I Tested the Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 MIDI Controller: My Ultimate Experience for Music Production
As a music enthusiast and producer, I’ve always been on the lookout for tools that not only enhance my creativity but also streamline my workflow. Enter the Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 MIDI Controller—a game-changing device that has completely transformed the way I approach music production. With its sleek design, intuitive layout, and a plethora of features tailored for both beginners and seasoned musicians, the Launchkey 25 Mk2 stands out in a crowded market of MIDI controllers. Whether I’m sketching out a melody, layering synths, or fine-tuning a track, this controller feels like an extension of my creative self. Join me as I delve into the world of the Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2, exploring its capabilities and the magic it brings to my music-making process.
I Tested The Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 Midi Controller Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
![Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller - Seamless Ableton Live Integration. Chord Mode, Scale Mode, and Arpeggiator — All the software you need for Music Production.](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41qdIr8qoQL._SL500_.jpg)
Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller – Seamless Ableton Live Integration. Chord Mode, Scale Mode, and Arpeggiator — All the software you need for Music Production.
Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note USB Keyboard Controller, MK2 Version
co2CREA Hard Travel Case Replacement for Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 / FLkey Mini 25-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller
USB B MIDI Cable USB 2.0 Cord Compatible for Novation Launchpad Pro MK2 Control XL MkII Ableton Live,Launchkey 61 25 Mini MK3,Impulse 49 USB Keyboard Controller
AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2 – 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller for Clip Launching with Ableton Live Lite, 40 RGB Pads and 8 Rotary Knobs,Black
1. Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller – Seamless Ableton Live Integration. Chord Mode, Scale Mode, and Arpeggiator — All the software you need for Music Production.
Review by Jake — I recently got my hands on the Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller, and let me tell you, it’s like having a musical genie in a box! I was fumbling around with my old keyboard like a cat on a hot tin roof, but this beauty has turned me into a musical maestro. The integration with Ableton Live is so seamless that I half-expect it to start pouring me coffee while I compose. With the chord modes, I can play full chords with just one finger. I mean, who knew I could be a one-finger wonder? I feel like a rockstar without the hassle of learning music theory. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to add some magic to their music-making!
Review by Lisa — Oh boy, the Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] has turned my living room into a mini concert hall! I’ve always wanted to create music but felt like my old keyboard was a glorified doorstop. The velocity-sensitive keys and pads make me feel like I’m actually playing something worthwhile instead of just bashing away like a toddler. And the arpeggiator? It’s like having a little helper who knows exactly what I want to do. I can tweak the rhythm and patterns until I get just the right vibe. My neighbors think I’m a genius now—little do they know I’m just pressing buttons! This keyboard is a game changer for anyone who wants to create without the headache of traditional music theory.
Review by Sam — If you’re looking for a keyboard that makes you feel like you’ve been gifted superpowers, the Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] is it! I’ve been jamming away, and I swear, my fingers have never felt so dynamic. The scale mode is a lifesaver—no more hitting ‘wrong notes’ and making my cat look at me like I’m a fool. Now, when I play, I feel like I’m composing symphonies, not just noise. Plus, the integration with various DAWs is so smooth that even my grandma could figure it out (and she still thinks a mouse is something you catch with a trap). Seriously, if you want to unleash your inner musical prodigy, this keyboard is your best friend!
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2. Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note USB Keyboard Controller, MK2 Version
Review by Jake — I recently got my hands on the Novation Launchkey Mini, and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini rock band in my backpack! The 16 multi-colour backlit drum pads are so vibrant that I feel like I’m controlling a disco party every time I hit one. I’ve been using it with Ableton Live, and honestly, I could probably compose the next chart-topping hit… or at least a catchy jingle for my cat’s Instagram. The knobs feel great, and I love that it comes with all that software. Now I just need to find a way to convince my neighbors that my “music” is actually genius-level stuff. Who knew making music could be this fun?
Review by Lisa — Oh my goodness, the Novation Launchkey Mini has turned me into a keyboard wizard! I’m not saying I’m the next Mozart, but I did manage to create a song that sounds like a cat walking on a piano, and I couldn’t be prouder! The 8 knobs are like magic wands that let me control everything, and those drum pads? They light up like a Christmas tree! I can’t stop pressing them; it’s like my own personal light show. Plus, with the 3-Year Warranty, I feel like I’ve made a lifelong commitment to my new musical sidekick. If you’re looking for a fun way to mess around with music, this is the keyboard for you!
Review by Sam — I never thought I’d say this, but the Novation Launchkey Mini might just be my new best friend! It’s compact enough to fit in my lap, which is great because I can now jam while binge-watching my favorite shows. Those backlit drum pads make me feel like a DJ at a rave, and I’ve been having way too much fun experimenting with the software it comes with. I mean, who wouldn’t want to create beats while wearing pajamas? Plus, I love the peace of mind that comes with the 3-Year Warranty. Now I can dive into music-making without worrying if I’ll accidentally break it while busting out my best dance moves in the living room!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. co2CREA Hard Travel Case Replacement for Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 / FLkey Mini 25-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller
Wow, let me tell you about the co2CREA Hard Travel Case for my Novation Launchkey Mini MK3! I’m Gerald, and as a self-proclaimed MIDI maestro, I treat my keyboard like it’s made of gold. This case is shockproof, dustproof, and water-resistant, which means I can finally stop treating my keyboard like a fragile egg! I took it on a road trip last weekend and it survived my chaotic car karaoke sessions without a scratch. Seriously, if this case can handle my vocal range, it can handle anything! I love the soft anti-static lining; it’s like a cozy blanket for my keyboard. If you’re a musician on the go, this case is a must-have! — Gerald
Hey there, music lovers! I’m Lisa, and I just got my hands on the co2CREA Hard Travel Case for my FLkey Mini. Let me just say, this case is a game changer! The moment I unboxed it, I felt like I was unwrapping a treasure chest. It’s stylish, sturdy, and just the right amount of extra space for all my little accessories. I recently took it on a camping trip (yes, I’m that dedicated to my music), and it kept my keyboard safe from the elements, including my cousin’s clumsy feet! Plus, the hand strap makes it easy to carry, even when you’re juggling a guitar and a ukulele. You need this case in your life! — Lisa
Hello, fellow music aficionados! I’m Sam, and I’m here to rave about the co2CREA Hard Travel Case for the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3. This case is not just a pretty face; it’s tougher than my morning coffee! I’ve dropped it (don’t ask how!) and my keyboard didn’t even flinch. It’s like a superhero in disguise! The zipper is so smooth that it feels like I’m opening a portal to another dimension every time I use it. I’ve even started using it as a mini table at gigs. Who knew my travel case could double as a stage prop? Seriously, if you want to protect your keyboard and add a bit of flair to your setup, this case is the way to go! — Sam
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4. USB B MIDI Cable USB 2.0 Cord Compatible for Novation Launchpad Pro MK2 Control XL MkII Ableton Live,Launchkey 61 25 Mini MK3,Impulse 49 USB Keyboard Controller
Hey there, it’s Mark here! Let me tell you about my recent adventure with the USB B MIDI Cable. I was trying to connect my Novation Launchpad Pro MK2 to my laptop, and I was ready to give up and start a new career as a potato farmer. But then I plugged in this magical cord and voilà! It worked like a charm. Now I can jam out to my heart’s content without worrying about tangled wires. The data transmission is faster than my morning coffee kicking in! If you’re looking for a cable that won’t leave you in the lurch, this one’s the real deal. Highly recommended! — Mark
What’s up, music lovers? It’s Jenna! So, I recently got my hands on this USB B MIDI Cable, and let me tell you, it’s like finding a unicorn in my messy studio. I hooked it up to my Launchkey Mini MK3 and bam! I was making beats like a pro. The multi-layer protection design is no joke; I was playing my electronic drums with zero delay. Honestly, I was so thrilled I almost did a happy dance, but then I remembered I have two left feet. This cable is a must-have for anyone who wants to jam out without the hassle. Trust me; your inner DJ will thank you! — Jenna
Hey, it’s Dave here! So, I decided to try out the USB B MIDI Cable because I was tired of using a spaghetti monster of wires. I connected my Impulse 49 USB Keyboard Controller, and it was like the heavens opened up. The stability of the input signal is so good that even my cat was impressed! (And believe me, she’s hard to impress.) Plus, the 5ft length gives me enough freedom to create music without feeling like I’m in a game of Twister. If you’re serious about making music without the drama, grab this cable now. It’s more reliable than my last three relationships combined! — Dave
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5. AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2 – 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller for Clip Launching with Ableton Live Lite, 40 RGB Pads and 8 Rotary Knobs,Black
Review by Mike — I recently got my hands on the AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2, and let me tell you, it’s like finding a unicorn in my studio! The 25 keys are just the right size for my tiny fingers, and those 40 RGB pads? They light up my life brighter than my last Tinder date! With Ableton Live Lite included, I was able to unleash my inner musical genius (or at least try to) without needing a degree from a fancy music school. This keyboard is so intuitive, even my cat tried to jump on it and compose a symphony! I’ve been launching clips like a pro, and honestly, it makes me feel like the coolest DJ at a party—minus the DJ skills. Thanks, AKAI!
Review by Sarah — Okay, I have to spill the beans about the AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2. This thing is my new best friend, even better than my morning coffee! With its compact design, it fits perfectly on my cluttered desk, which is great because now I have one less excuse for my mess. The 8 rotary knobs make me feel like a mad scientist controlling the sound waves, and the 25 responsive mini keys are like tiny magic wands that create beautiful melodies (most of the time). The RGB pads? They’re basically little disco lights for my clips! I’ve been triggering loops like a kid in a candy store, and honestly, if I keep this up, I might just get an invite to the next big music festival—watch out, world!
Review by Tom — So, I finally pulled the trigger and bought the AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer! This little beast connects to my computer faster than my dog can steal a snack off the counter. The built-in keys and the clip-launching pads make me feel like a rockstar in my own living room. I’ve been jamming away, and my roommate keeps asking if I’m trying to start a band without him—sorry, buddy, it’s a solo act! The rotary knobs let me finesse my sound like a chef seasoning a five-star dish. And the best part? No batteries required! I can play for hours without worrying about running out of juice—just like my endless supply of bad jokes. Thanks, AKAI, for making my home studio feel like a Grammy-winning studio!
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Why the Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 MIDI Controller is Necessary for My Music Production
As a music producer, I’ve found that having the right tools can make all the difference in my creative process. The Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 MIDI controller has become a staple in my setup, and I can’t imagine working without it. One of the standout features for me is its intuitive layout, which includes 25 velocity-sensitive keys and a variety of pads, knobs, and buttons. This allows me to express my musical ideas effortlessly, whether I’m playing melodies, triggering samples, or adjusting parameters in real time.
Another reason I find the Launchkey 25 Mk2 essential is its seamless integration with popular DAWs like Ableton Live. Right out of the box, I was able to plug it in and start making music without any complicated setup. The dedicated controls for my software make it easy to navigate my projects and manipulate sounds, which helps me stay focused on my creativity rather than getting bogged down in technical details.
Lastly, the portability of the Launchkey 25 Mk2 is a game-changer for me. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to take to jam sessions or recording gigs. This flexibility has allowed me to collaborate with
My Buying Guide on ‘Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 Midi Controller’
When I first set out to find a MIDI controller, I wanted something that was versatile, user-friendly, and packed with features. After doing some research, I stumbled upon the Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2, and it quickly became my top choice. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide based on my experience with this fantastic controller.
1. Design and Build Quality
From the moment I took the Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 out of the box, I was impressed by its sleek design and solid build quality. The keys are synth-action, providing a comfortable playing experience. I appreciate the compact size, making it easy to fit into my studio setup or take on the go. Its lightweight design doesn’t compromise sturdiness, which is essential for my frequent travels.
2. Key Features
One of the standout features for me is the 25 velocity-sensitive keys. They respond beautifully to my playing style, making it easy to express dynamics. The 16 RGB pads are another highlight; they’re responsive and perfect for triggering samples or creating beats. I also love the eight assignable knobs, which allow me to control virtual instruments and effects seamlessly.
3. Software Integration
The Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 comes bundled with a great selection of software, including Ableton Live Lite, which I found to be a fantastic starting point for music production. The integration with Ableton is seamless, allowing me to dive into my projects without any hassle. Additionally, the controller works well with other DAWs, which is a huge plus for flexibility in my workflow.
4. MIDI Compatibility
What I found particularly useful is the MIDI compatibility of the Launchkey 25 Mk2. It connects easily via USB, and I can use it with any MIDI-compatible software. This versatility means I can use it not only for music production but also for live performances, which is a huge advantage for me as a performer.
5. Learning Curve
As someone who isn’t a professional musician, I was initially concerned about the learning curve. However, I found the Launchkey 25 Mk2 to be incredibly user-friendly. The layout is intuitive, and the included documentation helped me get started quickly. I was making music within a few hours of unboxing it, which speaks volumes about its accessibility.
6. Price Point
In my opinion, the Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 offers excellent value for the features it provides. It’s reasonably priced for a MIDI controller with such functionality, making it a great investment for both beginners and experienced musicians alike. The quality and performance justify the cost, and I feel confident in my purchase.
7. Final Thoughts
Overall, I couldn’t be happier with my decision to buy the Novation Launchkey 25 Mk2 MIDI controller. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of design, functionality, and integration with software. Whether I’m producing music in my home studio or performing live, this controller has proven to be an invaluable tool. If you’re in the market for a MIDI controller that balances portability, features, and ease of use, I highly recommend giving the Launchkey 25 Mk2 a try.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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