Standalone sequencing with Novation Launchpad Pro MkIII (w/ Micromoog, Echosystem)

Published on Feb 8, 2020 Jay Hosking

"A live, semi-improvised performance, using hardware sequencing and one synth plus some software synths. I received the Launchpad Pro MkIII this week and wanted to quickly put it through its paces as a standalone sequencer, so I hooked it up to a few VSTs (mostly free, and listed below), didn't change the key or the tempo, and just went with it. I'm happy to report that the Launchpad Pro absolutely feels like a successor to the Novation Circuit in its fast and intuitive workflow, but with a number of meaningful improvements. (Now Novation just needs to make a proper Novation update!) It's also important to note that the device feels fantastic to the touch and is very responsive. It's just a joy to play with, and I only wish it had more than its four sequencer tracks.

I'd also be remiss if I didn't mention the beautiful synth sitting next to the Launchpad Pro. The Micromoog was manufactured from 1975-1979 and was supposed to be a simple, consumer-friendly entry to Moog's lineup. But despite only having one oscillator (plus sub), it's actually packed with a bunch of features that you won't find on a Model D, like modulation via noise instead of an LFO, a variable wave shape, and pulse width modulation. I normally have a no-buy rule about vintage gear, but I tried this one in a local shop, it was on for a very fair price, and I loved the sound of it.

Launchpad Pro MkIII — Sequencing of four tracks
Moog Micromoog + Empress Effects Echosystem — Drone lead
VST instruments used:
Felt Instruments Wolno (free!) — main piano loop
Spitfire LABS (free!) — random blip, strings, piano
Synapse The Legend — bass

Written and performed within a 48-hour period, and uploaded as is, with only a little compression/limiting on the master.

https://jayhosking.bandcamp.com/"