Gear Music tech Software Tech

FLpad 8×8 grid comes to FL Studio — can you add a grid to a speedrun?

The Novation Launchpad grid has its original lineage in Ableton Live integration. But it’s now come to the land of Fruity Loops. FLpad is available in both a standard, velocity-sensitive model and an FLpad mini. For a user base known for shortcuts and speedrunning, can finger-drumming and pad programming find a home?

Yep, Akai has a honkin’ huge new flagship MPC XL — gallery

It leaked, you saw it — it’s real, it’s huge. In addition to its recent MPC Live III, Akai has a big mama standalone called the MPC XL with more dedicated controls and a big 10.1” display — but mostly the same innards. Let’s explain.

Peter Kirn - January 20, 2026

Gear Music tech Tech

West Coast dreaming: improvising with GForce MAP

GForce’s MAP was up against some tough competition in October, but don’t sleep on this one. Or, alternatively, do let its dulcet West Coast sounds lull you to sleep.