The Launchpad Music Machine

Featuring Launchpad95

Launchpad95 is a MIDI script for Ableton live that gives Launchpad owners an incredible amount of control over Ableton Live’s features. Best of all, it’s totally free.

Whether you’ve got the newest Launchpad Pro or the original versions (I have the original and the MK2), this script gives you the tools to harness your creativity. It works seamlessly with Ableton Live’s Session View, making it perfect for studio work or live performance.

Launchpad95, created by Henri David, emulates many of the features found on premium devices like Ableton’s Push and Push 2, adding support for drum sequencing, melodic step sequencing, instrument control, and device control. Check out this Controllerism.com interview with the creator.

How To Get It

Launchpad95 can be found here, complete with instructions, user manual, FAQ, trouble shooting, and updates. Tip: Do not neglect the manual! It will be your best friend when getting acquainted with the software!

Drum Sequencer

Launchpad95 offers an intuitive drum sequencer that rivals the expensive hardware sequencers in terms of usability and flow. It gives variable loop control, velocity control, and complex sequencing capabilities using Ableton's Drum Racks.

The Drum Sequencer showing a two-bar, four-on-the-floor kick pattern. The lower-left 4x4 block is the rack; the top 4x8 block is the sequence; bottom right 4x4 block is the loop length/position.

Instrument Controller

Gives in-key playability complete with track arm, clip start/stop, clip delete, overdub, record, and a number of other features.
Select your key and mode then easily record melodies or chord progressions into live, loop and add to it with the overdub feature.
One drawback is that, unless you have the Launchpad Pro you won't have velocity sensitivity on the pads. (The velocity midi effect with some random can help add some unique feel and human touch to this mode)

Instrument Controller (C maj Key). A yellow pad indicates the root note; bright green is major 3rd, 5th.

Summary

This software has totally changed the way I make music with my Launchpad and I give my thanks to Henri David, the creator; and anyone who contributed to the project. If you'd like to thank Henri, he has his PayPal available on the Launchpad95 cite. I'm sure he'd appreciate your donations.

Comment if you’re digging it. I’d love to meet some other Launchpad users. I’ve spent quite some time with the Launchpad but I’m always finding cool new ways to use it.

This will serve as a fairly basic introduction. For the full info on the software refer to the manual.

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