[snom380]

Arturia does that, and Korg did as well (making controller keyboards specific for emulating a synth, with the software running on a Mac or PC.

Downsides: - if the software doesn’t get updated, you’re stuck running an old OS an old Mac that supports it. - you can’t just turn on the synth and use it, you need to find a cable, connect it to the Mac, launch the software, etc

[m_kos]

What I don't quite get is why manufacturers of midi controllers (Arturia, Novation, NI, etc.), with the exception of, possibly only Korg, don't release any of their digital instruments as mobile apps. After sitting the whole day in front of my computer, the last thing I want to do is to swap VS Code for Ableton or Kontakt and spend a few more hours in the glow of my monitors.

(I do get that if you are very serious about making music you need a proper computer set up. I am just a mere amateur hobbyist.)

[jackvalentine]

This is why I bought a teenage engineering op-1. Yes it’s overpriced, yes there are definitely better little desktop synths but I can whip this one out and just go wild without having to look at a (real) screen.

Same reason I keep my Roland Fantom around - has everything built in to the device.

[piltdownman]

NI are probably more focused on DJ stuff at the mobile app level.

Arturia have tried a few different hardware-hosts over the years, but seem to be focusing on their Astrolab platform rather than supporting iOS (Android is a non-runner due to latency).

Novation's main offerings are about analog signal paths. Back in the early 00s they had a few weird integrations like the X-Station, but its the analog nature of the bass-station and subsequent *Brute line that maintained their USP and cachet. Things like the Circuit/Launchpad are obvious AIO attempts at taking the share from similar form-factor iPad sequencing and clip launching utilities.

[zokier]

Both Novation and Arturia have some stuff for iPad?