The Novation LounchKey Mini MK3 Music Production Hardware has loads more functionality and control than you might think from such a small unit. For example, the Arp and Chord features are great. Similarly, the Live control is some top-notch stuff. You know what they say: never judge a controller by its size. It punches well above its weight. Overall, it’s a great Live controller with plenty of other creative features to complement your music production carrier.
Novation Lounchkey Mini MK3: All About Adaptability
The third redo of Novation’s famous Lounchkey Mini series primed for Ableton Live. However, you can easily map it to other Digital Audio Workstations. This MIDI keyboard is built-in with 16 RGB velocity-sensitive pads. In addition, it includes eight assignable knobs and 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys. Combine this with the transport control and modulation and pitch touch strips. As you do so, you’ll realize that getting the hang of it with your DAW and plugins is pretty easy.
A Lot to Praise
With its 25 keys, you can get more experimental with the arp and fixed chords, which are a blessing. The present modes let you simultaneously trigger multiple notes. These can be either a defined chord structure or an arpeggio that you can hold infinitely. Moreover, by holding the Shift and adjusting its controls, you’ll notice that you have control over them. In particular, you’ll have control over the arpeggio timing, swing, and key. It’s particularly useful when using Ableton Lives clip view. Additionally, the shift key allows you to dedicate what RGB pads represent.
In conclusion, the Novation Lounchkey Mini MK is fabulous for anyone with a limited studio space or anyone who’s on a budget for playing in a live performance. The connectivity on this device is via USB MIDI and power, 3.5mm TRS MIDI out, and a Sustain Pedal Input.