Klevgrand & Novation teamed up to make the Novation Play VSTi.

As a Launchkey MK4 owner, I downloaded the "Free" Play instrument out of curiosity (not ecpecting much).

From the 10 minutes I had it installed, the following is what I noticed.

Pros:
Installs properly
Standalone, AAX, VST3, VST2
Shows connected Novation device
Scalable GUI
Has browser with categories

Cons:
Lackluster presets overall
Audible noise/artifacts in some presets
Some presets have audible tick that cannot be reduced without losing initial attack of transtient. Especially Bass presets.
Audio Engine lacks depth, richness, character
No link to Master Fader on Launchkey MK4 for overall level

What were they Thinking? I am thinking that the plan is to develop "Paid" instrument packs.

The Launchkey comes with licenses for very usable Virtual Instruments from GForce.
Axxess, Bass Station, OB-EZ & SEM

One would expect that a new instrument released with their name would at least meet that quality even in a Rompler style instrument. I would use the free Native Instruments Kontakt Player over this if there were no other choices. Fortunately there are.

 

Last edited: Oct 3, 2025

Yes, that's obviously the idea. The recipe to sell you cheap, but expensive in the long run, expansions/presets, or subscriptions, is nothing new. Many audio companies do it these days. Outsource VSTi plugin making to som more or less reputable plugin making company and sell many, many sounds for a price of a burger. People tend to buy 10$ stuff impulsively, not thinking how they're gonna end up paying 100s in the end. Just look at how most people handle plugins, or rather how they're not able to handle them, collecting 100s or 1000s of plugins, even though they can make music absolutely well with like 50.

This Play thing is nothing bad in itself. Everyone who knows basic maths and has a bit of intelligence baked in will not do it. Also, you get a lot of other, more useful plugins with Launchkey. It's quite worth the price. Just try if you want, like it or not like it. I would recommend not getting addicted to buying expansions. Rather buy better quality food for your dog or cat.

 

Last edited: Oct 3, 2025