So locally there are quite a few affordable, second-hand Korg KP3 Kaoss Pads - there are practically zero KP3+ versions on the used market. Realistically, how much of a difference between the two would I notice if I were planning on using it as an external effect in Ableton, possibly a MIDI controller from time to time?
Barely any difference - some “updated effects” - check the korg forums and you’ll see plenty grumbling about the uninspiring “updated” KP3+
that’s good to know 
thanks for bringing this up npfsr - i’ve been looking for a second hand KP3+ for a while but haven’t found many, i guess i’ll go back and look for the KP3 
i wanted to get a better understanding of how much of a difference there was between the KP3+ and KP3 but seems like not much, good
There are probably no used KP3+'s on the market because everyone compared it to the original KP3 when it was released, and said “get the fuck outta here with that ish”. 
i was expecting a bit more from the KP3+ but if it really is just wee changes they’ve made, then…