Included Analog Lab Software gives access to over 6,000 classic sounds

You can make custom layouts with the MIDI Control Center software. These come pre-mapped to the included instruments and to some DAWS. There are still plenty of MIDI controllers to fiddle with. The Essential also doesn't feature the CV outputs for controlling external gear.īut for those on a budget, or perhaps who want an 88 key MIDI controller without the effort of playing on weighted keys, the Keylab Essential is a good choice. The little brother to the Arturia Keylab 88, the Essential packs a lot of punch and comes at nearly a third of the price.Īdmittedly, you lose some features, like only having 8 drum pads, and the weighted keys are replaced with semi-weighted.

: Analog Lab, Ableton Live Lite, UVI Grand Piano Model D : 8 pads 9 rotary knobs 9 faders 1 clickable jog wheel If you're a music producer who wants a dynamic feel in their playing while maintaining control over every aspect of the production process, the Arturia Keylab 88 MKII is for you. Some users complain of heavy key action (but honestly, not many) The multitude of faders, buttons, knobs, and pads will enhance your workflow in the studio, and DAW integration is bolstered by the inclusion of magnetic overlays for all of the major players, so you'll always know what parameters you're fiddling with.ĬV inputs and outputs control hardware analog synths The durable build is also sturdy enough to withstand life on the road, and the knobs and faders are all solid enough to handle regular use.īut that doesn't mean the Keylab 88 is only meant for stage use.

In addition to standard 5-pin MIDI in/out connections, there's also a slew of CV outputs to control hardware analog synths.Īnother couple of features you don't often see in MIDI controllers are the removable sheet music/iPad stand and the extension shelf that enables you to plop your laptop on the right side of the keyboard, where there are no controls.

Aimed at music producers, session players, and professional composers who need expression, durability, and an enhanced workflow, this MIDI controller boasts weighted keys, powerful DAW integration, and a multitude of other controllers to help sculpt your sound and performances.įor live performances, it's worth noting some great features. The Arturia Keylab 88 MKII is one of those master controllers designed to do it all. : Analog Lab, Ableton Live Lite, Piano V, Wurli V, Vox Continental V : Sustain pedal input, expression pedal input, 3 x 1/4' aux inputs

Native instruments 88 key