Update 6 December 2023 - Kits for those wishing to upgrade their Push to a standalone device are now available. More information can be found here.
Ableton have announced the release of the latest version of Push, their pad-based hardware instrument and controller. With a design focused on expressive playing and performance, the new Push can be used as a standalone instrument or with a computer and now incorporates MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE).
The new Push 3 features 64 MPE-capable pads which provide per-note control by detecting finger pressure and placement across the X and Y axes. This allows musicians to explore nuanced techniques such as bends, slides, and the manipulation of specific notes within chords by adjusting finger pressure and placement on the surface of each pad. Another new inclusion is the jog-wheel, which has been designed to help quickly navigate menu screens.
Ableton have designed the new jog-wheel to help users quickly access all of the new Push's functionality.
The instrument now includes a built-in audio interface which enables direct recording of external instruments, synths, and effects into Push or Ableton Live. Additionally, Push 3 can output gate and CV signals for use with modular gear and also works with class-compliant MIDI instruments, with support for up to six MIDI devices when used with a USB hub.
The new version of Push features a built-in battery and 256 GB of storage, meaning musicians can create music without the need for cables while still using Ableton Live's instruments, effects, Packs, and sample libraries. Sets can be transferred between Push and Live using either USB or WiFi connectivity.
Push 3 is available in two configurations. The standalone version includes a processor and a built-in battery and storage, meaning musicians can create music without the need for cables while still using Ableton Live's instruments, effects, packs, and sample libraries. The version without a processor requires connection to a computer. Both versions allow for Sets to be transferred between Push and Live using either USB or WiFi connectivity. Users also have the option to purchase Push without a processor and later add one using the Upgrade Kit. Additionally, the processor, hard drive, and battery can be replaced to keep the instrument up to date.
Pricing & Availability
The new Push is available now for purchase priced at $1,999€1,899 for the standalone configuration, while the version requiring a computer connection is priced at $999€949.
Upgrade Kit
Upgrade Kits are now available, priced at $1,049€999. Click here to find out more.
