The Novation Launchkey Mini is a compact, portable MIDI keyboard controller designed for music producers and performers. For those who are often on-the-go, the Novation Launchkey Mini’s small size, user-friendly design, and impressive array of features make it an appealing choice. This bus-powered MIDI controller sports 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, 16 multicolored backlit performance pads, 8 rotary knobs, and dedicated navigation and control buttons. It’s also endowed with a host of software offerings, making it an all-in-one solution whether you’re producing on a computer or a mobile device. In this Novation Launchkey Mini review, we delve into the details that make this versatile instrument unique, shining light on its design features, performance, pros, and cons.
Contents
Unboxing and First Impressions
As soon as you hold the box of the Novation Launchkey Mini, you can tell that it’s a sophisticated piece of musical equipment. The packaging is straightforward and functional, not wasting any space. Upon opening the box, you’ll find the Launchkey mini itself, a USB Type-C to Type-A cable, and a compact yet comprehensive user guide.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Launchkey Mini is its lightweight and compact design. It’s highly portable, which is definitely a plus for musicians on the go. The device has an elegant black finish, giving it a professional appearance. The keyboard itself includes 25 mini-keys, 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads, 8 knobs, and dedicated navigation and control buttons. All these are neatly arranged to make the most of the compact form factor.
The keys feel nice to the touch, with just the right amount of resistance. They may take some getting used to, especially if you’re more accustomed to full-sized keys, but their size doesn’t compromise the playability. The 16 pads are multicolored, backlit, and velocity-sensitive, providing visual feedback and allowing for dynamic performance. The knobs also feel sturdy, with enough resistance to allow for precise control.
There are also several buttons that provide direct access to different functionalities. These include octave up/down buttons, play, record, and stop buttons for controlling your digital audio workstation (DAW), and track navigation buttons.
The build quality appears to be very solid for a controller in this price range. The casing is plastic but doesn’t feel cheap. The keys, pads and knobs also seem robust, conveying the impression that the Launchkey mini can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
One noteworthy inclusion in the packaging is the USB Type-C cable. This serves as both a power and data connection. It’s a welcome feature, giving the Launchkey Mini an edge in an increasingly USB-C-dominated world.
The Launchkey Mini does not include a power adapter as it is USB-powered, which means you can even run it off a portable power bank if necessary. This feature further enhances the Launchkey Mini’s portability.
Overall, the unboxing of the Novation Launchkey Mini is a pleasant experience, setting the tone for what looks to be a compact and versatile MIDI controller that offers plenty of features for music producers, whether beginners or experienced.
| Product Name | Amazon Link |
|---|---|
| Novation Launchkey 25 Note Keyboard Controller | Find more info on Amazon here! |
| Novation Launchkey Mini 25 Mini Key Keyboard | Find more info on Amazon here! |
Key Features and Functionality
Novation’s latest offering, the Launchkey Mini, is equipped with several traits that make it stand out in the market of MIDI keyboards. This concise yet comprehensive review will delve into the key features and functionalities of the Launchkey Mini.
Compact and Portable
First things first, the Launchkey Mini is compact and easy to transport. This makes it an ideal tool for musicians on the go. Despite its size, it doesn’t compromise on functionality.
25-Key Keyboard
The Launchkey Mini features a 25-key keyboard with velocity-sensitive, synth-action keys for expressive performances. While it may seem small, the keyboard is touch-sensitive allowing you the ultimate control over your sound.
16-Pad Grid
The most distinctive feature of the Launchkey Mini is its 16-pad grid. These pads are RGB backlit and velocity-sensitive, offering color-coded feedback to help navigate your sessions. They are perfect for launching clips, playing drum racks, and controlling your mixer, all while making your workflow more efficient.
Eight Rotary Knobs
The Launchkey Mini has eight rotary knobs, which are perfect for adjusting parameters and effects. The knobs are mapped to your software automatically, making it easier than ever to create your unique sound.
Seamless Integration
This midi controller is designed for seamless integration with Ableton Live. Thanks to the Ableton Live Lite that comes with it, you can start making music without any complicated setup. Although it is primarily designed for Ableton, it works with any DAW using HUI protocol.
Innovative Features
The Arpeggiator is a great feature, adding complexity and texture to your beats. The Fixed Chord mode allows you to play a chord with one finger by setting a fixed shape. The device also has a built-in 5-pin MIDI Out send, enabling connection with hardware synths and drum machines.
Control at Your Fingertips
You can control everything from your DAW’s mixer and effects to your synth’s modulation settings. The Launchkey Mini gives you the flexibility to manipulate pitch and modulation with touch strips for streamlined, hands-on control.
Diverse Software Bundle
The Launchkey Mini comes with a suite of music apps and software, including Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments, plug-ins and sample packs, offering a comprehensive toolkit to create your music.
Sound Quality and Performance
The Novation Launchkey Mini offers impressive sound quality that would easily exceed the expectations of both amateurs and professionals. It manages to deliver a sound that is bright and clear, without any noticeable distortion or noise even at high volume levels. This is a testament to the high-quality components used in the construction of this device.
When it comes to performance, the Novation Launchkey Mini truly shines. It’s highly responsive, ensuring that every keystroke or pad hit translates perfectly into your digital audio workstation. The 25-key velocity-sensitive keyboard and 16 RGB pads not only offer an immersive playing experience but are also perfectly calibrated to respond to every touch with precision. It’s worth noting that the sensitivity of the keys and pads can be adjusted to fit personal preferences and playing styles.
The Launchkey Mini also boasts of pitch and modulation touch strips which react dynamically to your gestures, giving you a seamless and intuitive control over your sound tonality and intensity.
In terms of synth action, the keyboard, although miniaturized, doesn’t slack off. It offers smooth, well-weighted keys that allow for both fast-paced performances and nuanced, expressive playing. The synth action doesn’t feel overly springy or firm, striking just the right balance to give a satisfying playing experience.
Moreover, the diverse range of built-in sounds gives you plenty of scope to experiment and create your unique audioscapes. The included Ableton Live Lite software is a welcome addition, providing a professional platform to take your music production to the next level.
In summary, the sound quality and performance of the Novation Launchkey Mini put it head and shoulders above other similar-sized MIDI controllers. Regardless of the audio project at hand, whether it’s electronic music production, beat making, or live performances, this compact yet powerful device is capable of delivering exceptional results.
Connectivity and Integration
The Novation Launchkey Mini enjoys a high level of connectivity with various devices and software, making it an ideal companion for music production. It features a USB port that can be used to connect to a computer, Mac, or Linux device. This universal connection leads to seamless and straightforward integration with most systems with no need for additional drivers or software.
One of the standout features of the Launchkey Mini is its unprecedented integration with Ableton Live. Novation has always had a close relationship with Ableton, and this becomes evident in the Launchkey Mini. It’s pre-mapped to the DAW for an out-of-the-box experience, allowing you to control sessions, mix, play instruments, and much more without the need for setup. Also, it’s fully MIDI class-compliant which ensures compatibility with any other MIDI software and hardware.
The Novation Launchkey Mini also supports iOS connectivity, providing another level of flexibility. When hooked up to your iPad via the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately), it becomes a highly portable, versatile and hands-on controller for iOS apps. This is particularly useful for mobile musicians who like to make music on the move.
This keyboard also enhances your workflow with other key music apps, such as Logic and Reason, though this might need a bit more manual mapping compared to Ableton. Despite that, you will still get full control over these DAWs right from the Launchkey Mini, allowing you to focus more on making music rather than messing around with software.
In conclusion, the connectivity and integration capability of the Novation Launchkey Mini ensures you have an effortless setup and a seamless workflow, no matter where your music production journey takes you. This sets it apart as not just an excellent MIDI controller, but a versatile tool for creativity.
Pros and Cons
The Novation Launchkey Mini comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages as explained in the following sections.
Pros
- Portability: With its small size and light weight, the Launchkey Mini is highly portable and great for musicians on the move. If you’re a music producer who travels frequently, this model could be a perfect choice.
- Integrated Software: The Launchkey Mini comes with Novation’s InControl software, which auto-maps the controller to compatible DAWs. In addition, Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station, and V-Station are included for free.
- Versatility: This MIDI controller offers pads, knobs, and keys, making it versatile for its size. You can use it for launching clips, tweaking synth parameters, and playing keys.
- Enhanced Performance: It includes 16 multi-colored, illuminated pads that are velocity-sensitive making this a great addition to enhance your live performance.
- Affordability: Despite packing in so many features, it remains a fairly affordable option for those who require a portable MIDI controller with varied functions.
Cons
- Power Options: It is powered only by USB and does not have an option for an external power supply. This might be a drawback if you are planning on using it in a situation where a computer or a power bank is not available.
- Build Quality: While the compactness is handy for mobility, some users have reported that the buttons and knobs feel quite fragile and cheap, and may not endure prolonged usage.
- Limited Display: The device lacks any kind of display, which can restrict users from getting visual feedback directly from the controller.
- Light Software Package: Although the Launchkey Mini does come with free software, the overall package is not as extensive when compared with controllers of similar price and size from other manufacturers.
- Compatibility Issues: While it is designed to work seamlessly with Ableton Live, it might not be as responsive or might require more setup time with other DAW software.
Comparisons with Other Products
In the market for MIDI controllers, there’s an immense range of options available. The Novation Launchkey Mini, however, is one device that stands out for its compact design, multiple features, and compatibility. Let’s see how it stacks up against other products.
Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII
Compared to the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII, the Novation Launchkey Mini has 16 backlit velocity-sensitive RGB pads as opposed to Akai MPK’s 8 backlit velocity-sensitive pads. Both have 25 velocity-sensitive keys but the Novation Launchkey Mini provides additional eight rotary knobs. While both possess USB connectivity, Launchkey Mini supports iOS connectivity as well, proving to be a more versatile choice for Apple users.
Alesis V Mini
Alesis V Mini, similar to Novation, uncovers 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys. However, Novation takes a step forward with the presence of 16 RGB pads, far ahead of Alesis’s 4 velocity-sensitive backlit pads. While Alesis has 4 assignable knobs, Novation outpaces with its 8 rotary knobs. Both have USB connectivity but again, Novation offers an allowance for an additional footswitch.
M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV
The M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV provides a fair comparison with its 25 velocity-sensitive keys and 8 velocity-sensitive trigger pads. However, M-Audio falls short with its lack of RGB color options in its pads. Both have 8 assignable knobs but Novation’s Launchkey Mini wins over with free software (Ableton Live Lite) included and comprehensive DAW integration, particularly with Ableton Live.
Arturia MiniLab MkII
Arturia MiniLab MkII is another 25-key MIDI controller in this battle. It steps up with 16 rotary encoders and 2 touch sensors for pitch and mod. While Arturia might win in the knob category, the Novation Launchkey Mini edges out when it comes to playing expressive drum beats, thanks to its 16 RGB pads.
As can be viewed from the above comparison, each product has its strengths and weaknesses. However, Novation Launchkey Mini appears to hold its own due to its remarkable features and versatile compatibility, presenting itself as a valuable tool for both beginners and seasoned musicians.
Price Point and Value for Money
The Novation Launchkey Mini is considered a top choice for musicians and producers on a budget. With its price hovering around $100-$150, it’s a highly affordable entry-level MIDI keyboard packed with professional tools that defy its price point.
The Launchkey Mini gives users a considerable value for their money. It comes with a range of features – velocity-sensitive keys, rotary controls, and pads that add to its versatility. Designed with portability in mind, the compactness of the keyboard does not compromise the functionality which makes it an excellent value for the price.
Novation also offers bundled software including DAWs like Ableton Live Lite and virtual synths such as Novation’s Bass Station and V-Station. Not to mention, there’s a 2GB Loopmasters Samples library for a comprehensive music production starter kit. When you consider the price alongside these features and the included software, the Launchkey Mini is a steal, offering a bang for each buck spent.
However, it’s not just about the cost but also the long-term benefits. With the Novation Launchkey Mini, users get a durable, quality product that promises to withstand the test of time. Given its sturdy build and premium feel, it’s an investment that can benefit both beginners and seasoned musicians alike.
In summary, the Launchkey Mini’s price point and value for money is arguably one of the best in the market, living up to Novation’s reputation of delivering high-quality products at a highly competitive price.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The Novation Launchkey Mini is undeniably impressive. Packed with innovative features and a robust design, it is perfect for musicians and producers of all skill levels. This compact and lightweight MIDI controller is excellent for on-the-go music creation due to its portability.
One of its standout features is the 25 velocity-sensitive keys that provide a dynamic range of expressive capabilities. The 16 RGB pads, along with the additional knobs, are functionally organized making it user-friendly even for beginners.
Equipped with the Ableton Live Lite, you get a taste of one of the world’s favorite digital audio workstations right out of the box. Integration with other popular DAWs is seamless, and the performance control options provide a good degree of versatility for a controller of its size.
The Novation Launchkey Mini also offers deep integration with Logic and Reason, as well as out-of-the-box functionality with other DAWs like Cubase and Pro Tools, making it one of the most versatile MIDI keyboards on the market.
For the price, the Launchkey Mini provides unbeatable value. It’s great for beginners who are still exploring music production but likewise has a substantial appeal to professionals for its portable, professional capabilities.
Bear in mind the absence of a traditional pitch bend and modulation wheels might be off-putting to some users, replaced by two touch strips instead. Also, the smaller keys may take a bit of time to get used to if you’re familiar with the full-sized ones.
In conclusion, the Novation Launchkey Mini is a compelling choice for anyone looking to find an easy-to-use, compact and feature-packed MIDI controller. From its seamless software integration to its inclusive control options, it is perfect for both studio and live performance use.