During the Superbooth 25 show, the company announced the release of the updated Novation Launch Control XL controller. The device features a redesigned look and enhanced control capabilities. The manufacturer noted that devices of the previous generation will be reduced in price and remain on sale "until stock in warehouses is depleted."
According to the manufacturer, the new Launch Control XL generation combines classic MIDI object control with an intuitive interface and rich additional functionality. The device has been completely redesigned to meet modern production and live performance requirements.
This is the third generation of controllers in the series. It features eight faders, 24 rotary encoders, and 16 programmable keys. Small LED indicators underneath the keys and buttons show the status of the buttons and controls. Users can define their own backlight colors to indicate groups of elements or other parameters.
Users can immediately control many parameters of DAWs such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, and Steinberg Cubase after connecting to a computer. Mappings for workstations are stored in the device's memory. Mappings for other workstations can be created independently because the controller is not tied to specific programs and is compatible with all workstations.
In addition to the standard encoders, the housing is equipped with transport keys and a small OLED display that provides real-time visual feedback. The display shows information about the status of parameters linked to the controller's controls. The display shows the name of the parameter being changed and its status in numeric or text format.
For the first time in the series, the Launch Control XL is equipped with MIDI In, MIDI Out, and MIDI Thru (MIDI Out 2) connectors via the classic DIN (5-pin) connector. According to the manufacturer, these connectors make the controller more convenient to use in hybrid sets that combine modern software and external hardware devices.
The device connects to a computer via a USB-C connector. A 1.5-meter-long USB-C/USB-A cable is included with the controller. The USB-A connector on the other end of the cable provides wider compatibility with laptops and computers. Despite the popularity of USB-C, Novation noted that the port itself is not yet widespread among users.
The controller is compatible with Novation Components software for creating custom environments and customization sets. For instance, Components can be used to create different presets of active functions on controls for performances and studio work. The application can also be used to test concepts and experimental sets.
The Novation Launch Control XL 3rd Gen is currently on sale. The manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the controller is $229.99. The manufacturer noted that the previous generation of devices has been discontinued but will remain on sale until stock runs out. The suggested retail price of the previous generation of controllers will be reduced to $179.99. Visit Novation's official website for more details.
