Fun on the go

If youre looking for an app that gives you great control, this is not it. This app is for creating quick beats by lining up sounds and loops, removing everything else from the formula. It does this well due to its intuitive, responsive interface, and is so simple to use a chimp could probably do it. Totally serious. Thats a compliment.

To the person who said youre not a musician if you use premade samples: theres an option to import your own samples, plus keep in mind creating/recording sounds is less than half of the battle; arrangement is a big part of production. With live music, its also a bit like conducting, and, depending on your level of involvement with the pads, potentially playing an instrument.

This is not a full digital audio workstation, nor should it strive to be. Its focus on creating stuff in the quickest way possible over precision and control is exactly why it shines. It may not be the ideal tool for producing a detailed multilayered end product, but a fun app for throwing together catchy beats when youre bored or waiting for a plane to dock? I think so.

Add the ability to swap pads, and simple editing tools for imported audio (like trim), and youve got yourself 5 stars.

connorhawke.com about Launchpad - Music & Beat Maker, v5.6