BEST Affordable Midi Controller (and Controls Cubase!) ? Launchkey MK4

[@adamnemeth5436]

Hi Dom, I watched this video when it was released and now I am watching again as I bought the exact same model. Amazing! Thank you for this mate!

[@johnmac8084]

This is so much better layout for me than the Mk3, with pads were on the right and faders on the left. I'm so glad I sent it back recently or I'd have been stuck with it just before the Mk4 came out haha

[@kenvives]

@@johnmac8084 I’m literally thinking if I could somehow cut out those parts and put them in the big blank space on the Mk3

[@smartinussen]

We all told Arturia about this desired place for the pads which they completely ignored 😂 Novation it is

[@makaijin]

Wow, thank you for this video. So much detailed explanation on Cubase integration. The other review videos mainly focus on Ableton integration and just skimp on Cubase.

[@DomSigalas]

That’s why I’m here my friend- one of the reasons I wanted to make this video. Glad you found it useful ❤️

[@Skijumptoes]

Looks a great controller thanks to the work they've put in to integrate with Cubase, great produced video Dom!

[@Mechanical_Shark]

Novation! Listen to the man when he says shift+frequency knob adjusts Q. So simple to implement, so useful and important for EQing stuff. Thank you Dom. Just bought myself one of these.

[@FernandoGonzalez-cn1uu]

I love that the mod and pitch wheels have been moved above the keys in order too make it more narrow. The footprint it takes up on the desk is way too much with the wheels on the side of the keybed. Awesome video Dom! I like Cubase and Novation. Happy to see Novation go after the Cubase market, instead of always pandering to Ableton users.

[@CamObserver]

Just bought one after seeing this video. Looks like just what I need and have been looking for. Make more CUBase video's please. I have a little trouble with your accent but you explain the subject most excellently, that I will keep seeking your video's.

[@yakmartin5429]

Thank you for this video! Launchkey really looks promising. What I missed and would find pretty beginner-friendly: A brief intro with the installation, drivers, software, cubase settings, off we go, to illustrate how easy it is (because all that config stuff too often is a horror folks aren't in for).

[@FirstLast-nr6gf]

I bought a 61-key Mk3 version recently and returned it. The keybed was total garbage. The black keys were much lighter than white. Play a chord like Fm7 and black keys would have much higer velocity. I use Casio CTS1 as a MIDI controller. In my opinion it has one of the best key actions. Very quiet and expressive. Even M-Audio Keystation 49 which I bought few years ago for $80 has better action and is smaller.

[@eric-generic89]

You’re totally right! I tried the 49-key MK3, and the keybed is awful. I think they might’ve improved it on the newer model, though. The Casio CTS1 keybed is incredibly good. I’ve got a similar setup, but I use the Roland GO:Piano as my MIDI controller and Console 1 as my DAW controller.

[@replicant6]

Oh man I've been planning to get a Launchkey49. This new model has so many features I want! great!

[@InspelaRecords]

Ordered mine earlier today; I’ve gone for the same one on show here - the 49 MK4 - which’s arriving tomorrow, thanks to my wife, who’s also become a Cubase user now! Great video as always.

[@joemurray5506]

I was looking for a controller that worked well with Cubase and this vid showed up. Definitely sold me on the controller I hope the suggestions come to light.

[@FilmCompos3r]

Regarding channel follow - apparently, the Cubase Remote API allows for this, but Mackie Control implementation in Cubase does not, so any controller based around MCU will never follow channel. That's why we see it working on this controller but not on most motorized control surfaces based around the MCU Protocol. BUT ... the remote API does NOT support channel visibility presets - so the surface must always shows all channels - so that omission makes it pretty useless for control surfaces (For me at least). Maybe ONE DAY we'll get all the functionality we need in Midi Remote.

[@DomSigalas]

Very interesting points!

[@dopeyvulture]

Just ordered one since my MPK249 just died. Thanks for covering the useful stuff.

[@wkelly-hn4kb]

I finally decided to get this one before I saw you! Now I can get your drum Max deal too!

[@JohnPaulJapes]

Fantastic to see affordable stuff getting the "Dom" touch. Not sure if you are aware but I had an email a while back from Nektartech asking for Beta testers for the cubase integration of the Panorama CS12. It's already available for logic and although I haven't got one, I get the feeling it could be the replacement for the Steinberg CC121 🤔😁

[@FabianWinkler]

Great video. Now we need a comparisson with the Arturia keylab 49 essential MK3

[@PSn505]

@@FabianWinkler I'm exactly between these two! In Brazil, the LK is way more expensive, which is a bummer

[@frazy7097]

and what did you choose?

[@FabianWinkler]

@@frazy7097 I have the Arturia keylab 61 Essential now

[@laszlomagyar_music]

Dom, I do not want to be sound smartypants, but why do you not alter the bindings in the script if you are not happy with them? It is easy to do, and in Cubase remote you can build as many pages for a script with your preferred bindings as many you want, also you can assign key commands/controller buttons to change them. What is more, the chanell follow is a Cubase feature, any controller can do it, even my 30 euro M-Audio. Those little white markings on the tracks show which 8 channels are active in a current selection.

[@juliancroot]

Great video. The thing I find with assigning so many features to a MIDI controller (and I have an MPK249 for which I've created my own script) is that its too easy to move a knob not knowing what it's currently assigned too, consequently adjusting something you aren't aware of. I now just do everything on the computer with short cut keys. The rotary knobs are useful for quick controls in retrologue but I just assign the controller with the learn function at the time I need it.

[@charlesgraham4286]

Great video Dom as always thanks

[@DPScores]

Let’s wait for the 88 keys MK4 version 🙏 Great video Dom, thank you!! ☺️

[@earlsfield]

Nektar Panorama, without a doubt. IF you are looking for controller with deep integration into daw (deepest possible), virtual instrument instant mapping and well build controller with automated fader and tons of physical controls, nothing beats Nektar.

[@cromy4589]

I was about to write the same!

[@jemarmitchell5555]

@cromy4589 I own a Nektar Panrama T6, I have never use it to do a production, i don't like the expression for velocity response. The keybed is feels good tho, the whole entire board is well built and solid but the velocity is the only thing that I don't like, even when I adjust the internal settings it just don't sound right in FL Studio Am not sure why that is the case. I have it still Brand new never use it to build a beat, I tend to use my cheaper midi controller my MidiPlus AK49, light weighted keys, it express way better I. Velocity response I love the Layout of the Panarama T6 but the the velocity expression, I can't live with that, is there a update that can fix that? Any help?

[@cromy4589]

@@jemarmitchell5555 i'm sorry, i'm using the Nektar Impact LX+

[@earlsfield]

@@jemarmitchell5555 first I would say guys from Nektar are extremely helpful, so reach out. Second, I mainly use it with Cubase and Nuendo for massive scoring tasks. You can change pads velocity, you can customise it full on. What sets it apart is the insanely deep level of integration where your knobs and faders basically give you a tactile workflow over the DAW and instruments to the level YOU want to have. Also you can swap between daw controller, instrument controller and midi controller for say hardware synth fully mapped, etc I even know people who use it for on stage visual effects connected to midi.

[@djjuno106]

I still cant believe Steinberg have never released a keyboard controller that is fully integrated into cubase. Im sure it could be done because yamaha own Steinberg but for whatever reason they haven't. There really missing out because most media,movie composers use cubase but have too use many smaller controllers on top of there keyboards just too do basic things in cubase. A dream would be a keyboard that used the montage 88 keyboard, had 16 pads, motorised faders ,had the AI knob from the Steinberg c1 and had full transport and few knobs. Come on Steinberg do it !!! Ive been using cubase since pro 24 on the atari and bought loads of keyboard controllers but none have gave me what i wanted

[@AFGautonompunk]

what a software! i'd love to get more native support for Cubase and Renoise, if additional to Dom's requests we could get some based action, like Kawai ES920, i would even pay double the price.

[@AKkov]

Send it to me if you don't need it🤣

[@antoinemontmory]

No ! Send it to me !

[@soothsayerslunk1]

I ended up sending it to my friend

[@stephanie-bwi]

Your timing is perfect (for me 😜) I’m in the market for midsize controller… definitely take a look as I use Nuendo. Thanks, Dom.

[@joelransom6530]

Looks pretty great. I'd be more enthusiastic if I didn't have an obsolete SL-61 gathering dust in the corner.

[@Jura_JS]

yes I've enjoyed this video, great to know that affordable midi controller exists, kudos to novation

[@MrBlessup247]

Bro your t-shirt stole the show 😮 wow fresh tee ❤💯👌🏽

[@bernardojunqueira2392]

Loved it. Considering upgrading to this from my NI M32.

[@Jason75913]

M32 is a must with Komplete Kontrol, even if you just ignore its keybed. Unless you don't have NI software.

[@willybobo8846]

a cross fader would be cool.. maybe the option to change the master fader?

[@Stefan1969-1]

Great review! And what an amzing Product!! Thanks a lot :)

[@DMeletis]

I like !!!!!!!!

[@samsam2235]

That's a bargain. Very cool.

[@biominerals]

What's the price?

[@aransenojak987]

I read from a comment that exporting out of Nektarine may have some issues. You should check that aspect.

[@DomSigalas]

Export out of what? :) this is for the Launchkey. :)

[@Yurt_One]

Hi! I have Arturia BeatStep Pro and keylab essential 61 mk3 - there are two questions - 1) how to connect them to each other (let's say) or set u with each other 2) what in general scenarios of work with both devices can be ?Please help, how can I configure Cubase 12 to use both devices simultaneously in one project?

[@wilkopiano]

I’m still waiting for a new novation SL mk4. Other than the lack of one touch quantize button the SL was perfect.

[@Jason75913]

They seem to want SL to be mainly an Ableton controller, unless that changes with the eventual Mk4. I'd prefer the Mk4 if they do give it Cubase integration like the Launchkey, and the SLs get the awesome Fatar keybed.

[@glennloopez]

very cool. I have a SL 49 mk3. I guess it has more options but this looked so easy to work with :) I wish there was something else for my controller as easy looking as this. I use a script downloaded on Steinberg forum which works great but is really hard to work out how it works and what it can do

[@zdzisawkalinowski7816]

Thank you Dom! Is there any chance for tutorials about Steinberg VST Live application? There is very little information on KZbin about this topic. Greetings!

[@NyoraiFidesTV]

Whatever Dom says I believe!!! However this is actually a very nice Keyboard actually. I think it's time to upgrade my old Novation mk2

[@johnnyzondervrees2436]

Thx for your video

[@mhb450]

I have been in the market for a controller for some time, this just may be the ticket!

[@PurpleMusicProductions]

This is sweet!!! I just need it in 88 keys.

[@SuperDasch]

Thanks for the video. Very interesting. I will try it but... What do you think about the Nektar Integration. Do you have any experience with it? This is totally different to the Cubase Midi integration. I am working with the Impact LX 49+ and I feel very happy with the easy programming of the single knobs only by learning it via pressing the "Shift" key and using the knob or slider afterwards on the Midi keyboard. Boom - finished. What is your opinion? Agree? Would like to hear your opinion...

[@yashwanth2007]

Hey Dom please tell me about the keybed. I am a amateur keyboardist and I had played digital piano a few number of times. Will the keybed suits for me? I do music part time.

[@supareelsmusic9415]

Excellent demo . where do you find the time ??? 😉

[@joshuasoonar]

Is there any information of how deep the integration really went when it comes to preset browsing of plug-in's from different manufacturer? Sure it's good to know that the almost daily tasks r well implemented, but no one asks for the convenience browsing through millions of tons of presets. Excuse me if I missed something out in the vid. And thnx fr posting!

[@alainpatry]

Dom: If you have only the NI S88 (for the fatar keys) but now wish to compliment it with Launchkey MK4 for a different playing experience and all the bells & whistles missing from the S88, would you get a 49 or 61 keys?

[@DomSigalas]

I would get the 49 because it’s perfect for portability and controlling synths that don’t have a keyboard themselves :)

[@kenvives]

Omg. Control my send levels. ❤

[@GlennMainMusic]

Nice !!

[@Byron101_]

@Novation: I wish this upper controller bar without keybed - so that I can place this on my stage/master piano (has better weighted keys!) thank you!

[@michaelboese239]

Thank you for the informative video. Great content as always! I'm a guitarist and recently started using VST instruments in Cubase and using my Yamaha MODX as a midi keyboard. Sometimes I've noticed that I have problems with velocity. When I play a melody on the keyboard, I sometimes have extreme volume differences or some notes are even ignored. The MIDI settings are correct as far as I know. Even the sound of the VST Instruments is not correct, maybe because of Velocity problems. Would a real MIDI controller be better than the MODX? Sorry but I'm a newbie in the field of midi and VST instruments. I would be thankful for any help. Thanks a lot!

[@citygent101]

Can you show us how to edit the script and change it to focus QC??

[@petitstudiodebroceliande7607]

Nice video as usaual. And nice keyboard too. A question that I can solve, may be you can... : Do you know how to assign to a rotative knob : next track/previous track and also next bank/previous bank. A great thank you if you reply to me 🙂

[@gbalfi]

I sent the MK4 61 I had purchased back to Amazon because I found the edge of the white keys were scratching my fingers when playing. The plastic edges at the end of the keys protrude slightly leaving a sharp corner edge. This makes for an unpleasant playing experience. I am amazed none of the reviews mentions this so I am wondering did I just get unlucky with a faulty model or is this common to all MK4s?

[@synapsengulasch8012]

I've just looked at the review and read your comment and I can't believe that you're criticising the same thing that I noticed with the previous model. The sharp edges on the white key ends and on the sides. It bothered me so much that I returned it. No other MIDI keyboard that I tested had these sharp edges. I thought this had been fixed with the new MK4 keyboards because of the new semi-weighted keys. But I can't understand why Novation is continuing with it. So you're not the only one who is bothered by it. I had considered ordering it but if it really happens again I won't buy it. I'd rather go for the new Arturia. There are no sharp edges on the white keys. I'm very surprised that no one has noticed this in the reviews or complained about it.

[@grammysammy1]

good stuff!!!!

[@soundtreks]

Good review video. The price tag on the 49 seems a little steep in its segment. Would you say the action is similar to M Audio Keystation 61 mk3 or the Oxygen Pro 61? I don’t care for their “semi weighted action” personally

[@docdistortion]

@Dom Sigalas Do you think it will be possible that they enhance the script to use an rotory or fader controler on mouse hover over a plugin , like the old cubase controller. would be so useful for fast use of plugins without quickcontrol. thanks for the video , i really like the masterkeyboard. thats my next investment.

[@billyolsson3340]

i just want midi 2.0 man. Not going to buy any midi controller before that. Precision m8, precision. ;PpP

[@Dude-Smellmyhelmet]

You should wait for 3.0.

[@cyb]

Korg keystage?

[@circaxx85]

​@@cybKorg was sooooo close with this one. All they really needed to do was put in 8 endless encoders instead of the pots they have.

[@johngoogleuser3764]

Please can you talk me through the video technique used to achieve the light rays at 00:21 please!! 🙏

[@MikaelSegerstrom]

Thank you for this review Dom. My old big M1 cant fit in my studio. I will look into keyboards with controllers.

[@DomSigalas]

You got an M1? 😍😍😍

[@compingharry]

Time to replace my Novation SL 61 Mk II ? Should have had this in my younger days ☺

[@keithgilmore4101]

Thanks Dom... Great video as usual... I'm looking for an affordable 61 key controller, but cannot decide between this mk4, a Kontrol A series or Arturia... Any ideas???

[@steviek6484]

Hm wouldn’t have considered this before seeing the vid but might be what I need thanks

[@-musiclee-]

Pads AND Faders, NICE!! what the Kontrol MK3, shoulda had. 🙂

[@iTrensharo]

People need to know if the faders jump parameters or have soft take-over. It's kind of fundamental and an absolute need-to-know when looking at these controllers. If the faders jump parameters, then they are not practical to use at all because you will spend more time fixing parameter jumps than actually adjusting anything. I've had this issue with literally every controller that ships with a stock MIDI Remote script in Cubase - except supported controllers that only use endless controllers for everything (e.g. Komplete Kontrol A/M/S series devices). LKMK3, Keylab Essential, etc. all jump parameters, so I basically never used the controller for anything beyond playing in MIDI. At least this has endless encoders, so you can at least set the encoders to channel levels and ignore the faders... Then just set the faders to Send Levels and keep them pinned to the top where you won't inadvertently move them and jump a parameter.

[@djfkshg]

thanks

[@vaunermedrano7337]

Great video , just one question, what’s the program you’re using in your computer ?

[@DomSigalas]

Cubase :)

[@DimAsWizard]

Great video, as always! Dom, did you ever program your own custom midi remote script in cubase? I made my own custom script for a Behringer BCF2000 controller, but I want to improve it a bit.

[@MustacheVerra]

That's Cubase 13? I think they follow selected ch. because of their new controller system(MIDI Remote) in Cubase. The old tool they had before was problematic. Still, good on Steinberg to take advantage of it.

[@DavidWilliams-ub3mt]

I guess this gonna be a competitor for Native instruments A series in the same price line

[@SidJ8300]

Apart from all other things, what they should do is make screen a little bigger ..😅

[@maxpalmer8172]

Insanely useful! Can the chords and arp be recorded as Midi data in cubase? I'm assuming yes but not sure how it would work - could anyone provide feedback?

[@DJSensei-n1x]

I just have one question, can someone please tell me if I can go for this one as my first ever keyboard, as someone who is learning how to play the keys? Can I practice on this as well? Please help me make a decision on the keyboard.

[@George.SoundVelocity]

Top review as always!! 👊Speaking of controllers. I would love your opinion on icon V1-M. There must be a good reason for a controller nerd like your self never talked publicly about it. Im trying to decide between the uf8 and v1m. Any thoughts?

[@eujeno]

Dear Dom, i have a question. I use Cubasis and i like it. But when i connect Focusrite Solo interface to it there are often crashes and also clicks and cracks while recording. Maybe i need a powerful usb hub with external power supply because my Android tablet lacks power? Or some driver?

[@hanisiblini]

Dear Dom Thanks for the nice detailed video, i have a question , Novation has a launching video for the Launchkey on their site, the video shows that the Faders are motorized and can be automated, is that right, ? thanks you

[@DomSigalas]

No the faders are definitely not motorised. They could not be at this price :)

[@hanisiblini]

@@DomSigalas if you watch their video Dom they faked the scene, and this is not nice. the faders were moving like crazy. this is not nice, I Thank you Sir

[@hanisiblini]

plus it is mentioned in the manual that the faders are motorized.

[@DomSigalas]

@@hanisibliniI have the manual and it does not mention this. Where did you see that? I’m interested :)

[@DomSigalas]

@@hanisibliniah, I know what you mean. 9/10 product videos show a product in an animating fashion. If the description doesn’t say motorized, it’s most definitely not. In any case, you know the truth so you can choose if this is for you ❤

[@AxelB]

I'm waiting for sl mk4

[@InspelaRecords]

In the MIDI Remote tab in Cubase 13, it shows two instances of the Novation MK4; one connected, one not. I’m assuming this is because there’s two channels on it - standard MIDI and DAW MIDI - is there any way to rectify this so it only shows the keyboard graphic once rather than twice? Thanks!

[@campingroadtrips]

Does the launchkey step sequencer work in cubase, example for the new drum machine in 14 Pro? Thank you

[@circaxx85]

I'd like to know this too

[@VassiliosPallis]

Every Launchkey I've owned started having issues with the pitch bend controllers after about six months. They began sending random MIDI values to my DAW. I’ll never buy them again.

[@DomSigalas]

Wow, which version? My MK3 still goes strong here .

[@VassiliosPallis]

@@DomSigalas Hello Dom! MK3, bought it two times, unfortunately. I even ordered a pitch bend replacement that went off again in 6 months. And the funny thing is that I am not using it so much.

[@shari_8410]

same as with M-Audio Keyboards .. The Pitch Bend becomes an Ghost and de- adjust the Pitch over and over and over again .. The Cutoff Wheel works all fine

[@libtekk]

Dom how do i remove the meter and media section on the right to be on its own, i had ot and lost it.

[@shakeelsunny803]

Wich midi controller best for FL Studio According to your Music Experience?

[@JustPlayitc00l]

This same company makes a controller for FL actually

[@ir8123]

Six-Trak

[@chris5375]

Can I play the groove agent with the pads ?

[@philippebeauplan9431]

I am not a musician, can you tell me please should I get a 88 keys to do the right movie soundtracks.

[@Jason75913]

88 keys is great... if you are a pianist, otherwise, grab the 49 or whatever.

[@citygent101]

Can you just plug it in to cubase or do you have to install the script first?

[@biominerals]

Dom, can you scroll left and right in the project?

[@DomSigalas]

You can scrub.But not scroll as far as I know!

[@TacticalDingus]

What can you do on a 2500$ midi controller that you cant on this 250$ one? Genuinely curious lol

[@rajupandya6012]

How to map tempo in novation launchkey mk3

[@udaysingh8379]

Does it work well with fl studio? Like is it as close to fl keys? I

[@SagravVelasco]

Does it work with cubasis?

[@Macho_Beats]

The features are great but it feels really cheap. The key bed is not what I’m in to.

[@stefanw.1861]

Is it possible to record the arp via midi?

[@wallot33]

Can it set it up to control VST Strings with midi fader? Like Volume, Expression, Vibrato and Attack?

[@Jason75913]

If the VST supports MIDI Learn.

[@ChristopherJenkins73]

Is there gonna be a SL-MK4?

[@DomSigalas]

I sure hope so! I used to LOVE my SLmkii

[@antoinemontmory]

Every time I go shopping, I look for the best for the least price.

[@-musiclee-]

Dom, howz integration with Pro Tools or Logic ?

[@DomSigalas]

Hey Lee, I focused exclusively on Cubase since I received this so I didn’t have time to check PT/Logic yet but this is supposed to control all supported DAWs pretty well.

[@-musiclee-]

@@DomSigalas thanks 🙏

[@hallellujah7637]

Can anyone please tell me some of the best keyboard that doesn't need a computer to work on, no built in speakers, and yet has atleast 100 tones with weighted keys, sleek design. I like the mk4 but it doesn't work without a computer, so as the native instruments s88 mk2. Please, anyone?

[@Varonno]

I’d like this if it had at least one motorized fader

[@ecotts]

Theirs non available for sale on Amazon because Novation have sent them out to all the influencers for free to convince us all to buy one. I wouldn't mind, but realistically they ain't even going to use them when they have $3500+ music production level keyboards, the sh*t is just going to sit on the shelf.