The Future is Now!

For those of you familiar with Ableton Live, you'll know how the innovative software has managed to bridge the gap between in-studio and live performance software. Everyone from songwriters, to remixers, to producers and DJs have used the tool to push the boundries of what it means to be an electronic musician.

Part of the reason Ableton allows for so much innovation, is the way it can be dynamically and creatively controlled on the fly using any number of MIDI devices. Leading gear producers have noticed this trend, and are now starting to develop the first devices with Ableton Live in mind. Below are launch videos for two such products, one from Novation and one from Akai. Check them out for yourself. You can also see a a number of demos and tutorials by searching "Ableton Launchpad" or "Ableton APC40" on YouTube.

Ableton Live is about making music; for composition, songwriting, recording, production, remixing and live performance. Live's nonlinear, intuitive flow, alongside powerful real-time editing and flexible performance options, make it a unique studio tool and a favorite with live performers. If you'd rather be "making music" than just "using music software," Ableton Live is for you. Live 8, the latest version, includes a wealth of new techniques and improvements with a new groove engine, revamped warping, live looping, new effects, crossfades in the Arrangement View and a reworked MIDI editor.
from Ableton