Novation have announced the release of the fourth generation of their popular Launchkey MIDI controller keyboards. Each of the six new models boast the most in-depth DAW control capabilities to date, as well as an array of new creative tools and performance features.
What's New?
Novation say that the controllers have been re-engineered to look, feel and play like an instrument, and now include a whole host of new capabilities that offer significant improvements over their predecessors. A new built-in arpeggiator is joined by three Chord Modes (Fixed Chord, User Chord and Chord Maps) designed to assist in creating musical progressions and a Chord Detector that displays the chord currently being played on the device’s OLED screen, while a Scale mode makes it possible to lock the notes on the keyboard to a user-defined key. There’s also a split function that allows the keyboard to be split into two independent zones, and a layer function that allows two MIDI channels to be played simultaneously from the same keys.
The range comprises the following six models:
- Launchkey 61: 61 full-size, semi-weighted piano-style keys and nine faders
- Launchkey 49: 49 full-size, semi-weighted piano-style keys and nine faders
- Launchkey 37: 37 full-size keys
- Launchkey 25: 25 full-size keys
- Launchkey Mini 37: 37 mini synth-action keys
- Launchkey Mini 25: 25 mini synth-action keys
All models are equipped with 16 Launchpad-style velocity-sensitive pads that boast polyphonic aftertouch, and benefit from a patented design that promises increased responsiveness over standard pads. Eight encoders offer hands-on control over DAW mixers, virtual instruments and plug-ins, and those who opt for the 49- or 61-key models also benefit from the addition of nine faders. Those working in DAWs such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase and Reason enjoy direct control integration with no setup required, and user mapping is supported for those wishing to create their own custom control sets.
Included Software
Each Launchkey Mk4 controller is supplied with a software bundle that includes plug-ins and instruments from a collection of top brands. Users get a copy of Ableton Live Lite, as well as premium Klevgrand plug-ins such as LUXE, R0verb and Slammer, and software instruments including GForce’s Oberheim SEM, OB-EZ and AXXESS. Orchestral Tools’ Parallel Orchestra Bundle combines the renowned sample library developer’s Inspire 2 and Time Macro collections, and users also get access to bespoke keyboard lessons from Melodics.
Pricing & Availability
The Launchkey Mk4 range is available now, with pricing as follows:
- Launchkey Mini 25: $119.99£109.99
- Launchkey Mini 37: $149.99£139.99
- Launchkey 25: $179.99£169.99
- Launchkey 37: $209.99£199.99
- Launchkey 49: $249.99£229.99
- Launchkey 61: $299.99£279.99
Prices include VAT.