New plugin offers over 80 sampled presets from classic Novation, Sequential, and Oberheim synths
Novation has announced the release of a new virtual instrument called Novation Play, available exclusively to users of its Launchkey MK4 MIDI controller range. Developed in partnership with Swedish software company Klevgrand, the plugin features over 80 presets sampled from iconic analogue and digital synthesizers.
Designed to integrate with the hardware controls of the Launchkey MK4, Play aims to provide a more tactile and immediate music-making experience. The instrument is now available as a free download for both new and existing Launchkey MK4 owners.
Hybrid workflow
The plugin features one-to-one mapping with the MK4’s encoders and pads, allowing users to manipulate presets and effects directly from the controller. Visual feedback from colour-coded pads and pre-mapped controls aims to reduce reliance on a mouse and screen.
According to Novation, the instrument was built from a curated library of multisampled sounds drawn from its own legacy instruments – including the Bass Station II, Nova, and Peak – as well as vintage gear from Sequential and Oberheim, such as the Prophet 5 and OB-6. These sounds are presented in categories such as bass, leads, pads, FX, and drum kits, and can be browsed via a dedicated in-app preset browser.
What else
In addition to its core preset library, Play features a range of onboard effects accessible from the Launchkey MK4’s pads. Users can trigger up to four FX – Chorus, Cassette, Spinner, and Freeze – in real time, along with a dedicated reverb, delay, and single-knob compressor.
Play can operate either as a standalone desktop application or as a plugin (VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats) within major DAWs. Sound selection is also hardware-driven, with Launchkey’s encoder buttons used to scroll through presets. Once downloaded, the software becomes part of the existing Launchkey MK4 bundle, which includes instruments from Native Instruments, GForce, and Orchestral Tools, along with DAW licenses and learning tools.
The move strengthens Novation’s software ecosystem and offers added value to MK4 users, positioning the controller as more than just a MIDI input device. Play will not be available for earlier Launchkey generations. New and existing owners of Launchkey MK4 can download it now from “My Software” in their account.
Find out more on Novation.
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