It would be great to have a mode turning Play into general purpose MIDI launch pad.
What is the problem?
There are many ways the Play’s beautiful grid could be used, but current firmware doesn’t allow the launchpad capabilities. It would add a lot of value to the device.
What do you want to achieve?
Controlling other devices with it and getting visual feedback from them via its beautiful colorful grid. Simple white will work too.
It would be great if user could switch between the modes as seamlessly as we switch between audio and midi side of a sequencer, so Play’s sound could stay, if possible.
Are there any workarounds?
Not, I guess.
Any links to related discussions?
Any references to other products?
The Native Instrument Maschines (i.e. MK3) can turn into MIDI controllers pressing a button (official support but it relies on a MIDI editor software). The MPC One / Live can also act as a MIDI controller (no software required).