Arturia Keylab MKII 61 Controller Keyboard

Overview By GAK

The latest flagship 61 key controller from Arturia is the superb Keylab MKII 61, a new generation of MIDI controller featuring an aluminium chassis of unparalleled quality, a superb keyboard and button array including 16 RGB backlit performance pads, modular connectivity, tactile controls and more.

To begin with, the Arturia Keylab MKII 61 offers a higher level of expression than found on many controllers before it, sporting the very same synth keybed as their flagship MatrixBrute analog synthesizer, the keys on the MKII feel luxurious to play thanks to careful calibration and a high sensitivity level, capturing every subtle nuance of your playing and along with aftertouch, provide a truly intuitive experience. The Keylab II also has configurable inputs that include sustain and expression as well as three AUX inputs to control sound on stage and in the studio. If you work with a range of analog equipment in the studio or on the stage the Keylab II has four CV connections including pitch, gate, and 2 modulation controls, allowing you to take control of your vintage outboard synths or modular devices.

The Keylab II 61’s layout has been carefully designed to minimise the learning curve, in addition to the key array, the Keylab has 16 touch-sensitive RGB backlit performance pads for playing in rhythms, chords and additional sounds into your DAW. There are 9 large faders and 9 smooth action rotary knobs to control any number of instrument, effects or DAW parameters. In addition, all 16 transport controls can be used to maximum effect thanks to magnetic overlays provided for the 10 most popular DAW’s on the market. The button array also features DAW track and global controls as well as a transport panel, so you can control every aspect of DAW navigation and recording at your fingertips, increasing workflow.

One of the most impressive things about the Keylab II is its build quality, the chassis is made from incredibly strong yet lightweight aluminium and capped with real wood side panels. The controller feels solid but doesn’t weigh a tonne and every button, fader, switch, wheel and key have a responsive and ultra-smooth action for great control.

Purchase of the Keylab II 61 also comes with a superb software package to get you started with everything you need for writing and recording sounds. Every Keylab II 61 packs a range of software instruments including the Arturia ‘Piano V’ studio hosting a collection of physically modelled piano tones, the awesome ‘Analog Lab’ instrument/VST that boasts a huge collection of synth presets (6500) and even a copy of Ableton Live Lite! The software include gives you everything you need to start writing, performing and recording music.

The Arturia Keylab II is unlike most Keyboard/MIDI controllers out there, it boasts superior quality, finish, connectivity and control when compared to any controllers in its price range and for that reason, it’s one of our favourite controllers on the market.