Novation’s Launchkey remains a go-to, no-hassle standard for MIDI controllers. Now they’ve rounded out their MK4 lineup with an 88-key model that adds the extra octaves without the weight or bulk that usually entails. They opted for semi-weighted keys to keep from bulking up.) It’s the compact MK4, all stretched out. Here’s the latest on the full MK4 lineup.
The whole point of the Launchkey is really to stay simple when others add a bunch of features — by focusing on what most people really want and need. So let me try to get to the point, too.
It supports a bunch of DAWs. That layout is easily adapted to other tools for customizers, but you get out-of-the-box, no-setup control of Ableton Live, Logic, Cubase, FL Studio, Reason, Bitwig, and Ardour.
It’s got the pads. I really like these 16 velocity-sensitive pads; Novation says they’ve patented their Force Sensitive Resistor tech; it feels balanced and consistent. And it’s adaptable to different tasks from clip launching to playing parts.
Nicely tailored features. Arpeggiator, chord mode, splits, layers, Scale Mode, and Chord Detector. Here’s my one gripe: the whole advantage of having 88 keys should be that you get more than two zones. It’s no biggie; you can easily set that up in software. But while I understand they’re keeping functionality consistent across the Launchkey range, this feels like an obvious feature addition to take advantage of the extra space.
MIDI out! On actual DIN, too — thanks. (My tiny MK4 has this, too!)
All of that said, the best part of this is that you get access to Novation’s Components, which is about the easiest, most flexible control customization software out there. It runs in-browser, with a downloadable version available.
US$449 / around that in EUR with VAT / £379.99.
Now, obviously, you’ll skip this if you want weighted or hammer-action keys, and you have plenty of other options that do the same. But this is remarkably compact and light for an 88-key keyboard. This all fits into about 8 kg (just under 18 lbs) and 1274 x 264 mm (that’s only just over 10″ depth).
That’s a little over half what competing 88-key keyboards tend to weigh, and I think it’ll feel like even less, because it’s got less bulk. Does it have something fancy like polyphonic aftertouch? It most assuredly doesn’t — but you still have the encoders, it’s easier to transport, and it’s about half or a third of what expressive keyboards would cost.
That makes a good option, I suspect, for budgets (or premium space/weight allowances in your rig), project studios or home, or education.
More importantly, it means Novation gives you compact, lightweight keys in pretty much any size and configuration in the Launchkey range now. They all work the same way, too (see below).
And Novation has been busy adding SKUs on this line. There was the white 61-key variant in June, which is awfully pretty and ready to fit into your THX-1138-themed home decor in the white range. (pictured)
And Novation also delivered the excellent FLkey 2 update in May for y’all FL Studio fans. (Hey, I love FL, but the one thing I’m not is particularly fast in that environment — Novation’s hardware makes it a breeze getting around. I know some of you are very fast, and this will be great for you, too. LOL at the energy drink and the PS5 controller.) It’s technically the fruity loopy cousin of the Launchkey, but definitely a related product.
Launchkey was always a little bit in the shadow of the mighty Launchpad and Launch Control, but with the MK4 range, it’s really feeling like the Launchthings lineup is a complete stable.
Shopping for a Launchkey? There’s also a summer sale on now on many of the models. (I live for my mini 37, really. Too many mini keyboards with too few keys or compact keyboards that take up too much space; this always fits on my desk. It’s a thing with me.)
The 88-key model is on preorder but estimated to ship later this month.
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Perfect Circuit: Launchkey MK4 range; FLkey 2
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Sweetwater: Launchkey MK4 range; FLkey 2