I really hate it when companies put arbitrary restrictions on their cheaper devices. There is no reason why the smaller one couldn't have 8 custom modes instead of 4 for example. Apart from that they both look like decent controllers.
I just wish for the X to have a sequencer. I got the X because I thought installing the 95 would be good for me. It is good but I did not like that it changed the other functions.
this modes need basically no space at all, this should have 1000 or more easily, and all devices should have the same functions except what more buttons offer
Thank you for the extensive review I really enjoy your videos and get alot of value. There was update for Launchpad X: - Now you can have 8 custom modes each can be set to any channel from the device itself by holding down any custom button on the right side - You can long press any button on the mixer for temporary access - Double press Session to a move around in the grid in 8 steps.
Chord mode is so dang cool. It’s so common for controllers to have a chord mode that’s just a running list of chords in boring root positions. Super cool that you can program your own that easily
If someone is buying the Pro MK3 for Ableton, realize there are some serious limitations: 1. No Ableton sequencer, so you have to use Novation's sequencer and then "print" to Ableton afterwards. That's a workflow killer. The Launchpad 95 script (and Ableton Push/2 of course) gets it right. Also, all the Ableton buttons on the left and bottom disapppear when you are in sequencer mode - another workflow killer. 2. In Custom mode, all the Ableton controls on the left and bottom buttons disappear - workflow killer. 3. $350 puts you close to Push 2 territory ($500 used) - and the Push 2 is so much better that there is no contest, especially with the screen. 4. No encoders. For using a DAW, eight encoders minimum are so necessary. Using pads to control a device, for example, is cumbersome and I doubt anyone really uses them for that.
i think you're right. i have push 2 and launchpad pro mk1 (was there ever a mk2?). for me the advantage of launchpad is that it's portable and more durable - and also I actually find it more ergonomic if used with a laptop. however, i dont see any real reason to get the mk3 as the ableton integration doesnt seem to have improved. like you said, without launchpad95, it's actually worse. one feature i miss on launchpad that you get with push is that your scales are remembered per instrument and session. on launchpad, you have to always know and set the scale you used in whatever song you worked on, which is a little annoying. not having the drum programming features of push/push 2 is definitely a loss for launchpads - even launchpad 95, while great, doesnt get it 100%. is it that these features are too complex to program? or is it licensing issues with ableton, maybe only allowed for push?
@@KoneKone I would love to know the answer for your questions since I'm thinking about buying an Ableton controller and the launchpad pro mk3 is pretty much on my max price.. I would love to have an ableton push but it is like double the price
@@carloseberl6949 the history of midi controllers is full of unfinished ideas and hardware that never met its full potential, and we are still caught up in new gear coming out all the time. best to first figure out your imminent needs and then find a controller that is comfortable, practical, and helps you meet those needs. try in person if possible.
Your tutorial is a pretty nice explaining about what I can look forward to during the shipping (and during usage)... So glad I bought the pro mk3... Can't wait to freak out on this machine!
I support you and a couple of other content creators through Patreon. I watch many of these review / overview videos for a variety of products. Nonetheless, when i want a thorough, comprehensive, and well-presented overview of a device, there is none better. Thanks for your contributions.
I love the X pads, but even the Push 1 is so much easier to use with its display, compared to all the modes etc you have to remember on both the X and Pro.
Thanks for your review loopop. Please Novation add an alftertouch function for the widget CC button which allow to modulate the value of a CC with the pressure on a pad.
...once again approved, without exception you manage to showcase the most comprehensive and insightful product breakdowns - or better put, video manuals - one can only wish for. period
I have had the launch pad X for a couple of months now, and I really love it , BUT if I had to go back and do it again I would’ve spent the extra $150 on the pro, no doubt. The quantize, tap tempo, metronome on/off, duplicate/delete clips, and ability to select clips without playing them is, (only one of those functions is, in my opinion, well worth the extra $150. I’m trying to sell my LPX now for $140 , and take the $60 loss and the education of basic launchpad functionality , to get those features. Hope this may help someone in their decision. PS - **CHORD MODE AND STEP SEQUENCER**!!! One feature that keeps me going back to sketch tracks on Maschine Mikro MK3
Well if you have a Novation keyboard you can do all that and just get a LaunchPad X for optimal control. Though a Launchpad Pro is required if you don't have a Novation Keyboard
Was switching to the pro the right decision? I was thinking about buying an X soon. The extra features do seem useful, though, but I'm not sure if it's worth the extra price. My desk can already barely fit my old launchpad mk2 on it along with my keyboard, so the pro would take even more space, so I'm leaning towards the X.
so incredibly well communicated, researched and presented...........I love how quick, yet detailed and articulate your presentation is.....Very informative and helpful - one of the few out there
Hands down the best reviews of gear on YT. Thanks so much for taking the time. Question.. As a new Ableton Live Suite user getting into production on a budget, who's not used any touch controllers and wants to test the waters, would you recommend going with a used Push 2, new LP Pro MK3 or get the LPX? Don't want throw away gear but don't want to get in over my head either. Currently finding using keyboard and mouse uninspiring to make music, feel like I need more hands on controls to tap/turn/press. I will say that "Chord" mode is very appealing as someone without piano/music theory background.
Idk if this reply is too late but, I'm saving up for a Push 2 and bought an LPX that I can use in the meantime and use when I'm traveling since it's quite portable. And so far, for my production, it's been great. I make a lot of boombap JDilla/Madlib/9thWonder type stuff so I mostly use it in conjunction with the simpler(or serato sample) + it has been quite good for finger drumming as well. So for those purposes, sure a Push 2 has a lot more to offer, but the LPX definitely gets the job done.
You could get a used push 1 for the same price as this pro. Maybe a comparison of those 2 might be worth a look. I like the launchpad I’ve had many but if you are solely going to use live I think push might be a better option. Get a mini or x for gigging.
Getting into midi/launchpad is a lot to take in for a person like me who is just getting into it., but that being said., you're tutorial helped me a lot though i ended up wathcing it multiple times and breaking it bit by bit.. thank you for this
Like always, very informative and in depth. After watching I bought a launchpad pro mk3. Then came back to this Video to learn how to use it. Much better than novations tutorials.
Excellent video and info...to me it seems very complicated and just to much to try to remember, think I'd spend to much time trying to remember what does what and having to refer to instruction manual just to get a sequence set up from my hardware synths.. Seems an over complicated way of sequencing. Not that it's not a good product, it's just not for me that's all.
What a superb video. One of the first times i really watched a complete video like this. Already have the X, the mk3 is on its way! Thanks for saving me from reading the manual:)
LPPmk3 is a banger, but it needs some upgrades - off the grid recording - recording chords from chord mode in the internal sequencer - why only a 4track Sequencer?? The SLmk3 have 8tracks too, so common!! Please!
I wish Novation would make a grid controller version of the SL MkIII. Doubling the grid to 16x8 similar to the Deluge or Linnstrument would be great too, although I don't have room for that, heh.
Launchpad Pro mk3 is a rather frustrating device. You can play chord progressions with single buttons, but you can't use that feature in the sequencer. Every key in a chord is struck at the same time because there is no strum effect. That's fine for electronic music, but not for any other genre playing traditional instruments like piano or el. piano instruments. Yes, I can play chords in non-quantized mode, but why would I torture myself doing that on the grid instead of a midi keyboard. Any cheap midi keyboard is going to be much better experience than any grid controller for that matter. CC assignment is more of a gimmick than a feature. It'll never be a substitute for knobs. It may be useful for some rough sketches and nothing more. I would rather have step based parameter control. Something like parameter lock, and then the sequencer in note mode modulating the locked parameter. Note repeat!? Is it that hard to implement the note repeat function? Ableton integration is not impressive by any means.
I'm starting to find myself more and more on your channel... and also wanting to buy stuff. But thanks man, really love the structured video's, keep them up :)
X is a nice size but no chord mode is a deal-breaker, maybe next time. Even a basic chord mode (and scale mode) has transformed my music creation. Far faster to find what sounds right or what is in my head, and create fuller better sounding music. Will have to stick with my 25 mini keyboard for now for travel, but would like a mini groove box one day as they look more fun.
I was all over the Launchpad X... as I really don't 80% of the other buttons around the edge, or the sequencer.. then there it was.. no chord mode in the X... so pro it is then.. xD
Thanks for a great video. I'm a beginner and this really explains a lot, too much actually, but the beauty of RUclips is I can keep coming back to it as I learn. I bought the X but I can see buying the pro once I get more proficient. BTW, I hear an accent in your voice that reminds me of Carl Sagan. Where do you hail from?
Re: the step-sequencer. What I found to be annoying is, there's no way to disable the sequencer playback when it's synced to Ableton. So, if you Print To Clip, you get that clip playing in Ableton, and also from the LP Pro MK3. The only way to avoid this is to change the MIDI channel, select an empty pattern, or select an unused Session. Kind of a big oversight.... this is true with the SL MKIII as well. No way to disable the internal sequencer once you're happy with something, unless you choose an empty pattern or Session.
Awesome review as always. I like how you show things in use so things are understandable. Keep making awesome videos. I do have a question for you. I went into EDM production and I can not decide between the Ableton Push2 and Launchpad Pro Mk3. Would the Mk3 be better for a beginner techno producer or better to go directly for Push2? I like how you manipulate wave tables and things on Push2 and the sequencer options, so I can not decide if the Push 2 will offer me more for Ableton. Can you give me the advice. Budget is not an issue. Thank you for amazing videos ❤️
Thanks! If budget is not an issue and you want to work with Ableton (as opposed to sequencing external gear standalone, which Push 2 can't do), then go with Push 2
@@loopop yeah, main purpose is to use Ableton software and Push 2 without any other external devices, mostly looking for the features like sequencer and suh with the tight integration with Ableton. Sort of one controller that does it all.
Thanks so much. Based in part on this video, I grabbed the pro over Christmas this year, mainly to get the sequencer. I was upgrading from the Launchpad Mini. I am so glad I chose the Pro 3. The thing is an absolute gem for jamming and keeping me in scale. I use it mainly with Bitwig, with the four tracks running and then one main keyboard, and pages of sub keyboards and controls for different instruments. The extra custom control pages are nice, but in reality I've not used more than 4 (yet).
@@va941 i have used moss , but most of the time i use it as a generic keyboard/controller for live jams. its a fantastically simple and efficient device. rhe ability to set the scale and key rhen just jam along with the four seqnecers is perfecrion imho. its now my primary input device
Superb review, as ALWAYS, Loopop. I love my LPX but love my LP Pro MK3 even more. A lot of people have said it's a bit redundant when people say "you can just get a Push 2, used." Sure, you could.... but, there's something about the Launchpad's screenless workflow that really appeals to me... not just with Ableton, but also with other DAWs like Reaper... the custom MIDI maps are a godsend.... especially with being able to change the MIDI channel on the fly, for those mappings. Do I need yet another step-sequencer? Not really. Push 2 gets the job done great, as does the Launchpad95 script which works for all Launchpads, including the Mini MK3 and X (since the new 1.4 firmware now allows for "Legacy" mode). Launchpad Pro95 script also fantastic for the original LP Pro (which I have as well). The only thing I wish Novation did for the MK3 was put the Shift button at the BOTTOM instead of the top, for one-handed workflow. The top is so inconvenient. Setup button should have been there, instead. I always have so many more thoughts about all this stuff but rarely am able to get all the thoughts out in one comment! haha. Love you, dude! You taught more people about the functionality of the Pro MK3 than some (paid) tutorials I checked out recently. Tons of knowledge packed into less than 30 minutes, as always. P.S. I totally agree with the feature request around 14:00, allowing semitone (and octave) transpose for any scale widgets. That would be INSANELY useful. Enable those directional buttons and allow this in a firmware, please, Novation! :)
oh the guys dodgy! nearly bought the mini cos this guy just skims over things. You can't change the key and octave all those scale keyboards are in all at once, you have to do it one by one. N this guy didn't mention it. Sent an email to novation bout it and they told me. Gonna get the X soon. This Chinese Virus stuff has been mayhem. Hey that's what Trump is calling it, I'm going with that. Also not getting a push 2 cos it has features no one used (I saw Deadmau5 just clicking in midi notes). That's the other thing all these people talk this GRAND stuff and then I see Deadmau5 clicking in midi and it's like he get's paid more than you and I Remember was a good song and your songs are rubbish.
Can I just add to that cos I remember Armin Van Burren had a lengthy talk about why clipping is ok. N it's like it has to be at -3 to 5db anyway when it gets sent off for mastering. So what does that even mean?????? Or talks about what million dollar speakers do for your life. But at the end of the day Armin Van Burren babbling on and everything else random people say like you know. Feels So Good was a good song and your songs are rubbish. That's why I just don't care. I don't care about Ricky Tinez and his nonsense or what anyone has to say. I just don't care.
I’m able to get the launchpad pro mk3 for $100, it has no cables though, but I can buy them separately. Do you think it’d worth it or just save up for a used push 2??
Major flaw with micro steps, velocity, and probability, is that you can only do it to the 8 most left bottom pads and not the whole 16 pad drum rack, quite frustrating, I have been trying to figure out how to do the micro step on the most left 4th from the bottom pad and couldn't add the effect..
I've seen that the novation circuit can essentially be used as a midi looper if you have midi going both ways between it and external gear. However, it looks like sending receiving cc info and being able to record it for parameter locking/ automation record is very tricky or not doable depending on the gear. I'm guessing the LP can record note info from an external synth in this configuration and act as a midi looper, and I know you can set up custom page with cc control for various parameters on external gear or ableton, but can it record/ loop cc info for automation?
As always thanks for the amazing review. The question I’m toying with is The Push 2 really what I should go with if I can afford it? Or is it better to buy the LP Pro Mk3 and then another hardware synth for the same price as Push2? What do you think should be my consideration- given you’ve reviewed both?
Thanks for the kind words. There's no way I can cover that question properly in less than a 40 minute video... at the simplest Push 2 is way better at controlling Ableton Live costs twice as much, but doesn't have a built in standalone sequencer if that helps!
Thanks for all the great content! I’m trying to setup an expressive note repeat environment for my Ableton drum racks that works like using a Push controller - where your maintained finger pressure creates expressive velocity changes for hi hats and such. I’m wondering if I could achieve this with Arpeggiator technique by pairing it with an after-touch enabled controller like the Launchpad X. I’m just unsure if the Arp would respond to the pressure the same way. Thoughts?
PLEASE, for someone like myself who wants to get into all this, how would I go about learning how all this stuff works? Learning how to use ableton and everything. There so much I don't even know where to start, what's important at first and what's not.
Near the end you briefly explain how to connect duel midi controllers via external. I’m looking for advice in connecting a Arturia keylab essentials keyboard with Daw controls and the Novation launchpad pro ML3. For the option of sharing controls alongside keys inside Ableton live. I feel I’m stuck choosing one midi controller or the other inside settings? Any advice would be appreciated. Your videos are very thorough, organized and paced to engage the viewer. thank you.
could you show us how to create a drum rack with a 16 steps step sequencer (1bar) quantized to 1/16? also want to add note repeat and velocity, its for launchpad pro mk3
So you would say that the Pro is better for using it outside Ableton? I use ableton live lite just because it’s easier for sampling, although my “main” DAW is pro tools and I was looking at the Launchpad X as my main option because of the price in the refurbished novation site. Really loved the video!
Well, i absolutely love my push2 but i feel like i need something that's more portable for gigs. Push is way too bulky and heavy. Could you guys help me to decide between those two? Will i benefit from anything in pro mk3 if i already have push?
I have the LPPro mk3 but dont have a Push. I think if you only need it to play notes live, trigger clips and effects and can make do with 4 custom pages and don't need the chord mode or sequencer during live playing, then the Launchpad X seems like enough, maybe even the very compact Mini Mk3 would do. For all the other stuff for producing you could just use your Push.
@@Tony2dH Ok, if anyone is interested, i would say the X has better and more consistend pads. They are less comfortable and feel cheaper but register velocity better. Nice and inexpensive 64 pad controller. Build quality is very good too.
hello, i just got a novation launchpad X, when i connect it, it displays strong colors, but when i open ableton, the colors of the session don't match with the pads, especially red, it displays as a washed pink, is there a tutorial or other thing i need to know?
So is their a mode where you can trigger note on messages and then trigger them back off or is it same old, same old sustain only note programming? I'm talking about for real time note recording, not step.
The pro is like a cheap Diet Ableton Push lol, I love it. I still highly recommend the Push over the Launchpad though, strictly in terms of value for the price.
I wonder if it is worth to buy the Launchpad Pro it as an input device with scale modes for my Elektron DN&DT, even though I already have a Circuit and a Launch Control XL (+USB host)?
would you reccomend i buy the new launchpad x or get a second hand push 1? they come in at about the same. push 1 probably about 25-50$ cheaper (on eBay etc)
Hey Zev, wonder if we'll ever get your take/overview of Bitwig Studio now that it's matured to being such a powerful environment? If Novation let you keep these units; it'd also be cool to see you compare/contrast the native Live 10 functionality with the custom "Driven by Moss" scripts for Bitwig, as well as just seeing someone who does such quality videos take on one of the DAW underdogs!
I’ve a question… it’s possible to trigger buttons from midi input? And if possible, it sends the trigger to its outputs (usb and midi)? Not finding a single clue on that anywhere…
I really hate it when companies put arbitrary restrictions on their cheaper devices. There is no reason why the smaller one couldn't have 8 custom modes instead of 4 for example. Apart from that they both look like decent controllers.
I guess there will be no scripts like in last gen? :/
It's to justify the higher price, I still don't really think the pro offers all that much more for almost double the price...
I just wish for the X to have a sequencer. I got the X because I thought installing the 95 would be good for me. It is good but I did not like that it changed the other functions.
Now there is an update I have 8 custom modes on the X
this modes need basically no space at all, this should have 1000 or more easily, and all devices should have the same functions except what more buttons offer
Thank you for the extensive review I really enjoy your videos and get alot of value.
There was update for Launchpad X:
- Now you can have 8 custom modes each can be set to any channel from the device itself by holding down any custom button on the right side
- You can long press any button on the mixer for temporary access
- Double press Session to a move around in the grid in 8 steps.
Chord mode is so dang cool. It’s so common for controllers to have a chord mode that’s just a running list of chords in boring root positions. Super cool that you can program your own that easily
Straight to the point, but also in-depth! Having the timestamps persist throughout the entire video is really nice. Very thoughtful, very nice video!
Lovely in-depth video!
Thanks and thanks for the lovely animations :)
If someone is buying the Pro MK3 for Ableton, realize there are some serious limitations: 1. No Ableton sequencer, so you have to use Novation's sequencer and then "print" to Ableton afterwards. That's a workflow killer. The Launchpad 95 script (and Ableton Push/2 of course) gets it right. Also, all the Ableton buttons on the left and bottom disapppear when you are in sequencer mode - another workflow killer. 2. In Custom mode, all the Ableton controls on the left and bottom buttons disappear - workflow killer. 3. $350 puts you close to Push 2 territory ($500 used) - and the Push 2 is so much better that there is no contest, especially with the screen. 4. No encoders. For using a DAW, eight encoders minimum are so necessary. Using pads to control a device, for example, is cumbersome and I doubt anyone really uses them for that.
i think you're right. i have push 2 and launchpad pro mk1 (was there ever a mk2?). for me the advantage of launchpad is that it's portable and more durable - and also I actually find it more ergonomic if used with a laptop. however, i dont see any real reason to get the mk3 as the ableton integration doesnt seem to have improved. like you said, without launchpad95, it's actually worse. one feature i miss on launchpad that you get with push is that your scales are remembered per instrument and session. on launchpad, you have to always know and set the scale you used in whatever song you worked on, which is a little annoying. not having the drum programming features of push/push 2 is definitely a loss for launchpads - even launchpad 95, while great, doesnt get it 100%. is it that these features are too complex to program? or is it licensing issues with ableton, maybe only allowed for push?
@@KoneKone I would love to know the answer for your questions since I'm thinking about buying an Ableton controller and the launchpad pro mk3 is pretty much on my max price.. I would love to have an ableton push but it is like double the price
thank you for this!
@@carloseberl6949 the history of midi controllers is full of unfinished ideas and hardware that never met its full potential, and we are still caught up in new gear coming out all the time. best to first figure out your imminent needs and then find a controller that is comfortable, practical, and helps you meet those needs. try in person if possible.
I am thinking about selling my launchpad pro MK3 and stick to Midi keyboards instead. Because of all the reasons you mentioned.
Your tutorial is a pretty nice explaining about what I can look forward to during the shipping (and during usage)... So glad I bought the pro mk3... Can't wait to freak out on this machine!
I support you and a couple of other content creators through Patreon. I watch many of these review / overview videos for a variety of products. Nonetheless, when i want a thorough, comprehensive, and well-presented overview of a device, there is none better. Thanks for your contributions.
Thanks very much! Truly appreciated.
Thank you for the very thorough comparison. I just placed an order for the Pro MK3.
I love the X pads, but even the Push 1 is so much easier to use with its display, compared to all the modes etc you have to remember on both the X and Pro.
No matter what, I'm blown away 😲. Just bought the Pro MK3 🤓😁
Mine is on the way. This is a great tutorial. I will need it because it looks confusing!
Thanks for your review loopop. Please Novation add an alftertouch
function for the widget CC button which allow to modulate the value of a
CC with the pressure on a pad.
Wow, I have first launchpad and I didn’t know that they took it to next level! That’s amazing, now I think to buy an update.
I learned so much more from this video than I did from anything Novation put out. Thanks!
For me, this is the most useful channel on RUclips. Brav
...once again approved, without exception you manage to showcase the most comprehensive and insightful product breakdowns - or better put, video manuals - one can only wish for. period
I have had the launch pad X for a couple of months now, and I really love it , BUT if I had to go back and do it again I would’ve spent the extra $150 on the pro, no doubt. The quantize, tap tempo, metronome on/off, duplicate/delete clips, and ability to select clips without playing them is, (only one of those functions is, in my opinion, well worth the extra $150. I’m trying to sell my LPX now for $140 , and take the $60 loss and the education of basic launchpad functionality , to get those features.
Hope this may help someone in their decision.
PS - **CHORD MODE AND STEP SEQUENCER**!!! One feature that keeps me going back to sketch tracks on Maschine Mikro MK3
Well if you have a Novation keyboard you can do all that and just get a LaunchPad X for optimal control. Though a Launchpad Pro is required if you don't have a Novation Keyboard
Was switching to the pro the right decision? I was thinking about buying an X soon. The extra features do seem useful, though, but I'm not sure if it's worth the extra price. My desk can already barely fit my old launchpad mk2 on it along with my keyboard, so the pro would take even more space, so I'm leaning towards the X.
so incredibly well communicated, researched and presented...........I love how quick, yet detailed and articulate your presentation is.....Very informative and helpful - one of the few out there
Hands down the best reviews of gear on YT. Thanks so much for taking the time. Question.. As a new Ableton Live Suite user getting into production on a budget, who's not used any touch controllers and wants to test the waters, would you recommend going with a used Push 2, new LP Pro MK3 or get the LPX? Don't want throw away gear but don't want to get in over my head either. Currently finding using keyboard and mouse uninspiring to make music, feel like I need more hands on controls to tap/turn/press. I will say that "Chord" mode is very appealing as someone without piano/music theory background.
Idk if this reply is too late but, I'm saving up for a Push 2 and bought an LPX that I can use in the meantime and use when I'm traveling since it's quite portable. And so far, for my production, it's been great. I make a lot of boombap JDilla/Madlib/9thWonder type stuff so I mostly use it in conjunction with the simpler(or serato sample) + it has been quite good for finger drumming as well. So for those purposes, sure a Push 2 has a lot more to offer, but the LPX definitely gets the job done.
You could get a used push 1 for the same price as this pro. Maybe a comparison of those 2 might be worth a look. I like the launchpad I’ve had many but if you are solely going to use live I think push might be a better option. Get a mini or x for gigging.
I wish you hadn't combined the comparison with the amazing tutorial for the pro, but still a great way for me to ramp up
Getting into midi/launchpad is a lot to take in for a person like me who is just getting into it., but that being said., you're tutorial helped me a lot though i ended up wathcing it multiple times and breaking it bit by bit.. thank you for this
that sequencer from the ancient novation circuit... finally
Thanks for this comprehensive review which is almost a tutorial! Very useful.
Like always, very informative and in depth. After watching I bought a launchpad pro mk3. Then came back to this Video to learn how to use it. Much better than novations tutorials.
You continually delight us all with your attention to detail, unrivaled quality and respect to your viewers. Gratefully.
Thanks very much!
Excellent video and info...to me it seems very complicated and just to much to try to remember, think I'd spend to much time trying to remember what does what and having to refer to instruction manual just to get a sequence set up from my hardware synths.. Seems an over complicated way of sequencing.
Not that it's not a good product, it's just not for me that's all.
This is the golden standart for a review...
thank you for your extending reviews, they're immensely helpful
Awesome review. Thanks for posting this!
Had so much fun with the circuit - this looks like a great integration with software. Another great review. Well done
Thanks for the comparison :) always useful to see what’s out there in the world
I think this could have been a software update for the previous LP pro.
Wasn't a powerful enough processor inside.
the hardware is definitely an upgrade as well. Feels so much nicer and is paper thin.
Does the previous LP pro run standalone like this new one?
What a superb video. One of the first times i really watched a complete video like this. Already have the X, the mk3 is on its way! Thanks for saving me from reading the manual:)
LPPmk3 is a banger, but it needs some upgrades
- off the grid recording
- recording chords from chord mode in the internal sequencer
- why only a 4track Sequencer?? The SLmk3 have 8tracks too, so common!! Please!
I wish Novation would make a grid controller version of the SL MkIII. Doubling the grid to 16x8 similar to the Deluge or Linnstrument would be great too, although I don't have room for that, heh.
The inability to use chords from chord mode in the sequencer is sooo frustrating! Other than that it’s been great.
Man I appreciate your great detail. This helps a lot for people who are on the fence about which one to purchase!!
Launchpad Pro mk3 is a rather frustrating device.
You can play chord progressions with single buttons, but you can't use that feature in the sequencer.
Every key in a chord is struck at the same time because there is no strum effect. That's fine for electronic music, but not for any other genre playing traditional instruments like piano or el. piano instruments. Yes, I can play chords in non-quantized mode, but why would I torture myself doing that on the grid instead of a midi keyboard. Any cheap midi keyboard is going to be much better experience than any grid controller for that matter.
CC assignment is more of a gimmick than a feature. It'll never be a substitute for knobs. It may be useful for some rough sketches and nothing more. I would rather have step based parameter control. Something like parameter lock, and then the sequencer in note mode modulating the locked parameter.
Note repeat!? Is it that hard to implement the note repeat function?
Ableton integration is not impressive by any means.
The chord mode looks amazing, for me this is a biggest major bonus for the pro! Can push has the same chord mode where you can custom record them?
Im getting launchpad mk2 after the quarantine :)
I HAD 2 DONT PLEASE FOR PEEPS SAKE
GO WITH MK3
I'm starting to find myself more and more on your channel... and also wanting to buy stuff. But thanks man, really love the structured video's, keep them up :)
Thank you So much for this. It's exactly the mix of data I needed to better understand my new controller :)
I like the shot at 27:13. After talking about all the extra features the pro has the x is just sitting there like :(
Lol ! But its less than half the price of the pro ....
Yay for timestamps!!!!
X is a nice size but no chord mode is a deal-breaker, maybe next time.
Even a basic chord mode (and scale mode) has transformed my music creation. Far faster to find what sounds right or what is in my head, and create fuller better sounding music.
Will have to stick with my 25 mini keyboard for now for travel, but would like a mini groove box one day as they look more fun.
I was all over the Launchpad X... as I really don't 80% of the other buttons around the edge, or the sequencer.. then there it was.. no chord mode in the X... so pro it is then.. xD
great..thx.👍💯cool new modes & functions
p.s. the shift Button 🤮
One Touch strip would be cool ....
I have to try the launchpad pro❤
Thank you AWE-some video!!!
When you are in custom mode and you save chords, if you change the scale do the saved chords change or they stay the same?
Thanks for a great video. I'm a beginner and this really explains a lot, too much actually, but the beauty of RUclips is I can keep coming back to it as I learn. I bought the X but I can see buying the pro once I get more proficient. BTW, I hear an accent in your voice that reminds me of Carl Sagan. Where do you hail from?
Thanks! From Israel
nice time line in the video
Re: the step-sequencer. What I found to be annoying is, there's no way to disable the sequencer playback when it's synced to Ableton. So, if you Print To Clip, you get that clip playing in Ableton, and also from the LP Pro MK3. The only way to avoid this is to change the MIDI channel, select an empty pattern, or select an unused Session. Kind of a big oversight.... this is true with the SL MKIII as well. No way to disable the internal sequencer once you're happy with something, unless you choose an empty pattern or Session.
Great vid. Could you do Pro mk3 vs Push 2?
Please!
Awesome review as always. I like how you show things in use so things are understandable. Keep making awesome videos. I do have a question for you. I went into EDM production and I can not decide between the Ableton Push2 and Launchpad Pro Mk3. Would the Mk3 be better for a beginner techno producer or better to go directly for Push2? I like how you manipulate wave tables and things on Push2 and the sequencer options, so I can not decide if the Push 2 will offer me more for Ableton. Can you give me the advice. Budget is not an issue. Thank you for amazing videos ❤️
Thanks! If budget is not an issue and you want to work with Ableton (as opposed to sequencing external gear standalone, which Push 2 can't do), then go with Push 2
@@loopop yeah, main purpose is to use Ableton software and Push 2 without any other external devices, mostly looking for the features like sequencer and suh with the tight integration with Ableton. Sort of one controller that does it all.
Very useful. Thanks!
Thank you so much!
Works well in Bitwig You know the DAW that Albelton should off been ;-P
The founders of Bitwig used to work for Ableton before they made Bitwig... they clearly took a lot of inspiration from Ableton.
Ableton smokes Bitwig in so many ways. Tried Bitwig and kept thinking of all the things missing that are in Ableton.
@@deroden724 So, Polyphonic Aftertouch capability finally landed in Ableton after 19 years ?
As always, thank you for your hard work and effort. Kudos to your ability to anticipate our questions.
Thanks so much. Based in part on this video, I grabbed the pro over Christmas this year, mainly to get the sequencer. I was upgrading from the Launchpad Mini. I am so glad I chose the Pro 3. The thing is an absolute gem for jamming and keeping me in scale. I use it mainly with Bitwig, with the four tracks running and then one main keyboard, and pages of sub keyboards and controls for different instruments. The extra custom control pages are nice, but in reality I've not used more than 4 (yet).
Hey! Am considering buying the pro for bitwig, how are you using it?, have you need satisfied with it? Are you using the driven by moss script?😊
@@va941 i have used moss , but most of the time i use it as a generic keyboard/controller for live jams. its a fantastically simple and efficient device. rhe ability to set the scale and key rhen just jam along with the four seqnecers is perfecrion imho. its now my primary input device
@@joesweeney6262 thanks for your opinion, that is the main reason why im looking at it also!
@@va941 also, i use it with an NDLR sequencer sometimes to get real variations and complexity
Just got a LPmini MK3. Going to bring it back when stores re-open cause it's kinda useless to me.
Superb review, as ALWAYS, Loopop. I love my LPX but love my LP Pro MK3 even more. A lot of people have said it's a bit redundant when people say "you can just get a Push 2, used." Sure, you could.... but, there's something about the Launchpad's screenless workflow that really appeals to me... not just with Ableton, but also with other DAWs like Reaper... the custom MIDI maps are a godsend.... especially with being able to change the MIDI channel on the fly, for those mappings. Do I need yet another step-sequencer? Not really. Push 2 gets the job done great, as does the Launchpad95 script which works for all Launchpads, including the Mini MK3 and X (since the new 1.4 firmware now allows for "Legacy" mode). Launchpad Pro95 script also fantastic for the original LP Pro (which I have as well). The only thing I wish Novation did for the MK3 was put the Shift button at the BOTTOM instead of the top, for one-handed workflow. The top is so inconvenient. Setup button should have been there, instead.
I always have so many more thoughts about all this stuff but rarely am able to get all the thoughts out in one comment! haha. Love you, dude! You taught more people about the functionality of the Pro MK3 than some (paid) tutorials I checked out recently. Tons of knowledge packed into less than 30 minutes, as always.
P.S. I totally agree with the feature request around 14:00, allowing semitone (and octave) transpose for any scale widgets. That would be INSANELY useful. Enable those directional buttons and allow this in a firmware, please, Novation! :)
you bet
oh the guys dodgy! nearly bought the mini cos this guy just skims over things. You can't change the key and octave all those scale keyboards are in all at once, you have to do it one by one. N this guy didn't mention it. Sent an email to novation bout it and they told me. Gonna get the X soon. This Chinese Virus stuff has been mayhem. Hey that's what Trump is calling it, I'm going with that. Also not getting a push 2 cos it has features no one used (I saw Deadmau5 just clicking in midi notes). That's the other thing all these people talk this GRAND stuff and then I see Deadmau5 clicking in midi and it's like he get's paid more than you and I Remember was a good song and your songs are rubbish.
Can I just add to that cos I remember Armin Van Burren had a lengthy talk about why clipping is ok. N it's like it has to be at -3 to 5db anyway when it gets sent off for mastering. So what does that even mean?????? Or talks about what million dollar speakers do for your life. But at the end of the day Armin Van Burren babbling on and everything else random people say like you know. Feels So Good was a good song and your songs are rubbish. That's why I just don't care. I don't care about Ricky Tinez and his nonsense or what anyone has to say. I just don't care.
@@jhowardsupporter What are you talking about??
I’m able to get the launchpad pro mk3 for $100, it has no cables though, but I can buy them separately. Do you think it’d worth it or just save up for a used push 2??
Major flaw with micro steps, velocity, and probability, is that you can only do it to the 8 most left bottom pads and not the whole 16 pad drum rack, quite frustrating, I have been trying to figure out how to do the micro step on the most left 4th from the bottom pad and couldn't add the effect..
I've seen that the novation circuit can essentially be used as a midi looper if you have midi going both ways between it and external gear. However, it looks like sending receiving cc info and being able to record it for parameter locking/ automation record is very tricky or not doable depending on the gear. I'm guessing the LP can record note info from an external synth in this configuration and act as a midi looper, and I know you can set up custom page with cc control for various parameters on external gear or ableton, but can it record/ loop cc info for automation?
Thanks!
wish they made a pro version of mini
Amazing review. Thanks a lot.
I feel like I'd rather buy a used Push 1 than the Pro, at least there's a screen and knobs.
As always thanks for the amazing review. The question I’m toying with is The Push 2 really what I should go with if I can afford it? Or is it better to buy the LP Pro Mk3 and then another hardware synth for the same price as Push2?
What do you think should be my consideration- given you’ve reviewed both?
Thanks for the kind words. There's no way I can cover that question properly in less than a 40 minute video... at the simplest Push 2 is way better at controlling Ableton Live costs twice as much, but doesn't have a built in standalone sequencer if that helps!
loopop thanks so much Ziv. Appreciate the response :)
What if you program some chords and change a scale? will they retune? I wonder if I can program chords from more than one scale.
Thanks for all the great content! I’m trying to setup an expressive note repeat environment for my Ableton drum racks that works like using a Push controller - where your maintained finger pressure creates expressive velocity changes for hi hats and such. I’m wondering if I could achieve this with Arpeggiator technique by pairing it with an after-touch enabled controller like the Launchpad X. I’m just unsure if the Arp would respond to the pressure the same way. Thoughts?
you are the best thank you;)
PLEASE, for someone like myself who wants to get into all this, how would I go about learning how all this stuff works? Learning how to use ableton and everything. There so much I don't even know where to start, what's important at first and what's not.
um well I made a 37 minute video about Ableton which I've been told explains it will
Near the end you briefly explain how to connect duel midi controllers via external.
I’m looking for advice in connecting a Arturia keylab essentials keyboard with Daw controls and the Novation launchpad pro ML3.
For the option of sharing controls alongside keys inside Ableton live.
I feel I’m stuck choosing one midi controller or the other inside settings?
Any advice would be appreciated.
Your videos are very thorough, organized and paced to engage the viewer.
thank you.
Thanks bro
does switching projects on the launchpad pro mean you switch projects inside Ableton? awesome video, pretty sold on the MK3
Is it worth selling the original Launchpad pro to upgrade to the Pro Mk3?
could you show us how to create a drum rack with a 16 steps step sequencer (1bar) quantized to 1/16? also want to add note repeat and velocity, its for launchpad pro mk3
методом тыка, конечно, интересно наблюдать, но не плохо бы по-русски озвучить)
Do you have to stop the sequencer to change the micro steps?
Need an MPE version of this!
dingbatjack1234 maybe they can do it by an upgrade on the firmware ?
So you would say that the Pro is better for using it outside Ableton? I use ableton live lite just because it’s easier for sampling, although my “main” DAW is pro tools and I was looking at the Launchpad X as my main option because of the price in the refurbished novation site.
Really loved the video!
Well, i absolutely love my push2 but i feel like i need something that's more portable for gigs. Push is way too bulky and heavy.
Could you guys help me to decide between those two? Will i benefit from anything in pro mk3 if i already have push?
I have the LPPro mk3 but dont have a Push. I think if you only need it to play notes live, trigger clips and effects and can make do with 4 custom pages and don't need the chord mode or sequencer during live playing, then the Launchpad X seems like enough, maybe even the very compact Mini Mk3 would do. For all the other stuff for producing you could just use your Push.
@@Tony2dH Ok, if anyone is interested, i would say the X has better and more consistend pads. They are less comfortable and feel cheaper but register velocity better.
Nice and inexpensive 64 pad controller. Build quality is very good too.
I got the Laaunchpad X but now. . . that sequencer is nice Q.Q/
hello, i just got a novation launchpad X, when i connect it, it displays strong colors, but when i open ableton, the colors of the session don't match with the pads, especially red, it displays as a washed pink, is there a tutorial or other thing i need to know?
can you hit record in custom mode and capture the cc movements in a sequencer track?
So is their a mode where you can trigger note on messages and then trigger them back off or is it same old, same old sustain only note programming? I'm talking about for real time note recording, not step.
thanks a lot !
Is it possible to superpose vertical and horizontal fader widgets to recreate an XY grid for FX control ?
The pro is like a cheap Diet Ableton Push lol, I love it.
I still highly recommend the Push over the Launchpad though, strictly in terms of value for the price.
just got a pro mk3 for $190 :)
I wonder if you could build chord mode on the X as a custom mode?
sequencer looks exactly like novation circuit
Right, but not be tied to midi channel 1 & 2 seems such an improvement. Also 4 tracks of sequencer seems like probably ok for live sequencer.
Can you do a comparison with the Ableton push 2? Please!!
what should i buy to complement a push 3?
I wonder if it is worth to buy the Launchpad Pro it as an input device with scale modes for my Elektron DN&DT, even though I already have a Circuit and a Launch Control XL (+USB host)?
would you reccomend i buy the new launchpad x or get a second hand push 1? they come in at about the same. push 1 probably about 25-50$ cheaper (on eBay etc)
Great comparison thank you! Does the mk3 have a global transpose?
Is it possible to get the same note light feedback you get in Ableton when using other DAWS like in maschine???
One of my main questions too, as I work in Reaper.
@@rayderrich any ideas?
@@RubenDari DrivenByMoss4Reaper is software that seems to make these types of things work in Reaper but I don't know for Machine.
@@rayderrich thanks!
Hey Zev, wonder if we'll ever get your take/overview of Bitwig Studio now that it's matured to being such a powerful environment? If Novation let you keep these units; it'd also be cool to see you compare/contrast the native Live 10 functionality with the custom "Driven by Moss" scripts for Bitwig, as well as just seeing someone who does such quality videos take on one of the DAW underdogs!
Thanks! Ever? Yes. Soon - probably not...
loopop that's all anyone can ask for! Do lemme know if you wanna borrow a copy to use if Bitwig themselves aren't biting 😉
I’ve a question… it’s possible to trigger buttons from midi input? And if possible, it sends the trigger to its outputs (usb and midi)?
Not finding a single clue on that anywhere…