Novation Revamps MIDI Controllers With Launchkey MK3

Novation have been working closely with Ableton when designing the four models of the new Launchkey MK3's and feature more expressive pads, keys and deeper integration with Live 10.  

Novation’s Launchkey range of keyboard controllers has for many years been the best choice for music makers at all stages of the music-making journey. With the release of the Launchkey [MK3] range, Novation continues the Launchkey legacy with four feature-packed controllers that give music makers everything they need to make tracks in Ableton Live and with their hardware. Launchkey [MK3] controllers come in four model sizes, and pack in more inspirational music-making features, more expressive pads and keys, and deeper Ableton Live integration than ever before. The 37-key model is completely new to the Launchkey family, and stands alone as the most comprehensive controller of its size with full-size keys on the market.

With Launchkey, regardless of experience, users can create and play their music like never before. With Scale, Chord and Arpeggiator features, all of which can be used standalone, Launchkey removes barriers to creativity, and expands the musical vocabulary of even the most talented keyboardists.

Novation Launchkey 25 rear view

Working closely with Ableton, Novation have ensured that Launchkey [MK3] provides deeper and more immediate access to Ableton Live’s controls than any other controller in its class. There’s a dedicated button for activating Ableton Live’s Capture MIDI function, plus track arm, quantise, click and loop controls, for flying around Sessions faster than ever. Drum Mode provides immediate access to Drum Racks. Inspirational features include Scale and Chord modes and an arpeggiator, which together expand users’ musical capabilities. Scale Mode transposes keys played to notes in the scale selected. Three chord modes trigger chords played with one finger, while the powerful arpeggiator — with rhythm settings and Arp Mutate — gets creative melodies moving, fast.

Novation Launchkey 49 angle shot

Launchkey [MK3] controllers are available in 25-, 37-, 49- and 61-key variants, making it easier than ever for creators to pick the size that suits. For the first time in the Launchkey range, there’s a 37-key model, which answers the requests of music makers who want a compact controller large enough for two-handed keys work. Its pitch and mod wheels are relocated to the top panel so the three-octave keyboard can fit into a small form factor, so it’s ideal for users with space limitations. The 25-key model is perfect for mobile producers and performers, and for those in tighter setups. 49- and 61-key versions are well suited for larger systems, and for those who want more keys and greater hands-on control with faders and fader buttons.

All Launchkey [MK3] controllers feature a full-size five-pin MIDI output, which works with any MIDI-compatible device. Novation Components can be used to configure MIDI parameter assignments of Launchkey’s knobs, faders and pads, to take control of anything MIDI. Launchkey [MK3] works standalone, so it’s the perfect controller for any music-making scenario, with or without a computer. The Scale and Chord Modes, arpeggiator, and Custom Modes — set up in Novation Components and stored on Launchkey — can all be used to control a whole studio or live rig.

Novation Launchkey 61 key

Launchkey also has full integration with Logic and Reason, plus out of the box functionality with other DAWs including Studio One, Cubase and Pro Tools, via HUI.

To check out the Launchkey [MK3] range, head to the product page (live and updated from 4pm 18th June): 

Web: http://www.novationmusic.com/en/keys/launchkey

 

 

Rounik is the Executive Editor for Ask.Audio & macProVideo. He's built a crack team of professional musicians and writers to create one of the most visited online resources for news, review, tutorials and interviews for modern musician and producer. As an Apple Certified Trainer for Logic Pro Rounik has taught teachers, professional... Read More

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