Today Novation has announced its new Launchpad Mini, calling it “the Launchpad for the iPad Generation.”

Launchpad Mini is a compact version of the Novation Launchpad, featuring 64 tricolor launch pads and 16 performance buttons that enable the user to produce and perform music with an iPad (as well as the PC or Mac) by playing loops and effects.

Launchpad Mini works with the free Launchpad iPad app to play loops and to control “DJ-style” effects. Users can also download sound packs from within the app, and, with an update, import the users’ own samples.

Launchpad Mini At A Glance:

• An ultra-portable Launchpad with the same functionality as the Launchpad S
• 64 tricolor launch pads to play loops, samples, and also control effects on iPad, PC or Mac
• Sixteen additional three-color performance buttons
• Fully integrated with Novation’s Launchpad app for iPad
• Fully powered by the iPad, and connects to any iPad via the Apple Camera Connection Kit (not included)
• Tough, compact, “trustworthy” design
• Combine with other Novation “Launch” products for broader integration with software, and with the Launchpad and Launchkey iOS apps
• Full integration with Ableton Live, just like its “bigger brother,” Launchpad S
• The same level of integration with FL Studio 11 as Launchpad S

Launchpad Mini is powered by the iPad, and to which it is connected via the Apple Camera Connection Kit (which is not included).

Additional Details

The Novation Launchpad iPad app integrates with the new Launchpad Mini, and comes with pre-loaded loops and samples for immediate use. Users can add to the collection with additional sound packs.

Launchpad Mini is bundled with the following software:

• Novation Launchkey app (for iPad)
• Novation Launchpad app (or iPad)
• Ableton Live Lite
• Novation V-Station soft synth
• Novation Bass Station soft synth
• Loopmasters sample pack

Pricing and Availability. The Launchpad Mini will be commercially available in October 2013, and is being offered at a suggested retail price of $124.99 ($99.99 street). For more information, consult the Novation website.