Are the Launchpad X pads the best in the business?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

UPDATE FEB 2020: I did a new video comparing multiple launchpad x devices to multiple launchpad pro mk3 devices with some interesting results. Please check it out before buying: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGmYk6SIo7CJo8k

[@cruzkrew3057]

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[@cruzkrew3057]

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[@cruzkrew3057]

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[@lincolnzaid6695]

@Cruz Krew Glad I could help :)

[@justdope1963]

I love this channel. You specialize in something that nobody else gives enough attention to. Cheers sir.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks so much! I'm working hard on making more and better content, and comments like these are very motivating :-)

[@darondefeo]

I'm really happy you're getting more subscribers. Your channel is the best when it comes to finger drumming, good work! Cheers!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thank you!

[@benkle3000]

Got this launchpad X used recently, I can confirm that the pads feel really great, and the sensitivity and customisation is fantastic. Lots of good features/modes built in too. Using mine for logic live loops.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

UPDATE: I got remarks from users about double note triggering on the launchpad X. On my Launchpad X device, it doesnt happen more often than for example the maschine mikro mk3. It might be a little more noticeable because the softest notes the launchpad x sends out are a little louder than the ones maschine sends out. So adjusting velocity curves in your drum software to make the softest notes softer will probably help. If you get a Launchpad X that has a lot of double note triggering, even when just hitting quarter notes on one pad like some users report here below, let me know! There might be quality differences between devices.

[@maxxrosen]

I just came back to this video to ask you about this. The double-triggering is actually driving me a little batty. I've tried all three sensitivity settings and tried altering my technique. I really enjoy playing a device like this, but I'm pretty close to returning it.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

What might help is to adjust th velocity curves in your drum software a bit if that's possible. The launchpad seems to have a minimal velocity of around 25 as "softest" note. If you adjust the bottom part of the curve you can correct for this and make a very soft hit actually be very very soft and therefore less annoying. And this might sound obvious but just to be sure: it's pretty easy so accidentally hit adjacent pads because they're so small and sensitive. So some double notes might actually be caused by brushing a finger over an adjacent pad or something.

[@maxxrosen]

@@TheQuestforGroove I'm working with Novation now and I've sent them some data from MIDI-OX and Live 10. It's definitely not mis-hits on the pad. I just tapped out quarter notes on the same pad and recorded it in Live to show the doubles. Same thing in MIDI-OX. There were more double-triggers than I could hear, with velocity of 10 or less. But then I got one with velocity 36, which is when I stopped recording and looked at the data.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@maxxrosen ah, very annoying! It might be that my launchpad does this less than yours. I do have hope for a firmware update by the way. It might be fixable that way!

[@inspector-tech]

@@maxxrosen I agree. Definitely getting double hits on mine and its very noticeable. Not great. I hope this can be solved by a firmware update because I really love the hardware but this false triggering is pretty intrusive. Definitely puts it in a class below Push 2 which I previously held as the best controller (sensitivity wise) that I used ...

[@dbo514]

Hope Novation is watching these videos and makes a clean, beautiful 4x4 version with nice pads so people don't have to buy expensive Maschine and other stuff.

[@SoulSheIS]

I cosign, and of the size of the mini. Is my dream. Lol #novation

[@LukezyM]

You got Maschine Micro and Akai Studio Mk2, both for cheap and great full size pads.

[@nagynorbie]

Ordered the X as soon as it launched. First thing I did was custom map a guitar fretboard, as I'm far more comfortable with a guitar's note layout. Granted the standard note mode is not that different, but having a C instead of a B really messes up my chords. As a side note I'm really getting into finger drumming, even though I never thought I'd enjoy it. Will definitely copy your 8x8 layout.

[@zipsnap]

Awesome! There isn't enough finger drumming centralized content on the internet other than here, no way to thank you other than for me to recommend your channel to my friends, cheers!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Ah yes please do! Thanks so much for the support!

[@zipsnap]

@@TheQuestforGroove Hello! I'd like to use this opportunity to ask. Do you have any opinion on the Midifighter? Or maybe as a video idea?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@zipsnap yeah I should just buy ok ne and talk about it one day. The thing is... no velocity sensitivity. And that's sort of a dealbreaker for playing the way I play. But it sure looks like a fun device!

[@gbkiller007]

After 10 days use yeah it is great for the money and the sensitivity and aftertouch out the box are fantastic. First low - mid priced unit I haven't had to mod the pads. Well worth the money. Im getting 2 more. One for a mixer/piano one for Bass Slapper and one for AD.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yeah totally on board with that man. I think I'm going to buy another one as well. Just to have it in the pocket in case they start making them less good in the future. :-)

[@gbkiller007]

@@TheQuestforGroove Yeah it feels the same as my modded MPD218 but without having to mod it. Having 4 times the pads on one surface allows me to fit nearly a whole AD soundfont on it. Or I can have 4 controllers in 1. One for drums one for bass one for keys and a spare. I mapped out a guitar neck up to the 8th fret and man. I can play synth leads like I play my guitar. Also chords for pads are intuitive cos its layed out like a neck. Buy it before its nerfed or the price goes up!

[@HazyJ28]

"As they say.... Are they saying that?" 😂😂😂 This channel is an underrated gold mine. If the KZbin algorithm has any sense, you will be very famous very soon.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks man, got some awesome new videos in the works, who knows... they might skyrocket my fame :-)

[@BlazertronGames]

Has yours held up? I have a bad experience with the launchpad mk2. The usb connection on mine constantly disconnects at the slightest nudge, sometimes even randomly, and I have to plug in/out like 10 times until it's recognised. I sadly never took advantage of the warranty (got it almost 9 years ago), so I'm stuck with it. I probably haven't even used it for more than 5 hours, sadly. So I'm a little bit worried about putting money into a launchpad only for it to break after a few years again. I recently took out my mk2, and I liked the 8x8 pads more than I realised (after comparing them to my mpk mini mk2 pads) and I really enjoyed jamming with the ableton session controls. I'm just sad the usb is so bad on it. In my opinion, USB ports should be able to withstand thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of insertions without breaking. Launchpads are commonly use as a live device, so bad usb ports is a huge problem. I don't think it was just me either, I saw a comment saying that the mk2 (and the original LP pro) have bad usb ports that are common to fail.

[@mikeexits]

You focused on finger drumming, so I'll add some things here for anyone considering buying one: 1. Launchpads were/are primarily made for clip-launching in Ableton Live's session view like the original Akai APC-40, meaning it's great for jamming and performance (not nearly as powerful as something like Push, but I mean, that's like 3-4x more expensive). 2. You have the ability to completely customize any of 4 custom pages with fully customizable layouts of: chromatic or scaled note rows, 4x4 drum pad groups, horizontal and vertical faders (which transition slowly or quickly depending on how hard/fast you hit the pads, and also 4 possible values per pad giving you a total resolution of 32 units per fader as opposed to 8), CC messages, and patch change commands. 3. My personal favorite, and the reason I'm about to buy one: It has polyphonic aftertouch (lots of people just say "MPE" but this isn't quite full 3D MPE that you see on Roli's keyboard line for example, or the Arturia PolyBrute), which means each pad detects aftertouch (added pressure on the pad after the note is triggered, during its sustain) individually, rather than as a single parameter, usually called "channel aftertouch," like the Arturia Keystep, for example. That's another reason why the Launchpad X is so amazing to me; it gives you polyphonic aftertouch for under $200 (sells used for around $115-140 these days, quite a steal)!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks for this extra info, I really appreciate it!

[@mikeexits]

No problem. It's a great device, it deserves all the attention it can get. :) Adding to point #2, I forgot to mention that you can assign CC messages to pads as well as patch change commands. I edited it to reflect this.

[@LukezyM]

Launchpad Pro Mk3 is even better as it’s got a chord mode, sequencer and a lot of dedicated buttons for Ableton, bringing it to the Push territory.

[@sombrelux4460]

excellent video. I ordered the new mini and returned for the X after 30 minutes of playing with it...i made a very good decision.

[@benirodriguez9516]

Would love to win one! Registered already.. of course! Also, cool that Novation supports your great channel and give some giveaways for your audience. And let's hope they listen to your feedback and make a 4x4 or 5x5 with normal sized pads.. and they will have the mega winner product! Crossing my fingers for the giveaway!

[@SweetScaleTV]

Congrats on the success its well deserved... This channel is GREAT! really helped me with live performances.... Now time to go win that Launchpad X

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Haha thank you. Good luck! 25 people have signed up so far so I suspect its gonna be a crowded event :-)

[@Monster_Radio_Man]

I just can't help but notice the old Korg PadKontrol in the background. I swear those pads still hold up! Damn good controller. I got mine for $40 used at guitar center! And they play great. Very good velocity curve I think.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yeah if you can find a good one it's also a nice option!

[@joaquindolyenkomusic5005]

Hey, really thanks for your work! I was wandering if you could help me with a trouble on launchpad X: I activated the "Legacy" mode (with the purple button) and now my Session button is disabled. Do you know a way to turn launchpad X to its normal mode and functionality? Thanks, i really can't find any information anyware on the internet.

[@NEWfludd3DXL]

5:55 so do you have to fully click the button if you were gonna finger drum?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yes. They only respond when pressed. On the mini!

[@NEWfludd3DXL]

The Quest for Groove Probably not as fun as those velocity sensitive pads. Do you notice latency compared to the pads that don’t click?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@NEWfludd3DXL no no latency. It just doesnt play the way im used to at all..

[@NEWfludd3DXL]

The Quest for Groove I probably wouldn’t like it then. Trying to find an alternative to Maschine that has a better music composition interface. Might have to be the lauchpad x for the price!

[@1420beyond]

Hey Robert I noticed a typo in the giveaway page it says "...who whon". I would also like to thank you for sharing your knowledge in your style 😎 great work!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Oh haha, that's a funny mistake actually :-) thanks for the heads up. Ill fix this asap. And thank you for your kind words!

[@anatolianINVASION]

After years of messing around with modified MPD’s that never work 100% This is the best thing that happened!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I just got a launchpad pro and think it's even a tiny bit better! Just fyi

[@letmehearur8085]

I am in the exact same boat, just sold my mpd for a launchpad x.

[@harvey972]

Hey quick question. I’m an ableton user but I wanna get into the world of making beats and finger drumming. I’m choosing between the maschine mikro mk3 and the launchpad x, what would u recommend. I want something that can help me easily get my thoughts down, chord progressions and basslines, I don’t know too much musical theory so the scale mode on both would be helpful. What would u recommend. If I had enough money I would just get the standard maschine 😂

[@TheQuestforGroove]

With your planned uses of the device I would go for the launchpad x! It has great integration with ableton and it works better for more than just drumming.

[@harvey972]

How about maschine mk3 vs pro mk3

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@harvey972 that's more difficult. I think you get more bang for your buck with the pro mk3 but... some folks really love those two screens on the maschine mk3. I personally don't care for that. It's truly a workflow decision. The pads are very nice on both.

[@clownbaby9552]

Any idea if the pad technology is the same that is on the Novation SL mk3? I love finger drumming but really need a keyboard and pads in one, baby.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I only played the latest version of the launchkey mini and those pads seem to have a lot in common with the new launchpads. But I never played the sl mk3 unfortunately.

[@clownbaby9552]

The Quest for Groove cool thanks for the info. I guess I’ll find one to try out and report back.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@clownbaby9552 yes please do!

[@TechGently]

I'm Quest for Grooving and Bo Beating. I have the Novation Circuit Tracks (love it0 then grabbed a Launchkey Mini MK3, this might be my next purchase.

[@badgerandhobbes]

which is best for pro tools please

[@MediaMusik777]

i do like my poly after touch on the pros and keys its great and works good on pigments...i could see the nektar being more customizable per pad

[@dosage13]

well im sold. im upgrading from the mk1, which was pretty terrible for drumming since they were more like buttons instead of pads. awesome i dont have to spend $700 on a push for nice pads!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Great choice, wishing you lots of fun with it! The Launchpad pro mk3 is a little better even (just so you know)

[@nickfoettinger]

Great video -- especially interesting to hear the comparisons of the X to other similar devices. Since now there are new options for someone looking at grid controllers, that part was particularly interesting to me. If one did not have a grid controller and was looking to get there first one, do you think the quality of the pads makes the X a better choice than the Launchpad Pro? The Pro is only $40 more in the US at present, and since they're so close in price, and the X is newer compared to a few more features for the Pro, it's making it tough to choose between them.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

The X is better than the pro in every way!

[@kizombaonlinedateam.7729]

Hi, bro! Can you help me? My launchpad x has double click on several pads. How to fix it?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Update the firmware! That should help. Another one is turn aftertouch off and then another thing is to not use fixed velocity. De double triggers are usually very soft but with fixed velocity they will sound super loud and that makes the problem more severe than it actually is.

[@kizombaonlinedateam.7729]

@@TheQuestforGroove I'll try! Big thanks for answering and your videos!

[@free2muse]

I agree with J Stewart. Specialized, informational and hip! Just subscribed.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Awesome, welcome aboard!!

[@bastian3182]

OMG OMG OMG. Can’t wait to get, plug and play Launchpad X. I really like your content. You’re the one and only professional youtuber explaining and playing finger drums pads

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks, that's so great to hear! I'll try and keep the videos coming :-)

[@willswitchcraft]

I had previously owned a LinnStrument - sold it a year ago, and was thinking of buying another for a music project. Seeing your video really made me seriously consider buying a LPadX instead. Is there anything I would need to rethink about that? (I realize that I can't do note 'slides' the way I could on my Linn200, but I never used that feature anyway). Great review - love your energy level and enthusiasm.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey Will, I own a Linnstrument as well and I can say that for finger drumming the launchpads are better. Right now I would recommend the launchpad pro mk3 over the launchpad X because the pads are slightly more responsive. I think that for drumming and some other tasks it will make you very happy. The Linnstrument is nice but I use it for playing cello and piano and stuff like that. As soon as it gets percussive I want a controller wit 'normal' pads. :-)

[@willswitchcraft]

Thanks for your informative response. As far as the Pro Mk3, it does look interesting. I'll look a bit deeper into it. My big hesitation, is that I plan to use it for my strange art project, which includes a recumbent exorcize bike & has very limited space. You can see a photo of it at the beginning of this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJ6khWqJecedn8U

[@willswitchcraft]

PS - right now, I'm using a Joué controller, which is not quite meeting my needs, so I was thrilled to learn about the LpadX. When compared to the LinnStrument, although it's very different, I figure I could get what I need out of the Novation unit, and it's so much cheaper. Here's an ambient video I recently posted with the Joué: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpvLpYyjgraaZ7M

[@VOByRobbins]

Excellent channel, I'm a new subscriber and impressed at your finger drumming skills!!! Novation rocks, Love my circuit, but I'd love to use this x with my ipad! Thanks!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks for the kind words and welcome aboard!

[@BernardeelSound]

I bought Launchpad Pro on the release day of the X for the same price as the new X and I'm happy so far. Are there any major differences between the Pro and X? By the way, love your channel! I'm fan for quite some time (with a different account) and it's great to see that your audience is growing!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks for the kind words! To answer your question: - Launchpad pro has a midi out port. Launchpad x only has one USB c port. - Launchpad X has bigger pads that are closer together. - Launchpad X pads are quite a lot more sensitive than the X. - The X is 2x thinner than the pro. - The x has the possibility to create your own custom pad layouts.

[@BernardeelSound]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thanks! The custom pad layout is the feature I miss the most at the moment. Still Pro is a great device and I'm glad to have it, but I wouldn't be mad if I win the giveaway :)

[@Condimenting]

You might want to review the Djj xp2. 2 4x4 kits with touch strips in the same unit.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks for the tip!

[@brunolacerda4611]

@questforgroove what do you recommend to buy, what's your advice: should I buy Launchpad X or Maschine mikcro Mk3 for practicing finger drumming?

[@vasilleyotroshchenko1405]

Thank you. Your work is beautiful. What your personal choice between Maschine Mikro Mk3 and Launchpad X?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yeah difficult. For the pads I'd get launchpad but drumming on big 4x4 pads is way easier! And maschine mikro is still a good device. So it depends on if you think you can drum on smaller pads.

[@vasilleyotroshchenko1405]

Thank you! I will testing both.@@TheQuestforGroove

[@Calming_Corner_Cafe]

Hello, I have been watching your tutorials they are really great! Thanks a lot! I got a question, I have bought Launchkey Mini Mk3 and the launchpad X, but strangely it turns out that the small pads on launchkey mini mk3 are way more sensitive than those on launchpad X. I don't know if you have encountered the same situation or it's only due to the product quality... I have to decide to keep or return it. Thank you again!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Theres an option to change the velocity sensitivity of the pads on the launchpad x. I would try that first if I were you! See manual over here. www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=customer.novationmusic.com/sites/customer/files/downloads/Launchpad%2520X%2520-%2520User%2520Guide.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwihzpC92ZTnAhVDLewKHa5DD6IQFjAOegQIBBAC&usg=AOvVaw0fkgEPa-fF99MtX-IXf0tb

[@Calming_Corner_Cafe]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thank you！Really helped me a lot

[@shoeengine1161]

not sure how i missed this vid. good stuff! i actually need another controller for on the go. since this thing has great pad sensitivity and the pads are customizable... i think its a no brainer.

[@ianrobinson9802]

Would the Launchpad X be suitable for triggering drums in EZDrummer 2 (Standalone or in Logic Pro), or would a Maschine MK3 or Maschine Mikro 4x4 pad be a better choice?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

You can use it for that yes. Because you configure the notes of each pad in custom mode it will work. Ez drummer doesnt have midi learn so that's why changing the notes on the controller itself is sort of required. But with that said, the mikro mk3 and big maschine mk3 also have this option so they're basically all a good choice. The choice depends on how comfortable you are playing on small pads. I would personally just get a 4x4 as my main kit and then have an 8x8 as my extra fun kit :-)

[@ianrobinson9802]

@@TheQuestforGroove Brilliant. Thanks for the replay and advice 👍🏻

[@ianrobinson9802]

@@TheQuestforGroove Got the LaunchPad X and EZdrummer talking to each other perfectly. Happy days. I can now play the Vintage Rock 1978 kit in EZDrummer 2. Thanks for the help!

[@mercedesescobarmusic]

Do you know if the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 has the same quality of drumpads as this one? (even if smaller). I'm thinking maybe a launchkey might be the way to go for me, as drums are not my focus, but I still need to feature them in songs...

[@TheQuestforGroove]

It does not. No velocity sensing at all. Just 8x8 small buttons to press.

[@NularMusic]

I've been using my Launchpad Pro for years and its velocity response feels just perfect to me (better than the Push 2). Looks like the X might be better than perfect. Scary. Am I even ready for this?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Haha it's funny that this video now gets a little bit of a Halloween vibe. The launchpad x is scarily good! Spookily accurate... almost as if it has "a mind of it's own?!?!?"

[@samprock]

Great vid and great device Rob! Sensitivity is very there enjoying it. Just want to wake up when X has..... some knobs to have one stop controller for music making, not just drumming. Maybe X Pro comes up as well? I am all for 8x8 (for scale notes, so cannot stop on Maschines) And yes totally agree if it had bigger Mikro pad. ..... Maybe 4-8 Circuit is coming? :)

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yeah some knobs would be great. And some bigger pads... omg then were done :-)

[@LochlainnMacLock]

Love your channel. Much value received. Keep it up! I’ll become a patron when I can.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Wonderful, thanks for the support!!

[@monch1962]

Hi Rob, love your channel and site. What app would you recommend for finger drumming with the LaunchPad X and an iPad? That hardware combination seems like it'd be a really nice mix of portability and features IF there's a good iPad app for finger drumming that supports the X's velocity sensitivity.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey David. I have been messing around with my old ipad mini and this program called "beatmaker 3". What I found was that i needed external power because the ipad could not power the device and i did notice a little bit too much latency for live playing. My guess is that this will get better over time with newer iPads. A bit like how you couldn't do music production on a laptop a decade ago and now it's 100% fine. I think right now, if you're willing to mess around and experiment and stuff an ipad combo with something like beatmaker 3 will be a lot of fun but you'll probably want to go and use a computer for "serious" stuff. Maybe an ipad pro is different? Not sure...

[@monch1962]

@@TheQuestforGroove Nice - thank you. I picked up my LaunchPad X a few hours ago and now it's time to experiment. Please don't stop posting videos

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I will keep going!

[@officialyourdad2342]

how does the buttons compare to the Push 2?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

They're smaller, but I personally think they respond even better than the push 2!

[@officialyourdad2342]

The Quest for Groove thank you 🙏

[@TheLugdunum69]

Thanks for all your advices ! You really help me a lot. Also, I'm wondering : for finger drumming on travel, with an android Phone, what do you use ? I can't find any midi controller... I have an old mpc 500, but something smaller and newer would be great (and i dont take any laptop with me). Best !

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I'm not using tablets of phones yet because of latency issues. It might be that a new ipad pro will be good enough but I'm not sure...

[@TheLugdunum69]

@@TheQuestforGroove thank you for your answer ! So you don't have any "travel machine"? I also thought about roli at one moment but it's not working with android and you canno't use your own samples. It seems that i'm stuck with my good ol'mpc500... 😏 (and her terrible pads)

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@TheLugdunum69 no my travel machine is my laptop with my normal maschine hooked up to it. One portable option would be the zendrum with a Stompblock but that costs like $1500 and it's just for playing, not for recording

[@ingeneriaolvera552]

I got the launchpad x mini its coming next week

[@hysyanzrecords]

Always wondered how to use one of these

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I also did a video about an 8x8 drumming layout two weeks ago. Might be interesting to watch if you haven't seen it already :-) kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6bGc5WEmtZ1obc

[@barankaypakoglu7643]

Seems to me that you are being sponsored by Novation to advertise the tool :) Are the pads up to par with Push-2 ?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yes they are. I do think the Launchpad pro mk3 (which was not released at the time this video was made) is probably the best way to go at this time. If you want an 8x8. The Launchpad X pads don't seem to have the same consistent quality all the time. Also watch this vid, in which I did some more thorough testing: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGmYk6SIo7CJo8k

[@barankaypakoglu7643]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thanks for your reply!

[@deroden724]

Do you know if these pads the same size as on the new Launchpad Pro MK3? I suppose I could go to Guitar Center and compare since the boxes usually aren't tape shut on Novation products.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Haha, I have to check as soon as I can buy a launchpad pro over here. I think they're the same size but I dont know for sure emailing novation should work too!

[@deroden724]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thanks. How about compared to a Push 2? Are the X's size smaller? Asking because I have a Push 2.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@deroden724 yes the x pads are quite a bit smaller!

[@deroden724]

@@TheQuestforGroove Ah okay thanks. Maybe not a big deal that they are smaller because to be honest I can't play with two fingers on a Push 2 pad anyway. What's really drawing me to the X is the custom mode because then I can put effects (Ableton devices, for example) on pads next to the drum rack - so like one pad for a sample reverse effect, another a momentary reverb, another for a momentary repeat/looper/stutter kind of effect, and so on. I can't map the pads in Push 2 like that. I'd have to use the encoders, which is much harder when finger drumming, or use a second midi controller. Anyways, I'm excited about the X and gonna give it a try. Would have never considered it until I saw your video. Thanks!

[@morten1]

Yeah I'm gonna return my Maschine Mikro MK3 and get the Launchpad X instead. The Maschine Mikro is nice (and good compact size), but I don't like to be locked to using Native's software. Sure you can edit and use a few basic things when using it in midi-mode. But outside Maschine software it's quite crippled and then it's just some decent pads. Also, no scales etc. like on the X. I like to be free and have options. And more pads ;)

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Have you also seen my comparison between the launchpad x and the launchpad pro mk3? Might be interesting!

[@morten1]

@@TheQuestforGroove Hi. I'm not sure.. which video is it?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGmYk6SIo7CJo8k

[@morten1]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thanks :) I think I'll stick with the X. The Pro is too big for my desk and the bigger price doesn't give me much I really need. Chord mode is maybe the thing I will miss most on the X, but I can use Cubase chord helper or the "Scaler 2" plugin. I do really look forward to use the Launchpad X scale mode. Seems like the perfect drumpad/controller all in all for now at that low price. Cheers

[@sebastianmse]

One probably silly question (or not) do you know why there's no 5x5 or 6x6 or even 5x6? Keep rocking!!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I think mostly because the original mpc designed by Roger linn in the 80s was 4x4 and folks got used to that?

[@kaiiraofficial]

Appreciate your content alot! This definetly helped me choose which pads I could start with. ^^ I found out about the term "finger drumming" 2 days ago and I'm currently searching for the best equipment that has a good balance in between price and quality. I've been drumming on everything with my fingers (even without music) for years, so I wanted to do something with it. (also played a game called Osu and played drums on my keyboard, playing genres such as: Psytrance, drum n bass, metalcore and others. My other thing I want to study is how to play the drums with triggers and make the toms create a synth sound to create melodies and drum at the same time ^^. Maybe this idea could inspire you to make a video about this concept (I didn't find any videos about it anywhere yet). P.S. I live in The Netherlands too!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey thanks for the kind words and suggestions and so cool you're a fellow dutchman! I'll write your suggestion down. Good luck and have fun playing!

[@kaiiraofficial]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thanks, you too!

[@pat-enz]

I got the Mini. I use it to fire scenes in Ableton. The pads are really too small for anything else for me..

[@tobyw.1688]

Are the pads as hard as the ones on the Launchpad Pro? I mean, do your fingers hurt aftee drumming😂?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Well, because they respond better than the pro i tap them softly so my fingers don't hurt. :-) but they're just as hard as the pro yes.

[@eviltroops]

i like your expression when you drop it.. so funny! lol..

[@thomasbass5032]

Awesome video, zeer informatief zoals altijd!! Thanks for sharing!! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Dankjewel Thomas!

[@ahumanonplanetearth]

Is the MPC One any good for finger drumming?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Havent played it because its hard to come by here. My guess is it will be good. Just like the mpc live with smaller pads. But i dont know for sure at this point :-(

[@TheMetaldudeX]

How usable is it with a daw that’s not Ableton?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Very. You can customize each pad and it's just a fully functional midi controller in any daw. I use cubase myself.

[@thepadsmasher3103]

I own a Push 2 and the X can certainly hold it's own. If you don't have one, GET ONE! The only thing that bothers me is the nubs on 4 of the pads.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Ah yes, I noticed the nubs yesterday. Would that be for blind / visually challenged people being able to have some sort of reference? If that's the case it would be pretty considerate... bit it have no idea.

[@myjima]

​@@TheQuestforGroove You are right it's to support blind / visually challenged people :-)

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@myjima haha, well I won't complain then and be grateful to be blessed with good eyesight :-)

[@johnclements5535]

So you have to have Ableton Live to use this? It can't be used as a standalone midi controller?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

No it can be used as a generic midi controller. I dont use Live. I used Cubase :-)

[@johnclements5535]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thanks, there was a comment on Sweetwater that someone wasn't able to get it to work with non-Ableton stuff even with sweetwater tech support help, and Novation support was no help. I looked through their programming manual and it indeed looks possible to do - is it straightforward to set it up with another DAW? Or is there some deeper midi programming involved? I use Reaper and SD3 standalone.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@johnclements5535 nothing. Just works out of the box as a regular midi controller. The person with the problem probably doesnt know how to select midi inputs :-)

[@johnclements5535]

@@TheQuestforGroove OK Thanks! I hadn't seen this review and already bought an MPD218 which is OK, but I'm not completely happy with the sensitivity and the position of those knobs is not great for finger drumming. But if you're saying this is several levels up for only $90 more...

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@johnclements5535 the only thing I heard from other users was double note triggering in the launchpad x. It seems to be less bad in my controller than in theirs so there might be fluctuations in quality. I'll keep an eye on the developments, but for now: yes get a launchpad x and it will probably be a major step up!

[@MrFullCake]

Well i really like your honesty, and your way of teaching things. I don't know why but you seem a very genuine person. I subscribe to your channel, and i will subscribe to your site lessons when i get the pads Im pretty sure your channel will get the attention it deserves with time :)

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Welcome aboard and thank you for your kind words. I'm confident the channel will keep growing. I'm very happy with my 10.000 subscribers honestly :-) when I started I had no idea that would be possible.

[@reycaribe]

Would you get the lp x over the lp pro mk2?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

yes! the x is wayy better. Also in terms of features.

[@reycaribe]

​@@TheQuestforGroove even with the pro features with the lp pro mk2? I know the mk 2 pro is older but I was thinking it still has extra functionality over the lp x.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

It depends on what youre looking for. But the new launchpads have custom layouts for example. Older launchpads only have built in modes that cannot be easily changed.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Anf the pads of the x are much better

[@benjaminlee878]

Midi fighter 64?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Cool device, but does not have velocity sensitivity. So all hits will be the same loudness.

[@kazamiyuuji9315]

Wow to top the maschine for you, it must be really good lol so maschine type of quality to the pads and twice the amount of them? thats like a dream come true i wonder if id be able to take advantage of all the pads tho lol, im certainly not an amazing drummer to make use of a similar layout to the one u did in the previous vid, but i may take another route with it, use it with different plugin instances with different kits on it but the same layout is replicated, it'd work flawlessly considering they offer changing the outputted notes

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yeah that's a good idea. I've also created this 4x4 layout on it where I skipped one row between the kicks and the rest of the pad. So it's sort of a 5x5 layout with one 'dead' row (the second one). Then it starts to feel a lot more like a 4x4 with bigger pads simply because the distance between thumb and fingers is more comfortable.

[@kazamiyuuji9315]

oh that sounds wonderful yeah i'd imagine so as well cause a bit less stress on the fingers not being cramped too close to each other

[@오재화-d6l]

Tbh for me midi fighter 64 although its not pressure sensitive but the button is fun

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yeah, I should buy one too... those buttons seem like a very cool experience to play.

[@henrikandersen4777]

is the lUNCHPd pro mk3 same pads?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yes, the pro mk3 pads are slightly smaller but almost unnoticeable. And they're more sensitive. I think comparing the x to the pro mk3, the pro gives you what you pay for. A little more quality! So if you can afford it, get the pro mk3 over the X

[@prathamnaik9769]

I want this

[@skibaa1]

So pity I missed this giveaway in November! I am the one to blame: I did not press the bell button, just subscribed. Lesson learned, hope you spin another giveaway :)

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I will!

[@GhostShipPartIV]

Be a solid upgrade from my old MPD32!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yeah for sure!

[@nathanksimpson]

I am imagining a device that could be used to trigger only one pad at a time that is the size of four and could be placed over the Launchpad X. I am sure someone with a 3D-printer could make it.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey that's not a bad idea! I guess it can be done... and then just set the notes of 4 pads to the same output.

[@Izzy.phenom]

Leeets go !! I want that novation paddddddd :D

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Sign up is open, so go for it! Good luck :-)

[@nejclavrencic6182]

We can do it! We almost hit 10000 subscribers! 😁😁😆😆😆

[@Fonkemman]

Please make another giveaway for that. I am so late for this 🤣🤣

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Well, being late does not have to be a problem. If you invent a time machine you can just go back and win that Launchpad! :-)

[@Fonkemman]

@@TheQuestforGroove 😆😆😆

[@ihufttwinner]

dope video hope I will

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks. You missed the last word there but I bet its: "win that launchpad x so i can make some awesome music with it". I hope so too!

[@soput2]

Good luck everybody. Hope I win that thing :D

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hahaha:-)

[@prathamnaik9769]

I am waiting 😍 thank you for giveaway

[@prathamnaik9769]

Waiting

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I'll draw a winner by the end of the day. Its morning over here still :-)

[@prathamnaik9769]

@@TheQuestforGroove winner?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@prathamnaik9769 Hey I sent everyone an email! Maybe it got marked as spam because it was sent to 400 people at once. From my patrons a girl named Annika won and from the KZbin contest a guy named Stan. So I'm afraid it was not you! Tou had a very small chance obviously. 1 out of 400 are bad odds! I'm sorry, but I had to draw a random winner for the lottery to be fair!

[@prathamnaik9769]

@@TheQuestforGroove ok

[@ole_rsl]

love the video, but disliked it because of this annoying count down... I was here cause I wanted to listen to information, not for the giveaway. could have done it in another video... it seems to me like the first 5 min were just time filler to finally get to the giveaway. Hope that you'll focus on the actual content, rather then the giveaway.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey thanks for the feedback. After the giveaway is over the countdown probably feels extra annoying because it sdoesnt servwe a purpose. I still think the info in the video is useful though!

[@felicitydeikos5250]

My aren't you cute, the man in the video, not the launch pad. I've been a dj for all my life. I do know about lauch pads, Abelton, but I don't use them.

[@prathamnaik9769]

Plz Give me

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Sign up and I'll draw a lucky winner. Obviously no promises. Itll be a random draw.

[@prathamnaik9769]

@@TheQuestforGroove ok

[@gkillmaster]

Thank you SO much. You have the answers I seek!