Novation Launchkey 49 MIDI Controller MK2 Version main image

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Novation Launchkey 49 MIDI Controller MK2 Version

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$214.99 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (43)

3 Critic Reviews

7 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Newer option

Novation Launchkey 49 MK3

$135.00 - $279.99

4.5 (2)

Find out who is using Novation Launchkey 49 MK2

1 community setup

8 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jun 21, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 21, 2026.

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Price

5.0 (15)

$214.99 1 available New

$46.00 4 available Used

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Average Price: $313

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Keyboard Controllers category, Novation Launchkey 49 MIDI Controller MK2 Version is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Description

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Novation Launchkey 49 is one of quickest and easiest ways to produce and perform electronic music using Ableton Live. You just plug in via USB and the keys, faders, knobs, and velocity-sensitive RGB pads give you immediate hands-on control of your session view, instruments, effects and mixer. Launch clips, control FX, play beats and much more using 16 pads laid out in two rows of eight, to match your Ableton Live session view; one row to launch clips, and one row to stop them. Full-color RGB LEDs mean they'll match the color of your clips too, while velocity-sensitivity lets you really put some feeling into your beats.

Launchkey is designed to let you shape your sound however you like. Use eight rock solid rotary knobs to tweak your instruments and effects, and nine dedicated faders for hands-on control of your mixer. The 49-note synth-style keyboard is lightweight, fast and very easy to play, but also velocity-sensitive so you can create truly expressive performances. All the controls integrate seamlessly and immediately with Ableton Live, and can be reassigned to anything. It also integrates with FL Studio, Pro Tools, Reason, Cubase, Studio One, and Logic. Novation calls this InControl technology, because it puts you in control immediately without any manual mapping.

Launchkey 49 is tough enough to take and use anywhere. It will work the moment you plug it into your laptop and you won’t need any drivers or power cables, because it’s class compliant and USB bus-powered on Mac or PC.

Launchkey 49 comes with absolutely everything you need to start making music: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station and V-Station virtual instruments, plus a comprehensive 1GB collection of production-ready samples from world-leading sample store Loopmasters.

2nd generation of the popular Launchkey MIDI controller series.

Product specs

Brand	Ampeg
Model	VL1002 2-Channel 100-Watt Guitar Head
Finish	Black
Year	1991 - 1995
Made In	United States
Categories	Guitar Heads
Built-In Effects	Built-In Effects
Color Family	Black
Electronics	Tube
Impedance	16 ohms, 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Number of Channels	2 Channels
Number of Inputs	1 Input
Output Power (Watts)	100
Power Tube Type	6L6
Reverb	Digital Reverb

FAQs

Is the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 compatible with Ableton Live?: Yes, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 is designed to integrate seamlessly with Ableton Live, offering dedicated controls for the software, enhancing your workflow and performance capabilities.
Does the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 require a power supply?: No, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 is USB-powered, meaning it can be powered directly from your computer, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
What are the key features of the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2?: The Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 features 49 velocity-sensitive keys, 16 RGB pads, eight rotary knobs, transport controls, and seamless integration with major DAWs, making it versatile for music production and live performance.
Can the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 be used with iOS devices?: Yes, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 can be used with iOS devices through the use of an Apple Camera Connection Kit, allowing for mobile music production.
Does the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 have aftertouch?: No, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 does not feature aftertouch, but it does include velocity-sensitive keys for dynamic playability.

Videos

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Novation // Launchkey 49 MKII - Performance

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Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 Review & Recording

Reuben Chng

Novation Launchkey 49-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller Performance | Full Compass

Full Compass

Novation // Launchkey 49 MKII - Performance Explained

Novation

Musikmesse 2015 - Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 MIDI Keyboard

Bax-shop | Bax Music Goes

Novation Launchkey MK2 (Musikmesse 2015)

Reidys Home Of Music

In The Box - Launchkey MK2

NovationHelp

Novation Launchkey - Featuring Gentry | Full Compass

Full Compass

Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 Unboxing

Kiti Entertainment

SNAP! - Rhythm Is A Dancer // Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 // Live looping #launchkey #cover #loop

Vitaly Nikov

Reviews

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PROS

Affordable option with a broad octave range for budget-conscious users
Excellent integration with Ableton Live, including "inControl" mode
Full-size keys offer an improvement over smaller models
Assignable faders and pads enhance sound design capabilities
Solid build quality of keys and controls
Features a significant number of knobs and switches for versatile control
Immediate plug-and-play functionality with Ableton

CONS

Bundled software can be problematic, especially with "B" stock items
Drum pads are hard to press, needing improvement
Not as user-friendly with non-Ableton DAWs without workarounds
Keys might feel too light for some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation Launchkey 49 MIDI Controller MK2 Version.

Features and functionality

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The Launchkey 49 MK2 includes 16 programmable sample pads and faders, offering customizable control over Ableton Live directly from the keyboard.
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Both MK2 and MK3 have a sustain pedal port, contrary to some misconceptions about the MK2 lacking this feature.
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Owners note the Launchkey MK2's faders and clip launcher are simple yet effective for basic Ableton Live use, though some prefer a larger matrix for clip launching.
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Software and compatibility

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Customization with the Components software is a notable feature of the MK3, offering enhanced personalization over the MK2.
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Initial setup with Logic on MacBook Air M3 may require extra configuration; users should be prepared for a setup process.
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Transitioning from Live 9 to Live 10 should not affect the functionality of the MK2, maintaining compatibility across these versions of Ableton Live.
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Use cases and applications

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The MK2 can be adapted creatively, such as programming a QWERTY space bar to function as a sustain pedal.
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Despite being an older model, some users still prefer the MK2 for smaller gigs due to its reliability and portability.
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Despite the absence of aftertouch, users find the velocity sensitivity of the MK2 beneficial, though it can be challenging to manage in certain playing styles.
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Comparisons

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The MK3 offers new features like MIDI out, an arpeggiator, and chord mode, which are enhancements over the MK2's capabilities.
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For users who prioritize aftertouch, the Novation Impulse is suggested as a better alternative, as it supports modulating parameters like pitch and filters.
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Some users consider the Novation Launchcontrol XL a preferable option for those focusing on fader control, highlighting it as a complement to the MK2's capabilities.
Source

User experience

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Owners report that the Launchkey MK2 lacks aftertouch, which might be a downside for those seeking expressive playability.
Source

Critic Reviews

Novation Launchkey 49 Mk2 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 is a standout MIDI controller for Ableton Live users, offering dynamic InControl mappings and vibrant LED pads that sync with Live's clips. Its versatility extends with scripts for Reason and FL Studio, making it a budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features. The iOS compatibility adds another layer of functionality, although the lack of 5-pin MIDI I/O and the need for a powered USB hub for iPad use are slight drawbacks. Lightweight yet robust, the Launchkey 49 MK2 excels in usability, especially for keyboardists integrating Live features.

positive

Full Review

Review: Novation Launchkey mk II : Ask.Audio

ask.audio

The Novation Launchkey 49 MIDI Controller MK2 impresses with its seamless integration with Ableton Live, providing a smooth workflow with its 16 velocity-sensitive pads and synth-weighted keys. The controller's InControl feature also ensures compatibility with other DAWs. However, the narrower keys and synth-weighted feel may not satisfy those seeking a piano-style experience. Despite this, it's a robust, feature-packed MIDI controller at an attractive price point.

positive

Full Review

Novation Launchkey Mk2 49 MIDI Keyboard Controller Review - Digital DJ Tips

digitaldjtips.com

A great choice for Ableton Live users, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 impresses with its RGB-backlit pads and velocity-sensitive keys. While the plastic build is expected at its price point, the semi-weighted keys and sturdy knobs offer satisfying feedback. Its portability and ease of use with Ableton make it a versatile companion for studio and gig settings. However, it lacks standalone capability, needing a computer or iPad connection. Despite minor setup requirements for other DAWs, it's a compelling option for both pros and beginners.

positive

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 7 Reviews and 43 Ratings

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1 star

gillybeann

104

over 3 years ago

good for non-fl users

knew that it was better for ableton users but i got it anyway. i made the mistake of depending on hacks to make my launchkey fully function so really, it isnt as smooth as i want it to be. but novation is coming up with fl versions of the launchkey anyway so... great!

Genres:

Rock Pop Hip Hop

williamheadings

222

over 4 years ago

Overall Nice

it's a great keyboard. Play/pause is a great feature but the drum pads need to be improve and more like akai drum pads.

amosthumanhuman

almost 9 years ago

Go-to large size midi controller

Great midi controller, the keys have a very light feel to them, but it isn't too noticeable unless you are actively not using it for a while. Amazing integration with Ableton, after a bit of finagling it have good Logic integration as well. For the price it is great, also the light up mash buttons never get old.

maxicardozok

6780

about 6 years ago

Had problems with the lower keys

Unplayable. Not the type of midi I wanted. Was unfortunately a bad experience for me.

I am looking forward to buy something from Native Instruments next time.

afranklin78000

about 8 years ago

I think it's great!

It has a MASSIVE octave range, it has a huge amount of knobs and switches, I don't even think I'll ever use them all at once! It's really just a great MIDI Keyboard altogether!