Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 (opened)

The Launchkey series has been one of the most popular MIDI controllers for many years, whose main task is to control DAW software on your PC, laptop or tablet. Launchkeys have won the hearts of customers mainly due to their wide flexibility, high compatibility with DAW software, light weight, simple design and intuitive operation. The keys are thus suitable for recording studios or live performance and thanks to Plug&Play technology they work instantly. The third generation Launchkey has new features in the form of the Arpeggiator, three single-note chord triggering modes, new controls for transport or mixing and last but not least, a clear two-line LCD display. The rear panel has also undergone a change, now offering a 5-pin MIDI output for additional synths, drum machines, or MIDI devices, and an output for a Sustain pedal for an even more authentic playing experience. The Launchkey series comes in four sizes with 25, 37, 49 and 61 keys, so you can use them as a synth or classic keyboard for accompaniment, and all four types now include track volume.

The keys are fully compatible with Ableton Live Lite software (included), just connect them via USB cable to your device and you can start creating your new recordings. You control the software via eight rotary potentiometers, nine 45mm faders (Launchkey 49 and 61 only) and other controls that allow you to navigate the program without a single mouse movement. The 16 touch pads have also been given a new coat of paint, and are now even more responsive and backlit with RGB LEDs for better visibility, giving you good visibility especially during nighttime live performance and studio sessions. Included in the box is software and a USB cable to connect to your device.

Get creative
Create new melodies, rhythms, sounds, run your fingers over the keys and don't let anything or anyone distract you. Launchkeys have a powerful arpeggiator, three Fixed Chord modes that capture the harmonic part of your idea and you can then compose the main melody. Heavy dynamic beats are now created with sixteen super sensitive pads.

Your song, your way
Step away from the computer screen and focus solely on your playing and composing. Intuitive keyboard controls take you away from your computer mouse, monitor and laptop keyboard. You can control the entire software using the Launchkey control panel, so the keys behave almost like an analog synthesizer, bringing a whole new direction to the world of MIDI devices.

Do it anywhere, any way
Launchkeys are compatible with many DAW software and are great with VST tools and effects such as AAS, Softube, Spitfire Audio, XLN Audio and Klevgrand. Included in the box is the popular Abletone Live Lite, which houses a wide range of sounds and effects that you'll appreciate both when composing and playing live.

It's an instrument he wants you to play
MIDI instruments are no longer just intermediaries between you and your computer, over decades of development they have evolved into a regular and respected musical instrument that can handle live performance as well as studio production. Despite its small size, the Launchkey packs a myriad of features, options and, when combined with software, a myriad of sounds that will enhance your songs and beats.

New firmware v1.1
The new v1.1 firmware includes the unique Strum Mode, designed to ignite the creative spark and expand the possibilities when creating melodies. Strum Mode can be used in conjunction with the arpeggiator to create unbridled melodies and routines that will greatly enhance your music production. The new fimrware also allows you to adjust the brightness for backlit PADs, On/Off PAD sensitivity mode for preference of tight and fast playing, double tap functionality for Arp and Fixed chord modes, or the ability to turn off/on MIDI Clock mode to connect MIDI keys to another MIDI device.

Firmware Update 2024 - Version 1.2 improves the user experience by allowing the Play and Stop buttons to send Start/Stop messages via USB and MIDI outside of the DAW environment, which is convenient for those working with external devices such as sequencers. In addition, the controls now visually respond to incoming MIDI messages and indicate their statuses for the Pad and Fader buttons, offering better feedback. Users can also now select which Fader, Pad, and Port modes will be used when the Launchkey is turned on, so they can immediately go back into action.