Novation

Description

Take full control of your music without reaching for a mouse—the Novation Launch Control 3 MIDI controller puts 16 endless rotary encoders, eight assignable buttons and a crisp OLED display directly under your fingertips. Designed to add intuitive, hands-on control to DAWs, plug-ins and hardware instruments, this compact controller blends deep integration with flexible customization in a streamlined desktop format. With USB-C connectivity, 5-pin MIDI In/Out and Out2/Thru ports, seven storable Custom Modes and seamless compatibility with major production platforms, Launch Control 3 is built to anchor modern studio, hybrid and live performance workflows. Whether you’re shaping a mix, automating parameters or controlling external synths, this robust MIDI controller delivers tactile precision in a highly portable footprint.

Premium Feel and Real-Time Visual Feedback

Redesigned from the ground up, Launch Control 3 emphasizes tactile control and visual clarity. Sixteen smooth-turning endless encoders provide consistent resistance and accurate parameter control, while RGB LEDs communicate status at a glance. The integrated OLED display shows detailed, real-time parameter information directly above your hands, reducing guesswork and minimizing the need to reference your computer screen. Mode-aware editing ensures that sequencing, arpeggiation, custom mappings and DAW control feel intuitive and immediate. The overall layout balances power and simplicity, keeping your workflow focused and efficient.

Deep DAW Integration and Creative Workflow Control

Launch Control 3 is engineered for tight, responsive integration with Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase and more—with Mackie HUI support extending compatibility across additional platforms. The 16 endless encoders provide smooth parameter adjustment with adjustable acceleration curves and RGB status indicators, making it easy to manage track levels, panning, sends, plug-in parameters and session navigation. Eight assignable buttons allow quick access to solo, mute, arm, track focus or custom MIDI commands, while the OLED display provides real-time feedback exactly where you need it. The result? Faster decision-making, cleaner automation and a more immediate connection between creative intent and execution.

Flexible Custom Modes for Hardware and Hybrid Setups

Beyond DAW control, Launch Control 3 excels as a hardware command surface. Using Novation Components, you can create and store up to seven Custom Modes, mapping MIDI parameters to encoders and buttons for synths, drum machines, effects processors and modular gear. Comprehensive MIDI routing and filtering via 5-pin MIDI In/Out and Out2/Thru allow it to function with or without a computer connected. For hybrid environments, it becomes a central bridge—controlling software instruments in your DAW while simultaneously sending MIDI data to external hardware. This adaptability makes it equally suited to studio production, live rigs and compact touring setups.

Professional Connectivity and Standalone Operation

Launch Control 3 is designed to integrate effortlessly into modern workflows. USB-C provides bus-powered operation and class-compliant MIDI connectivity with Mac, Windows and iOS devices, while full-size 5-pin MIDI ports support direct hardware communication. The addition of Out2/Thru expands routing flexibility for complex MIDI chains. Its compact chassis includes a Kensington security slot for installed environments, and the rugged build supports repeated transport between sessions and shows. Whether placed beside a laptop, embedded into a hardware rig or used as a performance controller, it delivers reliable operation with minimal setup complexity.

Creative Software and Effortless Setup

Launch Control 3 includes a suite of production-ready software to get you creating immediately. Ableton Live 12 Lite provides clip-based recording and performance tools, while Cubase LE 14 offers multitrack recording and editing capabilities. Additional plug-ins from Klevgrand, Baby Audio and Output expand your sonic palette with transient shaping, saturation and rhythmic modulation tools. Plus, Novation’s Easy Start web tool simplifies installation and setup, ensuring quick driver configuration and software access. For producers and performers seeking expanded control, streamlined mapping and portable flexibility, the Novation Launch Control 3 MIDI controller delivers deeper command without sacrificing portability.

Novation Launch Control 3 MIDI Controller
Novation Launch Control 3 MIDI Controller
Novation Launch Control 3 MIDI Controller

Features

  • Hands-on MIDI controller streamlines studio, live and hybrid workflows
  • Sixteen endless encoders deliver precise control over mix and plug-in parameters
  • OLED display provides real-time visual feedback for confident adjustments
  • Seven Custom Modes enable fast recall of personalized MIDI mappings
  • USB-C and 5-pin MIDI integrate DAW and hardware in one setup
  • Eight assignable buttons speed up track control, solo, mute and more
  • Standalone operation supports direct control of external MIDI gear
  • Bundled Ableton Live Lite and Cubase LE jump-start music production

Specs

General
  • Product type: USB MIDI controller
  • Model: Launch Control 3
  • Bus powered: Yes
  • Security: Kensington security slot
Controls
  • Encoders: 16 endless rotary encoders
  • RGB LEDs: 16
  • Assignable buttons: 8
  • Page buttons: 2
  • Track buttons: 2
  • Shift button: 1
  • Mode button: 1
  • Function button: 1
  • Display: OLED
MIDI
  • MIDI input: 1 × 5-pin DIN
  • MIDI output: 1 × 5-pin DIN
  • MIDI out2 and thru: 1 × 5-pin DIN
  • Custom modes: 7 user-defined modes
Connectivity
  • USB: USB Type-C
Software Compatibility
  • Operating system: Class compliant with macOS, Windows and iOS
Included Software
  • Software: Ableton Live 12 Lite and Cubase LE 14
  • Additional plug-ins: Klevgrand Fosfat, Baby Audio Parallel Aggressor and Output Movement
Power
  • Power supply: USB bus powered
  • External power supply: Not included
Included Accessories
  • Accessories: 4.9' USB-C to USB-A cable

Warranty

All Novation products are built to the highest standards and are designed to provide many years of reliable performance. In the event of a manufacturing defect becoming evident during the warranty period, Novation will ensure that the product is repaired or replaced free of charge. The warranty for any product purchased on or after January 1, 2018. is a period of 36 months from the date of original purchase. The warranty period for products purchased on or prior to December 31, 2017, is 24 months from the date of original purchase.

A manufacturing defect is defined as a defect in the performance of the product as described and published by Novation. A manufacturing defect does not include damage caused by post-purchase transportation, storage or careless handling, nor damage caused by misuse.

While this warranty is provided by Novation, it is fulfilled by Novation’s distribution partner in the country in which you purchased the product. To contact Novation's local distribution partner regarding a warranty issue, go to their website. They will advise you of the appropriate procedure for resolving the warranty issue. Note that many of the products returned under warranty are found not to exhibit any hardware fault at all. In the case of operational interruption, it’s worth checking other factors, such as cables, drivers, software settings, and the like, prior to returning your hardware. Contact Novation support.

In every case, you will need to provide a copy of the original invoice or store receipt to Novation’s local distribution partner. In the event that you are unable to provide proof of purchase, you should request a copy of your receipt. If you purchase a Novation product outside your normal country of residence, Novation’s distribution partner in your normal country of residence will not be able to honor this limited warranty, although you may request an out-of-warranty chargeable repair.

This warranty is in addition to your statutory rights in the country of purchase.

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