Novation Launchkey 37 MK3 - A Hip hop Producer Review

[@createmusiktv]

can you link me to the preset pack used in this video?

[@AveMcree]

djavemcree.net/product/340075

[@createmusiktv]

Thanks

[@BAMac964]

Great review. I copped one of these (49 key) a couple weeks ago and have been loving it. It is absolutely excellent when working with Ableton and it also pretty good with Studio One 5/Reason 11. My Komplete Kontrol S49 mk2 is in the closet now.

[@AveMcree]

😂better put that kontrol on ebay or reverb quick before people see this review. Thanks for watching!

[@umanoid1523]

Good to hear some of your thoughts on this keyboard. I bought one a month ago after doing a lot of research. I also have the launchpad pro mark 3 and while there is some overlap in function they both have some functionality that’s not replicated. I’ve been producing for a long time and I use chord mode and scale mode all the time. I’ve been using a 25 key controller for a long time (I used to use full size outboard keyboard) and slowly I somehow started using my mouse and computer keyboard to write more and more instead of playing and jamming. The 37 inch key bed was a nice change and it was basically $ 20 more than the 25 key one. The price is great for this keyboard. I mostly use Ableton so after spending a lot of time testing out iPad controllers I decided on something a little more tactile. I’ve had novation gear before and always liked their approach to Ableton control so for me it’s a huge plus. I also looked closely at the NI keyboards but my love for them as a company and software has fallen off.

[@WycliffStudios]

Hi ! Thank you for pointing out the portability angle. I really wanted a 49 key but I am a nomad and I have to keep moving. Guess 37 Key is the sweet spot to throw it into my suitcase

[@BD-zg7is]

damn this looks totally worth the extra $30 over the 25 key. extra features look great too. thanks for the video my dude!

[@ciaranfitzgerald2491]

Great video. Just ordered one as my first midi controller. Thanks for this

[@ZombCity]

It’s nice for the price just wish it had the endless encoders like you said.

[@dudemanismadcool]

I just tested turning the volume all the way down in volume mode for the midi input, then switched to pan, cranked the same knob all the way clockwise, and the volume was still muted, I had to actually move the knob for the volume to register the new position of the knob. Perhaps originally it wasn't like this, but it sounds like the issue you are talking about at 2:50 has been resolved in firmware.

[@basedvato]

This makes scale and chord function on Komplete Kontrol unnecessary - why run a plug in, when you can do it direct from the board. Also it will record the midi, instead of kontrol midi not matching the output if that makes sense. Probably going to cop this to replace my keystep.

[@AveMcree]

Thanks for the insight! Yes, NI controllers aren't great outboard gear and basically the reason why I got rid of my Maschine (and never bought the Kontrol series). That might not affect other people but it's a deal breaker. Especially since Novation controllers send CC no matter what.

[@djp1234]

So this keyboard will do scale modes out of the box, as soon as I plug it into ableton? No software necessary?

[@adrianmay_multiinstrumentalist]

Glad I watched it till the end, me too! I want it for my MPC One. It would be perfect.

[@bullet1218]

Thanks for another great review 👍

[@AveMcree]

my pleasure

[@john-sidcapalungan9202]

You can make a great voice impression of Samuel Jackson.

[@Yo-nq9ul]

Yo i remember someone else saying that about him too 😂

[@sirarnoldgrylls6553]

If you close your eyes, he sounds so much like him

[@davidg7136]

Yall must be not Black cause he's doesn't

[@blondrex6984]

i hear joe budden

[@diedforurwins]

ableton has a "pickup" option so the fixed encoders aren't great but they wont cause the issues you mentioned (in ableton at least)

[@BigMacBook1300]

The biggest advantage to this is that it has full-size piano keys and not those little dinky ass keys they usually come with✊🏿

[@AveMcree]

Yeah I totally missed that in my notes and they don't feel bad either

[@michaelheath1194]

Great review Ave!

[@AveMcree]

thanks for that

[@thisisalbe]

Man you are like one step ahead of me always. Got mine Tuesday but can't review until Saturday.

[@WycliffStudios]

thanks for the viedo! Can you please make more videos on this keyboard?

[@Jisooee]

First time hearing someone said that the key feel of the novation's key bed is really good.

[@anzatzi]

good comments!

[@lordspam2721]

I have a pull out keyboard tray in my wood L-type desk and the tray is 27 inches wide. This thing should fit perfect and I would not have to play on 25 or mini keys and it will be out of site too.

[@TrainImagination]

I feel your being too critical for the value & almost $300 worth of VST Instruments and deals! I'm very happy with my purchase! ...Not to mention the CP-80 Electric Grand Piano (1978) VST Plugin. They sell for $2k! It sounds just like the real instrument!

[@kareemabdube]

Just got mines today. 👌🏾 Just waiting on a review with you using it with the mpc 60/live. That would be dope!

[@doug604]

i feel you on the endless encoders, but i don't mind these regular knobs too much. obviously endless would be better but there's something nice about feeling them physically hit the end of their range. and as long as you set them to pickup mode you don't get those parameter jumps like you mentioned. the whole pickup thing is kind of annoying but for how cheap this is and how dope the other features are i'll put up with it.

[@mattsb17]

I copped this one , so fire

[@saketnaik1]

Is it good for a beginner?

[@MrFree-vj8qj]

I was interested until you pointed out that the coders are not infinite, 37keys otherwise seems ideal because it fits on your desktop very well, and gets almost anything done

[@generalawareness101]

I actually just opened my Christmas gift of the 49 key version and I have no need of endless encoders and to be honest it can get you into trouble if doing live as you flip in, and out, of vsts/instruments/etc... and where does it begin? With finite encoders I know precisely where it is at and maybe I want the plugin/instrument to start 1/4 of the way this time and next time I pull it in 1/8 etc... but on an endless you just can't control all that easily. On the 49 and 61 there is a lot of wasted space in the upper right corner that they should have thrown on some endless knobs for those special cases. I figure 6 would fit very easily and possibly 8 would.

[@cl-zachwilliamsstudios3358]

Charlie Scott (Novation ) 1 Sep 2021, 09:34 BST Hi Mario, Unfortunately it's not possible to have the lights off while using your Launchkey. Could wearing sunglasses be a possible solution? This would significantly dim the brightness. Please let me know if there is anything else I can help with. Best Regards, Charlie Scott // Novation Technical Support Enginee

[@spaceorbison]

Damn I should have got the 37

[@LostStylus]

2:53 not true, that’s not how it works by default with this controller. The parameter won’t jump, you’ll have to pick it up first to be able to control it

[@jamesjr2550]

Well I'm buying this I had ordered an akai fire but I canceled that order to get the 49 key version of this 👍🏻

[@k4CLive]

Im thinking the same .

[@EURIPODES]

As someone new to electronic music production and keyboards: * Even I can see how the dials not being endless could be a problem for me. * The quality of the key bed may be lost on me * the built-in chord, melody, scale, and arpeggio generators are very alluring. * The overall feature set/price seems to put this in a sweet spot for me and has me ready to pull the trigger on my first midi controller purchase.

[@daytrace4635]

just bought this to hook up to my ju06a, I dont use the encoders as I just automate in fl or use the synthesizer itself to control parameters, pads are slightly worse than the mpk mini but the keys are amazing, each one is wider than the mpk. If you got fat fingers like me you will definitely notice the difference, con is that it is a lot bigger than the mpk and it can mess up considerably if I exit fl studio and come back to it without unhooking it, idk why it does that but overall I like it better than my mpk, hope this helps!

[@daytrace4635]

@Nathaniel Walker yeaaaaa I switched to a microfreak all together lol never did use the encoders on this midi kb but am saving up for the jupiter x so I can use it as a full size synth/midi bc my desk is only so big 😓

[@dankokozar]

Great video! Thanks..

[@Rrrrichy]

I am surprised that the transport keys does not work in 10th version of Ableton Live. Thought it was just my 9er version.

[@trackmusic252]

So this keyboard has control over it's volecity without using Ableton

[@dasiegel]

Thank you for this review. I just bought this and most videos speak on the Launchkey generally and not the 37 specifically! A few questions as a newb to Ableton, music theory, keyboards and makign music: 1. Do I need to install all the driver, reason and logic? What do each do? 2. I registered but have Ableton on the 90 trial, have you worked with any of the free packs/susbscriptions that come with the Launchkey? I know you get free software, Splice membership, etc. 3. Any other tips for a 1st time user? Thanks!

[@sebaxtini1068]

Hello crack! Very good video. I'm thinking of buying a MIDI controller to create electronic and film music, but I don't know which controller to start with. I am between a Novation Launchkey 37 MK3 and an Arturia MiniLab 3. Which of the two do you recommend? I want one that works very well and is not too limited.

[@Princeabril.]

Is this compatible with the iPad Air Logic Pro ?

[@dop5]

If there were 4 faders on the top right, it would be perfect

[@Jack-fs2im]

will it power without a pc for use with a module or haddware ?

[@freewheelburning8834]

do the drivers work on other DAWS as far as control functionality, cutoff etc...

[@locutz]

back to the realness aka Ableton live (edit) i think the biggest thing this takes away from the akai mpk mini is the transpose buttons i peeped it on the right hand corner i'll definitely buy this over the mpk mini just for transpose buttons

[@djp1234]

So this keyboard will do scale modes out of the box, as soon as I plug it into ableton? No software necessary?

[@k4CLive]

Im saying. Im bout to rid my Alesis v49

[@PavanMS87]

Can I use this to learn music theory..?

[@kdelavirgen]

Do you have to use abelton to use scale and chord mode? Because I know for komplete kontrol you need to be using the komplete kontrol software and load your instruments into that

[@savithk]

🔴🟡 recently i purchased launchkey 37 mk3 i noticed that when i press all black keys feels very light it take minimum pressure but white keys feels little harder. is this normal in launchkey 37 mk3. please reply

[@AveMcree]

I recommend contacting the store

[@adventuresofjandk]

Fantastic review. I am a logic user. Any recommendation for a good controller in this price range that works best with logic. I really like the note and scale modes as I am a drummer and know very little about keys. Any other keyboards over that kind of learning?

[@bloodcell6282]

This controller right here is very tightly integrated with logic, it even asked me when I installed it if I wanted logic pro x. All the features here work on logic as well

[@amitloetawan]

I want to buy this, but is it good for ios garage band ?

[@davidg7136]

New midi controller for the house 😂🤣

[@patshep68]

Are those full size keys, or do you just have big hands?

[@wakandregold800]

fam does this have a note repeat function? or at least a feasible workaround?

[@donalduzoka5792]

It's like the 25 too

[@MudStuffin]

Any differences between the standard launchkey 25 mk3 and the mini? I've never used either before and the only difference I can really see besides price is the touchpads instead of wheels for the modulation and the small screen

[@trackmusic252]

Don't the 25 mini selling mines

[@JOESYA_1]

Are the keys sized like actual piano keys cause I’ve played piano for my whole life and I hate playing on skinny keys

[@AveMcree]

They're full sized but not semi weighted

[@JOESYA_1]

True I might have to go get me one

[@urbanblues34]

I just purchased the mk3 yesterday and I read I had to have Ableton live 10.1.5 or higher. My copy is Ableton 10.1 is there anyway around this? Not all of the functions are working when i try to use it. If there is can advice anyone can give I would deeply appreciate it .THANKS

[@AveMcree]

Nope! You need to update it. Then, you’ll have all the functions.

[@urbanblues34]

@@AveMcree thanks bro

[@DopamineOverload]

Yo Ave! Got the 49-key Launchkey MK3. I love everything about it except the keybed. 4 custom modes, chords, scales... midi-learnable transport section (Channel 16, useful for NON-Ableton use)... pads can be fully color-coded, and buttons, too (the SL MK3, which I also have-- has no color-coding on the pads or buttons, annoyingly.. just colors that match the Tracks/Parts). I really dig it, but as others have mentioned.. the keybed is meh. Hard velocity for me seems to have the most natural response, piano-wise.. which is kind of bizarre. Normal or soft should do, but they're too soft/light velocity. Side note--- the Launchkey Mini MK3 NEEDS a brightness setting, like these regular ones do.

[@Shades289]

Can you please do a video on the software i got it and its not working I download the update and its still not working I have Fl studio 20

[@AveMcree]

They have a whole controller for fl studio now……

[@Shades289]

@@AveMcree I Have FLKEYS but the control are not working I cant sequence or use the channel rack thanks in advance Peace!

[@rapidfiremuzik_official]

Novation make some great gear!

[@pushsantana]

Does this play well with the mpc software?

[@manueltritri1524]

Are the pads to small?

[@wakandregold800]

fam I already have the focusrite scarlet that comes with a free addictive keys instrument, would I get a second one with this controller???

[@AveMcree]

ummm no silly

[@wakandregold800]

@@AveMcree mane I just found out about the bundled software i got laying around a few months ago, I'm tryna get as much as I can 😅🤣

[@LotusDollaSign]

@@AveMcree finally copped wunna these and the 2nd addictive keys code actually worked, i'm geeked lmao

[@eltripps]

Yo Ave, has there been an update that now was this fully latched on to your version of Ableton Live 10? I'm thinking about copping this to replace my Komplete M32.

[@AveMcree]

It works fully with Ableton Live 10. The version I was using in the video was too old to show off all the new features. I current have the latest version of Ableton Live and it works perfectly now

[@eltripps]

@@AveMcree Thank you very much!

[@DiscoveryWonders]

how would you compare this to the lounchkey MINI mk3?

[@trackmusic252]

Mini sucks

[@SonnyJayCo]

How well do the pads map out in the mpc software? I want 16 pads to chop up some samples. Should I just get this or a mpd ?

[@AveMcree]

I mapped my launch key with out an issue. I just went into preference, midi, turned on "control", and went to midi learn. Mapped the pads and transport buttons. The MPK mini is meant for the MPC beats software so it will have endless encoders.

[@LostStylus]

5:43 - ahahahaha, this is hilarious. The guys demoes the scale mode and sets the scale to A minor xD lol

[@siruishill4113]

Wait ave so I need to install the software to use the scale mode thing ? I just plug it in and use it in fl ?

[@doug604]

scale mode, scale chord, and arp will work with any daw or hardware synth right out of the box, since they directly affect the midi notes coming out of the keyboard. not sure how other features will work with fl tho.

[@KneegrowthPeriodTV]

1:13 Easy Tiger🐯

[@JamesDory]

:)) 37 keys is a good listening from users

[@alexdawson7851]

This or Akai mpk249 mk2 ??

[@alexdawson7851]

Is it compatable with MPC Beats?

[@AveMcree]

Alex Dawson yes but you have to map it

[@alexdawson7851]

@@AveMcree I'm stuck between getting this and the Akai MPK 249, what would you go for?

[@AveMcree]

@@alexdawson7851 Wait, where did you find the MPK 249? Those are extremely rare! I want to make the decision easier for you lol.. Well, honestly if you want a controller that will work seamlessly with the MPC Beats software. I suggest you get the MPK 249. If you're worried about mapping the controller or what not. The Novation keyboard is great too because of the generative options but the MPC Beats software comes loaded with chords, arps, scales, etc... It's up to you

[@BigMacBook1300]

Is it plug and play for iOS?

[@AveMcree]

Didn't test but if I did it would be om the iPad pro 11. Matter of fact, thats a good video idea.

[@BigMacBook1300]

Ave Mcree give me a shout out on that video👍🏾 I went from computer to iOS mobile full time. Some iOS videos would be great👍🏾 keep up the good work my brotha✊🏿🙏🏿

[@tyronesellers382]

Should I get a tower or laptop. I have my bonus coming in I want to spend it the right way I’m tired of Walmart. I’ve been following you since game told me about you please help. You know the specs please help

[@dianevrules]

Desktop all the way.

[@AveMcree]

I normally don't like recommending gear to people because we all have different taste. However, I think you should know a few things about buying desktops or laptops. First thing, never buy a budget desktop or laptop ever. They often sacrifice build quality, specs, etc for good price point. If you want to save a few dollars and don't expect to travel. Then I recommend getting a desktop (high recommend buying a gaming desktop). If have plans on traveling a lot. I recommend getting a laptop (yes a gaming laptop)... Gaming laptops usually cost more than gaming desktops (since you can go any where with it). However, desktops have an overall better performance. Here's my gaming laptop I recently bought kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHqzlaiieMp6nac

[@_thevaporz]

Stick with Walmart and get either the Evoo LP5 15" or LP6 17" laptops. Can't beat the price. www.walmart.com/ip/EVOO-Gaming-Laptop-15-FHD-144Hz-Display-THX-Spatial-Audio-Tuned-9th-Gen-Intel-i7-9750H-Nvidia-GTX-1660Ti-512GB-SSD-16GB-Memory-Windows-10-Home-Black/685182150

[@AveMcree]

@@_thevaporz that's basically a different brand using Lenovo's chassis and specs.. It's not bad though

[@_thevaporz]

@@AveMcree It's pretty slick. Has SD card reader, two NVME drive bays and a SSD bay for extra storage, which made me choose it over the Lenovo Y540. The LP5 model was as low as $800 on Black Friday, so maybe it'll drop again soon.

[@udayy4448]

Giveaway maybe 💁‍♂

[@AveMcree]

perhaps I'll consider it one day

[@udayy4448]

@@AveMcree Thanxx sir

[@lordeowstheking]

Job maybe 💁🏾‍♂️

[@koulis2935]

Sad my beastie novation impulse got fcked up with latest poor firmware updates in cubase and I m with no keyboard so long.Do NOT prefer if not working on Ableton,better look for a brand like Nektar.

[@wlaaaaaaaaaa123]

After I went to a 61 I can’t even imagine going back to a lil guy 😂

[@generalawareness101]

I agree as the only off putting thing about this for me is the use of those old school knobs. I mean this is 2020 and we don't fix the knobs any more we switch them so they multitask but can't really do that unless you have endless knobs.

[@LostStylus]

5:54 - of course you’re playing in key, lol, even if you didn’t lock the scae to A minor you would still be in key because you play only the keys that are in A minor (white ones). The most useless demo of scale Mode ever

[@djgeorgieporgie7862]

First 😎

[@udayy4448]

No one cares dood

[@djgeorgieporgie7862]

udi thx for caring enough to let me know lol 😆

[@AveMcree]

thanks for holding me down

[@coolchill3953]

Does it work with mpc beats?