The Lowdown
The Launchkey Mini Mk2 is a compact instrument / controller. It features 16 velocity-sensitive, RGB pads which can be used to launch clips in Ableton Live’s Session View, and also features a 25-note keyboard, eight assignable rotary controls, seven function buttons, and two performance buttons. The Mk2 comes with a fresh new look, the same low price, and a decent selection of bundled software that help it stand out from the crowded portable keyboard marketplace.
First Impressions / Setting up
The Launchkey Mini Mk2 is the smallest keyboard in the Launchkey line. It has a 25-key velocity sensitive keyboard, 16 multi-colour backlit drum pads, 8 knobs and a fader. It’s USB bus-powered so just need to plug it to your computer or iPad to use it. The Launchkey Mini Mk2 is bundled with Ableton Live 9 Lite.
In Use
The Launchkey Mini Mk2 is aimed at the musician and producer on the go. It’s small yet sturdy enough to throw in your backpack: pair it with your Laptop or iPad, and you can play virtually anywhere.
Launchkey was made for seamless use with Ableton Live and functions with Logic Pro, Cubase, Pro Tools, Reason, and FL Studio. It also works with any HUI-compatible DAW after the initial hurdle of manually setting up.
Conclusion
The Launchkey Mini Mk2 is a great choice for the constantly moving DJ/producer. If you work mainly at home or in a studio, we’d recommend moving higher to the Launchkey Mk2 49 due to the additional buttons, knobs, and faders. But if you want an ultraportable keyboard with a good number of controls, the Launchkey Mini Mk2 is highly recommended.
