For my live mixes I was going to use Ableton Live and APC40 controller, however thought there might be some other similar setup schemes which can be considered (similar controllers probably). What controller can do the same job but at a lower price? Can anyone recommend please?

APC40 is under $200 used, you're really not going to finaything that that level of control for cheaper.

There's only really the APC mini or APC25key but they are both less functional than the APC40. You'be then got the novation launchkey or impulse but again, the APC40 is better suited unless you want to play keys.

The other option is the APC20 but it's whether the $80 saved is worth it.