Novation FLkey 2 37: Deepest Hands-On Control for FL Studio

The Novation FLkey 2 37 is a 37-key MIDI keyboard controller purpose-built to give FL Studio producers the deepest hands-on control of their software. It is important to know that this is a controller, not a synthesizer, so it has no internal sound engine and makes no sound on its own; instead it sends MIDI messages that play the instruments inside FL Studio. This second-generation FLkey refines the workflow with an OLED display and updated features over the original. For the beatmaker who lives in FL Studio, it turns menu-diving into direct, tactile control.

37 Synth-Action Keys for Melodies and Beats

The FLkey 2 37 offers 37 full-size, synth-action, velocity-sensitive keys plus pitch and modulation wheels, a comfortable middle size between compact and full-range controllers. Synth-action keys are light and springy for fast playing, and velocity sensitivity means the harder you press, the louder the note, for natural dynamics. Note that this 37-key model does not include the faders found on the larger FLkey 2 49 and 61, keeping the panel compact. That makes it ideal for a producer who wants real keys for melodies and chords without a large desk footprint.

A Controller with No Internal Sound Engine

Because the FLkey 2 37 is a control surface rather than an instrument, every key, pad, knob and button simply transmits MIDI to shape sounds that live inside your software. A MIDI controller converts your physical playing into data, so the actual audio comes from FL Studio's synths, samplers and plug-ins rather than from the hardware. This keeps the controller flexible and lightweight, since it can drive any instrument you load without being tied to one voice. For a computer-based producer, that clean division between hands and software is exactly the point.

Deep FL Studio Integration

The FLkey 2 37 integrates deeply with FL Studio, giving direct control over the Channel Rack, Mixer, Playlist and plugins the moment you connect it. Deep integration means the hardware maps itself to the software automatically, so knobs, pads and transport buttons already know their jobs without manual setup. You can browse and preview sounds, program the step sequencer and mix, all from the controller instead of the mouse. This purpose-built workflow is the core reason FL Studio users reach for an FLkey over a generic keyboard.

OLED Display, Scale, Chord Modes and Arpeggiator

An OLED display anchors the FLkey 2 37 alongside Scale Mode, Chord Modes and a built-in arpeggiator that help anyone play musically. Scale Mode maps the keys so only notes in your chosen scale sound, making wrong notes nearly impossible, while Chord Modes trigger full chords from a single key. The arpeggiator turns a held chord into a flowing rhythmic pattern automatically. Together these tools let a producer who does not play piano still lay down convincing melodies, chords and hooks quickly.

Works Beyond FL Studio with USB-C Power

Although optimized for FL Studio, the FLkey 2 37 also controls other DAWs through HUI mode and connects to external hardware via its 5-pin MIDI output. The 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads handle beats, clips and step sequencing, and the whole controller runs on USB-C bus power from a single cable. A 6-month FL Studio Producer Edition subscription plus a bundle of music-production software gets new producers up and running immediately. This combination of focused FL Studio control and broader compatibility makes it a flexible centerpiece for a home studio.