Novation Launch Control XL Mk3 Review: Flagship MIDI Mixer Gets a Major Overhaul

Launch Control XL, Novation’s premier MIDI controller, has received a major upgrade in its latest edition. There have been several improvements to DAW control as well as standalone usage. Beyond that, the best part is that it’s completely customizable. As with previous editions, the Mk3 includes an array of faders, rotary knobs, and illuminated pads. While earlier versions were more optimized for Ableton Live, the Mk3 is adaptable to virtually any MIDI-compliant software. Targeted at music producers and live performers, the LC XL has been revamped to offer a modern design and streamlined workflow.

The first Launch Control XL was released back in 2014 and was an instant hit among Ableton Live users. The Mk2 version, released in 2017, brought several upgrades in build quality and integration but remained primarily a controller for Ableton Live. Eight years later, the Mk3 arrives with a major redesign and feature improvements. In addition to refined build quality, the MIDI mapping capabilities have been improved, allowing deeper integration with most DAWs. A small OLED screen has been introduced along with endless encoders. The LED feedback system has also been enhanced, improving visual navigation in dimly lit environments. Let’s take an in-depth look at what the XL Mk3 has to offer.

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2. Unboxing and First Impressions

As expected from a well-reputed company like Novation, the packaging leaves no room for criticism. The box is compact — great if, like me, you tend to carry packaging when traveling for live shows. Inside, you’ll find standard documentation, a USB-C cable, and warranty information.

Overall, the build feels sturdy. The design upgrades are striking. The knobs are now endless rotary encoders and feel smooth in operation. The faders have been slightly revamped compared to the Mk2, now offering light resistance to prevent accidental flicking — though the side numbering has been removed. The font has been updated to match Novation’s latest product line. The buttons are tactile. The newly added OLED screen is a welcome and much-needed addition. Even though it’s small, it’s sufficient to display key parameters and track info. RGB feedback has also improved, making assignments clearer during live performances.

In total, there are 24 encoders, 8 faders, and 16 assignable buttons. The Mk3 adopts a sleeker, more elegant, and minimalistic look.

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3. Connectivity

The Launch Control XL Mk3 connects via USB-C and offers plug-and-play compatibility with both computers and iOS devices (via Apple’s Camera Connection Kit). It also features a full-sized 5-pin MIDI output, allowing you to control external synths, drum machines, or modular rigs without a computer.

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4. Software Integration and Use Cases

One of the most significant updates in the Mk3 is its improved software integration with major DAWs. The controller works seamlessly with Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase, Bitwig, and more. Each DAW has specific modes and auto-assignments that make it easy to access key functions such as mixer controls and device parameters. We tested the Mk3 on Ableton Live, but almost all functions can be mapped to any DAW or setup.

When programming your DAW, there are two modes: DAW Control and DAW Mixer Mode. You can activate each by pressing the Mode button in the bottom-left section. These modes determine the knob assignments, while the faders in both modes control volume levels.

In DAW Mixer Mode, the top two encoder rows control the Send levels for the current track. The encoder LEDs light blue to match the color of the sends in Live. For more than two sends, you can use the Page buttons to navigate. The bottom knob is mapped to panning. The OLED screen proves handy here, displaying the track name and send/pan values. If you prefer not to check the screen constantly, color codes are applied: blue for left, dim white for center, and orange for right — a thoughtful touch.

In DAW Control Mode, the faders control parameters of the currently selected device or plugin (MIDI effects, audio effects, instruments). The top two rows manage up to 16 functions of the selected plugin. If you have multiple devices in one chain, you can use the Page buttons to switch between them. For example, in Ableton Live, you might tweak the cutoff of Wavetable, then page over to a phaser and adjust its dry/wet. The LC XL automatically maps controls for quick plug-and-play performance without extensive setup. You can still edit assignments if the smart controls don’t fit your workflow.

The smart controls mostly support stock plugins, but some third-party plugins integrate just as well. Even plugins not bundled with the LC XL — such as Pro-Q 3 — work efficiently. The third encoder row in DAW Control Mode handles transport and navigation tasks such as zooming, selecting tracks, loop points, markers, and tempo. For other DAWs like Cubase and Reason, the functions are broadly similar.

The buttons at the bottom retain their functions in both modes: the top row for Solo or Arm, and the bottom row for Mute or Select.

The improved software editor is also worth noting. Each knob, fader, and button is labeled with its CC value. Clicking on any control lets you adjust parameters, including minimum and maximum ranges — useful for live performance situations where you don’t want a filter cutoff to drop to zero.

You can even map buttons to keystrokes (e.g., Ctrl/Cmd + C for copy) or control streaming software like OBS.

The beauty of the Launch Control XL Mk3 is its adaptability. Electronic producers can use it for filter sweeps, delay feedback, or reverb sends; live performers can trigger, solo, or mute loops, and tweak hardware synths via MIDI Out. It integrates seamlessly into both DAW-based and hardware-heavy setups.

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5. How It Stacks Up Against Competitors

In the mixer-style MIDI controller market, the Launch Control XL Mk3’s main rivals are the Korg nanoKONTROL Studio and the Akai MIDImix. The Korg offers wireless Bluetooth operation but has smaller, less precise controls, especially for live use. The Akai is more affordable but lacks the Mk3’s build quality, RGB feedback, and deep Ableton integration.

Where the Mk3 stands out is in its combination of hardware MIDI output, robust faders, and direct DAW mapping.

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6. Price and Value

Price: $229.99

Although the Mk3 is priced higher than some competitors, its value remains uncompromised. Its versatility across DAWs and different setups is one of its strongest suits. The modern, minimalistic design upgrades further add to its appeal. Even under critical analysis, it excels at what it promises to do. The bunch of included software also adds to the value. Here’s a list of what’s included:

1. Klevgr. Fosfat
2. BABY Audio Parallel Aggressor
3. Output Movement
4. Ableton Live Lite
5. Cubase LE

More info on Novationmusic.com

7. Verdict

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