Non-Lightroom users have been a little jealous since the Loupedeck hit the scene. They want consoles for their respective applications, too! And the folks at Loupedeck listened. Now they present us with the new Loupedeck+. It’s a welcome update to the previous model with a more refined construction, new mechanical keys, custom dial control mode and support for more software. As of right now, as well as the Lightroom compatibility of its predecessor, the new Loupedeck+ supports Skylum Aurora HDR 2018. Beta integration with Capture One is here, and more apps are on the way!
On the surface, it seems not much has changed. Much of the work seems to have gone on under the hood and in software, though. According to Loupedeck, the specific upgrades include…
Mechanical keys with a more precise and sturdy feelImproved build qualityTwo dedicated customizable dials and seventeen buttons“Custom Mode” that allows full user control of all dialsConfiguration software built from scratch for an even better, faster and more stable photo editing experience
Both the original Loupedeck and the new Loupedeck+ share a very similar button layout. You’ll notice there are a couple of extra ones on the far left and right, though. What’s really different, though, are the ergonomics and the build quality of those buttons. But it’s still in keeping with their distinctive minimalistic approach.
As, essentially, the only company out there with a purpose built Lightroom control deck, they’ve carved themselves something of a unique niche. A niche they’re hoping to expand out into other platforms. Skylum’s Aurora HDR 2018, announced earlier today, already features support for the new Loupedeck+. Capture One is currently in Beta integration, so your experience may vary, but full support will be coming soon. Loupedeck has told DIYP that support for other applications is also on the way, too. Hopefully, they’ll find a way to make it work for colour grading in DaVinci Resolve and Premiere Pro so filmmakers can take advantage of the Loupedeck+, too.
Aside from a design refresh and support for other applications, the Loupedeck+ also comes with a completely new custom mode. This mode gives full user control of all dials to perform custom functions. I guess we’ll have to wait until they start getting in peoples hands to see the full range of what they can be reconfigured to do. They say that the software for the new Loupedeck+ has also been completely written from scratch in order to provide a more stable experience. The Loupedeck+ is available to buy now for $229, and Loupedeck is offering a $50 cashback for current Loupedeck owners who wish to upgrade.
