Keyboards · Novation

Make your Launch Control XL (MK2)'s knobs work in GarageBand

GarageBand plays the keys, but ignores most of the 24 knobs, 8 faders and 26 buttons on the Novation Launch Control XL (MK2). KnobLink connects them: it recognises the Launch Control XL (MK2) the moment you plug it in.

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Also covers: Launch Control XL, Launch Control XL MK2.

Novation Launch Control XL (MK2)as KnobLink draws it

What each control does in GarageBand

Setup in three steps

  1. Plug in the Launch Control XL (MK2) and open KnobLink. It shows your keyboard, controls and all.
  2. Allow instrument knobs in System Settings › Accessibility, once.
  3. Restart GarageBand, only the first time. Then play.

Questions

Does the Launch Control XL (MK2) work with GarageBand?

GarageBand plays the Launch Control XL (MK2)'s keys and pads, but ignores most of its knobs and faders. KnobLink connects those too: knobs move the instrument's Smart Controls, faders set track volume, transport buttons work.

Do I need to set up the Launch Control XL (MK2) by hand?

No. KnobLink recognises the Novation Launch Control XL (MK2) by name when you plug it in and knows its factory settings. If you changed its settings, KnobLink asks you to move the changed controls once.

Does it work with Logic Pro?

KnobLink is made for GarageBand. Logic Pro has its own controller assignments.

Other Novation keyboards: FLkey 49 FLkey Mini Impulse 49 Launch Control XL 3 Launchkey 49 [MK3] Launchkey 49 MK4 Launchkey Mini [MK3] Launchkey Mini MK4 SL MkIII