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Arturia - KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 88-Key MIDI Controller with Pads, Faders, Encoders, Arpeggiator, and DAW Integration

Model: 231541
SKU: 12531380
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About this product

Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 is a full-size MIDI controller designed for studio production, live performance, and software integration. It features an 88-note semi-weighted keyboard with velocity sensitivity and aftertouch, eight RGB velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, nine faders, nine rotary encoders, and pitch/modulation wheels for hands-on control. The controller includes a built-in arpeggiator, chord mode, and scale mode, as well as integration with supported software using custom scripts, NKS compatibility, and MCU/HUI support. USB-C and MIDI DIN connectivity, pedal inputs, and six user presets allow flexible setups, while the use of recycled materials in construction and packaging supports environmentally conscious design.

Features

  • 88-Note Semi-Weighted Keyboard with Aftertouch

    The full-length 88-note keyboard features semi-weighted keys with velocity sensitivity and aftertouch for expressive performance. Ideal for playing melodies, chord progressions, and dynamic runs, it offers responsive tactile feedback for both live performance and studio production, supporting versatile creative workflows.

  • Arpeggiator, Chord, and Scale Modes

    Built-in arpeggiator, chord mode, and scale mode allow musicians to generate sequences, lock the keybed to musical scales, and trigger full chords with a single key. These tools provide instant melodic and harmonic options for improvisation, composition, and live performance, making it easy to develop complex patterns efficiently.

  • Pads, Faders, Encoders, and Performance Controls

    Eight RGB velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, nine faders, nine rotary encoders, plus pitch bend and modulation wheels provide hands-on control of instruments, DAWs, and plugin effects. This setup allows for finger drumming, track mixing, real-time parameter adjustments, and expressive performance directly from the controller.

  • Software and DAW Integration

    Offers integration with Analog Lab Pro, V Collection, and supported DAWs for control, browsing, and parameter adjustment without touching the computer. Includes custom scripts, NKS compatibility, and MCU/HUI support to facilitate integration with supported software and workflow management, performance setup, and sound design flexibility.

  • Connectivity, Presets, and Eco-Conscious Design

    USB-C connectivity, 5-pin DIN MIDI, and pedal inputs support external instruments and hybrid setups. Store up to six user presets for quick recall. Built with recycled plastics and 100% recycled packaging, KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 provides a durable, environmentally conscious controller suitable for studios, live stages, and portable setups.

Specifications

  • Brand
    Arturia
    Model Number
    231541
    Product Name
    KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 88-Key MIDI Controller with Pads, Faders, Encoders, Arpeggiator, and DAW Integration
    Controller Type
    Keyboard
    Product Height
    5 inches
    Product Length
    54 inches
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Reviews

Rating 1 out of 5 stars with 1 review

1 star rating. 1 review
0% would recommend to a friend

Customer Images

The vast majority of our reviews come from verified purchases. Reviews from customers may include My Best Buy members, employees, and Tech Insider Network members (as tagged). Select reviewers may receive discounted products, promotional considerations or entries into drawings for honest, helpful reviews.

  • Rated 1 out of 5 stars

    Feels Like an Expensive Plastic Toy

    Spent over $400 on this product and the build quality is extremely disappointing. It’s made out of recycled plastic and feels more like an expensive toy than a solid instrument. The keys were sticky right out of the box, and the default velocity response is frustrating to play, I had to strike the higher notes much harder just to get them to register a full sound. I would not recommend. It was also very shady for the company or third party seller to sell me an open box when I paid full retail. I wasn't expecting that.

    Posted by JustinK

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Specs

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