Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.5 (33)
$299.99
Guitar Center
4.0 (7)
$299.99
Amazon
4.5 (523)
Musician's Friend
4.0 (8)
$299.99
zZounds
5.0 (7)
$299.99
B&H
4.2 (10)
$299.99
Gear4Music
£227.00

Average Price: $287

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Discover a new realm of musical creativity with the Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition). This professional USB/MIDI controller is engineered to let you control your DAW with precision and flair. At its heart lies a 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with assignable aftertouch, designed to feel more like an instrument than a generic computer peripheral. Each key is ultra-responsive, allowing you to express your musical ideas with accuracy and emotion.

The Impulse 49 doesn't just stop at keys; it offers a comprehensive control surface to elevate your music production capabilities. With 8 rotary encoders, 9 faders, and 8 backlit drum pads, you're equipped to handle any studio session with ease. These pads aren't just for beats—they're your gateway to a world of real-time arpeggio warping and clip launching in Ableton Live. The pads' multi-color LEDs provide visual feedback, so you can focus on your performance.

Thanks to the included Automap 4 control software, navigating your DAW and plug-ins becomes intuitive. The software instantly maps the knobs, faders, and buttons to your music software, giving you hands-on control and reducing setup time significantly. Whether you're in Logic, Cubase, Pro Tools, or any other major DAW, the Impulse 49 seamlessly integrates to offer you comprehensive mixer, transport, and plug-in control.

With additional software like Ableton Live Lite and a 4GB Loopmasters sample library, the Impulse 49 is not just a controller—it's a complete creative toolkit ready to transform your musical ideas into reality.

Key Features:

  • 49-key semi-weighted keyboard with assignable aftertouch
  • 8 rotary encoders, 9 faders, and 8 backlit drum pads
  • Automap 4 control software for instant DAW and plug-in access
  • Ableton Live Lite, Loopmasters sample library, and more included
  • USB powered with MIDI in/out ports for external MIDI control
sonicstate

sonicstate

Novation Impulse - SonicLAB Review

Video thumbnail for Novation Impulse - SonicLAB Review by sonicstate

Novation Impulse - SonicLAB Review

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for Novation Impulse Series USB-MIDI Keyboard Controllers by B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Novation Impulse Series USB-MIDI Keyboard Controllers

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Video thumbnail for Novation Impulse USB MIDI Controller Keyboards - Novation Impulse by American Musical Supply

Novation Impulse USB MIDI Controller Keyboards - Novation Impulse

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Reviews

PROS

  • Semi-weighted keys provide a realistic and satisfying feel for synth players

  • Excellent drum pads with satisfying feedback and multicolor lights

  • Precise and responsive encoder knobs enhance parameter control

  • Automap software simplifies initial setup and customization across various DAWs

  • Reliable compatibility with popular DAWs, including Logic Pro and Ableton Live

  • Durable build quality, sustaining heavy usage over several years

  • Versatile arpeggiator and roll features boost creativity in music production

  • Pitch and mod wheels have a solid, grippy feel

  • MIDI I/O supports seamless integration with legacy equipment

  • Attractive design with backlit buttons and sleek aesthetics

CONS

  • Faders and knobs feel plastic and can be too loose for precise control

  • Automap software can be problematic and is not universally compatible

  • Aftertouch on keys varies in responsiveness; white keys feel gritty under pressure

  • LCD screen does not display current bank for encoder knobs

  • Overall bulkiness makes it less portable than other 49-key controllers

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition).

Comparisons

  • The Novation Impulse 49 is considered higher quality compared to the Launchkey series, which is designed to be a cheaper alternative.

    Source
  • The Novation Impulse 49 is considered a better option than mini keyboards for studio use, as smaller keys can be challenging for accurate play.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Users note that the Impulse 49 has a superior keybed compared to the Launchkey 49, enhancing playability and feel.

    Source
  • Users find the pads, knobs, and faders on the Impulse 49 particularly useful for electronic music production, offering hands-on control similar to an analog synth.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners recommend the Impulse 49 for users who prioritize the quality of key action over specific DAW integration features.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Impulse 49's key materials and padding contribute to a more premium feel, avoiding a cheap sensation despite not being fully weighted.

    Source

User experience

  • A former classical musician emphasizes the importance of key weight for handling dynamics, noting the Impulse 49's keybed as one of the best among MIDI controllers.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Novation Impulse 49

soundonsound.com

The Novation Impulse 49 MIDI Keyboard stands out with its robust features, including velocity-sensitive keys, programmable controls, and Automap integration for seamless DAW use. The keyboard action is reliable and programming MIDI is straightforward. However, the aftertouch response varies between black and white keys, and the drum pads sometimes miss triggers at edges. While Automap can enhance workflow, its efficiency depends on DAW compatibility, and setup might require patience. Overall, it’s a versatile choice for studio use, especially for those seeking comprehensive DAW control.

positive

Novation Impulse 49 - Attack Magazine

attackmagazine.com

The Novation Impulse 49 shines with its feature-packed design and robust build quality, offering versatile control with semi-weighted keys, backlit pads, and DAW integration. Its unique arpeggiator and aftertouch pads set it apart, providing a creative edge over competitors. However, Automap software can be finicky, and some users report issues with the encoders' responsiveness. Despite these quirks, the Impulse is highly recommended for its comprehensive package, including Ableton Live Lite and a sample library, positioning it as a top contender in the MIDI controller market.

positive

3.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
vangart

the worst I've ever used

very bad software you have to do mapping yourself to work in ableton live 10 & 11. this particular Automap program does not work opposite it creates problems in midi. I do not recommend I replaced it with the amazing Native instruments S49 mkii.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jacob Collier uses Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition)

Jacob Collier

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via TivoliVredenburg

Used in his concert with metropole orkest in trivoli vredenburg.

See how Olafur Arnalds uses Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition)

Olafur Arnalds

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

Seen on Olafur's desk at 26:03 in the video.

See how RackNRuin uses Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition)

RackNRuin

Music Producer, DJ

Gorgon City

...
Verified via Photo

Gorgon City using a Novation Impulse as part of their live set up at Printworks, London.

See how Pleasurekraft uses Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition)

Pleasurekraft

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

This MIDI Controller can be seen in this Instagram picture, uploaded by the artists themselves.

See how Shae Cathcart uses Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition)

Shae Cathcart

Guitarist, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

Shae Cathcart uses the Novation Impulse 49 MIDI Keyboard (Black Edition), as shown in a photo from Rebellion Manchester on Instagram.

See how Stephen Street uses Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition)

Stephen Street

Bassist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

A black Novation Impulse 49 can be seen in Stephen Street's studio.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Novation Impulse 49 Midi Keyboard (Black Edition), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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