Their latest series of USB keyboards integrates with a pair of iPad apps for loop triggering, sound generation and effects.
Novation has announced Launchkey, a new series of USB-powered keyboards.
The Launchkey comes in three sizes—25, 49 and 61-key devices are all available—and features an array of programmable faders, knobs and clip-launching buttons. Like most controller keyboards, all of these can be used to control DAWs like Ableton Live. What makes the Launchkey series notable, though, is its integration with a pair of iPad apps that are included with the keyboards. First is the Launchkey synth, which pairs Novation's synth engine with a touchscreen interface. Synth functions also map to the physical controls on the keyboard. The second app, Launchpad, triggers loops and effects. In addition to the iPad apps, each keyboard comes with Novation's V-Station and Bass Station software synths, a sample pack from Loopmasters and Ableton Live Lite. Novation has posted a teaser video to YouTube showcasing some of Launchkey's functionality, which you can check out below:
The Launchkey 49 is available from late February 2013 at a suggested retail price of US$249.99. The 25 and 61 models will be available from late April 2013 at a suggested retail price of US$189.99 and US$299.99, respectively.