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Description

The Novation Launchkey 49 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller is the ideal tool for musicians and producers looking to enhance their creative process. Designed with both beginners and seasoned professionals in mind, this controller offers seamless integration with major DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic, and FL Studio, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—making music. The 49 velocity-sensitive keys provide expressive playability, making it easier than ever to capture the nuances of your performance.

Beyond the keys, the Launchkey 49 MKII features an array of controls that put everything you need right at your fingertips. With 16 RGB backlit pads, you can launch clips, play beats, and create dynamic rhythms with ease. The nine faders and eight rotary knobs provide tactile control over your mix and instruments, enabling real-time adjustments that breathe life into your compositions. Plus, the dedicated transport controls ensure you never have to take your hands off the controller to manage your session.

The Launchkey 49 MKII comes equipped with a suite of powerful software, including Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station, and V Station virtual instruments, as well as a 4GB Loopmasters sample library to get you started on your musical journey. Whether you're crafting beats at home or performing on stage, the Launchkey 49 MKII empowers you to create without boundaries.

Key Features:

  • 49 velocity-sensitive keys for expressive playability
  • Seamless integration with Ableton Live, Logic, and FL Studio
  • 16 RGB backlit pads for clip launching and beat making
  • 9 faders and 8 rotary knobs for hands-on control
  • Includes Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station, V Station, and 4GB Loopmasters sample library
  • Dedicated transport controls for easy session management
  • Bus-powered via USB connection, no external power required

Product specs

Brand Novation
Model Launchkey 49 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 49 Keys
Number of Pads 16 Pads

FAQs

Is the Novation Launchkey 49 MKII compatible with major DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic Pro?

Yes, the Novation Launchkey 49 MKII is designed for seamless integration with major DAWs such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, and others, providing hands-on control over mixer and transport functions.

Does the Novation Launchkey 49 MKII require a computer to function?

The Launchkey 49 MKII can function both with and without a computer, making it versatile for standalone use in all-hardware setups or live performances.

What kind of keys does the Novation Launchkey 49 MKII have?

The Launchkey 49 MKII features 49 full-size synth-action keys, which are designed for a responsive and expressive playing experience.

How many pads are included on the Novation Launchkey 49 MKII, and what are they used for?

The Launchkey 49 MKII includes 16 velocity-sensitive pads that can be used for launching clips, playing beats, or triggering samples in your DAW.

What are the main connectivity options for the Novation Launchkey 49 MKII?

The Novation Launchkey 49 MKII offers USB MIDI connectivity and a MIDI output, allowing it to connect easily to your computer or external MIDI hardware.

Novation

Novation

Novation // Launchkey 49 MKII - Performance

Video thumbnail for Novation // Launchkey 49 MKII - Performance by Novation

Novation // Launchkey 49 MKII - Performance

Novation

Novation

Video thumbnail for Novation // Launchkey 49 MKII - Performance Explained by Novation

Novation // Launchkey 49 MKII - Performance Explained

Novation

Novation

Reviews

PROS

  • Affordable option for budget-conscious musicians seeking a larger key range

  • Seamless integration with Ableton Live, particularly in "inControl" mode

  • Full-size keys offer a satisfying playing experience compared to smaller models

  • Solid build quality ensures durability and reliable performance

  • Assignable faders and pads enhance sound design capabilities

  • Plug-and-play functionality with minimal setup required

  • Well-suited for both beginners and professionals

  • Comes bundled with useful software like Ableton Live Lite

CONS

  • Fixed MIDI implementation limits customization compared to newer models

  • Bundled software issues may require additional steps to resolve

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The Launchkey 49 MKII includes a sustain pedal port, contrary to some confusion about its lack.

    Source
  • It offers 16 programmable sample pads and faders, enabling robust control over digital audio workstations like Ableton.

    Source
  • The Shift function on the Launchkey allows dual assignments for buttons, expanding control options without needing additional keys.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MK3 version includes additional features such as MIDI out, an arpeggiator, and a chord mode, which are not present in the MK2.

    Source
  • An owner compared the Launchkey 49's build to the Arturia Keylab, noting the Launchkey felt cheaper, whereas the Keylab had a metal body and seemed more robust.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the MKII's functionality can be adapted to perform tasks typically requiring additional hardware, like programming a space bar as a sustain pedal.

    Source
  • Some owners report that the bus sliders and pan controls lose their mapping when reopening Cakewalk, requiring reconfiguration unless saved as part of a project template.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The MK3 can be customized with Components software, allowing greater personalization compared to the MKII.

    Source
  • The Launchkey's software bundle is praised for its value, though some feel it doesn't fully compensate for the build quality.

    Source
  • Users experience issues with MIDI mapping transport controls in Cakewalk, often needing to re-learn controls with each new project unless configurations are saved as templates.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users report that knobs and sliders on the Launchkey 49 MKII can become loose and detach with infrequent use, reflecting a common issue in this price range.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For users needing more than 49 keys, the Launchkey 61 is recommended despite its flimsiness, as it hasn't been known to break under use.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Novation Launchkey 49 Mk2 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Novation Launchkey 49 MKII shines as a budget-friendly MIDI controller, especially for Ableton Live users. Its standout feature is the colorful, velocity-sensitive pads that sync seamlessly with Live’s clips, enhancing performance potential. The controller’s InControl tech offers versatility across major DAWs like Reason and FL Studio, though it’s somewhat limited by the lack of detailed documentation. While the keys are basic synth-action and the build is lightweight, the quality of the pads and controls is commendable for its price point. A solid choice for those seeking an affordable, capable Live controller with decent cross-platform support.

positive

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

digitaldjtips.com

With its RGB-backlit pads and semi-weighted keys, the Novation Launchkey 49 MKII is a solid MIDI controller for Ableton Live enthusiasts. Users will appreciate its portability, functionality, and the tactile feel of its knobs and faders. However, the plastic keys may not satisfy everyone, and it lacks standalone capabilities, needing a computer or an iPad connection. Despite these minor drawbacks, its affordable price and robust feature set make it a top choice for both beginners and pros in music production and live gigs.

positive

Novation Launchkey 49 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller review on ask.video

ask.video

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Madison Beer uses Novation Launchkey 49 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller

Madison Beer

Singer, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

Madison Beer confirmed her use of the Novation Launchkey 49 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller by posting a picture of it on her Instagram on October 19, 2020, with the caption "theremini makin my day." The photo serves as proof of her association with this piece of music gear.

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 49 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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