DJ Equipment Reviews

 

Novation Launchpad DJ Product Review

The Launchpad is compact, user friendly & affordable!

Wouldn’t it be awesome if Ableton teamed with Novation Music and created the perfect MIDI controller that’s ideal for both pro working DJs and musicians? If you’ve been dreaming of a solid collaboration such as this, well dream no more. In case you don’t know (but I bet you all do by now) Ableton co-developed a USB bus powered controller with Novation and called it the Novation Launchpad. While it sounds good, that doesn’t necessarily mean it is good. But, at least we know one thing’s for sure: they slapped on a pretty affordable price, as it’s streeting at just $199.

Novation Launchpad

So what is this controller all about? The Launchpad is a compact, very portable controller with a weight of 717 g. I’m sure mobile DJs are going to love that feature. Plus, it’s USB powered, so everyone knows set-up will be a breeze. Plug it in. And then play. Simple. Novation’s Launchpad is great for both live and studio performances, and is sporting a catchy multi-color 64 button grid, a feature that does an amazing job raising the desirability level. But keep in mind, the grid may look nice, but most importantly, it was designed so working DJs can launch and control their clips/scenes.

In the features department, the Launchpad also has not one, but two,  fully programmable User modes. It also offers control modes for the Session View and Ableton Live’s mixer (working DJs will now have a new way to control their mixer), but I’ll make this easy and write out the list of key features on Novation’s Launchpad.

Launchpad features:

• Launch clips and scenes
• Max for Live control
• Session overview
• Sketch out beats
• Control over your mix (volume, sends, track arming, etc)

The Automap enabled Launchpad offers an array of intelligent features to keep every musician and working DJ happy. It also offers security in the form of rubber feet, which will keep it securely in its place, no matter what surface you put it on. Now, while visual overviews may not encourage many to go out and buy, they’re fun to watch. Here’s a first look clip at Ableton/Novation’s Launchpad.

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