Arturia Announces MICROLAB, Super Cute USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Versatile 25-key MicroLab offers high quality keys, travel-friendly features, powerful included software, and integrated cable-tidy.

Music tech pioneers Arturia have announced a new controller keyboard that excites both new users and experienced professionals alike. MicroLab is a small-scale MIDI keyboard with smart design features that you can take anywhere.

MicroLab Key Features

  • 25 “Slim Key” velocity sensitive keyboard 
  • Octave, hold, and MIDI channel select buttons 
  • Capacitive mod and pitch bend strips 
  • Protective rubberized shell 
  • 3 color options 
  • Integrated USB cable storage 
  • Includes 3 great software titles: AnalogLab Lite, UVI Grand Piano Model D, Bitwig Studio 8-Track  

So, what makes MicroLab so unique?

THE KEYS

MicroLab features the same professional slim-keys as their industry standard KeyStep controller. The keybeds found on budget controllers are often not very inspiring, but the 25 expressive, velocity-sensitive keys on MicroLab are simply a joy to play. The hold button gives you instant sustain, and by holding the shift key, you can access the “Chord” mode, letting you program in a chord and replay with just one finger.

THE FEATURES

The rubberized shell protects MicroLab from and bumps and scrapes when you’re on the move, and also features a recess that perfectly fits the USB cable, letting you store or pack it easily. MicroLab also includes capacitive mod and pitch controls that work in the same way that touchscreens do, these also let you swipe through and select presets with a tap. You can also quickly switch MIDI channels via the dedicated knob and numbered keys.

THE SHAPE

Arturia have designed this controller to work with you, and not get in the way. Because the cable is recessed, you can push it right up against other gear in your studio without cables getting in the way. It’s the width of the average plane and train tray table, and the shell stops it from sliding around. The keys are also recessed slightly into the body, nothing sticks out, so there’s nothing to catch when you slip it into your backpack.

THE SOFTWARE

MicroLab includes 3 great software titles for free:

  • Analog Lab LiteExplore 600 fantastic presets taken from Arturia’s award winning V Collection series. Analog and digital synths, classic organs and pianos. 
  • UVI Grand Piano Model DA beautifully sampled Steinway for you to play using MicroLab’s expressive, velocity sensitive keys. 
  • Bitwig Studio 8-TrackA powerful and innovative software studio to record, sequence, and mix your tracks. Make music right out of the box.

MicroLab is available everywhere.

Retail price: 79€/$

Web: https://www.arturia.com/products/hybrid-synths/microlab/overview

Synthesis 101
The Filter
by Bob Moog Foundation

"Rounik is the Executive Editor for Ask.Audio & macProVideo. He's built a crack team of professional musicians and writers to create one of the most visited online resources for news, review, tutorials and interviews for modern musician and producer. As an Apple Certified Trainer for Logic Pro Rounik has taught teachers, professional..." Read More

Discussion

Want to join the discussion?

Create an account or login to get started!