It is important to select the best possible MIDI controller currently on the market. Thus, you should read the following Novation Impulse 49 review, if you want to make certain that this is the right model for you.
The review takes a look at the basic, unusual, and important features to determine just how well they measure up. This will help you determine if the Impulse 49 fits the bill for what you require. Let’s begin.
Specs – At a Glance
The first thing that you should be aware of is what this model has to offer. Here is a quick rundown of the included features:
- 8 endless encoders (infinite rotation)
- Custom blue-backlit LCD display
- Pitch bend and modulation wheels
- 6 function buttons (4 with LED indicators)
- 8 multi-color big backlit velocity sensitive drum pads
- MIDI In and MIDI Out din sockets
- Expression pedal 1/4” jack socket
- Arpeggiator with tap tempo and roll
- 2 octave / transpose buttons
- 49 note velocity sensitive piano style console with convertible aftertouch
- 9 sliders (49 & 61 note) 1 slider (25 note)
- 6 dedicated transport controls
- 3 control switch keys with LEDs (25 note) 4 control switch keys with LEDs (49 & 61 note)
- 9 solo / mute buttons plus toggle button (49 & 61 note)
- USB B 2.0
- DC power socket
- Sustain pedal 1/4” jack socket
- Kensington security slot
From these features alone, it is clear that the Impulse 49 is an excellent example of the new standard of MIDI controllers. In particular, this device has been designed with computer musicians in mind, ensuring that their most fundamental needs are met. Thus, it is safe to say that this model is one of the best specimens on multi-purpose control.
The Design
Typically, the aesthetic appeal of a MIDI controller wouldn’t appear to be that important. However, it can be rather significant for those performing in public. It is always a nice touch when your instrument has some added flair.
An interesting design element of this device is that it manages to toe the line between retro and contemporary. As such, it is definitely interesting looking and unlike most of what you will find on the market. What’s more, while the various aspects of the control panel may look chunky, it is actually laid out in a very manageable manner.
The Keyboard
As the name suggests, this particular keyboard has 49 keys – there are two other versions as well, 25 and 69 respectively. The 49 appears to be the most popular model by far, but the other models have a similar set up to this one.
This MIDI keyboard is synth-weighted or semi-weighted. As such, the Impulse 49 is a step up from other MIDI controllers. The semi-weighted keys offer up some semblance of an acoustic piano, while still allowing you to have a lighter touch when using the keyboard.
As for the aftertouch feature, this is quite useful when both of your hands are busy on the keyboard. Simply by using touch, you can allow for greater expression in your music. Thus, you don’t have to worry about trying to do several things at once.
The Controls
For this price point, the Impulse 49 actually has an impressive number of controls. In fact, it has a greater number of knobs, faders, and pads than many other of the models around. Let’s take a look at how well each of these functions works.
Faders and Knobs
When handling the faders, you can feel just how easy they are to adjust. For the most part, they are meant for volume levelling and as such, can be allocated to individual tracks. At the same time, they can be mapped to other elements such as layer volumes, filters, or sounds.
The knobs perform a similar function. These are really fun to play around with and you can get the hang of how they work relatively quickly. Below, the faders, there are several buttons that can be used for soloing or muting tracks.
The Pads
The pads on this model are truly outstanding. Of course, considering that Novation was also responsible for Launchpad, this isn’t all that surprising that they are so well-crafted. Nevertheless, it is a real treat to give these pads a go.
The pads can be assigned to samplers or drum plugins. In short, you have a wide range of sounds to play around with. What’s just as great is that the pads are sensitive to both touch as well as velocity. They can be switched with the help of the Roll button to produce repeated note triggers.
Pitch and Mod Wheels
Last, but certainly not least, there is the Pitch and Mod wheels. The pitch wheels let you bend any note as long as that particular sound is capable of doing so. The good news is that most piano and synth plug-ins have been designed to be compatible with pitch wheels.
The mod wheels, on the other hand, are involved in modifying the sound. They work really well too. You should be aware that there are some plug-ins that do require manual mapping. Thus, this can be a time-consuming effort in some instances.
The Interface
The screen interface is in the middle of the device. Now, if you only have had experience with digital pianos, you will realize that this screen doesn’t serve the same function. Rather, the screen displays information that is specific to the keyboard controls.
This means that you can stay updated on the parameters that are being adjusted or the controller assignments. As a result, you can see the transposition, octave, or what mix you are on. It is also possible for you to identify the rate at which your fader or knob is turned. This will be displayed as the position of the individual control.
Sound Features
The most interesting part of the sound features on the Impulse 49 is the built-in Arpeggiator. Essentially, this allows you to make arpeggios out of any chord. Naturally, this provides you with much greater control over your sound. You can adjust the tempo, pitch, velocity, gate, and various other parameters of the sound.
What’s more, the drum pads allow you to warp the arpeggios that you do create. You can alternate the pads in or out and change the rhythm in real time. More complex or advanced musicians will certainly appreciate this option.
Unique Features
One of the more interesting features of this MIDI controller is Novation’s proprietary Automap software. So, let’s take a closer look at what this software has to offer you. In short, Automap allows the MIDI controller to integrate more completely with DAW software.
Many MIDI controllers on the market require controller assignments. As such, you often waste quite a bit of time assigning MIDI CC messages. Even when you get it right, there is no guarantee that these assignments will work as intended.
With Automap, though, you do away with all these processes. In fact, there isn’t much need to program the Impulse 49 at all. This is because the Impulse 49 controls are automatically adapted so that they can immediately control the mixer and plug-ins of any DAW you use. What’s even more impressive is this just happens as you work.
Compatibility
It is clear that the Automap software really boosts the capabilities of this MIDI controller. Nevertheless, it is just as important to determine how compatible it is. It should be noted that the Impulse 49 offers up a top-notch performance only with officially supported DAWs.
For example, Automap has no issues in controlling Live’s and Logic’s proprietary plug-ins. The same can’t be said for options such as Studio One, Digital Performer, and Reaper. Yes, plug-in control will certainly work with these DAWs. However, this will only happen with third-party and non-proprietary plug-ins.
Connectivity
Considering that MIDI controllers need to be plugged into devices, it is important to find one that can be set up with virtually not issues at all. Well, this is something that you can certainly expect from the Impulse 49.
For one thing, it is class-compliant and USB bus-powered. Due to this, connectivity is a rather straightforward process. It is simply a matter of plugging it into your preferred laptop and getting started. You will not require a power supply.
The device also comes equipped with 5 pin MIDI outlets. Thus, it will be an absolute breeze for you to connect to your preferred synth or module.
Performance Features
There are many musicians who eventually want to transition to performing. If you are a part of this club, then you will naturally want to know how this model holds up for such endeavors.
Well, as mentioned, the connectivity alone makes the Impulse 49 quite easy to go gigging with. This is especially since it doesn’t require a separate power source. This, naturally, means that there are fewer accessories for you to carry around.
At the same time, the screen and some of the buttons are backlit. As such, you will be able to easily see what you are doing during a performance in the dark. Also, because it is pretty lightweight, you will have no trouble carrying it around.
Surprisingly enough, this model is quite hardy as well. While much of it is made from plastic, it is very well-constructed. Not to mention, all the knobs, faders, and other components seem pretty solid as well. Thanks to this, the MIDI controller will hold up pretty well as you are moving around.
Who is the Impulse 49 Suitable For?
So, when you take all these features into consideration, you may be trying to figure out who will benefit the most from this device. Well, while this model is quite versatile, it is more experienced players that will enjoy it the most.
There is no denying that there are certain elements that are quite easy to use on this model. For the most part, however, many of the operations are quite complex. This, of course, is because you have the opportunity to be so much more innovative and creative with the Impulse 49.
Beginners may want to opt for a MIDI controller that is a bit easier to use. Otherwise, you may find that there is a steep learning curve attached to this device.
Novation Launchkey vs. Impulse
When reading reviews, you also need to determine how well a particular device lives up to similar models. Thus, in this instance, you may be trying to figure out the winner in the Novation Launchkey vs. Impulse matchup. This is fair enough since, at a glance, they do appear to have many comparable features.
Now, Launchkey does have several features going for it. For one thing, it is shorter and more lightweight. As such, you will have an easier time carrying it around, especially if you take part in performances or busking.
The device is mappable and has navigation buttons as well. In this sense, more inexperienced users may find that the Impulse 49 is easier for them to use. And, when you consider the fact that this model has synth-action keys, it becomes easier for non-pianists to maneuver around this model as well.
Even with all these features, however, the Impulse 49 does take the title here. For instance, the keyboard alone is superior. The Impulse 49 has pressure sensitive pads and has an aftertouch keyboard. This means that you are able to get your desired sound much more easily.
The Impulse 49 also has a greater number of controls. This increases the complexity of the input into the device. Thus, if you are a more advanced musician, you will certainly enjoy this aspect. Furthermore, this model has a built-in arpeggiator, giving you more control over your sound.
Final Say
To wrap things up, there is no denying that the Novation Impulse 49 is certainly one of the best MIDI controllers out there. While it may not be perfect, there are certainly enough of functions and features to keep more advanced players happy. Not to mention, it is quite easy to get your creative juices following with the help of this device.
If you have the skills to handle this device and if it is within your price range, then it is well worth your investment. You will be able to control far more elements of your sound, ensuring that it comes out exactly as you intended it to. Furthermore, you can guarantee that you will have quite a bit of fun along the way with it as well.
At the end of the day, you will be hard-pressed to find a better MIDI controller. Thus, there is certainly no harm in picking up one of these models for yourself.