Novation has introduced the updated Launchkey MIDI keyboard controller series. They will be showing the revamped controllers in Frankfurt this week at the 2015 Musikmesse.
The Launchkey controllers have been upgraded with RGB velocity-sensitive pads that match the clip colors in users’ Ableton Live sessions, making workflow in session view “far more intuitive.”
Novation Launchkey Key Features:
- Integrate immediately and seamlessly with Ableton Live
- See your session with full-color RGB pads that match the color of your clips in Live
- 16 velocity-sensitive pads
- Shape your sound by using eight knobs to control instruments and effects
- Choose between a 25, 49 or 61-note velocity-sensitive keyboard
- Hands-on control through nine full-size faders on the 49 and 61-note versions
- Compact and tough
- Control all major music software using InControl
- Plug in and play with USB bus-power
Launchkey controllers come bundled with: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station and V-Station virtual instruments, along with a comprehensive 1GB collection of production-ready samples from Loopmasters. Launchkey is also fully bus-powered via USB and class compliant.
Pricing and Availability. The revamped Novation Launchkey series is expected to be available for purchase late spring – early summer 2015 for the following suggested prices:
- Launchkey mini – $99.99 US;
- Launchpad mini – $99.99 US;
- Launchkey 25 – $149.99 US;
- Launchkey 49 – $199.99 US
- Launchkey 61 – $249.99 US.
Launchkey information and product specs are on the Novation website.
So other than offering a set of psychedelic lights, it doesn’t introduce anything new like aftertouch for example….
Can you spray paint over the colored pads and not affect their functionality?
Disable velocity sensitivity, while you’re at it, and you can get that ‘vintage MIDI controller’ vibe!
Another okay looking keyboard without a MIDI out port on the back.
You’re totally missing the point of this controller. It’s meant to complement Ableton Live. If you wish you can go for their Pro model of keyboard controllers and buy into the SL series.
Well i like it, and ill be buying one! 🙂
When will Novation understand that a synth has’t got 8 parameters but at least 32.
They do, have a look at their SL series of key controllers with 52 touch sensitive faders and pots, MIDI and aftertouch Fatar keybed, but unfortunately not updated since 4 or 5 years ago…
Assume this is not a software update. Also assume they are not going to PX my Launchkey for a new model…