Image Credit: Novation

In collaboration with Image Line, the creators of Fl Studio, Novation presents the FLkey MIDI controllers for FL Studio. Two models of MIDI keyboard specifically made for the FL Studio DAW.

Novation state that the FLkey MIDI controllers are the ” ultimate range of MIDI keyboards for making music in FL Studio”.

Whether you’re just starting with FL Studio or a power user, a beatmaker or composer or anything in between, FLkey can help you express your creativity and make the most of your studio sessions with a MIDI keyboard controller designed to work seamlessly with your production set-up.

Novation

FLkey MIDI controllers for FL Studio

Both models of the FLkey MIDI controllers feature controls that allow you to interact with FL Studio’s Sequencer, Channel Rack , Mixer, and Piano Roll in creative ways. Other controls allow easy preset browsing, and you can assign custom controls with Custom Modes too! Forget about your mouse and keyboard, it’s time to play with FL Studio in the physical realm.

Whether your studio space is big or small, Novation has made two models of FLkey to accommodate you. FLkey Mini features 25 mini keys that Novation states are its “best mini keys to date”. This smaller model will fit into your backpack or a cramped desk, so it’s ideal for the on-the-go producer.

FLkey Mini features 25 mini keys that Novation states are its “best mini keys to date”. This smaller model will fit into your backpack or a cramped desk, so it
Image Credit: Novation

On the other hand, FLkey 37 features 37 full-size keys that stretch across 3 octaves and is “the perfect balance of key range and footprint for any bedroom studio”. Additionally, FLkey 37 has an onboard screen, extra modes like Chord Modes, FL Studio transport control for access to DAW functions in an instant, Channel rack control, Fixed Chord mode, and dual Chord modes too.

FLkey 37 features 37 full-size keys that stretch across 3 octaves and is "the perfect balance of key range and footprint for any bedroom studio". Additionally, FLkey 37 has an onboard screen, extra modes like Chord Modes, FL Studio transport control for access to DAW functions in an instant, Channel rack control, Fixed Chord mode, and dual Chord modes too
Image Credit: Novation

The different Chord modes are easy-to-use and allow you to expand your creative potential. As a result, Chord modes allow you to play interesting chord progressions without any musical theory behind you. These chord modes include Fixed Chord mode, Scale Chord, Dual Chord, and User Chords. The latter allows you to play custom chords with just one finger, and Scale Chord lets you play pre-determined chords in 8 different scales.

Scale and Chord modes allow you to play freely without stressing about the details. For example, Scale mode locks your keys into a selected scale – meaning  you always play in your chosen scale. Therefore, writing melodies that compliment your chord progressions just got easier!

Sequencer Mode maps FLkey’s pads to FL Studio’s step sequencer, allowing you to lay down beats faster. Furthermore, two Pad modes will get playing rather than pasting your beats straight into the Channel Rack or Piano Roll. Equally useful is the ability to trigger slices in SliceX too!

Controls for volume and panning will help you get your track release ready faster. After all, fiddling with virtual knobs is far less fun. Eight pot knobs allow you to tweak your mix and record automation!

Price and compatibility

Despite all of these awesome controls, the FLkey MIDI controllers are fairly priced. You can get the FLkey Mini for £99 and the FLkey 37 for £199. Both keyboards will be available in mid-April.