Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $84

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Novation Launchkey 25 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller is the ultimate tool for both budding and seasoned music producers looking to elevate their creative process. Tailored for seamless integration with Ableton Live, this compact yet powerful controller ensures you maintain the flow of your sessions without missing a beat. With its 25-note velocity-sensitive synth-action keybed, you can perform with nuanced expression, while the 16 full-color RGB pads allow you to trigger clips, beats, and effects with precision.

Beyond its impressive compatibility with Ableton, the Launchkey 25 MKII is versatile enough to enhance any DAW workflow, thanks to Novation's InControl protocol. The eight rotary knobs and dedicated fader provide intuitive control over your mix, letting you sculpt your sound with ease. Whether you're in the studio or on the road, its USB bus-powered design means you can plug in and play without the hassle of extra cables or power sources.

Included with the Launchkey 25 MKII is a suite of software to kickstart your musical journey, featuring Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station, and a 4GB Loopmasters sample library. Plus, with product registration, you gain access to XLN's Addictive Keys instruments, offering a variety of world-class piano sounds to enrich your productions.

Key Features:

  • 25-note velocity-sensitive synth-action keyboard
  • 16 full-color RGB backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads
  • Eight knobs and one slider for intuitive control
  • Seamless integration with Ableton Live and compatibility with other DAWs
  • USB bus-powered; no need for external power supplies
  • Includes Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station, and 4GB of samples
  • Free XLN Addictive Keys instrument with registration
  • Compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS devices (with adapter)

Product specs

Brand Novation
Model Launchkey 25 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller
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

Is the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII compatible with major DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic Pro?

Yes, the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII offers seamless integration with major DAWs including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, and more, providing an intuitive workflow for music production.

Can the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII be used without a computer?

The Novation Launchkey 25 MKII is primarily designed to be used with a computer, but it can also be connected to compatible hardware via MIDI output for more flexibility.

What type of keys does the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII have?

The Novation Launchkey 25 MKII features full-size synth-action keys, which provide a responsive and versatile playing experience suitable for various music styles.

How many pads are included on the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII?

The Novation Launchkey 25 MKII comes with 16 velocity-sensitive pads, allowing for dynamic beat creation and clip launching.

Does the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII require an external power supply?

No, the Novation Launchkey 25 MKII is USB-powered, meaning it can be powered directly from your computer without the need for an external power supply.

Home Studio Gear Reviews

Home Studio Gear Reviews

Launch Key 25 Honest Review

Video thumbnail for Launch Key 25 Honest Review by Home Studio Gear Reviews

Launch Key 25 Honest Review

Home Studio Gear Reviews

Home Studio Gear Reviews

Video thumbnail for Novation Launchkey 25 MKII Review – Best Keyboard for the Money? by Marcus Cross

Novation Launchkey 25 MKII Review – Best Keyboard for the Money?

Marcus Cross

Marcus Cross

Reviews

PROS

  • Seamless integration with DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic

  • Full-size keys with full-sized mod and pitch wheel

  • Compact design, ideal for small setups or gigs

  • Easy to route and control multiple parameters in software synths

  • User-friendly with a straightforward setup process

  • Reliable build quality for long-term use

  • Ability to change tracks and start recording quickly

  • Pads, levers, and knobs customizable for DAW optimization

CONS

  • Drum pads lack sensitivity compared to standard drum pads

  • Specific to certain software and may become outdated in a few years

  • Initial setup may require trial and error, especially in Ableton Live

  • Limited functionality compared to more advanced controllers like Ableton Push series

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation Launchkey 25 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller.

User experience

  • Owners mention needing to hit keys hard for high velocity, even with velocity curve set to high.

    Source
  • Users report difficulty in getting the pads to light up, requiring unusual MIDI configurations, suggesting a lack of intuitive design.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Akai MPK Mini may offer a lighter touch, potentially better for users seeking less resistance.

    Source
  • The MK3 offers significant improvements over the MK2, including better pads and hardware, tactile differences likened to "day and night" by seasoned users.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Synth action keys might provide a lighter feel compared to the semi-weighted keys on the Launchkey 25 MKII.

    Source
  • The "INControl" button toggles between MIDI keyboard and control surface modes, potentially causing confusion when switching functions.

    Source
  • MK3 includes advanced features like scales, lpx-pads, arpeggiator, and MIDI-out, making it a considerable upgrade over the MK2.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Driver software is essential for proper functionality, especially with DAWs like Reason, highlighting the controller's initial setup complexity.

    Source
  • To enable pad lighting, MIDI signals must be sent to DAW inputs on keys C6 and higher, indicating a non-intuitive user experience.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • For beginners, the MK2 may be appealing at a 50% lower price, although the MK3's enhancements may justify its higher cost for more advanced users.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Novation MIDI Keyboard Controllers

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides