The third generation of the Launch Control XL updates a classic MIDI controller with an OLED screen, 5‑pin DIN MIDI In/Out/Thru, eight 60 mm faders, 24 RGB LED encoders, 16 assignable buttons and transport controls. A credible bridge between DAW production, hardware setups and mobile rigs.
Why it matters in 2025
The Launch Control XL 3 (also referred to as MK3) is appearing across “Best Studio Gear 2025” lists as one of the most useful DAW controllers for streamlining a modern workflow: it covers in‑the‑box mixing, controls plug‑ins, orchestrates external MIDI gear and can switch to a lightweight mobile configuration. For home and semi‑pro studios, it’s an affordable and coherent centrepiece.
What’s new compared with previous generations
- 128 px OLED screen: direct visual feedback (parameters, pages, focus) without relying on your computer screen.
- 5‑pin DIN MIDI (In / Out / Out2-Thru): control of DAWless expanders, effects and synths, or hybrid rigs.
- Dedicated transport controls: Play/Stop, Record, track navigation and page switching built in.
- Up to 15 custom modes: multiple mappings for DAWs, plug‑ins and hardware, switchable instantly.
- 24 endless RGB LED encoders + 8 x 60 mm faders + 16 assignable buttons: a clear triptych for levels, pans, sends and FX macros.
- DAW scripts included (Ableton Live 12+, Logic Pro 11+, Cubase 12+, FL Studio, Bitwig) and class compliant over USB‑C.
Adding OLED and DIN MIDI moves the LCXL from a “simple mix controller” to a genuine nerve centre for hybrid studios and mobile rigs.
Quick specs
- Controls: eight 60 mm faders, 24 endless encoders (RGB LED), 16 buttons, dedicated transport, 2 function buttons, 2 pages.
- Display: monochrome OLED screen.
- DAW integration: Ableton, Logic, Cubase, FL Studio, Bitwig (scripts).
- Connectivity: USB‑C (bus‑powered), MIDI DIN In / Out / Out2-Thru, Kensington.
- Included software: Ableton Live Lite + Klevgrand, Baby Audio and Output plug‑ins.
- Dimensions / weight: 250 × 239 × 43 mm; 0.92 kg.
DAW integration and real‑world mapping
Two DAW encoder modes let you switch between mix (faders, pans, sends) and device (8 to 16 plug‑in parameters per page) with visual feedback on the OLED and LED rings. The supplied scripts provide direct access to essential functions (navigation, zoom, loop).
Suggested mappings for a smooth home‑studio workflow:
- Mix page: faders = tracks 1–8; encoder row 1 = pan; row 2 = Send A (reverb); row 3 = Send B (delay). Buttons = Mute/Solo/Arm.
- Device page: 8 macro controls for your chain (EQ → compressor → saturation → space). A second page for fine parameters.
- Cues/Monitor page: sends to artist headphones (for tracking), with fader pickup enabled for smooth, jump‑free transitions.
- Hardware mode: via DIN, control a 19″ delay/reverb (Program Change + CC) or an expander (faders = part volumes, encoders = filter/resonance/ADSR).
Workflow impact: semi‑pro and hybrid studios
The LCXL 3 speeds up repetitive in‑the‑box moves (balances, simple automation, FX macros) while opening the door to hybrid scenarios: one hand on the DAW, the other on a multi‑FX or synth, all locked to MIDI Clock. The screen and 15 modes cut down keyboard/mouse back‑and‑forth; you stay focused on listening and balance.
On the move, its compact size (0.92 kg, bus‑powered) makes it ideal for quick sessions: editing stems, pre‑mixing a live show, headphone balances in the green room, instant tear‑down and re‑plug on a laptop.
Concrete use cases
- Fast session mixing: faders for groups (Drums, Bass, Music, Vox, FX, Print, Ref, Click), encoders for pan/sends, transport right under your fingers.
- Bridge from tracking to post: set balances and basic automation during recording, keep the same pages for editing.
- DAWless/hybrid: control a hardware chain (delay, reverb, compressor) via CC/PC while keeping DAW transport and navigation.
- Compact live setup: stem level control + FX macros for vocals and instruments without touching the trackpad.
Price, availability and compatibility (France/Europe)
- Novation RRP: €229.99 (manufacturer’s website). Pre‑orders announced with shipping from early January. Free delivery, 3‑year Novation warranty.
- FR/EU retailers: spotted at €219 at Thomann, in stock at the time of writing (ref. 615663), with Thomann 3‑year warranty.
- Compatibility: class‑compliant USB‑C (Mac/Windows), script‑based integration for Ableton/Logic/Cubase/FL/Bitwig, DIN MIDI for standalone hardware.
Getting started: practical tips
- Install the scripts for your DAW (or enable its dedicated mode) and check the control‑surface port.
- Create 3 to 5 core pages (Mix, Device, Cues, Master/Print, Hardware) in Novation Components to cover 90% of your use.
- Standardise your LED colours (e.g. green = pan, blue = send A, purple = send B) so you can identify pages at a glance.
- Enable fader pickup to avoid value jumps during automation passes.
FAQ
Does it work without a computer?
Yes. Thanks to the DIN MIDI ports (In/Out/Out2-Thru), the LCXL 3 can control hardware synths and effects. USB‑C is used for power and DAW control.
Which DAWs does it integrate with directly?
Scripts are provided for Ableton Live 12+, Logic Pro 11+, Cubase 12+, FL Studio and Bitwig, with transport, navigation and device control.
What does version 3 add compared with older versions?
An OLED screen, DIN MIDI ports (In/Out/Thru), dedicated transport controls, up to 15 custom modes and RGB LEDs on the encoders for clear visual feedback.
Can it be powered over USB only?
Yes, it is bus-powered via USB‑C. No power supply is required.
