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Average Price: $189
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Description
Introducing the Novation Launchkey 25 MIDI Controller MK2 Version, a game-changing musical instrument that's been designed with Ableton Live users in mind. This second-generation Launchkey is Novation's most streamlined MIDI keyboard controller to date. It offers the quickest and simplest way to produce and perform electronic music. Simply plug it in via USB and the keys, faders, knobs, and pads instantly give you hands-on control of your grid, instruments, effects, and mixer.
But the Launchkey isn't just for Ableton users. Thanks to InControl, it will map to other major music software too. Its compact design and sturdy construction make it portable and durable enough to take anywhere. Plus, it's USB bus-powered and completely class compliant, so you don't need any drivers to start creating music right away.
The Launchkey also comes with a two-year warranty and a suite of software including Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station and V Station virtual instruments, and over 4GB of Loopmasters samples.
Key Features:
Designed specifically for Ableton Live
Plug and play setup with USB connectivity
25 velocity-sensitive keys
16 dynamic, RGB color-matching pads
8 rock solid knobs for sound shaping
Compact and durable design for portability
Comes with Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station and V Station virtual instruments, and over 4GB of Loopmasters samples
Two-year warranty included
Control capabilities for all major music software via InControl
Free Melodics lessons to improve your keyboard and pad drumming skills
Product specs
| Brand | Novation |
| Model | Launchkey 25 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2015 - 2020 |
| Categories | Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Output, USB MIDI |
| Number of Keys | 25 Keys |
| Number of Pads | 16 Pads |
FAQs
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Is the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII compatible with Ableton Live?
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Yes, the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII is designed with Ableton Live integration in mind, featuring dedicated controls for seamless operation with the software.
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How does the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII connect to a computer?
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The Launchkey 25 MKII connects to a computer via USB, allowing for easy integration with most digital audio workstations (DAWs).
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Does the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII require an external power supply?
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No, the Launchkey 25 MKII is USB-powered, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
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What are the standout features of the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII's pads?
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The Launchkey 25 MKII features 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads, ideal for triggering clips and creating dynamic drum patterns.
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Can the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII be used with DAWs other than Ableton Live?
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Yes, while optimized for Ableton Live, the Launchkey 25 MKII is compatible with other major DAWs like Logic Pro, Cubase, and FL Studio.
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Is the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Launchkey 25 MKII is user-friendly and comes with software like Ableton Live Lite, making it an excellent choice for beginners and aspiring producers.
Videos
TAETRO
BEST NEW MIDI CONTROLLER | Novation Launchkey Mini MKIII Overview
BEST NEW MIDI CONTROLLER | Novation Launchkey Mini MKIII Overview
TAETRO
Connection and Configuration - Launchkey MK2
NovationHelp
Novation LaunchKEY MK 2 USB MIDI Keyboard for iPad │ Review, Guide & Tutorial - haQ attaQ 246
Jakob Haq
Launch Key 25 Honest Review
Home Studio Gear Reviews
![Video thumbnail for Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 Review(2019] by John Mike](https://img.youtube.com/vi/AgAA0v7UUxM/mqdefault.jpg)
Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 Review(2019]
John Mike
Reviews
PROS
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Compact and portable, ideal for on-the-go producers
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Full-size keys and mod/pitch wheels enhance playability
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Highly compatible with major DAWs, especially Ableton Live
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Customizable pads, levers, and knobs for DAW optimization
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Good build quality, reliable for live performances
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Affordable without sacrificing essential features
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Class compliant for easy setup and use
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Can control multiple parameters in software synths
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Suitable for both studio and live setups
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Enhances performance capabilities beyond drum pads
CONS
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Limited sensitivity on drum pads
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Compatibility with Logic Pro X could be improved
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Might become outdated due to rapid technology advancements
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Limited functionality for users seeking extensive controls
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation Launchkey 25 MIDI Controller MK2 Version.
User experience
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Owners note that both the Launchkey 25 MK2 and Akai MPK Mini require considerable force to achieve high velocity, suggesting a steeper learning curve for beginners.
Source -
It's noted that the keybed of the Launchkey 25 MK2 feels more like an acoustic piano, which may appeal to users familiar with weighted keys.
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After two years of ownership, the Launchkey 25 MK2 continues to satisfy users, highlighting its longevity and reliability in a home studio setting.
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Owners who have used both models report that the MK3 provides a markedly superior experience, especially for live stage use due to its improved hardware and components.
Source
Comparisons
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Users suggest exploring "synth action" keyboards for a lighter feel and quicker response compared to the semi-weighted keys of the Launchkey 25 MK2.
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The Launchkey Mini MK3's pads are responsive but can be visually overwhelming in dim light due to their brightness, especially in Custom Mode.
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Users highlight that the MK3 model offers significant improvements over the MK2, such as upgraded pads, additional hardware features, and a better keybed.
Source
Features and functionality
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Adjusting the velocity curve to high on the Launchkey 25 MK2 may still result in lower-than-expected velocities; users report similar experiences with other MIDI controllers.
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The Launchkey 25 MK2 shares the same pads as the 61 MK2, which are described as mushy and unreliable for drumming but fine for triggering clips.
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Changing MIDI channels on the Launchkey 25 MK2 can inadvertently trigger track changes due to shared button mapping, causing frustration for users.
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The MK3 version introduces scales, LPX pads, an arpeggiator, and MIDI-out, which are not present in the MK2, enhancing its functionality for advanced users.
Source
Software and compatibility
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The Launchkey Mini MK3 functions well with Ableton, Reason, and Logic, providing good velocity curves without needing external software adjustments like MidiPipe.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The Launchkey 25 MK2 is recommended for DAW-focused workstations, while the Mini MK3 is better suited for space-constrained setups or portable live performances.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 6 Reviews and 23 Ratings
160
A favorite
A nice controller for producers with any DAW. It's a Novation standard, good for on the go producers, and for studios. I would recommend the Launchkey 49 or 61 for unmoving studios, as a larger keyboard restricts you far less.
37
great little keyboard controller for great little performances
Recently picked this up, it's helped me play melodies and arps for performances and help me become more confident in my key playing. Adds a lot more freedom to my performances than just the drums I was playing with the Launchpad previously
116
A simple portable keyboard with a lot of possibilities and control
I love how Novation designed they product, especially this keyboard. They manage to put all the features that I need for live composing into a small and portable hardware. Plus with the affordable price tag, it's hard to resist this hardware.
Artist usage
Add artist
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In the HÖR Berlin video titled "Posh Isolation - oqbqbo & Scandinavian Star (LIVE) | HÖR x AIAIAI Copenhagen Pop-up - Oct 25 / 2023," Malthe of Scandinavian Star is seen using the Novation Launchkey 25 MIDI Controller MK2 Version throughout the performance. The video was provided by HÖR BERLIN and streamed on YouTube.
Album Usage
The Novation Launchkey 25 MIDI Controller MK2 Version has been featured on the following albums:
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 Launchkey 25 MIDI Controller MK2 Version, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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