MPC Beats also features a great selection of ground-breaking MPC plugin instruments. Discover Tubesynth, Bassline, and Electric plugin instruments for a wide range of synth, monophonic leads and basses, as well as pads, electric keyboard sounds, and much more for rich musical productions and arrangements.

Insert effects

MPC Beats includes a premium collection of world-class mixing and mastering plugins. Powerful insert effects like Half Speed, Mother Ducker, and AIR Talk Box add instant vibe and character to your tracks to quickly achieve modern sound and feel. Process audio, dial-up creative effects, and finalize your tracks to commercially ready songs for sharing anywhere.

Key specs

Controls:

(8) velocity-sensitive, RGB-lit pads
(8) 270- knobs
(4) UI buttons

Programs: 4 stored programs, configurable via free downloadable editor software
Connections: (1) USB port
Power: Via USB
Dimensions (width x depth x height): 12.1" x 3.2" x 1.3" / 306 x 81 x 34 mm
Weight: 0.86 lbs./0.39 kg

Notes: APC Key 25 Mk2

The new APC Key 25 Mk2 is a versatile and compact MIDI keyboard controller that seamlessly delivers the power to perform and create anywhere, for the perfect combination of clip launching and composing in Ableton Live. Bring your original melodies, chord structures and layered harmonic ideas to life with APC Key 25.
Focus on your performance

40 brilliant RGB-backlit pads

APC Key 25 Mk2 features 40 new RGB-backlit pads for a brilliant and precise representation of your Ableton Live session clips. Whether in the studio or on stage, the scrollable RGB-enabled pad matrix will boldly shine through. In the heart of your most creative moment, launch and activate loops, instruments, vocals, and more with confidence.

Launch an immersive music-creation experience

APC Key 25 allows you to trigger individual loops, samples, and melodies or entire Scenes for the most imaginative and inspirational music creation performances. 40 RGB-backlit pads on a customizable 5x8 grid accurately reflect clips from your Ableton Live Session and are always in reach for the ultimate navigational experience, even with large sessions.

The keys to your creativity

Your melodic performance

The APC Key 25 authentically brings out your melodic ideas. Dive into Ableton's powerful instruments and express your music on your own terms. Create your own bass lines with AIR Technology's Hybrid 3, and layer dynamic piano sounds with the Mini Grand Virtual Instrument. Combined with Ableton's Scene and Clip launching workflow, APC Key 25 allows you to add original performances to your tracks.

Gen 2 keybed - performance and feel

APC Key 25 features 25 keys with the Gen 2 Dynamic Keybed for melodic and harmonic music creation. Play your own chords, arpeggios, solos, and soundscapes with the incredibly versatile keys. Use the Octave Up/Down buttons for expanded note range. The dedicated Sustain button adds space and dimension to your playing, ensuring the APC Key 25 is ready for any musical moment.

Simple controls for powerful music making

A more powerful Ableton experience

Enjoy serious hands-on control for a powerfully creative Ableton Live experience. APC Key 25 features 8 endless 360-knobs to adjust volume, pan, insert effect sends and more for smooth, intuitive control of your sessions. Tweak reverbs, sweep filters, or write automation that will bring your music to life. Shape your sounds instantly using the assignable endless 360-knob controls.

Precise intuitive control

Create your own distinct sounds with ease. With Device Mode, the APC Key 25 knobs are automatically mapped to the eight Macro Controls of Ableton Live's selected device. Control multiple parameters with one knob to generate totally innovative sounds. Get more hands-on control with Soft Keys for easy access to Solo, Mute, Stop and Record arm functions.

Ableton Live Lite and AIR technology software bundle

Launch with Ableton Live Lite

APC Key 25 includes Ableton Live Lite software. Start creating and making music with this powerful clip launching DAW packed with instruments, mixing effects, samples, and the ability to record and mix audio and MIDI. Ableton Live Lite offers all the tools to transform your musical ideas into exciting songs and performances.

Elevate your sound with AIR

Elevate your sound with the included virtual instrument pack from award-winning sound design company AIR Music Technology. In addition to Ableton Live Lite, APC Key 25 also includes multiple world-class plugin instruments including Hybrid 3 - a powerful polyphonic analogue synth, Mini Grand - an acoustic piano instrument, and Velvet - a vintage electric piano instrument.

APC KEY 25 MK2 Technical Specifications

Note Keys: 25 velocity-sensitive keys; 10-octave range with octaveup/down buttons
Clip Buttons: 40 RGB backlit clip-launch buttons in 8x5 matrix Knobs 8 360O knobswith 4 modes
Inputs / Outputs: 1 USB port
Power: USB-bus-powered
Dimensions: 12.4" x 7.6" x 1.9" 315 x 193 x 47 mm (width x depth x height)
Weight: 2.1 lbs. 0.9 kg

Notes: From subtle adjustments to expressive performances, this versatile combination of control elements definitely won't disappoint you.

Includes metal shaft faders with medium resistance, smooth-turning knobs and sturdy buttons. Control your most used parameters, like expression, modulation and volume with the PBF4 Grid.

Equipped with customisable multi-coloured LED lights to enable labelling in dark environments. Facilitate differentiating each potmeter by changing the colour of each indicator LED, adjusting brightness levels individually or adding pulsing animations. All configurable in the Grid Editor.

Thanks to its compact and lightweight structure, the PBF4 is a fully ergonomic parameter controller with classical control elements in a slim modular design. Four banks, 4x possible configuration mappings switchable on the fly.

It is recommended that, Grid is connected directly to the computer with the supplied Intech Studio USB-C cable. Some USB hubs may not work with Grid, due to issues with how the various class compliant communication methods establish connection through a hub with the host computer.

Most digital audio workstations can identify Grid as a MIDI controller and appear as a MIDI mappable device. When multiple modules are interconnected, Grid is identified as a single control surface. If the interconnected controllers are plugged in separately into the same Host, they appear as Grid #1, Grid #2 MIDI devices and so forth.

By default, through the Host's MIDI learn functionality, all of the control elements can be mapped. Grid's default firmware uses a unique dynamic assignment, so a 10 module Grid control surface will have unique Channel, Command and CC/Note assignments on each control element.

Grid controllers are shipped with firmware default configuration. To modify the configurations of the controllers, the Grid Editor cross-platform application can be used. Through the Grid Editor, suggested manufacturer profiles and community profiles are also available. Grid has an event driven architecture, where every interaction with the controller triggers an event. The triggered event runs the configured actions, like setting LED colours and intensity.

Events on Grid available for configuration:
Init - when a page is initialized
Potmeter - fader or potentiometer change event
Encoder - rotation of endless encoders
Button - switch button or encoder interaction
Utility - side button
Midi rx - MIDI processing incoming to Grid
Timer - delayed message triggers

Grids are created to suit distinguished workflows. Whether it comes to controlling outboard hardware gear like synthesizers, guitar pedals, and effect boxes, or inboard software such as DAWs, Lightning, and VSTs, a Grid controller is an ideal choice.

Get started with Grid in an instant: just plug in, snap together and play. There is no need for a brain module or any additional software components.

Grid controllers are built with quality control elements. After numerous iterations the potentiometers have been carefully chosen to allow a firm grip and a stable control experience enabled by special shaft bushings.

The modules are made to withstand everyday studio use as well as the intense performances during tours. For connecting several Grids together, a flat surface or the use of our module stands is recommended.

Tech specs

Weight: ~ 175 grams (~ 0,38 lb)
Size: 106 mm x 106 mm (4.19 x 4.19 inches) Eurorack-sized modules
4 audio-grade linear metal shaft faders with 30mm travel
4 conductive, 300- single-turn plastic potentiometers with medium-hard resistance
4 tactile buttons with 1.27i0.49 N operating force
Customizable multi-coloured LED lights for easy labelling in dark environments

Materials

Black aluminium front panel with a metallic, rugged finish
Metal shaft faders equipped with dust cover
Plastic black potentiometers
White tactile plastic buttons
Injection moulded plastic base
Golden spring-loaded connector pins
Strong N52 neodymium magnets
Silicone feet on the back for extra stability

Compatibility

Class compliant MIDI device with simple PnP (Plug and Play) experience
USB HID keyboard class
Compatible with Mac OS (intel & arm), Windows, Linux and mobile platforms with support provided

Powering options

Single USB cable to power up to 8 modules
High speed USB 2.0
Draws ~250mA

Notes: Get your hands on TouchMe, the musical instrument that turns skin, water, or flowers into sound.

Play with friends or alone. As the area of touch and intensity changes, the sound changes too.

Ready to get started? Connect to a computer, tablet or smartphone and play with our online synth or your favourite music software/hardware.
With no noticeable latency, TouchMe reacts just as any other MIDI controller.

Please be aware that as each TouchMe device is partially hand-made, there may be some cosmetic scratches. Rest assured, this will not affect the performance of your device.

WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Play on skin, water or flowers
- Change the sound using the intensity of touch
- Play alone or with a friend
- No musical skill needed

HOW TO USE
- Connect TouchMe to a PC, phone or tablet
- Use Google Chrome to open synth.playtronica.com and choose any synth you like
- Touch both ends of TouchMe to play
- If you’re with a friend, then each of you should touch one end of TouchMe, and play on each other skin

Additional info:
- TouchMe is not waterproof
- TouchMe is absolutely safe, but we don’t recommend using it for people with pacemakers (just in case)

KIT INCLUDES
- TouchMe MIDI controller, USB cable, 2 alligator clips, a storage envelope

Notes: Wacky fun on tap. Any objects which conduct electricity can become a controller with this unique device. Fruit and veg become a keyboard, any sound becomes an instrument with the free Koala app.

Supplier's Notes:
Use the contents of your fruit bowl as a piano keyboard with Playtron!

Connect up to 16 objects with alligator clips, pick a different sound for each, and have fun!

Ready to get started! You need a computer, tablet, or smartphone, as well as a Playtron device and up to 16 objects that can conduct electricity.

Just open any online synth, and you're ready to play! No noticeable latency, Playtron reacts just as any other midi controller.

What can you do
- Play on fruits and veggies as on a piano keyboard
- Play alone or with a friend
- No musical skill needed

How to use
- Connect Playtron to a PC, phone or tablet
- Use Google Chrome to open synth.playtronica.com and choose any synth you like
- Connect one end of the alligator clip to Playtron and the other to object (do this with up to 16 objects)
- Touch the ground connection (sharp gold corner) and start playing on objects

Additional info:
- Playtron is not waterproof
- Playtron is absolutely safe, but we don't recommend using it for people with pacemakers (just in case)
- Playtron can be used only with conductive objects.

Kit includes
- Playtron MIDI controller, USB cable, 18 alligator clips, a storage envelope

Notes: A little bit of everything with this compact all-rounder. 25 mini keys, four rotary controls, four faders, touch strips and transport controls. Built-in arpeggiator helps you generate ideas quickly.

Supplier's Notes:
USB MIDI controller with OLED display, 25 buttons, 8 pads, 4 controls and faders each, for musicians, producers and DJs.

USB MIDI keyboard for creative music production with PC and Mac
Also suitable for enlarging DJ sets
Super portable format fits laptop bags
Works with virtually any audio software
25 velocity-sensitive mini keyboard keys, with 3 velocity curves and one constant velocity
8 backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads can send note, MIDI CC or program change
4 freely assignable rotary controls
4 freely assignable faders
2 touch sensors of dynamic pitch bend and modulation touch strips
Standard sustain pedal jack, compatible with switch pedals
Fixed Chord mode
1 Value dial (Enter button: push to enter)
Play and record transport control buttons
Powerful and creative Arpeggiator for generating ideas quickly
Custom modes for user-defined mappings of knobs, sliders and pads
Connect to your hardware with a standard 3.5mm TRS MIDI Out jack
Compatible with iOS by using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
Ableton Live integration - Launch clips and scenes, play instruments and Drum Racks, capture MIDI, and more
Integration with other DAWs (Apple Logic Pro X, Propellerhead's Reason etc.)
OLED display
Compatible with Win XP, Win Vista, Win 7, Win 10, OS X 10,3 or better
Package contents

1 x controller, 1 x user manual, 1 x uSB cable, 1 x adapter cable

Technical Specifications

Power supply: 5 V DC 100 mA
Power connection: Via USB, type B
Display type: OLED display
USB port: USB 2.0, Typ B
Dimensions: Length: 19,4 cm
Width: 31,8 cm
Height: 4,8 cm
Weight: 800 g
Operating system: Win XP, Win Vista, Win 7, Win 10, OS X 10,3 or better