Novation Launchkey 49 MK2

Yes, the Launchkey 49 MK2 was designed in direct partnership with Ableton to offer seamless, out-of-the-box hardware integration with Ableton Live. Its 16 RGB drum pads map directly to Live's session view clip slots, allowing users to launch loops and samples visually. The dedicated transport controls also allow you to start, stop, and record sessions without touching your mouse.

While optimized for Ableton Live, the controller features deep built-in integration templates for other major DAWs, including Logic Pro X, Reason, and FL Studio. Novation provides an InControl software plugin that maps the 16 knobs and faders to the mixer channels in these specific programs. This ensures users are not locked into the Ableton ecosystem when using the hardware.

No, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK2 is fully USB bus-powered, drawing all necessary electricity directly from your Mac or PC via a single USB cable. This eliminates cable clutter and makes the keyboard highly portable for hotel room music production. Novation also includes a socket for an optional DC power supply if you wish to use it as a standalone MIDI controller without a computer.

Novation bundles the Launchkey 49 MK2 with a comprehensive software package, including a license for Ableton Live Lite. It also includes the Novation Bass Station virtual analog synthesizer and the V-Station software plugin. This provides users with immediate access to high-quality instruments and a full DAW to start making music right out of the box.