Novation Launchkey 88 MK3

The Novation Launchkey 88 MK3 is a MIDI keyboard controller for producers, keyboardists, songwriters, and live performers who want to combine a larger keyboard with direct DAW control. With 88 semi-weighted keys, 16 pads, 8 encoders, 9 faders, and transport controls, you have extensive control over your music software without constantly reaching for a mouse or keyboard. The Launchkey 88 MK3 was developed for Ableton Live, but also works well with other popular DAWs.

Semi-weighted keys with a natural playing feel
The 88-key keyboard offers a wider range than smaller MIDI keyboards and feels more comfortable for piano parts, chords, synth layers, and expressive productions. The semi-weighted keys provide more resistance than light synth-action keys, while still remaining highly versatile in a studio or live setup. This makes the Launchkey 88 MK3 ideal for players looking for a full-size keyboard but who don’t need a heavy digital piano or stage piano.

Seamless integration with Ableton Live
The Launchkey 88 MK3 is designed for a fast workflow in Ableton Live. You can trigger clips, control scenes, adjust mixer functions, control transport, and trigger instrumentsdirectly from the controller. The pads, faders, and encoders give you direct control over the most important functions, so you can capture ideas faster, build arrangements, and perform live. Ableton Live Lite is included, so you can start producing right away.

Also works with other DAWs
In addition to Ableton Live, the Launchkey 88 MK3 offers integration with Logic, Reason, and Cubase, among others. You can also use the controller with other DAWs such as Studio One, Reaper, and Pro Tools via HUI functionality. In addition, the Launchkey 88 MK3 functions as a standard MIDI controller, allowing you to use it with software instruments, plugins, and hardware that support MIDI.

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16 pads for drums, clips, and performance
The 16 velocity-sensitive pads are suitable for drum programming, clip launching, playing samples, and controlling performance functions. The pads feature RGB lighting, so you can quickly see what’s active. When used with Ableton Live, you can use the pads to launch clips and scenes, while in other workflows you can trigger drums, one-shots, or MIDI functions.

Faders and encoders for mix control
With 9 45-mm faders and 8 rotary knobs, you have direct control over volumes, sends, plugin parameters, and instrument settings. This is useful during mixing, sound design, and live performances. The dedicated transport controls let you record, play, stop, and navigate without interrupting your workflow. This makes the Launchkey 88 MK3 feel more like a central control panel for your studio.

Creative features for new ideas
The Launchkey 88 MK3 not only helps with control but also with music creation. Scale Mode makes it easier to stay in the right key. Chord Modes let you play and capture chords faster. The arpeggiator helps you create rhythmic patterns and melodic ideas. With features like Mutate and Deviate, you can create variations on existing patterns, helping you come up with new ideas more quickly.

Custom Modes via Novation Components
Through NovationComponents, you can create your own mappings for the pads, faders, and encoders. This allows you to customize the Launchkey 88 MK3 to fit your own studio, software, or hardware. For example, you can assign custom MIDI CCs for synths, plugins, or external gear. This makes the controller ideal for producers who don’t just want to work with a standard DAW template but prefer to configure their setup to their own preferences.

MIDI Out for External Hardware
In addition to USB, the Launchkey 88 MK3 features a 5-pin MIDI Out. This allows you to control external synthesizers, drum machines, or sound modules without an additional MIDI interface. The controller is USB-powered, so you don’t need a separate adapter for normal use with a computer. This keeps your setup tidy and makes the Launchkey 88 MK3 easy to position in the studio or on stage.

Comes complete with software
The Novation Launchkey 88 MK3comes with a software bundle that lets you get started right away. Ableton Live Lite is included, along with additional instruments and effects for production, sound design, and mixing. This makes the controller an excellent choice for anyone looking for a large MIDI keyboard with extensive controls, creative features, and strong DAW integration.

Novation Launchkey 88 MK3 features:

• 88-key MIDI keyboard controller
• semi-weighted keys
• 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads
• 8 knobs
• 9 45 mm faders
• transport buttons for DAW control
• Optimized for Ableton Live
• also works with Logic, Reason, Cubase, Studio One, Reaper, and Pro Tools
• Scale Mode
• Chord Modes
• Arpeggiator
• Mutate and Deviate functions
• Custom Modes via Novation Components
• 5-pin MIDI out
• USB port
• USB bus-powered
• Ableton Live Lite included
• Software bundle included
• Dimensions: 127 x 25.8 x 8.7 cm
• Weight: approximately 8.2 kg