Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller
Launchpad from Novation is a USB controller jointly designed by Ableton and Novation that places Ableton Live at your fingertips. Whether you're a DJ, performing musician or studio producer, the multi-color 64-button grid and dedicated scene launch buttons provide easy triggering and manipulation of your clips in Live.
Each button has three colour states so you can see at a glance what's loaded (orange), what's playing (green), and what's being recorded (red). Similarly, Live's interface tells you what section of the Session View the Launchpad is currently controlling. This two-way communication ensures that Launchpad and Ableton Live are always perfectly in sync.
Launchpad doesn't just launch clips. Switch to "mixer mode" and the same button grid offers a unique way to control Ableton Live's mixer. Volume, pans, sends, track arming, soloing and muting can all be controlled via the grid. Using buttons instead of dials, Launchpad lets you jump to different levels across 8 channels at once, useful for controlling multiple effects sends.
The controller is also great for sketching out beats - switch to "user mode 1" and the 64 buttons become drum pad triggers laid out for playing Ableton Live's Drum Racks. However, Launchpad has 2 user modes, and both are fully customizable. Using Live's own learn function, they let you create your own control setup, exactly the way you want it.
Launchpad is not exclusive to Ableton Live. An ideal controller for Max for Live, the customizable user modes are flexible enough to deal with even the most detailed Max for Live devices and can handle generic parameters and controls with ease. Programmers can utilize variable brightness and multi-color (11) LED states to their full advantage when designing new and innovative tools in Max for Live.
- With Ableton
-
- Designed in partnership with Ableton, Launchpad and Ableton Live integrate seamlessly - just load up Live, plug-in Launchpad and you're ready
- Bi-directional communication between Launchpad and Ableton Live ensures that, at any given time, each knows the status of the other
- With its back-lit multi-color 64 button grid, Launchpad gives instant feedback on your session view - see at a glance what's loaded, what's playing, and what's being recorded
- Launchpad's 64-button grid and dedicated scene launch buttons are ideal for launching and controlling your clips and scenes
- Innovative control over your mix, including volume, pans, sends, track arming, soloing and muting
- Launchpad lets you jump to different levels across eight channels at once
- Expand your Ableton control solution - Novation's Automap-enabled controllers work seamlessly together - a ZeRO SL MkII to control the mix, while Launchpad triggers clips
- Launchpad comes with "Ableton Live 8 Launchpad Edition", fully functional for performance and production. For existing users, Ableton Live 7 and 8 are Launchpad ready
- USB-powered with no need for an additional power supply
- Connect up to 6 Launchpads at a time - expand your grid with multiple Launchpads, or have one Launchpad dedicated to mixer mode, and the other to launching clips
- Using simple page buttons and a "Session Overview", Launchpad gives you an overview of the clips you have loaded across your entire Live set
- With large rubber grips to hold it steady, once you choose a performance position for Launchpad, that's where it stays
- Outside Ableton
-
- Automap-enabled for instant, intelligent control over VST, Audio Units, RTAS and TDM plug-ins and an increasing number of standalone samplers and step-sequencers
- Automap provides a customizable heads-up transparent display across your computer screen - ideal for seeing at a glance samples that you're about to trigger
- Automap lets you create, customize and delete button assignments directly from your computer screen using lightning-fast "click" and "tap" facilities - click a parameter and then tap a button to assign it
- Control maps are automatically placed into categories depending on type (instrument, effects, custom etc.) quick and easy browsing and selection via Launchpad
- Utilising Automap, Launchpad can operate as a standard MIDI controller, creating custom MIDI maps with 72 of its buttons transmitting either CC or MIDI note data
- Flexible trigger platform for Max MSP and REAKTOR programmers - programmers can utilise variable brightness and multi-colour LED states to their full advantage when designing new and innovative tools in Max MSP and REAKTOR
| Connection | USB 1.1 |
| Buttons |
64 (8 x 8 grid) square multi-color back-lit buttons 8 round multi-color back-lit system buttons (assignable) 8 round multi-color back-lit function buttons (not assignable) |
| Faders | No |
| Transport Controls | Assignable |
| Rotary Controls | No |
| Multiple Units | Up to 6 Launchpads can be used with Live simultaneously |
| Included Software | Ableton Live Launchpad Edition |
| Software Supported | Ableton Live, and any software that features assignable MIDI capability |
| System Requirements |
1.5GHz or faster CPU Mac OS X or Windows XP/Vista 512MB RAM, 1GB recommended |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 9.5 x 9.5 x 0.8" (240 x 240 x 20mm) |
| Weight | 1.6 lbs (0.72kg) |
| Specialties | Flexible trigger platform for Max MSP and REAKTOR programmers |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 35 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (31)
- Versatile (24)
- Consistent (17)
- Professional features (12)
- Compact (9)
Cons
Best Uses
- Pro audio / DJ / mixing (31)
- Home studio (28)
- Performances (28)
- Amateur recording (22)
- Outdoor events / games (20)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Experienced (19), Novice (12)
Most Liked Positive Review
Using Launchpad with Live and Nonome
An absolutely wonderful little controller. After using it with live, there was no doubt in my mind it was for me. Having used the APC before, and liking I might add, I got...Read complete review
An absolutely wonderful little controller. After using it with live, there was no doubt in my mind it was for me. Having used the APC before, and liking I might add, I got a launchpad do to the low amount of space left in my live set. It's the perfect size for people who are more one-man-band type deals. The lack of "real" faders and knobs didn't really matter to me either, though it might to alot of people. Also, after using it extensively with live, I fiddled with the "Nonome" -the monome emulator. The amount of fun I've had with it already is worth the [$]. Implementing it live will surely wow your audiences.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Excellent for newbs and pros alike
Product is easy to hook up and use, comes with a version of Live, it's a bit restrictive once you start getting into it, but for a beginner it's an excellent place to start...Read complete review
Product is easy to hook up and use, comes with a version of Live, it's a bit restrictive once you start getting into it, but for a beginner it's an excellent place to start.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 35 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Looks awesome in the dark
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
The launchpad is the ideal tool for performing live due to its bright lights and responsive buttons, along with the ability to trigger sequences and also act as a step sequencer. I use this with Renoise and it works great with the addition of the free renoise addon called duplex. Zero setup required, highly recommended. My only complaint is the ableton logo in the corner :P And as always b&h had best price and service.
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
- Professional Features
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
By far the best ableton controller I've ever used! I've used Akai for many years, but this controller takes the cake. Immediately out of the box it has a robust feel and solid build, way more so than I expected for the price. I started playing immediately and made some awesome beats within an hour of recieving the Launchpad. By far the best controller for the price, plus-- the LEDs are an awesome addition!
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
- Not velocity sensitive
Best Uses
- Groove Production
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
This is a super versatile piece of gear. The user modes are great and allow you to program the pads to any function in Live. I could see myself buying five more. The only thing that I thing that I think could be improved is the lack of velocity sensitivity.
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
- Professional Features
- Versatile
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
So far, I use the launchpad to mix songs together and to have clips that i made into a song. It is working out very well and i enjoy it a lot. This product is so versatile, it works with many DAWs such as Ableton Live or Traktor, it is even MORE versatile because you can use different programs for the launchpad, enabling it for many many options. I would recommend this product to anyone that wants to start to become a DJ or a music producer, this is the product for you.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
Shipped SUPER FAST! Awesome Service!!!!
Pros
- Consistent
- Excellent Sound
- Professional Features
Cons
- A little tricky
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
I use this product everyday that I can and easily lose track of time while using it. There are an infinite amount of options for what you can do with the launchpad it's insane! But I think that it should have came with the full version of ableton live instead of just the launchpad version. Overall I love this product and would rate it more stars if I could.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Professional Features
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
Just as I expected..
The Launchpad is a great for live performance with live.
This + and APC40 is a great combination.
BUY IT!
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
This is the perfect controller for any ableton producer/performer. I first bought an MPD32 thinking I would be ok with it, but it turns out you need something that works more seamlessly with ableton with that. The perfectly sized pads light up without latency for any clip. You cant ask for anything better. The Launchpad fully integrates clip launching, follow action, and a user friendly interface cross referencing the Launchpad with Ableton. No other controller i have come across can do what this friendly controller can do.
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Limited Features
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
Does what is says it does and does it well.
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Limited Features
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
Summary: Excellent for the beginner who is looking for a simple controller. It's lightweight, versatile control surface is easy to use and with a bit of practice, easy to navigate.
Setup: Excellent (Powered by the USB on your PC)
Ease of use: Very Good
Weight: Excellent
Control Surface: Good-Very Good
Versatility: Fair to Good
Functions: Fair (comes with Ableton Live LaunchPad Edition ("LE") and limits the number of effects, for example to "8" in total and the number of scenes to "8" - obviously you can get around this by paging over or down to expose more of the LE control surface to larger clip grids.
Learning Curve: Very Good - doesn't take much to learn the controller.
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
- Professional Features
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
A join effort with ableton, and a bit of practice and this is a terrific addition to anyones setup whether it be your only controller, or a partnership with multiple, this does everything basic you need. Want to be a little more advanced? It's programmable, and it's backed up by a fantastic community.
Well worth it.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Limited Functions
Best Uses
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
The Launchpad (in case you're not familiar) functions as an 8 x 8 grid of square pads specifically for Ableton Live, each displaying one of three colors, Red, Yellow or Green which correspond to your scenes and clips. Along the perimeter of the top and right sides are additional circular buttons, allowing one to navigate up/down/left/right between clips and mixer. Its well executed as Ableton shows a red highlight box around the selected content. Where the pad comes in short is the lack of physical dials or faders. While navigation is easy enough, bouncing between the mixer, pan or sends view, requires a few key presses. Its probably too much hassle for most to use them live. Plus, at only 8 possible values means 12.5% increases for fades, making for rather low resolution fade outs or ins. Its certainly doable but not ideal.
The Launchpad build quality is so-so, its light and easy to stash in a bag, but doesn't feel like it's made to survive a harsh road life. The pads aren't velocity sensitive, so those looking for a grid with 2x the pads of most pad controllers will be out of luck.
There are some very good things to be said about the Launchpad, out of the box it works without hours of setup, although it certainly can be customized. Its fairly intuitive. Its USB powered, which means one less cable to carry and there are some great mods for it, including a step sequencer if you're an Ableton from start to finish user. It also offers variable light brightness that can give a rough indication of what's happening in the mixer view, if the LED is partially lit, the FX track is off.
The biggest issue with the launchpad is that AKAI offers the AKAI APC20 at a similar price point which offers more functionality. Its not quite as versatile but its much better suited for live performance, which is probably the biggest selling point.
Had I seen the APC20 first off, I'd of bought it as it offers a fader per track, which can be toggled to be used for pans/volume/effect sends. However the APC20 isn't perfect either as its heavier and requires a power supply and has an 8 x 5 grid as opposed to 8 by 8 and can't really be used as a drum pad.
The question comes down to, are you looking for a performance controller or a perform/creative tool. If its the second, go with the Novation Launchpad, otherwise check out the AKAI APC40 and APC20.
Pros
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
I love the versatility of this midi controller - especially with MAX FOR LIVE .... ::DROOL::
Pros
- Consistent
- Professional Features
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
very unique and useful midi controller, much cheaper than any other RBG midi controller in the market! i use it with several programs. this bad boy can do a lot, even act like faders. its also built pretty sturdy. only downsides are the pads are a little under sensitive, i have to make sure i give a nice hard hit to get it to work properly, but that's not such a big deal since i'm not using it for its pressure responses. definitely worth more than than i spent, i'm even thinking of buying a second!
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
I've used the launchpad a bunch of times at parties and in my studio and it rocks. There are plenty of tutorials online about throwing customizable tweaks on the pad to make it do pretty much anything you need. This is the one and only live pad anyone would need.
Cons would simply be the limited Ableton program that comes bundled with the pad, but that's understandable.
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Professional Features
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
I use this software to control ableton.
It works perfectly and has pretty lights.
I wish that it had more colors of pretty lights.
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Professional Features
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
Great intro tool! Really easy to get setup and right into the meat of things...
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Quick Setup
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
Had everything plugged in, installed, and lighting up within about 5 minutes of opening the box. Started playing around with tutorials immediately, and had it up and running in no time.
I've got a long musical background and no prior experience with Ableton, but it was quick to set up and pretty intuitive. Within about 30 minutes of opening the box, I was already having fun.
Pros
- Consistent
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Professional Features
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
I am an amateur music producer/DJ and this product is well worth your money.
Comments about Novation Launchpad - Ableton Live Controller:
simple interface and seamless integration had me up and running in minutes.
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What's in the Box
- USB Cable
- Ableton Live 8 "Launchpad Edition"
- 1GB Loopmaster Loops
- 500MB "Mike the Drummer" Drum Samples
- One (1) Year Warranty
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