Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $154

Standard/Professional

$99

$300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Dive into a new realm of musical creativity with the ROLI Lightpad Block Bluetooth MIDI Control Surface. Designed for both aspiring and seasoned musicians, this revolutionary controller redefines how you interact with music. Its pressure-sensitive silicone surface responds to your touch in five distinct ways, giving you unparalleled expressive capabilities. Whether you're bending pitches, applying vibrato, or gliding seamlessly between notes, the Lightpad Block offers a tactile experience that traditional controllers simply can't match.

Pair it with the NOISE app on your iOS device to explore an expansive library of sounds, from orchestral and synth tones to vibrant drum kits. The Lightpad Block doubles as a control surface for your favorite DAWs, thanks to ROLI's Dashboard software. Moreover, its modular design allows for expansion with additional control modules, such as the Loop Block and Live Block, enhancing your performance potential without bounds.

Beyond its innovative design, the Lightpad Block simplifies your setup with Bluetooth connectivity and a rechargeable battery that keeps you free from cluttered cables. Whether you're crafting intricate compositions in the studio or performing live, the ROLI Lightpad Block transforms your musical ideas into reality with effortless elegance.

Key Features:

  • Portable, modular, wireless music controller for iOS
  • Pressure-sensitive surface for expressive touch interaction
  • Integrates with NOISE app for a vast range of sounds
  • Compatible with major DAWs via ROLI Dashboard
  • Expandable with additional control modules (sold separately)
  • Bluetooth connectivity and USB-C charging
  • Illuminated pads for notes, chords, scales, and arpeggios
  • Learn Mode to help you master songs easily

Product specs

Brand ROLI
Model Lightpad Block Bluetooth MIDI Control Surface
Year 2010s
Categories Pad MIDI Controllers
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI

FAQs

How does the ROLI Lightpad Block connect to my devices?

The ROLI Lightpad Block connects wirelessly via Bluetooth or through USB MIDI, allowing seamless integration with your computer or mobile device for music production.

Is the ROLI Lightpad Block compatible with all DAWs?

The ROLI Lightpad Block is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and GarageBand, allowing it to function as a versatile MIDI controller.

What are the standout features of the ROLI Lightpad Block's interface?

The ROLI Lightpad Block features a touch-sensitive, pressure-responsive surface that enables dynamic control over your music, offering expressive capabilities beyond traditional MIDI controllers.

Can I use the ROLI Lightpad Block without a computer?

While the ROLI Lightpad Block can connect to mobile devices via Bluetooth for standalone use, it typically requires a computer or compatible app to fully utilize its MIDI capabilities.

Does the ROLI Lightpad Block require a specific app to function?

The ROLI Lightpad Block is designed to work with ROLI's apps like NOISE and BLOCKS Dashboard, but it can also integrate with other music software that supports MIDI input.

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Roli Lightpad Block Dashboard Overview Demo

Video thumbnail for Roli Lightpad Block Dashboard Overview Demo by Gear4music Guitars

Roli Lightpad Block Dashboard Overview Demo

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for ROLI Lightpad Block Demo by Gear4music Guitars

ROLI Lightpad Block Demo

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for ROLI Lightpad Block Performance by Gear4music Guitars

ROLI Lightpad Block Performance

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile use in diverse music applications, from sliders to drum pads

  • Light-up grid customizable via software for dynamic control

  • Intuitive interface makes controlling soft instruments simple and fun

  • Seamlessly integrates with computer music setups

  • Encourages creativity with a variety of interactive options

CONS

  • Limited flexibility in ROLI software for deeper customization

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ROLI Lightpad Block Bluetooth MIDI Control Surface.

Features and functionality

  • Lightpad Block can be used as a sustain pedal with toe-only contact, but multitouch from a foot can cause erratic behavior and unexpected visual effects.

    Source
  • The Lightpad Block can switch between a 5x5 note grid and a 4x4 drum grid with a simple onboard button press.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Littlefoot scripting is essential for tailoring Lightpad functionality, such as designing apps that trigger MIDI messages only upon initial touch and release.

    Source
  • The Lightpad Block requires PC or Mac software for extensive configuration and uses MIDI over Bluetooth or USB-C, making it less standalone friendly.

    Source
  • To output to DIN or 1/8” MIDI, the Lightpad Block needs additional software like Ableton or Midifire for functions such as transposing and channel splitting.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report that the Lightpad can become unresponsive or glitchy when used with large touch areas, like a full foot, causing unexpected light flickering.

    Source
  • Owners find the Lightpad Block to be an excellent pad controller when handled with care, but it needs external software support for advanced MIDI functionalities.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Dynamic Controls app allows for custom Lightpad configurations, offering a practical solution for MIDI control without needing to code directly.

    Source
  • The Lightpad Block is highly portable and battery-powered, making it ideal for mobile setups when used with Ableton or Midifire on an iPad.

    Source

Critic Reviews

ROLI BLOCKS Updates Review - Realising The Full Potential

musictech.com

ROLI's Lightpad Block M shines brighter with a sleek design and enhanced expressiveness, thanks to its microkeywaves and improved LED brightness. However, while the Dashboard software update significantly boosts its utility, it can still feel like an overload of features and options, potentially deterring users seeking simplicity. The Lightpad Block M isn't an essential studio item, as many of its functions can be replicated with existing MIDI controllers. Yet, it offers a glimpse into the future of music control with its innovative and flexible modular system. Overall, it's a promising addition to ROLI's ecosystem, especially for those ready to embrace its complexity and potential.

Roli Blocks Review. Great concept meets mediocre execution, one-dimensional sound and a heavy toll on the wallet

futuremusic.com

Roli's Lightpad Block M shines with its improved touch-responsive surface and portable MPE capabilities, but the Noise iOS app drags down the experience with its limited usability and lackluster sound quality. While the modular design and magnetic connectivity are innovative, the Blocks system feels expensive and not yet essential for musicians. If you're looking for futuristic music tech, this might intrigue, but be wary of its digital-sounding synth and high costs. Consider the Seaboard Block for standalone use if budget allows. Overall, a promising concept with room for improvement.

Review: Roli Blocks with Dashboard Beta Control Software - DJ TechTools

djtechtools.com

Roli's Lightpad Block is a visually stunning MIDI controller, offering cutting-edge 5D expression in an impressively compact format. The Blocks Dashboard beta pleasantly expands its compatibility with major DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic Pro X, stepping into the realm of serious music production. However, the journey to seamless integration is still underway, with cumbersome setup processes, limited iOS app functionality, and no export options. While the future looks promising with the ongoing development of Blocks Dashboard, the current experience is a mixed bag of innovation and frustration. The potential is undeniable, but it's not fully realized yet.

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Roli MIDI Pad Controllers

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar