My relationship with the Loupedeck “Lightroom editing console” was mixed in the beginning. Then the Loupedeck+ console was released and my appreciation for the product. Why?
Well, the team from Helsinki came up with a device, but continued to iterate and make the existing product better. The Loupedeck+ came with a lot more features and uses for creative artists. I created a video showing off the new features here.
Fast forward several months to find that Loupedeck has made yet another iteration. Well, sorta. Loupedeck has now announced its Loupedeck Creative Tool console. This is a brand new look and design of the previous Loupedeck offerings. From the looks of it, this looks pretty fascinating.
Image credit: Loupedeck
Looking at the new Loupedeck CT, the first thing you notice is the updated design. The Loupedeck Creative Tool is still an editing console, but it appears to have been slimmed down to a much smaller form factor. It’s probably less than half the footprint of the previous Loupedeck+. The build quality updated with better aluminum cover and dials, LED backlight, touchscreens, machine-quality ball bearing and more.
Image credit: Loupedeck
My original concern with Loupedeck was the limited use cases. I know some people that LOVED the original Loupedeck, but at that time, I didn’t think the Loupedeck fit my use cases. The Loupedeck+ was a much better experience for me as it allowed for use in more than one app. Particularly, the Premiere Pro addition hooked me.
Some people get upset with me for being such an Adobe Creative Cloud fanboy. Thing is, the dynamic link ability between most of the Adobe apps make it a great option for me. Easily switching from photo to video to audio editing and back to photo with just a few clicks. Loupedeck takes advantage of this by integrating multiple software packages into it's consoles. The CT is no different. Here are some of the features of note:
Premium build quality with aluminum cover and dials, LED backlight, touchscreens, machine-quality ball bearing and more.
Portability, equipped with a removable USB cable, making it easy to move and use wherever you are.
Designated set of preset workspaces, specific to each integration, dedicated to each stage of the editing process, that can be fully customized to match your unique workflow.
Ability to use the tools and functions from your favorite software from one consistent user interface.
Fully adaptable to almost all creative environments, allowing you to move freely between software, and can even help you manage and control your operating system.
Control everything with one hand in precise increments, giving you a truly personalized and enhanced editing experience.
Image Credit: Loupedeck
With the release, the Loupedeck CT will come with support for Adobe Lightroom Classic, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro X, Adobe Illustrator and Ableton Live, with expected support for Autodesk Fusion 360 later this year. And of course, more integration will be in the works during year 2020. Loupedeck also invites other third party app devs for integration with the hardware. Just check out the request information here.
The Loupedeck CT will start shipping on November 11. You can place your orders before hand on B&H and the Loupedeck site for $549. If I can get my hands on one, I’ll follow up with you all. Maybe I’ll do a segment on Hands-On Photography or Hands On Tech featuring it. Just make sure you’re subscribed.
Check out some of the videos showing off the new Loupedeck CT: