Controllers Guide: Novation Launchkey 61 & Novation Launchpad Pro
In today's digital music production landscape, MIDI controllers have become essential tools for producers, performers, and electronic musicians. Among the most popular and versatile options on the market are the Novation Launchkey 61 and the Novation Launchpad Pro. These powerful controllers offer unique features and capabilities that can transform your music-making process, whether you're in the studio or performing live.
This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about these two flagship Novation controllers, from their key features and specifications to practical applications and integration with popular DAWs. Whether you're a beginner looking to purchase your first controller or an experienced producer considering an upgrade, this article will help you understand the strengths and potential of the Launchkey 61 and Launchpad Pro.
Understanding MIDI Controllers: The Basics
Before diving into the specifics of the Novation controllers, let's briefly cover what MIDI controllers are and why they're important in modern music production.
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) controllers don't produce sound on their own. Instead, they send MIDI data to other devices or software, triggering sounds, controlling parameters, and allowing for musical expression. They serve as the physical interface between the musician and digital instruments or software.
The main types of MIDI controllers include:
Keyboard controllers: Feature piano-style keys for playing melodies, chords, and basslines
Pad controllers: Utilize velocity-sensitive pads for triggering samples, loops, and drums
Control surfaces: Provide knobs, faders, and buttons for manipulating software parameters
Hybrid controllers: Combine multiple control types in one device
Both the Novation Launchkey 61 and Launchpad Pro fall into these categories, with the Launchkey 61 being primarily a keyboard controller with additional control features, and the Launchpad Pro being a sophisticated pad controller with extended functionality.
Novation Launchkey 61: In-Depth Review
Key Specifications and Features
The Novation Launchkey 61 is a full-featured MIDI keyboard controller designed to integrate seamlessly with Ableton Live and other popular DAWs. Here are its core specifications:
61 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys with medium weight action
16 RGB backlit performance pads
8 knobs for controlling parameters
9 faders (8 assignable + 1 master)
Dedicated transport controls
Pitch and modulation wheels
Arpeggiator with rhythm, pattern, and octave controls
Scale mode for playing in key
Chord mode for triggering complex chords with single keys
USB-powered with MIDI out for hardware integration
Dimensions: 952mm x 258mm x 80mm
Weight: 3.5kg
The Launchkey 61 stands out in the market for several reasons. First, its 61-key layout provides ample range for playing complex pieces and chord voicings. The full-size keys offer a familiar feel for trained pianists while remaining accessible to beginners.
Integration with DAWs
While the Launchkey 61 was designed with Ableton Live in mind, it offers impressive integration with numerous other digital audio workstations:
Ableton Live: Plug-and-play functionality with automatic mapping to Live's core features. The RGB pads align with Live's Session View for clip launching, and the knobs automatically map to device parameters.
Logic Pro: Custom modes specifically designed for Logic, with controls mapped to Smart Controls, transport functions, and mixer parameters.
FL Studio: Dedicated integration for controlling channel rack, mixer, and transport functions.
Cubase: Mapped controls for quick navigation and parameter adjustment.
Reason: Automatic mapping to Reason's instruments and mixer.
Studio One: Custom mapping for controlling track parameters and transport functions.
The Launchkey 61 uses Novation's HUI protocol implementation to provide control over transport, navigation, and mixer functions across most major DAWs, making it a versatile choice regardless of your preferred software.
Creative Features for Music Production
Beyond basic MIDI control, the Launchkey 61 includes several creative features that can enhance your production workflow:
Arpeggiator: The built-in arpeggiator allows you to quickly create rhythmic patterns from held notes. You can adjust the rhythm, pattern, gate, and octave range to create everything from subtle embellishments to complex melodic runs. The arpeggiator can be synchronized to your DAW's tempo for perfect timing.
Scale Mode: This feature constrains the keyboard to notes within a selected scale, making it impossible to play "wrong" notes. It's particularly useful for producers who don't have extensive keyboard training or when experimenting with unfamiliar scales.
Chord Mode: The chord mode enables you to trigger full chords with single keys, with options for different chord types and inversions. This can be a powerful tool for songwriting and live performance, allowing complex harmonic structures to be played effortlessly.
Custom Modes: The Launchkey 61 allows for custom MIDI mappings through Novation's Components software, enabling you to create personalized control setups for specific instruments, plugins, or live performance scenarios.
Performance Capabilities
For live performers, the Launchkey 61 offers several advantages:
The 16 RGB pads can be used to trigger clips, samples, or drum sounds with visual feedback matching your software
Dedicated buttons for quantizing performances, undoing actions, and capturing MIDI
The ability to control hardware synthesizers via the MIDI Out port
Lightweight design (3.5kg) makes it relatively portable despite the full-sized keyboard
Robust build quality suitable for stage use
The combination of a substantial keyboard with pad-based clip launching makes the Launchkey 61 particularly well-suited to performers who need to play instrumental parts while triggering backing tracks or samples.
Novation Launchpad Pro: In-Depth Review
Key Specifications and Features
The Novation Launchpad Pro is a professional-grade pad controller that offers extensive control capabilities in a compact format. Here are its main specifications:
64 RGB velocity and pressure-sensitive pads (8x8 grid)
Dedicated buttons for mode selection and navigation
Four track-based sequencers
Chord mode with various voicing options
Scale mode with 32 scale types
Note mode for melodic playing
Custom mode for personalized MIDI mapping
USB-C connection
MIDI In, Out 1, and Out 2/Thru ports for hardware integration
Dimensions: 245mm x 245mm x 21mm
Weight: 1.3kg
The Launchpad Pro distinguishes itself with professional-grade pads that respond to both velocity (how hard you hit) and pressure (how much force you apply after hitting), allowing for expressive performances and detailed control.
Integration with Ableton Live and Other DAWs
The Launchpad Pro was designed as a premium controller for Ableton Live, offering deep integration with the software:
Session Mode: Provides a color-matched view of Ableton's Session View, allowing for intuitive clip launching, scene triggering, and session navigation.
Mixer Controls: Dedicated functions for volume, panning, sends, and track arming, soloing, and muting.
Device Control: The ability to adjust parameters of Ableton devices and third-party plugins.
Transport Controls: Play, record, quantize, duplicate, and other essential transport functions.
While optimized for Ableton Live, the Launchpad Pro can also function with other DAWs through custom MIDI mappings. Its standalone capabilities also make it useful regardless of the software you're using.
Sequencing and Production Tools
One of the Launchpad Pro's standout features is its powerful sequencing capabilities:
Four-Track Sequencer: The built-in sequencer allows you to create patterns of up to 32 steps across four separate tracks. This can be used to sequence both software and hardware instruments simultaneously.
Probability and Mutation: Advanced sequencing features include probability settings (determining how likely a step is to play) and mutation options (introducing controlled randomization to patterns).
Step Editing: Detailed control over velocity, gate length, and note parameters for each sequenced step.
Pattern Chaining: The ability to link multiple patterns together to create longer sequences or song structures.
These sequencing tools make the Launchpad Pro valuable not just as a controller but as a compositional tool that can generate ideas and patterns even without computer connection.
Performance Features
For live performers, the Launchpad Pro offers several specialized features:
Note Mode: Transforms the 8x8 grid into a chromatic keyboard layout, allowing for melodic playing with scale constraints.
Chord Mode: Enables single pads to trigger full chords with various voicing options.
Print to Clip: Captures your performance or sequence directly into a new clip in Ableton Live.
Hardware Control: The ability to control hardware synthesizers and drum machines via the three MIDI ports without a computer.
Standalone Operation: Functions as a standalone sequencer and performance tool even when not connected to a computer.
The combination of these features makes the Launchpad Pro an incredibly versatile performance instrument that bridges the gap between software control and hardware sequencing.
Comparing the Launchkey 61 and Launchpad Pro
While both controllers come from Novation and share some DNA, they serve different primary purposes and excel in different scenarios.
Form Factor and Design Philosophy
The most obvious difference between these controllers is their physical design:
The Launchkey 61 is a traditional keyboard controller with additional pad and control features. Its 61-key layout makes it substantially larger (952mm wide) and heavier (3.5kg).
The Launchpad Pro is a compact pad controller (245mm square) focused on grid-based control and performance. Its smaller size (1.3kg) makes it more portable and easier to fit into tight setups.
These physical differences reflect their design philosophies: the Launchkey 61 is built around traditional keyboard playing with additional production controls, while the Launchpad Pro is designed for clip launching, sequencing, and grid-based performance.
Playing Style and Musical Approach
Your playing style and musical approach should heavily influence which controller might be better for your needs:
Choose the Launchkey 61 if:
You have piano/keyboard training or prefer playing melodies and chords on keys
You need a wide range of notes for complex compositions
You want a combination of keyboard playing with some pad-based control
You prefer traditional music input methods with modern DAW control
Choose the Launchpad Pro if:
You work primarily with samples, loops, and clip launching
You prefer grid-based sequencing and performance
You need pressure sensitivity for expressive control
You want standalone sequencing capabilities for hardware
You have limited space or need portability
Many professional producers actually use both types of controllers in their setup, leveraging the strengths of each for different aspects of production and performance.
Price Consideration
As of 2023, there's a notable price difference between these controllers:
The Launchkey 61 MK3 typically retails for around $259-299 USD
The Launchpad Pro MK3 typically retails for around $349-399 USD
While the Launchpad Pro is more expensive, it offers more advanced features like pressure sensitivity, standalone sequencing, and hardware MIDI connectivity. The Launchkey 61 provides more physical controls and a full keyboard at a lower price point.
Getting Started: Setup and Configuration
Setting Up the Novation Launchkey 61
Getting started with the Launchkey 61 is straightforward:
Connection: Connect the Launchkey 61 to your computer using the included USB cable. The controller is bus-powered, so no additional power supply is needed.
Driver Installation: On most modern operating systems, the Launchkey 61 is class-compliant, meaning no drivers are required. However, it's recommended to download Novation Components for additional functionality.
DAW Configuration:
In Ableton Live, the Launchkey 61 should be automatically recognized. Go to Preferences > Link/MIDI and ensure the input and output are enabled.
For other DAWs, you may need to select the Launchkey 61 as your MIDI input and output device in your software's preferences.
Software Registration: Register your Launchkey 61 on the Novation website to access included software and sound packs, including Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments, and production tools.
Once connected, the Launchkey 61's controls should automatically map to functions in your DAW, particularly if you're using Ableton Live or another supported software.
Setting Up the Novation Launchpad Pro
The Launchpad Pro setup process is similar but includes some additional considerations for its advanced features:
Connection: Connect the Launchpad Pro to your computer using the included USB-C cable. Like the Launchkey, it's bus-powered via USB.
Hardware Connections (optional): If you plan to use the Launchpad Pro with hardware synthesizers or drum machines, connect the included MIDI DIN cables from the Launchpad Pro's MIDI outputs to your hardware's MIDI inputs.
Software Installation: While the Launchpad Pro works without additional software, installing Novation Components allows you to customize its behavior and update firmware.
DAW Configuration:
In Ableton Live, the Launchpad Pro should be automatically recognized as both a control surface and MIDI device.
For other DAWs, you may need to configure the Launchpad Pro as a MIDI controller manually.
Standalone Mode: To use the Launchpad Pro without a computer, simply power it via a USB power adapter. The sequencer and performance modes will be available without computer connection.
The Launchpad Pro includes several templates for different modes of operation, which can be accessed by holding the Setup button and selecting the desired mode.
Advanced Techniques and Creative Applications
Advanced Techniques for the Launchkey 61
Once you're comfortable with the basic operation of the Launchkey 61, consider exploring these advanced techniques:
Custom Control Mappings: Use Novation Components to create custom control mappings for specific plugins or instruments. This allows you to tailor the knobs, faders, and pads to control exactly the parameters you use most frequently.
Arpeggiator Experimentation: The arpeggiator can be used creatively by:
Combining it with scale mode to create evolving patterns that always stay in key
Using the rhythm parameter to create syncopated or unusual timing patterns
Holding chords and adjusting the octave range for dramatic builds
Recording arpeggiator output to MIDI clips for further editing
Layered Performance Setup: Create a performance setup that layers multiple instruments:
Use the keyboard to play a primary instrument
Configure the pads to trigger samples or one-shots
Assign the faders to control a mixer for live blending
DAW-Specific Workflows: Learn the DAW-specific functions of the Launchkey 61 to speed up your workflow:
In Ableton Live, use the dedicated buttons for quantization and capture
In Logic Pro, leverage the custom navigation controls for quick project movement
In FL Studio, use the channel rack control for rapid pattern programming
Advanced Techniques for the Launchpad Pro
The Launchpad Pro's sophisticated design enables several advanced techniques:
Polyrhythmic Sequencing: Create complex rhythmic patterns by:
Setting different sequence lengths for each of the four tracks (e.g., 7 steps, 8 steps, 5 steps, and 6 steps)
This creates evolving patterns that only repeat after the least common multiple of steps
Adding probability to certain steps creates further variation
Performance Layering: Combine multiple modes for complex performances:
Use one track for a sequenced bassline
Another track for rhythmic elements
Switch to note mode for live melodic improvisation over the sequences
Use scene launch for structural changes
Hardware Integration: Leverage the Launchpad Pro as a central hub for a hardware setup:
Sequence multiple hardware synthesizers simultaneously
Use MIDI clock to synchronize tempo across devices
Record sequences into your DAW while performing
Expressive Playing with Pressure: The pressure-sensitive pads can be used for expressive performances:
Map pressure to filter cutoff for dynamic timbral control
Use pressure for volume swells within sustained notes
Apply pressure modulation to effect parameters for real-time sound design
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Keeping Your Controllers in Top Condition
To ensure the longevity of your Novation controllers, follow these maintenance tips:
Regular Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the surface of your controller. For the Launchkey 61's keys, a slightly damp cloth can help remove stubborn dirt, but avoid liquid cleaners.
Dust Protection: When not in use, cover your controllers or store them in a case to prevent dust accumulation, particularly around faders and knobs.
Transport Care: If you transport your controllers frequently, invest in a proper case or bag designed for the specific model to prevent damage.
Cable Management: Avoid sharp bends in USB and MIDI cables, and don't pull cables by the wire when disconnecting.
Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates through Novation Components to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.
Common Issues and Solutions
Here are solutions to some common issues users encounter with these controllers:
Controller Not Recognized by Computer/DAW
Ensure you're using the provided USB cable or a high-quality alternative
Try different USB ports, preferably connecting directly to your computer rather than through a hub
Restart your computer and DAW
Check if the controller appears in your operating system's device manager or MIDI settings
Reinstall drivers or download the latest version from Novation's website
Unresponsive Pads or Keys
Check if the issue persists across different software applications
Reset the controller to factory settings (consult the manual for the specific procedure)
Update to the latest firmware
Adjust velocity sensitivity settings if available
Intermittent Connection Issues
Replace the USB cable
Check for USB power saving settings in your computer that might be affecting the connection
Ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements
Try disabling other USB devices temporarily to identify potential conflicts
LEDs Not Displaying Correctly
Verify that the correct scripts or integration files are active in your DAW
Check if the issue occurs in standalone mode (for the Launchpad Pro)
Update firmware to the latest version
Reset the controller to factory settings
Expanding Your Setup: Complementary Gear
Both the Launchkey 61 and Launchpad Pro can be the centerpiece of a larger music production setup. Here are some complementary pieces of gear that work well with these controllers:
Audio Interfaces
A quality audio interface is essential for recording and monitoring. Consider options like:
Focusrite Scarlett series: Made by Novation's parent company, these interfaces offer excellent compatibility and sound quality
Universal Audio Apollo series: For those wanting high-end conversion and DSP effects processing
Native Instruments Komplete Audio: Budget-friendly options with solid drivers and integration
Studio Monitors and Headphones
For accurate monitoring of your productions:
Monitors: KRK Rokit, Yamaha HS series, or Adam Audio T series provide good options at various price points
Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, or Sony MDR-7506 for detailed monitoring
Additional Controllers
To expand your control capabilities:
Novation Launch Control XL: Adds dedicated mixing controls that complement both the Launchkey and Launchpad
Novation Circuit: A groovebox that can integrate with your setup for additional sequencing and sound design
Expression pedals: Can be connected to the Launchkey 61 for hands-free parameter control
Software and Plugins
Enhance your production capabilities with:
Ableton Live Suite: Unlocks the full potential of both controllers with advanced instruments and effects
Native Instruments Komplete: Provides a vast library of instruments and sounds to control
Arturia V Collection: Offers classic keyboard instruments that pair well with the Launchkey 61
Serum or Massive X: Advanced synthesizers that benefit from hands-on control
For independent artists looking to share their music created with these controllers, exploring independent music distribution options is essential to get your tracks on streaming platforms and stores.
Conclusion: Which Novation Controller Is Right for You?
After exploring the features, capabilities, and applications of both the Novation Launchkey 61 and Launchpad Pro, you should have a clearer understanding of which controller might better suit your needs.
The Novation Launchkey 61 is ideal for:
Musicians with keyboard training or those who prefer traditional piano-style playing
Producers who need a wide range of notes for complex compositions
Those wanting a comprehensive all-in-one controller with keys, pads, and mixing controls
Users working across multiple DAWs who need versatile compatibility
Budget-conscious producers seeking maximum functionality at a lower price point
The Novation Launchpad Pro excels for:
Electronic music producers focused on clip launching and sample triggering
Performers who need expressive pad control with pressure sensitivity
Hardware enthusiasts looking for standalone sequencing capabilities
Those with limited space or who need portability
Ableton Live power users who want deep integration with the software
Many professional studios actually incorporate both types of controllers, using the Launchkey for traditional playing and the Launchpad for clip launching and performance. If your budget allows, this combination provides the most comprehensive control solution.
Whichever controller you choose, both the Launchkey 61 and Launchpad Pro represent Novation's commitment to quality, innovation, and musician-focused design. They offer powerful tools for translating your musical ideas into reality, whether in the studio or on stage.
As you develop your skills with these controllers, you might want to showcase your music online. Check out this guide to building a free musician website to establish your online presence and share your creations with the world.
Remember that the best controller is ultimately the one that inspires you to create and helps you realize your musical vision with minimal friction. Both the Novation Launchkey 61 and Launchpad Pro offer paths to creative expression—the choice depends on your personal workflow, musical style, and production needs.