Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 MIDI Keyboard

General

Whether you're already working with Ableton Live, intend to get started soon, or prefer a different DAW altogether, a practical controller is a great asset. Take the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 MIDI keyboard, for instance, which combines keyboard keys, sliders and encoders with the familiar touch pads that correspond with Ableton's clips. InControl technology allows for seamless integration with FL Studio, Pro Tools, Reason, Cubase, Studio One and Logic.

Characteristics of the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2

One of the main advantages of the Launchkey is that it all but replaces your computer mouse. In addition to keys, a pitch wheel and a modulation wheel, the MIDI keyboard offers various transport buttons that enable you to navigate through your project and to start and stop playback in your DAW. Meanwhile, you can use the eight encoders and nine sliders to control the parameters of the virtual synthesizer you're using. The Launchkey 49 MK2 is USB-powered, so you'll have no need for power cables or installation drivers. A great software bundle, consisting of Ableton Live Lite and the virtual instruments Novation Bass Station and V-Station, is included, as is 4 GB of Loopmasters samples. In other words, you can get started on your first music productions right away, even if you don't own any music software yet.

New features of the MK2 model

During the development stage of this MK2 model, Novation took a good look at the original Launchkey series. To facilitate Ableton Live integration, they gave the MIDI controller new pads that light up in various colours that correspond with clips in Ableton, improving your workflow considerably. The knobs that control your parameters have also been redesigned, now offering an even better feel. Finally, this new edition of the Novation MIDI keyboard has a slightly more sleek, even more universal housing than its predecessor.

Please note:

• If you already own a copy of Ableton Live (Lite), make sure it's version 9. Earlier editions do not support the InControl system.
• Even though the MIDI keyboard has a power adapter connector, an adapter is not included.