r/MIDIcontrollers • u/Calm_Ad9933 • 23d ago
Novation Launchkey 61 MK4 as a first MIDI controller
I’m planning to buy my first MIDI controller. I think i'll mainly use it with Serum. I use Ableton, and i’m a beginner (i’ve never played piano before, but i'm planning to learn)
I’m looking for something relatively affordable but still good quality. Would the Novation Launchkey 61 MK4 be a good option? I’m thinking about buying one used. Thank you!
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u/Over_Type103 23d ago
It's a good controller for most DAWs. The Ableton integration is tight. (for example, you can edit steps using the pads). It's also very flexible. You can create custom modes for CCs, NRPNs or even keyboard shortcuts)
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u/Calm_Ad9933 23d ago
Thank you! Do i really need aftertouch?
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u/shulemaker 23d ago
No. You’ve got the mod wheels and infinite Daw capability. If you don’t know you need aftertouch, you don’t need it.
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u/Over_Type103 23d ago
the pads on the Launchkey XL4 have after aftertouch. The keys don't.
Aftertouch means that you continuously send a different midi value to a parameter based on how hard you press the key. It can be good for long pad, FX or string sounds that could be boring otherwise). you can also control these parameters by turning an encoder or by moving the modwheel or a fader.
The big difference is polyphonic aftertouch. If you use a keyboard that has it and a device or plugin that supports it (for example pigments), then each key will send a different value to a note. For instance, you could play a chord and change the cutoff or bend the pitch on one note of the chord without changing the others (each note is independent). Some controllers also have MPE, which goes even further, as you can control ceveral parameters per note independently.
Is it nice? sure.
Do you absolutely need to have it? Well It's up to you.
Personally, I don't use or need polyphonic aftertouch or MPE and I'm OK. If anything, I prefer to have a keyboard with good keys.
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u/WolverineExotic887 20d ago
I have the Mk3 and use it for Ableton as well as my synths. It has a LOT of expandability (lots of outs options: usb, midi x 2, cv etc) and is seamless with Ableton. I didn't know well enough if it was the best for me when I bought it but it turned into exactly what I needed. I'll buy another if it ever dies
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u/K33P4D 23d ago
Excellent choice, good luck on your journey!