Novation Launchkey 61 MK4

Novation Launchkey MIDI controllers have been a staple in the music industry for years. With the Launchkey MK4, Novation takes the controller to a new level, where seamless integration between hardware and software takes center stage. This latest 4th generation is designed to work perfectly with your DAW and with external gear, offering endless creative possibilities. 

The Launchkey MK4 combines power, precision, and compatibility in a single, intuitive controller. Thanks to deep DAW integration and full controller profiles, the instrument can be fully customized to your liking. And because the MK4 features both MIDI via USB-C and a traditional 5-pin MIDI output, you can also use it perfectly well as a standalone device—without a computer or DAW.

The velocity-sensitive synth-action keys, modulation wheels, and transport controls give you complete control over your workflow. The performance pads support polyphonic aftertouch and are perfect for expressive playing styles, triggering samples, or controlling external hardware and mobile instruments. Sending custom mappings and MIDI CCs is also effortless.

The Novation Launchkey 61 is the 61-key version, in black.

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The Launchkey range: six models packed with creative control
Novation’s Launchkey MK4 series consists of six MIDI controllers, with a suitable model for every type of producer or performer. You can choose from models with 25, 37, 49, or 61 keys, plus two compact Mini models (Mini 25 and Mini 37) that offer the same advanced control capabilities in a portable format. Ideal for mobile studios or live performances where space and speed matter. The synth-action keys are velocity-sensitive and respond accurately to the subtleties of your playing. Each model features assignable encoders, soft buttons, and faders, allowing you to effortlessly control parameters within virtually any DAW. This lets you tailor your controller exactly to your setup, whether in the studio or on stage. All Launchkey MK4 models are equipped with 16 RGB-backlit performance pads featuring Novation’s proprietary FSR (Force Sensitive Resistor) technology. These pads not only respond to how hard you press them (velocity), but also support polyphonic aftertouch. This allows you to add extra dimensions to your drum or percussion playing, sample triggering, or live manipulation of clips in grid view. 

Note: Only the Novation Launchkey 49 MK4 and Launchkey 61 MK4 controllers feature assignable faders and fader knobs.

Give your sound a boost with advanced integration in
Whether you’re working in the studio or on stage, the Novation Launchkey MK4 series is designed to seamlessly adapt to any musical setting. Compared to the previous MK3 generation, the MK4 line offers a significant leap forward in DAW integration, highlighted by the revamped DAW Transport Mode. This gives you even better control over features like Ableton Live’s step sequencer. The built-in Scale Mode is now also fully synchronizable with Ableton’s scales. Thanks to the addition of 22 new scales, Scale Mode now features no fewer than 30 detectable scales. From harmonic and pentatonic major and minor scales to Greek modes and world music scales—you’ll always stay in the right key. The updated arpeggiator also allows you to adjust patterns step by step, which, combined with the three scale modes, offers a vast amount of creative freedom:

• Scale Snap:If youplaya note outside the selected scale, it is automatically converted to the nearest correct note. Ideal for live use where speed matters.
• Scale Filter: Notesnot in the selected scale are ignored in real time. So you’ll never play a “wrong” note again.
• Scale Easy: Thekeys are remapped so that the C key becomes the root note of your chosen scale, and black keys disappear from the playing surface. This provides a simplified playing experience, especially useful for beginners or live improvisations.

Chord Modes
The Novation Launchkey MK4 series is designed to support your musical workflow—from fully DAW-based setups to hardware-only setups or hybrid combinations. The updated Chord Modes give you, the player, instant tools to enrich your playing and develop creative ideas at lightning speed. The Launchkey MK4 features three built-in chord modes: Chord Map, User Chord Mode, and Fixed Chord Mode. Thanks to the Chord Detector, played chords are automatically recognized and displayed on the bright OLED screen—handy for both learning and live performance.

• Fixed Chord Mode: Seta chord and then play it with a single key. Ideal for quickly composing progressions or triggering chord blocks live with a single finger.
• User Chord Mode: Saveup to 16 custom chords—each on one of the 16 pads. These chords can be recalled instantly and transposed in semitones or octaves. Perfect for playing complex voicings with maximum control.
• Chord Map Mode: Discovernew chord combinations with a series of pre-programmed chords assigned to the pads. Get inspired by harmonic structures that go beyond your usual playing style.

All three modes make full use of the 16 RGB-backlit pads with polyphonic aftertouch, allowing you to not only trigger chords but also add expression to your playing.

Chord Map:
With ChordMap Mode, the Novation Launchkey MK4 transforms into a full-fledged harmony instrument. In this mode, the 16 RGB-backlit FSR pads are divided into two color-coded zones: the eight left pads (blue) are intended for stored chords, while the six right pads (orange) serve as expressive performance tools. These performance pads offer features such as bidirectional arpeggios, chord inversions, and even unique Bass + Chord and Chord Split options that allow for “two-handed” playing on a single controller. For example, you can trigger a bass note with one hand and the chord with the other, all via the pads. In addition, four of the knobs are assigned to innovative real-time parameters that further shape your sound:

• Adventure: Determineshow complex the harmonies become. From simple pop progressions to chord sequences full of tension and jazz improv notes.
• Explore: Filtersthe available chords within the complexity level selected in the Adventure setting. This allows you to narrow or broaden the harmonic possibilities.
• Spread: Determineshow wide a chord is played—from compact voicings within a single octave to widely spread chord layers across multiple octaves.
• Roll: Addsa strum-like effect by having notes within the chord sound in a spread-out manner, with an adjustable speed. Perfect for more expressive performances.

Includes a powerful software bundle
The Novation Launchkey MK4 series isn’t just packed with creative features—it also comes with an extensive software collection that lets you start producing, playing, and learning right away. Whether you’re making beats, playing live, or looking to improve your playing technique, everything you need is included. As you’d expect from a controller with deep Ableton integration, the Launchkey MK4 comes with a license for Ableton Live Lite. This compact yet powerful DAW offers everything you need for professional production and live performance. You’ll also get access to an extensive selection of virtual instruments and effects from brands like Klevgrand, GForce, and Orchestral Tools. Think synths, drums, multi-effects, and complete orchestral sound libraries—perfect for expanding your sound palette, regardless of your style or genre.

Want to improve your playing technique? Then the partnership with Melodics offers the solution. You get access to a beginner’s course and advanced training for experienced players—ideal for getting the most out of your Launchkey MK4. Novation Launchkey MK4 – included software:

• Ableton Live Lite (DAW)
• virtual instruments and effects from Klevgrand, GForce, and Orchestral Tools
• Melodics lessons: beginner and advanced courses for keyboardists
• Access to Novation Components for advanced MIDI mapping

Novation Launchkey MK4 features:

• Comprehensive MIDI controller with multiple play and control modes for production, composition, and live performance
• Equipped with a 5-pin MIDI output and sustain pedal input on all models for use with hardware, software, or hybrid setups
• 16 RGB-backlit FSR performance pads with velocity sensitivity and polyphonic aftertouch for maximum expression
• Knobs, faders, fader buttons, and pitch/modulation wheels are freely assignable for any creative application
• Deep Ableton integration including full synchronization with step sequencer and built-in scale modes
• Built-in generative arpeggiator with 8-part per-step editing for rhythmic patterns on any MIDI-compatible instrument
• Clear OLED display shows chords, scales, and other information in real time
• Three chord modes (Fixed Chord, User Chord, and Chord Map) for a wide range of applications in the studio or live
• Three scale modes with a choice of 30 scales, including filtering, muting, and reordering for easy in-key playing
• Advanced transport controls for direct control over virtually any DAW or plug-in
• Save and recall up to 4 fully customizable mapping profiles for personalized MIDI control
• sleek and robust design with a redesigned chassis and intuitive layout for a fast workflow
• Included software: Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments and effects from Klevgrand, GForce, and Orchestral Tools