Novation Launchkey 37 MK 3 Review – Affordable Powerhouse

marshallsoundz
Jul 17, 2020
5 min read

Today, I'll review the most recent Novation product that is the Novation Launchkey 37MK3.

My thought is the fact that Launchkey 37MK3 has quickly been voted one of the top MIDI keyboards that has 37 keys. The MK3 has a lot of features with MIDI out as well as a sustain input. scale mode, and amazing software included.

There is a recent interest from producers in 37 keys.

The reason is that certain producers believe that 25 keys aren't enough and 49 keys are too numerous. I've had the privilege of trying Launchkey 37 MK3 Launchkey 37 MK3 and I'm eager to share my experiences.

Table of Contents

1 Novation Launchkey 37 MK3 Review At A Glance
2 Novation Launchkey 37 MK3
3 Notable Features Of The Novation Launchkey MK3 37
4 The Build
4.1 Knobs & Pitch-Wheels
5 Scale Mode
6 Transport Controls
7 Connectivity
8 Bundled Software
9 Keys
10 Overall

Novation Launchkey 37 MK3 Review At A Glance

Affordable Powerhouse

Novation Launchkey 37 MK3

Launchkey 37 Launchkey 37 has made some significant improvements and has added amazing features that make this one of the top choices for budgets.

Novation isn't a unfamiliar when it comes to creating low-cost, yet high-quality MIDI keyboards.

One of the first devices I bought was the original Launchkey approximately nine years ago. I'm glad to report that there have been significant improvements regarding both MIDI technology and function since then.

At the price of Launchkey 37 MK3 I'm amazed by what you get. This is a highly-powered device that offers more than you could ever need for a price most musicians can pay for.

Me playing my MK3

Like you see in the image above it appears that it appears that the MK3 has a distinct style to it. I was very impressed with how it felt after I pulled it out of the box. It's a matte matt black finish which is really good.

I noticed a significant distinction in how I felt the Launchkey 37 MK3 felt when I compared it with that of the first Launchkey. It's more expensive than the predecessor.

What I'm trying to convey is that it's not cheap. It weighs 4.81 LBS and it feels extremely sturdy and compact.

Every person who uses Novation products is aware that they designed MIDI keyboards using Ableton Live in mind. There are no keyboards as well connected to Ableton like Novation keyboards. Novation keyboards. In addition that, it is compatible with all major DAW that is currently in use.

Now we've got a piece of understanding for this keyboard, let's dig into my thoughts below.

Notable Features Of The Novation Launchkey MK3 37

Highly optimized for Ableton Live & other major DAWs
Keys that sense velocity (These feel better than the previous Launchkeys)
8 rotary knobs
16 RGB back-lit pads
5 pin MIDI out ( Can control hardware synths)
Octave buttons
All controls for transport
Scale modes (transpose keys)
Arp mode
Quantize button (Works well)
Capture MIDI
Scene launch button
Sustain input
3 different chord modes
3-year warranty
The bundled software includes (Ableton Live 10 Two months of Splice and XLN Addictive Keys)
USB B Kensington Security Lock

The Build

Packaging

It is evident that the item was delivered to me in a safe and secure manner. Regarding the build quality is concerned I was totally awed by the strength. When I took it out of the packaging I was able to see it was is durable but it's not too heavy.

The older Novation MIDI keyboards were thin and cheap in my opinion. It's no more from what MK3 can be described as. If you're interested in an extensive guide, I've listed the top MIDI controllers below.

I am a huge fan of the matte finish and I really like the overall feel and size on the keyboard. Personally, I love the smaller size of the screen, however some may prefer it be a little bigger.

However, it gives you what you need, and I don't think it's an issue in any way.

Knobs & Pitch-Wheels

Mod/Pitch wheels

The knobs and wheels are fantastic. I've experienced major issues with other controllers in this area. When you turn the knobs, it doesn't feel like you're about break them, just like for the wheel.

Apart from being durable Additionally, they function accurately. This is crucial because I'd like the instruments I use to work precise while I'm playing them. There's nothing more annoying then turning on a switch only to being able to see it continue to raise the reverb of the patch.

Similar can be stated when performing bends. If you're an experienced player who frequently bends and frequently, these bends will need to be solid, and they are.

Scale Mode

This is a brand new feature for the MK3 that I'm sure most producers with the most extensive knowledge of music theory will appreciate.

If you're trying to play an insane solo but aren't sure the different types of music, do not need to fret. If, for instance, you don't know how to play in the Mixolydian style, you can transpose it using the MK3 to find the notes you're seeking.

This makes it easy for those who do not have a lot of knowledge in music theory to achieve.

Transport Controls

The basic buttons to record play stops, pauses as well as quantize and record MIDI and quantize are located on the right hand side of the Launchkey 37 MK3. I am really enjoying this feature and think it will streamline my workflow.

Connectivity

All your connectivity is in the reverse of Launchkey MK3. There is an input for sustain as well as a MIDI output and USB. The USB port is extremely secure and will hold your USB cable in place throughout any event.

Bundled Software

The software included that comes with this keyboard makes the purchase worth it in the cost of the application. The keyboard comes with the Ableton Live 10 software, two months for free to Splice and XLN addictive keys.

Addictive Keys actually took our top pick for the best piano VST on a budget in our most recent review as well.

Splice is among the most popular websites for royalty-free sound. The effects and samples that are available on Splice cover every genre of music.

Ableton Live 10 is an amazing DAW that is considered to be one of the more sought-after choices that are available. This DAW is utilized for live music more often than any other DAW.

Overall, the program that comes in the MK3 is quite impressive particularly at the price of a low-cost.

Keys

Keys on the MK3 are quite similar to those that are on the MK2. I'm convinced that they're a major leap forward from the initial Launchkey keyboards. It's important to note that the edges of the keys is round and not sharp.

I've always been a bit annoyed the time when MIDI keyboards had sharp edges. It's great on piano keys, but when you attempt it with plastic keys it's always a mess for me.

Novation has done a fantastic job creating a sturdy keybed that permits serious playing regardless of the 37-keys.

Overall

Its Novation Launchkey MK3 is my vote for the title of the top MIDI keyboards that cost less than $200. The bundled software, great key-bed, drum pads, and connectivity/functionality with DAWs put it over the top for this price range.