Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 BE

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Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 BE

Arturia

KeyLab Essential 88 BE

4.5 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 520094
Brand: Arturia
Model: KeyLab Essential 88 BE
Price: $328.90

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

The KeyLab Essential 88 BE is a solid entry point into the world of master keyboards. It’s a great choice for bedroom producers, students, or anyone needing a full 88-key MIDI controller without a huge investment. The included software sweetens the deal, giving you something to play right out of the box.

Product Description

  • Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 BE
  • USB MIDI Keyboard
  • Black Edition
  • With 88 velocity sensitive keys
  • 8 Velocity sensitive pads with aftertouch
  • 1 Clickable encoder
  • 9 Knobs
  • 9 Faders (30 mm)
  • 13 Control buttons
  • 6 Buttons for transport control
  • Pitch bend and modulation wheel
  • LC display
  • Chord play mode
  • Mackie/HUI Control compatible
  • USB connection
  • MIDI output
  • Sustain pedal input
  • Input for optional power supply (not included)
  • USB class compliant
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1260 x 261 x 63 mm
  • Weight: 8.5 kg
  • Incl. download software package: Arturia Analog Lab Software
  • Ableton Live Lite as well as UVI Model D Piano

*Note:* Requires internet connection for software download.

PROS
  • • 88-key action provides a surprisingly realistic piano feel.
  • • Velocity-sensitive pads offer expressive, tactile drum programming.
  • • Solid build quality with a robust metal chassis inspires confidence.
  • • Included Analog Lab software provides immediate, inspiring sounds.
CONS
  • • Key action, while decent, lacks the nuance of higher-end weighted keys.
  • • The black edition finish is prone to fingerprinting and smudging.
  • • Limited DAW control surface customization beyond basic Mackie/HUI.

Product Video

Key Features

Keys 88 velocity-sensitive keys
Key Action Semi-weighted, synthetic action – a compromise between feel and affordability.
Pads 8 velocity-sensitive pads with aftertouch, rubberized surface
Knobs/Faders 9 encoders, 9 knobs, 9 faders (30mm linear)
Connections USB, MIDI output (5-pin DIN), Sustain pedal input, optional power supply input
Weight 8.5 kg (18.7 lbs)

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Frequently Asked Questions

It's noticeably lighter and less nuanced than a fully weighted action, but provides a decent approximation for keyboard parts and synth playing.
No, this is a MIDI controller; it requires a computer or other device to generate sounds. It doesn't have built-in sounds of its own beyond the included software.
They are purely MIDI CC assignments; they don't motorize to recall knob positions from within your DAW.

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