Description
Overview
The Arturia KeyLab mk3 is a professional-grade 61-key MIDI controller designed to bridge the gap between software flexibility and hardware tactile control. Engineered for intermediate to advanced producers and experienced musicians, this controller serves as a comprehensive command center for your studio or live rig. Housed in a robust wood and aluminum chassis, the KeyLab mk3 combines a high-performance semi-weighted keybed with an intuitive interface, ensuring that creative flow is never interrupted by technical obstacles.
Key Details
- Premium Keybed: Semi-weighted keyboard featuring both velocity and aftertouch for nuanced expression and professional playability.
- Advanced Tactile Control: Equipped with 9 touch-sensitive 360 potentiometers and faders, alongside 12 velocity and pressure-sensitive pads organized across 4 banks.
- Visual Feedback: A full-color 3.5” screen (320x480px) provides clear visual data, supported by 8 contextual buttons for rapid navigation and parameter adjustment.
- Creative Performance Tools:
Scale Mode: Automatically snaps notes to a selected scale to ensure harmonic accuracy.
Arpeggiator: Features extensive randomness settings to generate unique, evolving patterns.
Chord Play: Supports fixed chords or complex progressions with intelligent smart voicing. - Comprehensive Transport: Dedicated transport controls and DAW commands, including essential functions like save, undo, and redo.
Use Cases
- Studio Production: Use the deep integration with Arturia software and major DAWs to mix, arrange, and sound design without constantly relying on a mouse.
- Live Performance: Leverage the robust aluminum casing and Scale/Chord modes to perform confidently on stage with a reliable, tactile interface.
- Composition & Songwriting: Utilize the Arpeggiator and smart voicing tools to quickly prototype melodies and harmonic structures.
Installation
The KeyLab mk3 is designed for a streamlined setup process. It is USB-C powered, allowing for a single-cable connection to modern computers for both power and MIDI data. For hardware integration, the unit includes MIDI DIN In/Out ports to connect to external synthesizers or sound modules. Pedal connectivity is handled via dedicated inputs for sustain, expression, and auxiliary pedals.
Compatibility
- DAW Integration: Advanced dedicated MIDI mappings and support for MCU & HUI protocols for Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, Cubase, and Bitwig Studio.
- Software Ecosystem: Deep, native integration with Arturia software instruments.
- Connectivity: USB-C and standard 5-pin MIDI DIN.
Additional Details
- Manufacturer: Arturia
- Format: Physical MIDI Controller
- Dimensions: 39″ x 14.5″ x 0.36″
- Weight: 18.71 lbs
- Included Software Bundle:
- Analog Lab Pro (2,000+ sounds)
- Mini V, Piano V, Augmented Strings, Rev PLATE-140
- Ableton Live Lite
- Native Instruments Komplete 15 Select (Choice of Select Beats, Select Band, or Select Electronic)
- 2-month Loopcloud subscription
- Melodics subscription with instructional lessons
Marcus Chandler –
Nice product with good craftsmanship. A few minor imperfections but performs well.