- Arturia’s new KeyLab mk3 integrates with its Analog Lab music software.
- It comes in 49- and 61-key variants starting at $449.
- You can play all day without having to touch your computer.
Until now, if you want a synthesizer or piano, you’ve had two options—a dedicated instrument or a software instrument in your computer, kinda controlled by an accessory keyboard. Arturia’s updated KeyLab line now offers a third way.
Keyboard controllers are essential for some musicians. You can click all those notes into a computer, one by one, using a mouse, but playing them with keys is more expressive, inspiring, and satisfying. And if you’re performing, having all your instruments in one computer, controlled by one keyboard, is comfortable and convenient. The new Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 continues a legacy of high-quality hardware (the body is made of aluminum) combined with deep software integration with Arturia’s own apps. Let’s take a look.
“As a DJ and music producer, a MIDI keyboard like Arturia’s new model is essential for quickly capturing musical ideas and writing tracks. I prefer weighted keys with aftertouch for nuanced control of dynamics. Lots of knobs, faders, and pads allow me to shape sounds and automate DAW functions on the fly. A MIDI keyboard gives me infinitely more creative possibilities than an electric piano alone,” Kirill Basov, DJ, music producer, and entertainment director for The Breakers Palm Beach, told Lifewire via email.
KeyLab
The KeyLab mk3 comes in two models with either 49 or 61 keys. Both are MIDI piano keyboards with velocity sensitivity and semi-weighted keys. That’s a step down for pure piano players compared to the previous model’s “hammer-action keys that mimic the feel and response of a real piano. I own the previous mk2 version, and the key feel on that is great—one of the main reasons I bought it. The new model has an updated keybed but looks to be more aimed at synth players.
The KeyLab also have aftertouch, which means you can press the keys after playing them, and the pressure can control aspects of the sound in software. It’s pretty pointless in a straight piano emulation, but for synthesizers, it adds a whole other level of expressive play.
And speaking of software, that’s kind of the point here. The KeyLabs all integrate (and come bundled with) Arturia’s Analog Lab Pro, which is a massive collection of virtual synths and other instruments, but the new versions take it to the next level. There are eight faders and eight touch-sensitive knobs which can control DAW software like Ableton Live but are also automatically mapped to Arturia’s apps. Then, there are 12 velocity-sensitive pads for playing drums or recording and launching clips.
“The integration with Analog Lab and the [software] lets you do a lot without touching the computer, even setting up splits and layers,” says electronic musician Presteign in a forum participated in by Lifewire.
Hands-On
When you’re playing an instrument, it can be extremely distracting to have to grab the mouse, look at the computer, find the setting, and adjust it. It’s far more intuitive and far less likely to break your flow state if all you have to do is reach up and twist a knob. Especially if that knob always does the same thing.
That’s the idea of this device. While it can function very well as a controller for any music software, it really works best with Arturia’s software. You can do most of your adjustments on the device without looking at the computer. As mentioned, knobs and faders are automatically connected to in-app controls, and this new version also has a big color screen to make browsing presets easier than the previous-gen monochrome, text-only screen.
In addition, it has buttons that let you save and undo your work, play and record in your DAW of choice, and so on. Once you’re set, you really can forget the computer.
“Many people focus on the basic features, i.e., number of keys and pads, key and pad weighting, etc., of MIDI keyboard controllers, but for me, it all boils down to one critical factor: How well does the keyboard integrate with my DAW?” independent R&B singer-songwriter Vashalini told Lifewire via email.
There are a zillion good options for MIDI controllers, but these new Mk3 KeyLab will definitely hit a sweet spot for some. The combo of great keys, aftertouch, solid build (those wooden end cheeks are wood, not plastic), and software integration is unique. If you need piano-weighted keys (although synth players often prefer bouncier keys) or don’t dig Arturia’s software, look elsewhere. But if this ticks your boxes, you’re likely to be very pleased.
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News Summary:
- You Won't Need a Computer With this MIDI Controller
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