Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 Mk3 Black

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Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 Mk3 Black

Arturia

KeyLab Essential 61 Mk3 Black

4.9 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 567153
Brand: Arturia
Model: KeyLab Essential 61 Mk3 Black
Price: $251.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The KeyLab Essential 61 Mk3 is a fantastic entry point into MIDI control, especially for those looking to get into sound design and DAW integration. It's a solid, well-featured controller that's a great value, particularly if you're keen on exploring Arturia’s Analog Lab sounds. Ideal for bedroom producers and musicians wanting comprehensive control without a premium price tag.

Product Description

  • Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 Mk3 Black
  • USB Midi Keyboard
  • With 61 velocity-sensitive keys
  • 8 Velocity-sensitive RGB-lit pads
  • 1 Detented encoder
  • 9 Rotary knobs
  • 9 Faders
  • Transport section with 4 function keys
  • 2.5" LC display
  • Pitch bend and modulation wheel
  • Scale mode
  • Chord mode
  • Arpeggiator
  • Mackie/HUI Control compatible
  • 2000 Presets via Analog Lab
  • 1 Control pedal input: 6.3 mm jack
  • MIDI output: 5-pin DIN
  • 1 USB-C connector (supplies power as well as MIDI and control information)
  • USB class compliant
  • NKS support to seamlessly control over 2
  • 000 NKS compatible instruments and effects
  • Includes free Native Instruments Komplete 15 Select Bundle for a genre of choice to immediately explore and experience the NKS functionality
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 890 x 240 x 70 mm
  • Weight: approx. 3.08 kg
  • Colour: Black
  • Incl. Ableton Live Lite
  • Arturia Analog Lab
  • UVI Model D Grand Piano
  • NI The Gentleman Upright Piano as well as a subscription to Loopcloud (2 months) and Melodics (unlimited trial subscription + bonus lessons)
PROS
  • • Solid plastic chassis feels surprisingly robust for the price.
  • • The Analog Lab integration offers a massive library of sounds out of the box.
  • • Detented encoders provide tactile feedback for precise mixing adjustments.
  • • Well-spaced, velocity-sensitive keys offer decent playability for a budget keyboard.
CONS
  • • Keys are plastic, lacking the feel and responsiveness of weighted action.
  • • The included Analog Lab software can feel overwhelming for beginners.
  • • The large size makes it less ideal for smaller studio setups or travel.

Product Video

Key Features

Keys 61
Key Type Velocity-sensitive, Synth-action
Pads 8, RGB-lit, velocity-sensitive
Knobs/Faders 9 Rotary Knobs, 9 Faders
Connections USB-C, MIDI Out (5-pin DIN), Control Pedal Input (6.3mm)
Weight approx. 6.2 kg (13.7 lbs)

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Frequently Asked Questions

It's synth-action, meaning lighter and faster, but lacks the resistance and realism of weighted keys. It’s geared towards playing virtual instruments, not replicating piano feel.
Absolutely! While NKS support is a bonus, it functions as a standard MIDI controller and will work with any software that accepts MIDI input.
They are manual faders, providing tactile control but without automated movement within your DAW.

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