Arturia's KeyLab Essential mk3: The Ultimate Budget MIDI Controller?

Arturia just released a new version of their budget MIDI controller: KeyLab Essential mk3. Let's dive in and discover if this sleek MIDI controller is the perfect fit for your music creation needs.

Arturia have released the latest generation of their popular KeyLab Esential MIDI controller line. The previous mk2 model (released in 2018) was a huge success, and the mk3 introduces some very interesting enhancements and new features.  

Build

The KeyLab Essential mk3 is available in two color options (black or white) and two sizes (49-note or 61-note). At this time, there is no 88-note model, but we wouldn’t be surprised if Arturia announces a 7-octave version soon.

Keylab Essential mk3 Black or White

The controller is lightweight, making it ideal for making music on the go.  It's worth noting that Arturia has made efforts to be eco-friendly, as the KeyLab Essential mk3 is constructed with at least 40% recycled plastic and boasts an 18% reduced carbon footprint, which, of course, is always nice to read these days.

The synth-action keybed is the same as the mk2 version. Although the keys are not weighted or semi-weighted at that price range, they are velocity-sensitive and very enjoyable to play. Note that there is no aftertouch.

We especially like the new drum pads, which are now bigger and have a great feel to them. There are 8 physical pads, but you can switch between two banks of them for a total of 16.

Keylab Essential 61 mk3 (White)

Knobs, Sliders and Display

Another notable change is the 9 encoders and sliders which are now color-matched to your KeyLab’s color which gives the controller a cleaner look. Previously, they were black on the white model and white on the black.

Keylab Essential mk3 Encoders and Sliders

The standout feature, however, is the larger display. This new 2.5” screen is a great improvement compared with the two-line LCD of the previous model as it gives you all the info you need, from parameter values to preset names. Below the screen are 4 contextual buttons and a big clickable rotary knob which makes navigation a breeze.

The Keylab Essential mk3 Display  

On the Back

There's not much on the rear panel. You will find a 5-pin MIDI Output, a Control jack for connecting a volume or an expression pedal, and a USB-C port. The KeyLab Essential is powered via USB, so no need for a power adapter (a USB-C to USB-A cable is included in the box).

DAW Integration 

Another significant improvement is the way that KeyLab Essential connects to your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). It’s very simple. Just install the scripts from Arturia's website, launch your DAW, and gain full control from the controller. That means you can easily play/pause, start recording, toggle the metronome and loop on and off, undo/redo, save your project and control your mixer right from the KeyLab Essential. We tested it with Logic Pro and Bitwig Studio, and it worked flawlessly. Scripts for Ableton Live, Cubase, and FL Studio are also available, and you can use the MCU/HUI Protocols for other DAWs.

Keylab Essentials mk3 DAW Controls

Arp, Scale, Chord and Hold

Also new in the mk3 is the Arp mode. While most modern DAWs already include an arpeggiator, it can often be cumbersome to convert the arpeggiated notes into MIDI data for editing.The KeyLab Essential mk3 arpeggiator is flexible and very easy to set up on the bigger display.

Keylab Essential mk3 Arp

Other useful features are the Scale mode, which restricts the notes you play to a specific scale, and the Chord, which lets you effortlessly play complex chords with just one finger. Both gives you an extended list of scales and chords to choose from. You also have freedom to create your own chords for when comes time to play a one finger F♯7♯9 chord!

The Hold button is more useful than you might think at first. Rather than just sustaining every note you play, it holds the notes until a new one is played. This lets you emulate a piano sustain pedal without the need for a physical one. The Hold button is also useful to hold notes when using the arpeggiator, allowing you to simultaneously hold notes while tweaking your sound with both hands. 

Bundled Software

The included software is quite impressive. Synth enthusiasts are in for a treat with Analog Lab V, which offers a selection of top-notch sounds derived from Arturia’s extensive range of virtual synths in a user-friendly interface. Use it as a standalone app or a plugin in your DAW, and navigate the 2000+ fantastic-sounding presets by category with the KeyLab Essential's rotary knob and display. If you own more Arturia software instruments, all preset are accessible from the KeyLab as well. Once you load a preset, you can tweak your sound on-the-fly with the encoders and sliders... much more inspiring than reaching to your mouse just to tweak a parameter! Analog Lab V normally retails at $199 so having it for free with the KeyLab Essential is a really good deal.

Analog Lab V

If you’re new to music production, the included Ableton Live Lite is an excellent starting point. This lightweight version of the popular DAW offers 8 audio and MIDI tracks, built-in instruments, effects, and more. The KeyLab Essential also comes with two piano software instruments: UVI's Model D (a sampled Steinway Model D grand piano) and Native Instruments' The Gentleman (a vintage 1908 upright piano). Perfect for musicians and producers seeking high-quality piano sounds.

On top of that, you’ll enjoy free Melodics lessons to sharpen your keyboard skills and a 2-month Loopcloud subscription to cover all your sampling needs. 

Conclusion 

With its feature-packed design, incredible software bundle, and afforable price, it’s really hard not to like the KeyLab Essential mk3. It's an ideal choice for new producers who don't have a DAW or a lot of software instruments, as well as experienced producers seeking tactile control over their sounds and DAW. Additionally, it's perfect for musicians who need a keyboard that is easy to transport for live performances. Arturia’s KeyLab Essential mk3 is hands-down one of the best budget MIDI controllers on the market today. 

Price: KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 ($219), KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 ($269)

More info: https://www.arturia.com/products/hybrid-synths/keylab-essential-mk3/overview

Arturia Courses: https://ask.video/library/application/arturia

 

Synthesis 101
The Filter
by Bob Moog Foundation

"The Ask.Audio team of writers is a dynamic and talented collection of expert educators, technical, news, feature and review writers." Read More

Discussion

Want to join the discussion?

Create an account or login to get started!