The Arturia KeyLab series has been updated with a new modern design, improved keybed, new smart functions and a MIDI & CV interface.
It took longer but now there is finally an update for the KeyLab MIDI controller keyboards. Visually, the new KeyLab MKII has been adapted to the new Arturia design language and are now available for the first time directly in black and white. They will come to the market in a 49 and 61 version with a pro-feel semi-weighted keyboard with velocity and aftertouch. The pitch and modulation received an update and is now made of metal.
The multi-function pads are no longer on the right but on the left side. Also they are illuminated with RGB what already has the KeyLab Essential. The area of control there are now more possibilities to control instruments via MIDI. One of the highlights is that it features a CV input and 4 CV outputs making it compatible with modular Synthesizers. Beside this, it comes with new smart features like 2 customizable chord modes.
As a longtime beta tester, I had the opportunity to test the keyboard longer already. Since I had the MK1 version in use for over three years and unfortunately was not satisfied with it (big problems with the Keybed (velocity…), broken drum pads etc.). So I can say at the present time that the developers have improved the keyboard very well. The Keybed (MiniBrute, MatrixBrute) has a far better play feeling, the new smart features are very helpful and the entire processing makes at first glance a better impression.
Pioneering audio hardware and software creators Arturia are thrilled to unveil the latest generation of their legendary KeyLab MIDI controller line. KeyLab MkII combines the comprehensive control of Arturia’s classic original KeyLab with the streamlined workflow and smart features of KeyLab Essential, while adding exciting new features and a new level of quality, expression, and luxury. KeyLab MkII is the must-have controller for professional music-makers.
Full-Featured
The Arturia community spoke, and we listened. We have included everything a modern producer could desire in a majestic, ergonomic package. Here’s a quick summary of the core features:
- MIDI and USB compatible controller with Mackie HUI recording software control
- 49 or 61 Arturia Pro-Feel semi-weighted keyboard with velocity and pressure sensitivity
- Rugged aluminium chassis
- Metal pitch bend and modulation wheels
- 4 CV outputs and 1 CV input for modular connectivity
- DAW Commands with magnetic overlays
- Total Analog Lab integration with dedicated “Category” buttons for quick navigation
- Three banks of 9 MIDI-assignable knobs, faders, and RGB buttons, preconfigured to work with
- Analog Lab 3 instruments
- 16 backlit RGB multi-function pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity
- 2 customizable chord modes
- 32-character LCD screen
- Sustain and expression pedal inputs, as well as 3 additional auxiliary pedal inputs
Control The Way You Want It
Offering 3 distinct modes, KeyLab MkII gives you the ultimate control experience, no matter what task may be at hand. DAW mode gives you unprecedented control over recording platform, with transport, track, and navigation controls all immediately available at your fingertips. Not only that, but KeyLab MkII comes complete with 10 magnetic overlays and presets for some of the most popular DAW titles. Analog Lab mode automatically assigns all knobs, faders, and buttons to work perfectly with the included Analog Lab 3 software suite. Enjoy total control of over 6,000 iconic synth, key, organ, sampler, string machine, and piano sounds, easily setup splits and multi-sounds, and make preset browsing a piece of cake with dedicated category buttons and tag-based browsing with the jog wheel.
User mode gives you total control of KeyLab MkII, with practically every key, pad, button, switch,fader, and rotary knob totally customizable to send any note or MIDI CC data you desire. Store up to 10 User maps to perfectly suit your setup, from controlling multiple effects and VSTs at once, to giving you full and total control of every parameter of a virtual instrument.
Amazing Software
Every KeyLab MkII comes complete with an exciting collection of software titles that let you start performing and recording straight out of the box. Two full Arturia titles are included – Analog Lab 3 and Piano V 2, letting you not only enjoy over 6,000 incredible vintage synth and keyboard sounds from Arturia’s award-winning V Collection, but also a comprehensive physically modelled piano suite. If you are new to the world of recording, or simply want to try out a different DAW, KeyLab MkII also includes Ableton Live Lite, an introduction to one of the most popular recording and performance platforms in the world. Record, create, mix, edit, effect, and release, all from the comfort of one free software package.
Modular Compatibility
KeyLab MkII’s control voltage connectivity lets you open up to the world of vintage synthesizers and Eurorack modular. Featuring 4 CV outputs to control pitch, gate, and 2 modulation sources, you can send live performance or DAW-controlled automation to your modular gear. It also sports a CV input, which translates incoming signals from modules to MIDI/USB data, ready for your DAW.
Inspiring Quality
Every aspect of KeyLab MkII has been designed with quality at heart. From its rugged aluminium chassis to its machined metal pitch bend and mod-wheel; its premium companion software to the silky-smooth Arturia Pro-Feel keybed. This is a controller to be enjoyed for years to come. KeyLab MkII is available in both white and black finishes, and in both 49 and 61-key versions
The new KeyLab 49 and 61 MKII are now available in black and white for a price of 449€ /499€.
More information here: ARTURIA
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