Does anyone know anything about Novation Launchpads?

[SkepticalCat]

And can explain it to me in words of single syllables?

DS (almost 12) has asked for one for Christmas. I think he has used one at school. I understand it's a device to create music on, but it needs to be connected to a computer with some type of software??

My main questions are:

Can a launchpad be connected to an android device (either a phone or tablet)? I think an adapter is needed - what sort of adapter?

I've heard something about Ableton software, but I read the words, but nothing is going in... do you need this software to use a launchpad?

I've watched some tutorials on YouTube and some seem to connect to apps found in the PlayStore. I've had a look, and there are loads of apps. Is there an official one to use with launchpad?

I'm really keen to get DS something he wants as it is very rare he asks for anything specific at all, but want it to be easily set up, with the correct adapters/software/apps etc.

Help!!!!

Hi OP.

Can’t comment on the android connectivity just yet it’s been a few years since I bought DS a Launchpad.

They’re music controllers. You need software to create music, say with Ableton.

Www.scan.co.uk have a ‘starter’ package for £145 , search for Novation Launchpad X , it comes with Ableton Lite and a collection of sound samples.

Now for the negativity, if your DS isn’t musical I would suggest not buying. These takes many hours of almost study/practice to master and disillusionment often sets in.

Good luck.

Hi tanstaafl, many thanks for this, and thanks for the link to scan.co.uk

Hmm, DS likes music and is relatively musical, but has never learnt an instrument beyond picking out tunes on a piano, and singing. I might have a chat with the music teacher at school to assess interest and ability level!