Whether you're looking to start recording music or upgrade your current setup, the Arturia KeyLab MkII has you covered.
The Arturia KeyLab MkII is a top-quality MIDI keyboard controller that offers a wealth of features and functionalities. It's a versatile tool that can help you take your music production to the next level. With its intuitive design and user-friendly interface, you'll be creating music in no time.
The KeyLab MkII is designed for musicians, producers, and home studio owners who want a reliable and high-quality MIDI keyboard controller. It's perfect for beginners who are just starting with music gear or seasoned professionals who need an advanced MIDI controller to take their music production to the next level.
The MkII is the latest addition to the KeyLab series, which has been a favourite of musicians and producers for years. The MkII is an upgrade from the original KeyLab, with a more modern design and additional features.
The KeyLab MkII comes with a range of features that make it an excellent choice for any musician or producer. These features include:
49 or 61-note velocity-sensitive keyboard
16 RGB backlit performance pads
Nine faders and nine rotary knobs
LCD screen
DAW Command Center
Chord Play mode
Analog Lab integration
The Arturia KeyLab MkII has several unique features that set it apart from other MIDI keyboard controllers. One of its most notable features is the DAW Command Center, which provides easy access to your favourite DAW and allows you to control it from the keyboard. The Chord Play mode is also a unique feature that makes it easy to create complex chords with just one finger.
The KeyLab MkII is built to last, with a sturdy metal chassis and high-quality components. It's designed to withstand the rigours of everyday use, making it a reliable choice for any musician or producer.
The Arturia KeyLab MkII is a joy to use, thanks to its high-quality construction and responsive keybed.
The keyboard features a Fatar TP/100LR keybed, which provides a realistic piano feel and excellent key response. The keys are full-sized and semi-weighted, with aftertouch, making them suitable for a range of playing styles and techniques. The KeyLab MkII also features 16 backlit pads, which are velocity-sensitive and pressure-sensitive, allowing you to create expressive rhythms and melodies.
The overall build quality of the KeyLab MkII is excellent, with a sturdy metal chassis and a sleek, modern design. The knobs and buttons feel solid and responsive, with satisfying tactile feedback that makes it easy to control your software and hardware.
One unique feature of the KeyLab MkII is the modular design, which allows you to customize the keyboard to suit your needs. You can choose from a range of optional add-ons, such as a 61-note or 88-note keyboard, a wooden side panel kit, or a standalone MIDI controller.
The Arturia KeyLab MkII is easy to use, with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. Simply plug it into your computer and open your favourite DAW to get started. From there, you can start creating music with the KeyLab MkII.
The Arturia KeyLab MkII offers multiple power options to suit different needs and preferences. The keyboard can be powered via USB, which is convenient if you're working on the go or don't want to deal with extra cables and power supplies.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more traditional power source, you can use an external power supply. The KeyLab MkII supports a range of voltages, from 9V to 12V DC, and can be used with any compatible power supply.
One thing to keep in mind when using an external power supply is to make sure it meets the recommended specifications for the KeyLab MkII. Using an incompatible power supply can damage the keyboard and void your warranty, so it's essential to double-check before making a purchase.
The keyboard comes with the Arturia Analog Lab software, which provides access to over 6,000 sounds from the company's award-winning V Collection. Additionally, the KeyLab MkII integrates seamlessly with popular DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, and Pro Tools, allowing you to control your software directly from the keyboard.
If you're using hardware synthesizers or other MIDI-compatible devices, the KeyLab MkII can serve as a central hub for your studio setup. The keyboard features multiple MIDI inputs and outputs, as well as CV/Gate outputs, which allow you to control vintage analogue gear and modular synthesizers.
It's worth noting that the KeyLab MkII requires a USB 2.0 or higher port to function properly. Additionally, while the keyboard is compatible with a wide range of software and hardware, it's always a good idea to check for compatibility before making a purchase.
Like any piece of gear, the Arturia KeyLab MkII has its share of pros and cons. Here are some of the key factors to consider when deciding whether the KeyLab MkII is right for you:
Pros:
High-quality construction and sleek design
Realistic piano feel and excellent key response
Modular design allows for customization and expansion
Wide range of software and hardware compatibility
Comprehensive control over your DAW and plugins
Excellent value for the price compared to other MIDI controllers in its class
Cons:
Slightly heavier than some other MIDI controllers, which may be a factor if you need to transport it frequently
Some users have reported issues with the firmware and software, although these are typically resolved with updates from Arturia
No aftertouch on the pads, which may be a limitation for some users
The layout of some of the buttons and knobs may take some getting used to, particularly if you're used to a different controller
Overall, the Arturia KeyLab MkII is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality MIDI controller with a realistic piano feel and comprehensive control over their software and hardware. While there are some minor drawbacks to consider, the KeyLab MkII offers excellent value for the price and is a reliable and versatile tool for any musician or producer.
When considering the KeyLab MkII, it's important to compare it to other MIDI controllers in its price range. Here are a few other products that are similar in price and features:
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MkII - The S61 MkII is a high-quality MIDI controller with a similar price point to the KeyLab MkII. It features a Fatar keybed with aftertouch, along with a range of software and hardware compatibility. However, it doesn't have the modular design or the same level of control over your DAW and plugins that the KeyLab MkII does.
Novation Impulse 61 - The Impulse 61 is another MIDI controller in the same price range as the KeyLab MkII. It features semi-weighted keys, aftertouch, and a range of software and hardware compatibility. However, it doesn't have the same level of build quality or comprehensive control over your software as the KeyLab MkII.
Akai MPK261 - The MPK261 is a popular MIDI controller in the same price range as the KeyLab MkII. It features a semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch, along with a range of software and hardware compatibility. However, it doesn't have the same level of build quality or comprehensive control over your software as the KeyLab MkII, and it doesn't have the modular design.
The Arturia KeyLab MkII is an exceptional MIDI controller that offers a realistic piano feel, comprehensive control over your software and hardware, and a modular design that allows for customization and expansion. Its high-quality construction and sleek design make it an attractive addition to any studio setup, while its wide range of software and hardware compatibility make it a versatile tool for any musician or producer.
While there are some minor drawbacks to consider, such as the slightly heavier weight and the layout of some of the buttons and knobs, the KeyLab MkII offers excellent value for the price compared to other MIDI controllers in its class.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality MIDI controller with a realistic piano feel, comprehensive control over your software and hardware, and a modular design that allows for customization and expansion, the Arturia KeyLab MkII is an excellent choice. Its excellent build quality, a wide range of features, and exceptional value for the price make it a reliable and versatile tool for any musician or producer.
The Arturia KeyLab MkII is priced at around £450 in the UK. This puts it in the mid-range of MIDI controllers, but with its high-quality construction and comprehensive features, it offers excellent value for the price. It's worth noting that prices may vary depending on the retailer and any current promotions or sales.
While the KeyLab MkII may be more expensive than some entry-level MIDI controllers, it's well worth the investment for any serious musician or producer looking for a reliable, versatile tool for their studio setup. Its realistic piano feel, modular design, and comprehensive control over your software and hardware make it a valuable addition to any setup.
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