Unlike big brother Spark, there is no LCD screen for instrument and edit navigation, and although this would seem to be a limitation, I found that I could use the hardware to move around the Spark plug-in or standalone application without having to mouse around (much). The hardware is designed to aid the user in navigating the companion software without having to always look at the computer screen. The controller itself is a knobs-n-pads affair, with several buttons, encoders, a large jog wheel, and a small, assignable XY touchpad for real-time manipulation of various effects and mixer parameters. Software installation is straightforward, and the bus- powered controller attaches to the computer via its one and only port (a standard mini USB-to-USB A cable is provided). The SparkLE is a surprisingly intuitive system and as it turns out, it's a crazy fun way to build or record beats, as well as play beat-based music in a live context. With the compact and affordable little brother to the Spark, their "creative drum machine," Arturia seem to be continuing the practice they began with their Keylab synthesizers - bundling hardware and software in one seamless and well- designed "hybrid" package.
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