Is the Launchkey MK4 a GAME CHANGER? Full Review!

[@SanjayC]

⬇ All Links ⬇ XTS Stand (Sponsor) bit.ly/3sGK2SY Launchkey MK4 geni.us/A1YM Launchkey MINI Review kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5PUZ4KEo8mNmNk Keylab Essential MK3 geni.us/lSIiN Native Instruments A Series bit.ly/2Sx0DRx M-Audio Oxygen Pro geni.us/SqpPXxX

[@amauryft]

I miss the time we had 76 keys keyboards. All my old synths were 76 - 01W/pro - W5... I really like that size, a great compromise between playability and "mobility".

[@furiobisotti8150]

Fully agreed. Perfect size for serious live musicians. It seems midi controller are designed only for impaired DJs...

[@VentureNW]

haha, mobility in quotes. I like it!

[@BrunodeSouzaLino]

And then people will complain there are no 73 key versions...

[@soundtreks]

even 73 keys. I wish a manufacturer would make a full weighted under 88 note controller for those of us with limited space on our composing desks.

[@VentureNW]

Let's hope the SL comes next...

[@Gahttz]

That's what I'm waiting for

[@BrunodeSouzaLino]

I won't be surprised if they remove even more controls from it and introduce some useless feature only a percent of a percent of the customer base will use.

[@manny_f]

@@BrunodeSouzaLino I bet you the SL will disappoint just as much. For starters, it will be ginormous. These manufacturers don't listen. People don't have infinite desk space. There is a huge market for narrow keyboards. The Korg Keystage form factor is definitely a step in the right direction, although it failed to implement some features correctly.

[@RAISING_WOLVES]

@@manny_f Has the new LK disappointed? Most controllers have 49 or 61 keys, that dictates the size... That said MIDI 2.0, poly aftertouch on the keybed and more developed MPE features would have made sense now. Fingers crossed they listen to those requests for the SL. I like the implementation of Ableton note sequencing directly inside a clip of the new LKs, a definite move in the right direction.

[@shapeshifta3431]

have to say, so many cool creative features in this. also good for learning music theory with the chord detector thing

[@jaelawrence1456]

They beat NI with the hardware standalone integration. Getting one

[@geekmastermind]

Oooh, this really intrigues me. Thanks for the heads up (as always)!

[@davidvierabarreras]

Finally someone comes up with something SO EVIDENT as putting a CHORD DETECTOR on a KEYBOARD!!!!

[@BrunodeSouzaLino]

Why would you need a chord detector in an Live centric keyboard when Live already has that feature?

[@margaretchristo6859]

Wow, I did not expect another cool video on the MK4 from you. Great features and excellent review. Nobody does these reviews better than you. Thank you Sanjay C.

[@nunya711]

bot

[@peabodyscientific2082]

12:57 wow, this chord feature seems super innovative and creative. That's a real differentiator and looks really interesting. I've never really been that interested in chord features, but it looks like that feature is really developing and at least for this on the Launchkey, I might actually play around with that.

[@estate0007]

This is the most musical feature I#bve seen in a controller for a long time. The demo chords Sanjay played sound beautiful! Let's hope this has a wide range and variety to play around with and is not limited to just a few chord sets.

[@not_willdowns]

Last generation launch keys had strum mode. And in my experience, capture midi has worked in Logic Pro.

[@mladen777]

Hey Sanjay thanks for really helpful videos! I was wondering can you make a video directly comparing keys and pads on all major budget keyboards in this pricerange? You are doing a good job of mentioning "the competition" in each one of these videos. but over the time the competition changes and sometimes there isn't a direct comparison. Keep rocking!

[@Jmjazz4711]

Regarding the strum function, this was also available via an update on the MK3. Nice video, as always.

[@towerrunner4675]

One of the best Ableton controllers so far. The screen is tiny, but I can ignore that on a controller.

[@kozihoppy]

Amazing how this new controllers design is just catching up with the Push 2 design from nearly 10 years ago.

[@Loagz_Beatz]

I liked the faders on the right and the pads on the left honestly 😅 good video!

[@fredmanteghian5913]

Like Arturia? I have. Don’t like the layout. But I like everything else about the KeyLab Mk2 better than this and better than the KeyLab Mk3 too

[@djcontour]

I’m so glad I waited to buy. I almost pulled the trigger on an mk3 but decided to wait for Black Friday. I’m glad this came out!

[@kstyle12]

Oh my goodness I bought a novation impulse 61 in 2014 which have a big screen , polyphonic aftertouch , pedal input , split , full midi in out , endless encoders etc and still nowadays I use with Ableton 12 , Logic Pro x , plug-ins and have perfect compatibility. From 10 years ago or more if you bought a “ premium “midi keyboard you don’t need to upgrade … features like scale and chords are useful but most of daws have this by functions . Only new plastic and small screens …

[@kingech_B15]

Built quality looks solid.

[@Taetro]

2 is too many keyboards for one week 😅

[@je_rapp1437]

so truee

[@ritapatel5727]

Very cool ! Love it ! 😍

[@axoplanet6081]

I hope they do it also great with the SL4. For the SL4, it should have poly aftertouch, a sequencer beside from the drumpads in 808/909 style, drumpads in 4x4 akai style, 16 encoder knobs in great quality, lightkey mode like in SL3, CV & midi, arp & chord mode, full Cubase integration and a great keybed (better than the SL3), not plastic overall and a big OLED screen…and yes I would pay more for great quality

[@BrunodeSouzaLino]

Novation is in close ties with Image-Line and Ableton. Don't expect close integration with Steinberg software cause it's not happening.

[@bernardojunqueira2392]

​@@BrunodeSouzaLino😢

[@ProducerHindi]

I Have FL Keys 61 , This One Looks Really Good Would Love To Try.

[@JSprayaEntertainment]

your videos should have those TIME stamp Markers .. like loopop and stuff ..

[@dannymolns3573]

How's the keybed? How would you rate it up against the launchkey MK3? I didn't like that keybed as it felt so light!

[@Only1Dharti]

🎶📽️Another video INCOMING…🎹🎶

[@MreenalMams]

Wow.. how did you know.. do you have secret info..? 😜

[@lamardoss]

Very interesting features in this. I like it.

[@Old_Man_Jay]

Meh. I said this on another video about the New Arturia Key Lab and I'll say it here: I'm not impressed. We already have plenty of capable midi keyboards on the market today. What we need are more sequencers. A new keystep pro with 8 tracks and Novation SL mark 4 with new features is what we need. These new releases are extremely underwhelming.

[@Grant82gc]

I came for the keyboard review, now I'm about to buy XTS stands lol

[@Yosser70]

I’d love a review of the recent crop of keyboards, when used with an Ipad and App DAWS. SO many people use the IPad for music creation, I’m surprised no one’s made a dedicated controller.

[@MasterMojo85]

Strum Mode was already available on the Launch key MK3. The added it via an software update.

[@treschlet]

15:05 DOG

[@Only1Dharti]

🐶 woof wuff woof! -translates to, hope you’re having a good day!

[@treschlet]

Been wanting to pick up keys again, start maybe even taking some lessons, and have been wanting a controller to hook up to my synth rack. I think the Novation 61 might be my new keyboard

[@HewittH]

If the chord modes and pads were available in a non-keyboard unit, I would buy it instantly.

[@Hoodyhoo504]

I'm sure the launchpad mk4s will be dropping soon.

[@FunkyELF]

Those cases from your sponsor look nice. The issue I have with my Novation launchpad though is that I can't use it outside near any amount of sunlight. I wish there was something like these stands but also with little hoods or shades.

[@blaster3744]

pressing the Like button took me 0.04sec , not 5s thx a lot for the review

[@AricTheAnderson]

The more you talked about this product, the less I wanted to buy it :/ and that isn't your fault! You didn't design this thing! Great review Sanjay. I think if I had to choose one thing that I love about this product, I'd say I love how comically small the screen is. Did they just reuse a bunch of Samsung Jukebox's? There isn't really anything new here that another product wouldn't offer you. Maybe the "note out" scale where it doesn't play the notes that AREN'T in a scale, but...I'd just say you should spend time practicing scales more :l

[@WarpedBlinds]

Seems a lot of the features are centered around their pads, and i guess understandably so since Novation has been known for having nice pads for the price. The keybed seems nicer than their last launchkey model. Placement of faders and knobs is better. Novation has always had a tight integration with ableton, so i might end up getting it

[@Youbadouba]

Wow. Doesn’t even compare to the cheaper m-audio oxygen pro that has aftertouch ! Great review Sanjay ! Thank you

[@einsam514]

This is cool especially the deeper integration with Ableton. Maybe one day Novation will make something like Roli Lumi / Seaboard, stackable, bluetooth enabled / wireless, MPE, midi 2.0 ready etc. I'm excited to see what the SL series have to offer. I hope they improve the screen. Thanks Sanjay!

[@eaman11]

Step sequencer is good, multi encoders is good, small pitch / mod wheels on top is good, price is good.

[@JeffyG]

I’d hoped for more. Unsure why Novation and Arturia are waiting to add polyphonic aftertouch like NI and/or MPE, Midi 2.0 like Korg. I have and like the LaunchKey 61 MK3 and it’s great, but the new chord/scale features and endless encoders are not significant enough to warrant a $500 upgrade to the MK4. The way Novation uses the pads for various functions is smart and the integration with Ableton a no brainer (although I use Logic). It’s easy to map the encoders, faders and buttons for Arturia Analog Lab, or NI Komplete Kontrol - but without a big display it doesn’t come close to the NI Kontrol S Series. But then again, it’s half the price…..

[@cirisirpula152]

What do you mean by $500? Isn't the 61 key more like $300? With that price you were never going to get poly AT ot MPE. Launchkey is their budget keyboard similar to arturia essentials or NI A series. This doesn't compete with NI S series as this is in completely different price bracket

[@JeffyG]

@@cirisirpula152 $530 CAD

[@JohnnyMacaw]

this novation launch key has polyphonic aftertouch check out the website under specs. Jeez! people too lazy to research

[@ufuka.307]

why dont they make 73/76 key versions?

[@MichaelSzatmary]

Since I am FL Studio user, I was happy to get Novation midi keyboard custom created for FL studio. This has a nicer design and some new features, but I dont see a reason to purchase it.

[@eyarouziel3528]

The step sequencer function looks fire, I wonder if they'll update the firmware on the MK3 to be able to do that?

[@bboymac84]

More game changers…? Bring it on 😁💪🏽

[@akigh-fh3hg]

How good is it for using modular synth direkt from MK4 to use the function from the mk4 keyboard connected to modular interface if not. Is there a way to use cc through DAW or indirect from DAW to Modular to use the function from the MK4 ? Thanks

[@Kinnor.Home.Studios]

Where is the 76 key, which I've been asking for.

[@markkilley2683]

It's an improvement that they should have done in the first place.

[@timetravelvictim]

I assume a SL Mk4 version is coming and it will include a larger screen, aftertouch and more features.

[@PendelSteven]

22:40 What to say? From Europe, with love! :-)

[@steviek6484]

I love the noob friendly features on this. Lack of after touch the thing holding me back

[@pacspecific]

I have the MK3 version took a long time for MK4 to post through

[@BlazertronGames]

Was thinking about buying a launchpad X soon. If they're coming with a new launchpad, I hope they announce it soon, and not right after I buy an X...

[@nested_King]

It ALL matters.... sold!

[@JoergWessels]

When I see a new keyboard integrating with Ableton's session view, I have one question: Does it work with Bitwig's clips as well? But I guess it makes sense for keyboard manufacturers to ignore the smaller contender.

[@ZombieLincoln666]

There are third party scripts for bigwig

[@robmcguinness2818]

Well at least the slider and pads are on the correct sides😀 Arturia I am looking at you 🤬

[@noodlingaround2023]

Can you move to different effect banks in Ableton without using the mouse. I think I saw you using the mouse.. You can’t do this in previous Novation controllers..

[@MreenalMams]

I'm getting the vibe that I really am not the target audience for these newly released midi keyboards.. I've got a Launchkey mini Mk3 & Keylab MkII 61 already and seems both these new releases have nothing that would want added comparing to what i already have..

[@Greemfy]

So its basicly the same as every other midi controller. Sanjay could just reupload older reviews and change up the name of the product.

[@peabodyscientific2082]

@@Greemfy It seems like these recent refreshes from Arturia and Novation are iterative upgrades that would have been fine if they had come 2 or 3 years after the last version. It almost feels like we're just getting back on that cycle now, and the next version in 2.5 years might be much more exciting. The pandemic is as much to blame as the companies, but it seems like now is not the iteration to hop on these products.

[@vincentd.4217]

Thanks for the review Sanjay, clear as usual. However, I do have one question : what about the integration of this midi keyboard with an ipad ? And especially with Aum ? Thanks

[@dopaminermusic]

When I hear keybed is light, I know what it means. When I was testing mk3, it was perfect, except of horrible keybed, I would say toy keyboard from my childhook had better one. I'll stick to Oxygen Pro then, keybed is decent for the same price or less.

[@ThiagoDuarteKeys]

M audio oxygen pro or launchkey mk4 ? @SanjayC

[@sudosaurus]

How well would this work mapped with Komplete Kontrol to use Komplete software instruments?

[@infamousDynaset]

This wont replace my sl

[@lX-NDR]

this midi keyboard does not connect automaticly to the 12 beta version. the normal 12 yes.

[@ezion67]

Does the scale filter work on the fixed chord mode so that the transposed chords work within a scale? If not bummer, because that seems the only real application for the scale filter on this keyboard.

[@Devinop]

Hi. Did you know, if aftertouch with M-Audio Oxygen Pro midi controller?

[@TheOneMonk]

Too bad they don‘t offer full size 37 keys. IMO the best form factor for desktop producers who also have other controllers on their busy desks. Akai MPC Key37 absolutely nails it. If only they‘d offer this without the Rompler…

[@udaysingh8379]

Will it work well with fl studio? how would it compare with fl keys?

[@Only1Dharti]

🙌🏽🥳🎹🎶 Sehvehnn

[@gustavobarboza2107]

I'm not sure whether to buy this launchkey mk4 or the old komplete kontrol s49 mk2. What do you think, is the kk mk2 still worth buying? thanks

[@lebate.j.1368]

Sir.... Its work with Studio one 6 in better way.,.... Can you make one Video Studio one with MK4....❓

[@VERSUXH]

how would you compare this Launchkey MK4 61 to M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61. I'm looking for a larger keyboard and stuck on choosing now that this came out. What are the main differences and pros and cons. I use ableton, studio one and reaper

[@Devinop]

Hi, how would you compare the feel of these keys to the Studiologic Numa Compact and M-Audio Oxygen Pro keys ?

[@AlavonMajor]

Any additional keyed dampening? I know they aren't Fatar grade but the previous generations keybeds were poorly dampened making them cheep feeling and annoyingly noisy when the keys bottom out.

[@furiobisotti8150]

I am disappointed once again (after Arturia mkIII). No aftertouch, no pedal input. Nothing for live musicians. A lot of features for not musicians (scale, arp, chord, etc). Waiting for something better

[@VentureNW]

This is their basic model and cheap, only comparable to A series from NI or maybe essentials from Arturia, which only has channel aftertouch and a shit key bed. Hoping the go hard with their SL series, but only time will tell.

[@eye776]

So something like Korg Keystage? Otherwise the market aims for what sells.

[@furiobisotti8150]

@@eye776 It has no faders to simulate Hammond drawbars...

[@kahmusicaustralia]

agree completely. My mk2 was my main onstage controller basic but it is what it is

[@kond1e]

No interesting software ... I mean the arturia essentials comes with analog labs, melodics and other stuff .. this is so not worth it

[@vipin_kanwar9472]

Hey can you please suggest me a only keyboard which i can use for my music production and feel of piano keys

[@christians774]

Has it the same usability for FL Studio like the FLkey?

[@BrunodeSouzaLino]

And where's the 88 key version? The Mk3 had one.

[@dinasleemrose]

.. so would you say this is better than the arturia keylab essential?

[@CarlitoProductions]

Did they fix the keybed that currently has no action in MK3?

[@lenardkentvillanueva8744]

are there other midi controllers with the same scrub functionality on ableton as the launchkey mk4?

[@SuperBassman64]

Why do Novation only support Ableton live which I do not use.

[@logicrak]

Seriously anyone out here actually use all of those features? I haven seen a single person so far!! Idk who these companies trying to impress.. I just need a proper keybed, faders and a good build.. nothing else!!

[@changer1285]

How do the keys on the 37 compare to the 37 mk3? Basically the same?

[@JayfkProductions876]

Almost Everyting said was redundant since this Is Launchkey Mk3/ FL Keys 61, 😂

[@pb25193]

After touch is cool, but the volume of angry comments I'm seeing about "no polyAT" is too high. I feel like most commenters would not actually use AT that much

[@scottdenmark3577]

Is it easy to get Logic to work with this keyboard? I sent the new Arturia back after struggling to get that integration working

[@prodmorningstar]

Do you know if it has the same amount of control in FL that it does with FLKeys?

[@albshore8]

Did they change the FL version?

[@KishanPatel1997]

So it’s still not velocity sensitive? Can someone tell me the best velocity sensitive midi controller for Ableton users?

[@Dangerousdaze]

(Ignore. My mistake.)

[@dannymolns3573]

Mk3 doesnt have aftertouch

[@Dangerousdaze]

@@dannymolns3573 Yeah, I was having a brain fart. I was thinking of the SL Mk3. I was wondering where all the other screens had gone to. :)

[@sampadaverma]

what is that button on your chest?

[@SanjayC]

It’s a mic :-)

[@blee3ee]

What would you recommend for making Vangelis like sounds?(synth and DAW)

[@dannymolns3573]

Oberheim. Any daw works

[@jamesbastani4295]

Just learn some music theory! I guess if you’re not a trained musician this thing can give you some sonic ideas. I’ve noticed a lot of software and hardware features are geared towards musicians who play by ear.

[@DavidCommisso_4GOD]

if those stands came in plastic i would get them

[@GillamtheGreatest]

someday someone will sell me an 88 key midi controller that has poly AT and release velocity 16 pads and good FL studio integration as their flagship keyboard. still waiting

[@98INST]

NI MK3 is still leading this race, despite the fact it does not have built-in pads and faders

[@fredmanteghian5913]

I don’t see innovation in novation :(

[@teemohnay]

Hard pass. Definitely nothing worth upgrading from the mk3. I have the 49 and it's not perfect, but works great. Also, who uses the screen? lmfao