Novation FL Keys 61 Owner’s Review

The FL Keys 61 by Novation joins the FL Keys 37 as being one of the only MIDI controllers built specifically for FL Studio. I was fortunate to spend the last few months using this as part of my setup alongside my FL Keys 37, and I love having the extra keys.

Novation continues to shine with its latest releases, and I’m happy to provide honest feedback on the FL Keys 61.

The FL Keys 61 is hands down the best option for those using FL Studio. Not only does it greatly streamline my workflow, but it also has a solid keybed with extremely responsive pads. If you’ve been waiting for a keyboard built specifically for FL Studio, the wait is over.

Key Takeaways

• FLkey 61 is a MIDI keyboard controller designed specifically for FL Studio.
• It features 61 semi-weighted keys, 16 velocity-sensitive pads, nine faders, and eight customizable pots.
• The controller provides seamless integration with FL Studio and includes a six-month FL Studio Producer edition trial.
• It offers features such as easy drum programming with the step sequencer, direct playability into the Channel Rack from the pads, control of instruments and plugins with assignable knobs, and mapping pads to FL Studio’s step sequencer for fast beat programming.

FL Keys 61 Specs

The FLkey 61 has the following specs:

• 61 semi-weighted keys
• 16 velocity-sensitive pads
• 9 faders
• 8 customizable pots
• 16×2 char screen
• Pitch bend and modulation wheels
• Various buttons for navigation, settings, and DAW functions

The keys provide a much better playing experience than I had anticipated, and this couldn’t be more integrated with FL Studio.

Overall, the FLkey 61 is a versatile and intuitive MIDI keyboard controller with a wide range of features for seamless integration with FL Studio.

Drawbacks

The main problem that I have with this keyboard is the overall build quality. Functionality is typically great with Novation products and the same goes for this. That being said, it doesn’t have the same build quality that you would get from say, Arturia.

Overview

This impressive controller is packed with features that enhance your music production experience.

With 61 semi-weighted keys, you’ll have a wide range of notes.

The 16 velocity-sensitive pads allow for dynamic drum programming, while the 9 faders and 8 customizable pots give you precise control over your mix.

The 16×2 char screen provides clear visual feedback, and the pitch bend and modulation wheels add expressive capabilities to your playing.

Design

The FLkey 61 has a sleek and elegant design with its dark grey finish, making it visually appealing. The synth-action keybed feels great to play, and the build quality is sturdy, ensuring durability.

The colorful drum pads with a soft touch provide a tactile and responsive experience. The front panel includes 9 faders, 8 rotary encoders, a compact display, transport buttons, and more, giving you complete control over your music.

The back panel features a sustain pedal input, MIDI out, and USB-A connector for seamless connectivity.

With its unique features, such as the Sequencer mode, Score Log button, Scale mode, and Fixed Chord button, the FLkey 61 offers endless possibilities for creative beat-making and chord progression.

The mixer and plugin control can be easily managed with the faders and rotary knobs.

Overall, the design is perfect for FL Studio. All the faders and buttons are placed where I would like them, and they make a solid key-action for this keyboard.

VS The Competition

Compared to other MIDI keyboard controllers on the market, the FLkey 61 stands out with its seamless integration and dedicated features for FL Studio users.

While many great options are available, the FLkey 61 offers a unique advantage for those who primarily use FL Studio as their DAW.

The integration with FL Studio is smooth and effortless, allowing for a musically rewarding experience.

The dedicated buttons for DAW functions and presets for Image-Line’s plugins add convenience and efficiency to the workflow.

Additionally, the FLkey 61 provides additional faders and buttons for control over FL Studio’s Mixer and Channel Rack, giving users more control and flexibility.

Sequencer

The powerful sequencer mode on the FLkey 61 MIDI keyboard controller is a versatile tool that enhances your workflow and provides a convenient way to lay down drum patterns. With this innovative feature, you can use colorful drum pads to create beats and rhythms.

The FLkey 61 is ideal for electronic music production, as it allows you to easily program drum parts using the step sequencer. The 16 velocity-sensitive pads are responsive and easy to play, giving you precise control over your beats.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced producer, the sequencer mode on the FLkey 61 offers a fun and intuitive way to create dynamic and engaging music. It adds depth and creativity to your productions, making it a valuable asset for any FL Studio user.

Scale Mode

Enhance your musical creations with the expressive Scale Mode feature on the FLkey 61 MIDI keyboard controller. This feature allows you to effortlessly play in specific scales and connect with your music on a deeper level.

Here are four key benefits of the Scale Mode:

1. Restrict Keyboard to Specific Scale: Scale Mode restricts the keyboard to a specific scale, ensuring that every note you play is in harmony. This feature is particularly useful if you’re not familiar with music theory.

2. Intuitive and Easy to Use: With Scale Mode, you can easily navigate different scales using the dedicated buttons on the FLkey 61. 

3. Versatile and Creative: Scale Mode opens up a world of creative possibilities. By limiting the keyboard to a specific scale, you can easily create unique melodies and chord progressions that sound cohesive and professional.

4. Connect with Your Music: Scale Mode helps you connect with your music deeper by providing a framework for musical expression. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, this feature allows you to explore different scales and create music that resonates with your emotions.

In summary, the Scale Mode feature on the FLkey 61 MIDI keyboard controller is a powerful tool that allows you to effortlessly play in specific scales, unleashing your creativity and helping you connect with your music meaningfully.

Bundled Software

Novation has designed this so that you can make beats and tracks quickly and efficiently right out of the box.

The FL Studio Producer Edition trial, included for six months, allows you to delve into the powerful features of FL Studio.

Additionally, you’ll have access to XLN Audio Addictive Keys, which provides high-quality piano sounds, and the AAS Session Bundle, which offers essential sounds for your compositions.

The Spitfire Audio LABS Expressive Strings gives you realistic string sounds, while the Klevgrand R0Verb allows you to create customizable reverbs.

Lastly, the Klevgrand DAW Cassette adds a vintage cassette sound to your tracks.

With this bundled software, the Novation FLkey 61 ensures you have a wide range of tools to take your music production to the next level.

What I Like After 3 Months Of Owning It

I’ve been absolutely loving the Novation FLkey 61 MIDI controller for the past 3 months! Here are three reasons why it has become an essential part of my music production setup:

1. The playability of the semi-weighted keys is exceptional. They provide a natural and responsive feel, making it a joy to play melodies and chords. The pitch bend and modulation wheels add expressive capabilities to my performances.

2. The integration with FL Studio is seamless. The dedicated buttons for DAW functions and presets for Image-Line’s plugins make navigating and controlling my projects a breeze. 

3. The bundled software is top-notch. The FL Studio Producer Edition trial, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, AAS Session Bundle, Spitfire Audio LABS Expressive Strings, Klevgrand R0Verb, and DAW Cassette provide a wide range of sounds and effects to enhance my productions.

Overall, the Novation FLkey 61 has exceeded my expectations with its performance, integration, and included software. It’s a fantastic MIDI controller for any FL Studio user.

Would I recommend The FL Keys 61?

Absolutely! The FLkey 61 MIDI controller is a game-changer for any FL Studio user. It offers seamless integration, incredible playability, and a wide range of top-notch software. It’s a must-have for taking your music production to the next level.

The dedicated buttons for DAW functions and presets make navigating FL Studio a breeze. The FLkey 61 also includes features like Chord Modes and Scale Mode, which enhance your creative possibilities.

Features

Below are the features of the FL Key 61.

• Seamless Integration with FL Studio
• 61 Velocity-Sensitive Keys
• Mixer and Channel Rack Controls, Scales
• Step Sequencer, Channel Rack Playability
• Instrument Control (FPC and SliceX)
• Plug-In Control, Preset Browsing
• Creative Chords Mode
• Mac, Windows, and iOS Compatibility
• Software Bundle from XLN, AAS, Spitfire
• 6-Month Trial of FL Studio Producer

These features make the FLkey 61 a versatile and powerful tool for musicians and producers. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, this MIDI controller offers everything you need to create professional-quality music in FL Studio.