Novation have just introduced the final model in their flagship MIDI controller keyboard range, the Launchkey MK4 88. Rounding off the collection, the new arrival pairs a semi-weighted 88-note keybed with the DAW integration, built-in creative tools and intuitive workflow features offered by its 49- and 61-key MK4 siblings. 

Equipped with piano-style keys and a semi-weighted mechanism, Novation say that the newest addition to the Launchkey range has been designed to provide the most expressive playing response possible. Along with the keybed, the controller features 16 velocity-sensitive pads with polyphonic aftertouch and Novation’s patented Force Sensitive Resistor technology, allowing it to offer detailed control over percussive instruments as well as pianos, synths and all manner of other sample libraries. As with the rest of the range, the Launchkey 88 includes a bank of nine faders and eight endless encoders that are automatically mapped to key parameters of supported DAWs.

Included in the Launchkey 88’s selection of instrument and effect plug-ins is Novation Play, an exclusive software instrument that brings together sampled acoustic pianos, vintage synthesizers and cutting-edge sound design tools — all mapped directly to the Launchkey’s controls for a hardware instrument–like playing experience.

• Most Expressive Keybed Yet: The Launchkey MK4 88 features a bespoke, semi-weighted keybed designed with performers in mind.
• In-depth DAW Control: Powerful control of Ableton Live, Logic, Cubase, FL Studio, Reason, Bitwig and Ardour — no set-up required.
• Tweak Your Software: Eight encoders and nine faders for instant control over DAW mixers, virtual instruments, effects, and more.
• Play Drums & Instruments: 16 velocity-sensitive pads with polyphonic aftertouch and patented Force Sensitive Resistor technology for playing beats, chords and melodies, as well as launching clips and working with grids.
• Powerful Built-in Creative Tools: Arpeggiator and Chord Modes make it easy to create musical progressions.
• Always Stay In Key: Scale Mode locks notes on the keyboard into the right key, and Chord Detector shows what chord is currently being played on the OLED display.
• Split & Layer The Keyboard: Split divides the keyboard into two independent zones, and Layer allows two MIDI channels to be played from the same keys.
• Connect To Other Instruments: Control synths and other hardware with a full-size MIDI Out port.
• Create Your Own Control Surfaces: Map parameters to pads and controls of your choice with easy-to-use Components software.
• NKS-ready: Seamlessly connect to software from Native Instruments and other third-party developers.
• Software Included: Get Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, Novation Play and a collection of instruments and effects from Klevgrand, GForce, Orchestral Tools and Native Instruments — plus lessons from Melodics.

The Launchkey MK4 88 is available now, priced at $449.99£379.99 including VAT / €378.14.

novationmusic.com/products/launchkey-88