The APC mini from Akai Professional is a portable, all-in-one hardware controller designed to work with Ableton software in a one-to-one integration. Engineered specifically for the mobile musician and the desktop producer, the controller concentrates the essential features of the company's flagship Ableton controller, the APC40 mkII, into a compact design that fits into a backpack.

The unit features an expanded 8 x 8 multicolor clip-launching grid that's built for hands-on exploration. Launch clips, and create or perform songs from the ground up using sixty-four responsive triggers. Thanks to the tricolor backlit visual feedback, you can determine the exact status of a clip—loaded, playing, or recording—without taking your eyes off of the controller. Additionally, a shift button and directional arrows enlarge the scope of the grid.

Nine channel faders allow for real-time mixing. Change channel-fader functionality with dedicated buttons for volume, pan, sends, and device control. Fade clips in and out of the mix, pan instruments, raise the level of reverb or other effects to create fluid transitions, open and close filters for sweeps, and more. Each fader is completely assignable for flexible mixing and mapping options.

APC mini comes premapped to Live for an instant performance and production setup with no additional configuration required. All of APC mini's controls can be reassigned on the fly for creating customized setups that can change for different performance or production styles. The unit is powered over USB and is plug and play. Its smaller footprint allows for placing it alongside effects controllers and other devices. Multiple APC minis can be run in parallel for more versatility.

A software music production suite (downloadable) includes Ableton Live, along with a virtual synthesizer, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech. Toolroom Records artist launch packs feature the sounds of electronic music with a premium collection of sample packs.