Controllers Guide: Exploring the Novation Launchkey 49 and Launchkey 37 MK3
In the ever-evolving world of music production, MIDI controllers have become essential tools for producers, composers, and performers. Among the standout options in today's market, the Novation Launchkey series has established itself as a favorite for both beginners and professionals. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the Novation Launchkey 49 and the newer Launchkey 37 MK3, exploring their features, capabilities, and how they can transform your music production workflow.
Whether you're setting up your first home studio or looking to upgrade your existing setup, understanding the nuances of these powerful controllers will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your creative needs.
Understanding the Novation Launchkey Series
The Novation Launchkey series represents a line of MIDI keyboard controllers designed to integrate seamlessly with Ableton Live and other digital audio workstations (DAWs). These controllers combine playable keyboards with production controls, allowing musicians to create and perform with intuitive ease.
The Evolution of Novation Controllers
Novation has been at the forefront of music technology innovation for decades. The company's journey began in the 1990s with synthesizers and has evolved to include some of the most widely used MIDI controllers in modern music production. The Launchkey series specifically has gone through several iterations, with each new version bringing improvements in design, functionality, and integration capabilities.
The MK3 (Mark 3) generation represents the latest evolution, incorporating feedback from users and advances in technology to create more responsive, versatile, and powerful controllers.
Key Features of the Launchkey Series
Before we dive into the specific models, let's explore what makes the Launchkey series stand out in the crowded MIDI controller market:
Deep Ableton Live Integration: The Launchkey series is designed to work seamlessly with Ableton Live, offering plug-and-play functionality and dedicated controls for Ableton's features.
RGB Pads: Velocity-sensitive RGB pads allow for expressive finger drumming and clip launching.
Intuitive Transport Controls: Essential playback controls are readily accessible, streamlining the recording and production process.
Arpeggiator: Built-in arpeggiator functionality adds movement and rhythm to your performances.
Scale Modes: These help you stay in key while playing, making it easier to create melodies even with limited keyboard knowledge.
Chord Modes: Generate complex chords with single key presses, expanding your harmonic possibilities.
DAW Integration: While optimized for Ableton Live, the Launchkey series also works well with other major DAWs like Logic Pro, Cubase, and FL Studio.
Novation Launchkey 49: The Versatile Powerhouse
The Novation Launchkey 49 strikes an excellent balance between portability and functionality. With 49 full-size keys, it provides enough range for two-handed playing while remaining compact enough for smaller studio spaces.
Physical Design and Layout
The Launchkey 49 features a sleek, professional design with a focus on usability. The 49-key keyboard offers velocity sensitivity for expressive playing, while the array of controls above the keyboard provides immediate access to essential production functions.
Key physical features include:
49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys
16 RGB backlit performance pads
9 faders (8 assignable + 1 master)
8 rotary knobs
Transport controls (play, stop, record, etc.)
Pitch and modulation wheels
USB connection for power and MIDI
Sustain pedal input
The build quality is solid, with a good balance between durability and weight. The keys have a nice action that piano players will find comfortable, while the pads offer enough responsiveness for beat-making and triggering samples.
Performance Capabilities
Where the Launchkey 49 truly shines is in its performance capabilities. The 49-key range allows for complex two-handed playing, making it suitable for pianists and keyboard players who need more than the minimum octave range.
The 16 RGB pads can be used for finger drumming, triggering samples, or launching clips in Ableton Live. The pads are velocity-sensitive and responsive, providing a tactile experience that encourages creativity.
The arpeggiator function is particularly impressive, offering various patterns and rhythmic variations that can be manipulated in real-time using the rotary knobs. This feature alone can spark new musical ideas and add movement to static chord progressions.
Production Workflow
For producers, the Launchkey 49 streamlines the production workflow in several ways:
Immediate Parameter Control: The 8 knobs can be mapped to control your most-used parameters, from filter cutoffs to effect sends.
Mix Control: The 9 faders (including a master fader) provide hands-on mixing capabilities, allowing you to balance your tracks without relying solely on mouse movements.
Transport Control: Dedicated buttons for play, stop, record, and loop enable you to control your DAW's transport functions without touching your computer.
Scale Modes: These ensure you stay in key, which is particularly helpful when sketching ideas or for producers who don't have extensive keyboard training.
The integration with Ableton Live is particularly noteworthy. The Launchkey 49 provides access to Ableton's Session View, allowing you to trigger clips, scenes, and navigate your session without looking at your computer screen. This creates a more immersive and instrument-like experience when producing.
Novation Launchkey 37 MK3: Compact Innovation
The Novation Launchkey 37 MK3 represents the latest evolution in the Launchkey series, offering a slightly more compact form factor with 37 keys while introducing several innovative features not found in previous generations.
What's New in the MK3 Generation
The MK3 generation brings significant improvements to the Launchkey series, including:
Improved Key Action: The keyboard action has been refined for better playability and expression.
Enhanced RGB Pads: The pads are more responsive and feature brighter, more vibrant RGB lighting.
MIDI Out Port: A dedicated 5-pin MIDI output allows you to control hardware synthesizers and drum machines without a computer.
Expanded Chord Modes: New chord modes make it easier to create complex harmonies with minimal effort.
Custom Modes: Create and save custom control mappings for different software and scenarios.
Capture MIDI: Never lose a spontaneous musical idea again with this feature that recalls notes played even when not recording.
These improvements make the MK3 generation more versatile and user-friendly than its predecessors, addressing many of the limitations of earlier models.
Compact Design Without Compromise
With 37 keys, the Launchkey 37 MK3 offers a more compact footprint than the 49-key version, making it ideal for producers with limited desk space or those who need a more portable solution for on-the-go production.
Despite its smaller size, the Launchkey 37 MK3 doesn't compromise on essential controls:
37 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys
16 RGB backlit performance pads
8 rotary knobs
Transport controls
Pitch and modulation wheels
USB connection for power and MIDI
5-pin MIDI output
Sustain pedal input
The main difference from the 49-key version is the absence of the 9 faders, which have been omitted to maintain a more compact design. For many producers, particularly those working primarily with software instruments and effects, this trade-off is acceptable given the space savings.
Advanced Production Features
The Launchkey 37 MK3 introduces several advanced features that enhance the production experience:
Scale Chord Mode: Play complex chords that are always in key with a single finger.
User Chord Mode: Store your own chord shapes for instant recall.
Device Controls: Take immediate control of virtual instruments and effects parameters.
Arpeggiator Controls: Expanded arpeggiator options with rhythm, pattern, and gate controls.
Fixed Chord Mode: Play memorized chords from any key on the keyboard.
These features make the Launchkey 37 MK3 particularly well-suited for electronic music producers, beatmakers, and composers who value creative tools that inspire new ideas.
Comparing the Launchkey 49 and Launchkey 37 MK3
When deciding between these two controllers, several factors come into play. Let's compare them directly to help you make an informed choice.
Size and Portability
The most obvious difference between these controllers is their size:
Launchkey 49: Approximately 31.5 inches (80 cm) wide, requiring more desk space but offering greater key range.
Launchkey 37 MK3: Approximately 24.5 inches (62 cm) wide, more suitable for smaller workspaces and easier to transport.
If you frequently travel with your gear or have limited studio space, the 37-key version might be more practical. However, if you have piano training or frequently play two-handed parts, the 49-key version provides a more comfortable playing experience.
Control Layout and Functionality
While both controllers offer similar core functionality, there are some notable differences:
Faders: The Launchkey 49 includes 9 faders (8 assignable + 1 master), which are absent on the 37-key version. These are particularly useful for mixing and controlling multiple parameters simultaneously.
MIDI Out: The Launchkey 37 MK3 includes a 5-pin MIDI output for controlling hardware, which may not be present on older Launchkey 49 models (though it is included in the Launchkey 49 MK3).
MK3 Features: If comparing an older Launchkey 49 to the Launchkey 37 MK3, the latter will have all the MK3 generation improvements, including enhanced chord modes and custom control options.
For producers who primarily work "in the box" with software instruments and effects, these differences might be minimal. However, for those who incorporate hardware synthesizers or who do extensive mixing work, these distinctions could be significant.
Playing Experience
The playing experience differs between these controllers in a few key ways:
Key Range: The Launchkey 49 offers a four-octave range, allowing for more complex two-handed playing without octave shifting. The Launchkey 37 MK3 provides just over three octaves, which may require more frequent octave shifting for certain pieces.
Key Action: If comparing the latest MK3 versions of both, the key action should be similar. However, the MK3 generation generally offers improved key response over earlier models.
Performance Space: The larger surface area of the Launchkey 49 provides more space for performance gestures and movements, which some players find more comfortable.
Your playing style and background will largely determine which controller feels better. Pianists and keyboard players often prefer the wider key range, while producers who use the keyboard primarily for inputting notes and chords might find the 37-key version perfectly adequate.
Integration with DAWs and Software
Both the Launchkey 49 and Launchkey 37 MK3 are designed to integrate with popular digital audio workstations, though the level of integration varies by platform.
Ableton Live Integration
The Launchkey series is optimized for Ableton Live, offering deep integration that enhances the production workflow:
Session Navigation: Navigate through Ableton's Session View directly from the controller.
Clip Launching: Use the RGB pads to trigger clips and scenes.
Device Control: Take immediate control of Ableton's devices and instruments.
Mixer Control: Adjust volume, panning, and sends using the physical controls.
Transport Control: Control playback, recording, and looping without touching your computer.
This integration is largely identical between the two controllers, with the exception that the Launchkey 49's additional faders provide more simultaneous control over mixer parameters.
Other DAW Compatibility
While optimized for Ableton Live, both controllers work well with other major DAWs:
Logic Pro: HUI integration provides control over transport, mixer, and plugins.
FL Studio: Works as a MIDI controller with mappable functions.
Cubase: Compatible as a MIDI controller with Mackie Control support.
Pro Tools: Functions as a MIDI controller with basic transport control.
Reason: Works as a MIDI controller with mappable parameters.
The MK3 generation generally offers improved integration with non-Ableton DAWs compared to earlier versions, with more dedicated control modes for popular platforms.
Included Software
Both controllers come bundled with software to get you started immediately:
Ableton Live Lite: A streamlined version of Ableton Live for recording, editing, and performing.
Virtual Instruments: Various software instruments from Novation, Spitfire Audio, and XLN Audio.
Membership to Novation Sound Collective: Providing regular free software from leading brands.
This software bundle represents significant added value, particularly for beginners who may not already own a DAW or virtual instruments.
Hardware Integration and Standalone Capabilities
Modern music production often involves a combination of software and hardware elements. Let's explore how these controllers handle hardware integration.
Controlling Hardware Synthesizers
The Launchkey 37 MK3 (and the Launchkey 49 MK3) includes a 5-pin MIDI output that allows direct connection to hardware synthesizers, drum machines, and other MIDI-equipped devices. This enables you to:
Control hardware synthesizers without a computer
Sequence external gear using the arpeggiator and chord modes
Integrate hardware into your DAW-based workflow
Use the controller as the centerpiece of a hybrid setup
This capability is particularly valuable for producers who incorporate vintage or modern hardware synthesizers into their productions, allowing for a more integrated workflow between digital and analog elements.
Standalone Operation
While primarily designed as USB-powered controllers for computer-based music production, both the Launchkey 49 and 37 MK3 offer some standalone functionality:
Arpeggiator: Can be used to control hardware synthesizers without a computer (on models with MIDI out).
Chord Modes: Function with external hardware, allowing complex chord generation for hardware synths.
Custom MIDI Templates: Store and recall custom MIDI mappings for hardware devices.
These standalone capabilities make the controllers more versatile for live performance and hardware-focused setups, though they still shine brightest when paired with a computer running a DAW.
Creative Workflow and Music Production
Beyond the technical specifications, how do these controllers actually impact your creative process and music production workflow?
Inspiration and Ideation
Both controllers offer features designed to spark creativity and help overcome writer's block:
Arpeggiator: Transform simple held notes into rhythmic patterns that can inspire new musical ideas.
Scale Modes: Stay in key while experimenting, allowing for more confident improvisation.
Chord Modes: Discover new harmonic possibilities even with limited music theory knowledge.
Pad Performance: The tactile nature of the pads encourages rhythmic experimentation and beat creation.
These features can be particularly valuable during the initial stages of music creation, helping to generate ideas that can be refined later in the production process.
Production Efficiency
Both controllers streamline the production process in several ways:
Hands-on Control: Physical control of parameters feels more intuitive than mouse-based editing for many producers.
Reduced Screen Dependency: Less reliance on the computer screen creates a more instrument-like experience.
Quick Access to Common Functions: Transport controls and essential parameters are immediately accessible.
Session Navigation: Move through your project without interrupting your creative flow.
For many producers, these workflow enhancements translate to more productive sessions and a more enjoyable creative process.
Live Performance Capabilities
For those who perform live, both controllers offer valuable performance features:
Clip Launching: Trigger prepared clips and scenes in Ableton Live.
Real-time Parameter Control: Manipulate effects and instrument parameters during performance.
Expressive Playing: Velocity-sensitive keys and pads allow for dynamic performances.
Hardware Control: Connect to hardware synths for integrated live setups (on models with MIDI out).
The choice between the 49-key and 37-key versions for live performance largely depends on your playing style and space constraints. The 49-key version offers more playing range, while the 37-key version is more portable for touring musicians.
Who Should Choose the Launchkey 49?
The Novation Launchkey 49 is particularly well-suited for:
Pianists and keyboard players who need a wider key range for two-handed playing
Studio producers with adequate desk space who value having more physical controls
Mix engineers who appreciate having dedicated faders for mixing tasks
Composers who work with complex arrangements requiring extended keyboard range
Producers who prioritize playability over absolute portability
If you have a background in piano or keyboard playing, or if you frequently work on compositions that require a wider range of notes, the Launchkey 49 provides a more comfortable playing experience without constant octave shifting.
Who Should Choose the Launchkey 37 MK3?
The Novation Launchkey 37 MK3 is ideal for:
Producers with limited desk space who need a more compact controller
Mobile musicians who frequently transport their gear
Electronic music producers who primarily input shorter phrases and chord progressions
Beatmakers who focus more on rhythm and less on extended keyboard parts
Producers with hardware synths who value the dedicated MIDI output
If portability is a priority or if your production style doesn't require extensive keyboard work, the Launchkey 37 MK3 offers most of the functionality of its larger sibling in a more compact package.
Setting Up Your Novation Launchkey Controller
Getting started with either the Launchkey 49 or Launchkey 37 MK3 is straightforward, but following these steps will ensure the smoothest experience:
Initial Setup and Installation
Connect the controller to your computer using the included USB cable.
Visit the Novation website to register your product and download the latest drivers and software.
Install Novation Components, which allows you to customize your controller's settings and update firmware.
Install the included software, including Ableton Live Lite and any bundled virtual instruments.
Launch your DAW and ensure it recognizes the controller in your MIDI settings.
Most modern DAWs will automatically recognize the Launchkey controllers, but you may need to select them manually in your DAW's preferences or settings menu.
Customization and Optimization
To get the most from your controller, consider these customization options:
Custom MIDI Mappings: Create personalized control layouts for your favorite plugins and instruments.
Velocity Curve Adjustment: Modify how the keys respond to your playing style.
Template Creation: Save different configurations for various production scenarios.
DAW-Specific Modes: Explore the dedicated control modes for your particular DAW.
The Novation Components software is particularly useful for customization, allowing you to configure your controller's behavior to match your workflow.
Maintenance and Longevity
To ensure your Launchkey controller remains in optimal condition for years to come, consider these maintenance tips:
Regular Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust from keys and controls.
Firmware Updates: Keep your controller's firmware updated through Novation Components.
Proper Storage: When not in use, store in a dust-free environment away from extreme temperatures.
Careful Transport: Use a padded case or bag when transporting to prevent damage.
Cable Management: Avoid strain on the USB port by properly managing cables.
With proper care, either controller should provide many years of reliable service. Novation products are generally known for their durability, though as with any electronic device, careful handling will extend their lifespan.
Expanding Your Setup
As your production needs grow, you might consider expanding your setup beyond just the Launchkey controller. Here are some complementary devices that work well with either the Launchkey 49 or 37 MK3:
Novation Launchpad: Add dedicated clip launching and performance capabilities.
Audio Interface: Improve recording and monitoring quality.
Expression Pedals: Connect sustain or expression pedals for more nuanced control.
Hardware Synthesizers: Use your Launchkey to control external synths via MIDI.
Drum Pads: Add dedicated pads for more expressive beat creation.
Both controllers can serve as the centerpiece of an evolving production setup, with their versatility allowing them to remain useful even as your studio grows.
Conclusion: Making Your Choice
Both the Novation Launchkey 49 and Launchkey 37 MK3 represent excellent choices for music producers at any level. Your decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and constraints.
The Launchkey 49 offers a wider playing range and additional faders, making it ideal for those who prioritize playability and hands-on mixing control. Its four-octave keyboard provides enough range for most two-handed playing without constant octave shifting.
The Launchkey 37 MK3 delivers most of the same functionality in a more compact package, making it perfect for producers with limited space or those who need portability. Its three-octave keyboard is sufficient for many production tasks, and the MK3 improvements make it a powerful creative tool.
Whichever model you choose, you'll be getting a versatile, well-designed controller that integrates seamlessly with modern production software and provides intuitive hands-on control of your music creation process.
For musicians looking to establish their online presence alongside their production setup, check out this guide to free musician website platforms that can help showcase your music created with your Novation controller.
And once you've created your masterpieces using your Launchkey controller, you'll want to share them with the world. Learn about the best independent music distribution options for indie artists to get your music on streaming platforms and into listeners' ears.
Remember that the best controller is the one that inspires you to create more music. Both the Launchkey 49 and Launchkey 37 MK3 excel at removing barriers between your musical ideas and their realization, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your creative expression.