
With the detailed work that Arturia’s masterful emulations receive, we would expect nothing less in the company’s approach to designing the optimal way to interface with those worlds of sound. Now, the KeyLab Essential mk3 88-key Keyboard Controller delivers a bold, intuitive redesign to make composition, recording, and playback easier than ever, armed with velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys to provide an optimum balance of classic piano feel and flexible synth-like expression. Meanwhile, it introduces new creative features alongside its intelligently reorganized interface, premium software, and deep integration capabilities. Producers and keyboardists at Music Experience love how seamlessly this controller works with Arturia’s suite of award-winning soft synths. Its completely customizable software connectivity allows you to painlessly use the KeyLab Essential mk3 with any DAW that suits your workflow. Faders, encoders, beat pads, contextual buttons, and real-time visual feedback ensure the mk3 is a playback powerhouse perfect for the studio and the stage.
One of the more critical facets of the KeyLab Essential mk3 is its ability to prioritize and enable performance while eschewing cumbersome menu-diving, all while remaining easily integrated with any DAW. It can’t be overstated how many creative barriers that plague other controllers just disappear. New creative tools include scale and chord modes, as well as an arpeggiator to mix up and expand your repertoire of compositional opportunities. Packaged premium software includes the full suite of Analog Lab V’s distinctive array of modern and vintage synths, hybridized instruments, orchestral sounds, and much more, all with 2,000 studio-grade presets to serve as the bedrock of your next project. Each of the nine rotary encoders is accompanied by a fader alongside an RGB-backlit beat pad equipped with velocity and pressure sensitivity. A full-color, 2.5-inch LCD screen provides real-time feedback for all assigned parameters and controls, with context-assignable buttons and completely customizable controls making for an easily tailored performance tool.
Take command of your sounds and perform like you've always dreamed of. The KeyLab Essential 88 is an intuitive, powerful, and carefully crafted MIDI controller with a full-size keyboard that invites you to unleash your creative flow with note-spanning flair.
Whether you’re a beginner piano player or producer, an experienced music maker, or anyone in between, unlock your creative potential with the full reach of an 88-key MIDI controller that fits seamlessly into any workflow.
Whether you are seeking your first keyboard to kick-start your piano playing and production journey, or you want the freedom of having every key at hand in your studio or stage setup, KeyLab Essential 88 meets the needs of professional performers and beginner keyboardists alike.
Enjoy next-level control over your DAW projects and plugins, along with seamless communication with Analog Lab and a bundle of professional creative software to supercharge your creativity — all in one controller.
KeyLab Essential 88 doesn’t just help you play and navigate your projects — it’s also built to inspire. Summon catchy melodies, curious rhythms, and moving chord sequences with its array of creative features.
Experience the feeling of a premium instrument with the flexibility of a top-class controller. The semi-weighted keybed and smart layout put everything you need right at your fingertips.
A new standard for studio professionals, performers, and beginner pianists, KeyLab Essential 88 carries the legacy of seven octaves forward in an accessible, elegant full-length design.
Enjoy plug-and-play connectivity with ready-mapped controls for your DAW of choice. With MCU & HUI compatibility and custom scripts for major DAWs, integration is fast, familiar, and powerful.
Recall favorite presets from Analog Lab, browse playlists, activate custom user programs, and access powerful creative tools that adapt effortlessly to your workflow.
Enhance your performance with creative tools designed to keep you inspired and in key. Whether improvising solos or building dynamic progressions, KeyLab Essential 88 has you covered.
Designed with sustainability in mind, KeyLab Essential mk3 uses recycled plastics and 100% recycled packaging while maintaining premium build quality, feel, and durability.
| Type | Keyboard Controller |
|---|---|
| Number of Keys | 88 |
| Type of Keys | Semi-weighted, Waterfall Keybed |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes |
| Pads | 8 x RGB-backlit Velocity/Pressure-sensitive Pads |
| Other Controllers | Pitch Bend, Modulation Wheel |
| Encoders / Pots | 1 x Clickable Encoder, 9 x Rotary Knobs |
| Faders | 9 x 30mm Faders |
| Dedicated Transport Control | 6 x Transport Switches |
| Presets | 2000 Sounds |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (Sustain) |
| MIDI I/O | Out / USB |
| USB | 1 x USB-C |
| Computer Connectivity | USB |
| Features | 2.5" Twin-line LCD Screen, Multi-mode Arpeggiator, Chord & Scale Modes, Hold Function, Semitone Transpose |
| Software | Analog Lab, Ableton Live Lite, UVI Grand Piano Model D |
| Plugin Formats | VST, AAX, AU, NKS |
| Hardware Requirements (Mac) | 4GB RAM, 4-core 3.4GHz or Apple Silicon CPU, OpenGL 2.0 compatible GPU |
| Hardware Requirements (PC) | 4GB RAM, 4-core 3.4GHz CPU, OpenGL 2.0 compatible GPU |
| OS Requirements (Mac) | macOS 11.0 or later |
| OS Requirements (PC) | Windows 10 (64-bit) or later |
| Color | White |
| Power Supply | USB Powered |
| Height | 2.48" |
| Width | 49.59" |
| Depth | 10.26" |
| Weight | 18.7 lbs |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 231541 UPC: 3760033532042 |