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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Novation Launchpad S USB MIDI Controller, a dynamic tool for musicians and producers looking to elevate their Ableton Live experience. With its sleek design and intuitive interface, this MIDI pad controller is your gateway to a seamless music production journey.

The Launchpad S is engineered to enhance your creative workflow, thanks to its 64-button clip-launching grid complemented by 8 scene-launching buttons. Its multicolored backlit buttons give you visual feedback, allowing you to see the status of each clip at a glance, whether you're on stage or in the studio. What sets this controller apart is its Core MIDI compliance, making it not only ideal for use with Mac and PC but also with iOS devices, empowering you to create music anywhere, anytime.

Incorporating Novation's acclaimed Automap software, the Launchpad S simplifies the process of mapping controls, offering seamless integration with VST, AU, RTAS, and TDM plug-ins. This feature ensures intuitive and intelligent control, eliminating the hassle of manual parameter assignments and allowing you more time to focus on what truly matters—your music.

Whether you're triggering clips, scenes, or exploring a multitude of MIDI-mapped possibilities, the Launchpad S is a versatile tool that adapts to your unique style and needs. It's more than just a controller; it's a partner in your creative process.

Key Features:

  • 64-button clip-launching grid and 8 scene-launching buttons
  • Core MIDI compliant for use with Mac, PC, and iOS devices
  • Multicolored backlit buttons for visual feedback
  • Includes Novation's Automap software for easy control mapping
  • Compatible with a range of plug-ins and standalone samplers

Product specs

Brand Novation
Model Launchpad S Pad Controller
Finish Black
Year 2013
Made In United States
Categories Pad MIDI Controllers
MIDI I/O USB MIDI
Number of Pads 64 Pads

FAQs

Is the Novation Launchpad S compatible with Ableton Live?

Yes, the Novation Launchpad S is specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with Ableton Live, offering comprehensive control over your sessions.

How many pads does the Novation Launchpad S have?

The Novation Launchpad S features 64 responsive pads, allowing for extensive control over clips, scenes, and other functions within Ableton Live.

Can the Novation Launchpad S be used to control other DAWs besides Ableton Live?

While the Launchpad S is optimized for Ableton Live, it can also function as a MIDI controller for other DAWs, though some features may require additional setup.

Does the Novation Launchpad S require an external power supply?

No, the Novation Launchpad S is powered via USB, eliminating the need for an external power supply.

What are the dimensions and weight of the Novation Launchpad S?

The Novation Launchpad S is compact and lightweight, making it highly portable for live performances and studio work.

Novation

Novation

Novation // Launchpad S Control Pack ft Ableton Live Lite performance.

Video thumbnail for Novation // Launchpad S Control Pack ft Ableton Live Lite performance. by Novation

Novation // Launchpad S Control Pack ft Ableton Live Lite performance.

Novation

Novation

Video thumbnail for Novation Launchpad S by B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Novation Launchpad S

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Video thumbnail for Novation Launchpad S iPad App for the Ableton Live Controller Overview | Full Compass by Full Compass

Novation Launchpad S iPad App for the Ableton Live Controller Overview | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Video thumbnail for Novation Launchpad S Hardware Controller for Ableton Live Performance | Full Compass by Full Compass

Novation Launchpad S Hardware Controller for Ableton Live Performance | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Video thumbnail for Novation Launchpad S + Launch Control Overview & Demo | UniqueSquared.com by UniqueSquared

Novation Launchpad S + Launch Control Overview & Demo | UniqueSquared.com

UniqueSquared

UniqueSquared

Video thumbnail for Novation Launchpad S first look by Keyboard Instrument Chops and Gear

Novation Launchpad S first look

Keyboard Instrument Chops and Gear

Keyboard Instrument Chops and Gear

Video thumbnail for Ableton Live Controllers Pt 2: Launchpad S. Paunchpad Mini and Launch Control (Review) by Padbangers

Ableton Live Controllers Pt 2: Launchpad S. Paunchpad Mini and Launch Control (Review)

Padbangers

Padbangers

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent integration with Ableton Live for intuitive control

  • Durable build quality withstands frequent use

  • Versatile for both live performances and studio work

  • Bright LEDs and fast response improve the user experience

  • User-friendly for beginners, yet powerful for advanced users

  • Supports a wide range of functions beyond basic MIDI control

  • Enables creative performances with light shows and clip launching

  • Portable and lightweight for musicians on the go

  • Class Compliant for easy setup without the need for drivers

  • Compatible with multiple DAWs, increasing its versatility

CONS

  • Pads can feel stiff, affecting playability

  • Limited color options compared to newer models

  • Learning curve to fully utilize all features

  • Primarily designed for performance, not as a keyboard substitute

  • Programming for advanced visual performances can be challenging

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live.

Software and compatibility

  • The Launchpad S is primarily designed for Ableton and Reaper, struggling with Reason where note mapping is inconsistent and lacks proper device recognition.

    Source
  • Registration with Novation can offer free Ableton Live Lite, where the Launchpad S operates correctly, contrasting its performance in Reason.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • In Reason, the Launchpad S displays unexpected MIDI behavior, with notes ascending horizontally but descending vertically, and function buttons triggering MIDI notes.

    Source
  • The Launchpad S offers improved lighting, making it more visually appealing, especially in dark settings and video recordings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • While launching clips in Ableton is seamless, using the Launchpad S for MIDI note control in DAWs like Reason proves challenging and unintuitive.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners trying to use the Launchpad S with Reason found setup cumbersome, often resulting in abandoned projects due to complex manual mapping requirements.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Launchpad S is recommended for those who want FL Studio compatibility, whereas the basic model is sufficient for exclusive Ableton use.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Launchpad S can be found on eBay for around $79, offering a middle ground between the basic model and the Mk2, which features RGB LEDs.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 58 Reviews and 227 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
sonnivate

ugh

Like many others, I saw madeon's 'pop culture' in high school and said 'i wanna do that'. Didn't get a lot of use out of it, but now it's seeing new life in tandem with ableton rewired into pro tools to sync my synths and trigger clips.

bkode_

Great midi controller

Had one of these for years and it has come in handy in many cases, its also a great controller for live performances.

metronohm808

Ace all round controller

The Launchpad is the machine that introduced me to music technology in the first place. After watching numerous youtube videos of people boasting about it's functionalities I had to get one. I got it along with the Launch Control in a pack. I now use the Launchpad to both play software MIDI instruments and launch scenes in ableton.

D

Love the feeling of the pads and the design light and endurable...

I use the Launchpad mainly just for sends when dubbing my tracks or performing my non-Dub tracks i use it for launching clips and scenes and controlling my Custom Drum Racks inside Live...

isometric

Fantastic

Pretty much the best MIDI controller I've ever used. Despite what others may think, it's an extremely versatile tool for DJ sets, especially if you use Albleton Live like me.

molwax

great tool for producers

very user friendly, and still taking time to learn how to fully utilize it. could be used in a live performance setting, or as a clip launcher in the studio for production work. cheap, sturdy and a great tool. highly recommended!

kliksynk

Great grid controller

I had the original Launchpad and when, the Launchpad S came out I bought it immediately because of the faster response and brighter LED's. There are great applications and Max for Live devices to extend the functionality and make the Launchpad S very versatile.

ramblers

Used for Ableton Live set and remix

crce
crce

111

Versatile tool for DJing with session view focus

This is my main launchpad i DJ with, this one is specifically used for launching all my songs, samples and effects in my arranged session view. I can switch over to other modes but i tend to stick with session view as my other launchpad is used for different modes and sections of the launchpad like User 1 & 2 mode, the mixer mode, sends returns, panning etc.

rizkianurwulansari

Launchpad S is nice

I get this Launchpad S from my birthday gifts. Very helping me to make music and connect with Ableton or FL Studio. Maybe not have a lot of color like a Launchpad Pro but I'm still happy because this is my first tool

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Flume uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Flume

Music Producer, DJ

What So Not

...
Verified via Photo

Shows flumes playing with the launchpad s.

See how Alan Walker uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Alan Walker

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

Alan Walker was seen using the Launchpad from various scene throughout the video during the X-Games Oslo
For Example 1.20, 2.06, 2.18

See how Jacob Collier uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Jacob Collier

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Visible in this live performance of Stevie Wonder's "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing," particularly at 5:43.

See how Noisia uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Noisia

Music Producer

Noisia & Pacific

...
Verified via Novationmusic

When Noisia perform live, Thijs uses the Launchpad S to control Ableton Live on a MacBook Air. The Launchpad's ruggedness is key to life on tour, as he explains, “durability is the most important thing: Launchpads have no parts sticking out, no pots or knobs that can be broken when you slide your laptop in your bag, nothing. We have been traveling with them in our too-full backpacks for years and they've never broken. And the response on them is immediate, and they're very well thought out."

See how Chet Faker uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Chet Faker

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video of Chet Faker performing on KCRW you can see a Launchpad between other controllers around :50s.

See how Clams Casino uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Clams Casino

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Posted on Clams Casino's official Instagram page captioned, "Thanks @wearenovation x @nickhook for the launchpad Also picked up the new apc @akai_pro"

See how m4sonic uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

m4sonic

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

M4SONIC talks about his 4 Launchpad S setup in this video interview from Novation.

See how Machine Girl uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Machine Girl

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

Machine Girl uses a Novation Launchpad S USB MIDI Controller for Ableton Live, visible on their table during the live performance at Milkrun, as seen in the YouTube video "Machine Girl Live at Milkrun."

See how Louis Cole uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Louis Cole

Singer, Drummer

Knower

...
Verified via YouTube

0:29 of Time Traveler, he is using a Launchpad

See how Xilent uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Xilent

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

"Hi guys! This is my first attempt at playing one of my songs live on the Launchpad."

See how 20syl uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

20syl

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Facebook

In this Facebook photo, the Novation Launchpad S can be seen under 20syl's left arm.

See how Nucleya uses Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live

Nucleya

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

At 11:48 into this video he is seen using this controller.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Novation Launchpad S USB Midi Controller for Ableton Live, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Ableton Live
Ableton Live DAW Software
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1
Logitech G502
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1
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1
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1
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interfaces
1

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