Description

Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 Black is a MIDI controller in a Black finish with an 88-key full-size keyboard (7 and a quarter octaves), designed for DAW production and performance: dedicated controls (encoders, faders, and RGB pads), a 2.5" display, advanced integration with Analog Lab and dedicated scripts for major DAWs, as well as MIDI Out for controlling hardware.

Keyboard, dynamics, and range: keys and octaves

The 88-key keyboard (7 and a quarter octaves) features a semi-weighted action with velocity sensitivity, designed for players who perform complete piano parts and desire a more "instrumental" control compared to a synth mechanism. The extended range allows for realistic splits and layers, wide-ranging bass and chord management, and more natural control of virtual instruments (pianos, EPs, orchestral) in the studio. In the Black variant, the functional experience remains identical: only the visual identity changes.

Immediate control: display, encoders, faders, and pads

The control panel is designed to "remove the mouse" from operational phases: the 2.5" display provides contextual feedback, while encoders and faders allow for adjustments to levels, pan, sends, plug-in parameters, and virtual instruments. The 8 RGB pads (with 2 banks) cover finger drumming, clip launching, or user assignments. In this Black configuration, the interface remains clear and readable even in live settings.

DAW and Analog Lab integration: "pre-mapped" workflow

KeyLab Essential mk3 is designed for quick integration: dedicated scripts for popular DAWs and MCU/HUI compatibility to adapt to various workflows. With Analog Lab, controls are consistently mapped for browsing presets, main parameters, and effects, transforming the setup into a more "hardware-like" station. If you work with multiple projects or templates, user programs help recall custom mappings without wasting time.

Creative functions: Scale, Chord Play, Arpeggiator, and Hold

In addition to control, there are functions designed to generate ideas quickly: Scale mode locks notes to a selected scale to avoid harmonic errors; Chord Play allows recalling complex chords with a single key; the arpeggiator can transform chords and notes into patterns and melodies, and the Hold function allows sustaining notes/arps without holding down keys. In a Black context, these functions are perfect for quick sketches, pre-production, and performances where immediacy is needed.

Hybrid setups: MIDI Out, USB-C, and multi-function pedal input

In addition to the USB-C connection (power and MIDI), the presence of a 5-pin MIDI Out makes it easy to control external synths and drum machines and synchronize hardware in your project. The pedal input is multi-purpose: it can be configured as sustain, footswitch, or expression, adapting to various playing styles and performances. The Black variant maintains all the same connections and functional features.

Software bundle and eco-design

The controller includes a software bundle designed for immediate production and performance: Analog Lab (with thousands of presets), Ableton Live Lite for recording and production, and additional instruments and content from companies such as Native Instruments, UVI Model D, Loopcloud, and Melodics. The project is defined as eco-designed: attention to materials and packaging aims to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing the usability and quality of the final product.

Technical specifications Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 Black

• Version: KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 Black (Black finish)
• Keyboard: 88 full-size keys with velocity sensitivity (7 and a quarter octaves)
• Keybed: semi-weighted action (velocity-sensitive)
• Display: 2.5" LCD with contextual buttons
• Controls: 1 clickable encoder + 9 rotary encoders; 9x 30mm faders; 8 RGB velocity & pressure-sensitive pads (2 banks)
• DAW controls: transport section + command switches; dedicated scripts and MCU/HUI compatibility
• Creative functions: Arpeggiator (with Hold), Chord Play, Scale mode, transposition by semitones/octave
• User presets: up to 6 user presets / user programs
• Connections: USB-C (bus powered); MIDI Out 5-pin DIN; multi-function pedal input (sustain/footswitch/expression)
• Included software: Analog Lab (2,000+ sounds), Ableton Live Lite, Native Instruments Komplete 15 Select (choice bundle), UVI Model D, Loopcloud (subscription + packs), Melodics (subscription)
• Included: controller, USB-A to USB-C cable, software registration card
• Dimensions and weight: 1258x255x66.8mm; 8.2kg

To get the included software:

Create an account and register the instrument on the Arturia website. (click here)

NB: The software applications are included free of charge for promotional purposes and may change over time without notice. Algam EKO is exclusively responsible for the hardware instrument and cannot provide technical or commercial assistance for the software provided free of charge or third-party software used with the product. For software support, consult the manual or online help of the software used.

NB: The use of authorization codes, i.e., downloading and activating the software provided free of charge, voids the right of withdrawal.