Novation Launchkey Mk4: A New Generation of Keyboard Controllers
The Launchkey ventures beyond the Ableton Live Universe
4,3 / 5,0 | 
The Novation Launchkey Mk4 is here! The freshly redesigned fourth generation of the popular keyboard controller is available in six sizes and comes with many new features. What’s new in the Launchkey Mk4?
Novation Launchkey Mk4
Novation’s Launchkey range has long been one of the most popular options when it comes to keyboard controllers for Ableton Live and other DAW software. And the brand-new Launchkey Mk4 is much more than a facelift. The new controllers not only come with a refreshed design and new hardware, but also with lots of new features for a new level of control.
Even in the previous generation, the Launchkey family covered nearly all common keyboard sizes. Along with updated versions of the Launchkey 25, 37, 49, 61, and Mini, Novation has now introduced a sixth variant – the Launchkey Mini 37. This means that you now have a choice of four full-size models and two compact versions with slim keys. Curiously, the Launchkey 88 (which was only introduced two years ago) is missing from the line-up – as of now, we don’t know if the manufacturer plans to update this model to Mk4, as well.
According to Novation, the hardware was completely overhauled, starting with the design. I like the minimalist look of the new generation; it seems a bit more grown-up to me. If you take a closer look at the two biggest versions with 49 and 61 keys, you’ll also notice that the manufacturer has moved the pads and encoders to the right, while placing the faders on the left side. Perhaps Novation found out that most users tend to use their right hand for the pads.
New Premium Keybeds
In addition to a new design, the Launchkey 49 and 61 Mk4 (which Novation now calls the “premium” models) have received a new keyboard mechanism with semi-weighted, piano-style keys. Novation claims that the new keybeds offer a smoother, more sensitive response and a better overall playing feel. The Launchkey 49 and 61 Mk4 also offer layers and zones for the first time, so you can do things like solo over an arpeggiator pattern.
Furthermore, all models of the Launchkey Mk4 series feature new FSR pads with polyphonic aftertouch. The FSR (Force Sensitive Resistor) technology ensures a reliable and precise response, Novation says.
All new models now also feature high-resolution OLED displays that can display much more information than the previous generation’s text-based screens. Even the two new Launchkey Mini models get displays for the first time – excellent!
The Launchkey is for Ableton only? Think again!
Until now, the Launchkey series was most popular with Ableton Live users. The new Launchkey Mk4 series now explicitly supports other DAWs, as well. In addition to Live, the controllers come with custom scripts for Logic Pro, Cubase, Reason, and FL Studio. You can also control Reaper, Pro Tools, and Studio One via the HUI protocol. Novation plans to release more custom scripts for additional DAWs in the future. In Ableton Live, you can now use the pads to control the step sequencer.
More new Features of the Launchkey Mk4
In addition to this, the Launchkey Mk4 offers an expanded Scale Mode with 22 additional scales (for a total of 30). Scales now automatically sync to scales in Ableton. There are also three new Chord Modes (Chord Map, User Chord, Fixed Chord), as well as a Chord Detector feature that detects and displays chords as you play. Moreover, the generative arpeggiator now offers a step editor that allows you to edit arpeggio patterns using the pads.
Comprehensive Software Package
The Novation Launchkey Mk4 comes with a generous software package. In addition to Ableton Live 12 Lite, you get licenses for the GForce Software Oberheim SEM, Oberheim OB-EZ and AXXESS synths, as well as Klevgrand LUXE, R0Verb, and Slammer. A custom orchestra bundle from Orchestral Tools is also included.
Prices and Availability
The Novation Launchkey Mk4 series is now available to order from Thomann* with the first shipment expected to arrive at the end of October.
More information
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