Just getting back into music production. Right now, I'm using Soundplant to trigger samples from my computer's keyboard but I'm looking for something better.

I've seen the Novation Launchpad but it states that you need Ableton Live for that. Is that the only software you can use it with?

I want a pad controller but want to be able to control more than sixteen samples at a time. Ideally, that would be one of the 64 pads that I've seen, but if someone has a solution using multiple cheap 16 pad controllers run on a single computer. I'm fine with that too.

Also, does anyone have any recommendations for software? I'd really prefer not to spend $600 on software. (Ableton) If anyone has an open source/free suggestion, that'd be ideal.