• USB DAW controller
• 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys
• 8 velocity-sensitive pads
• 9 rotary controls
• 9 faders
• Arpeggiator
• Chord mode
• Scale mode
• Transport controls for the DAW
• Auto-mapping for easy DAW integration
• Input for sustain pedal
• MIDI output
• Power supply via USB
• Includes free music software
• Includes USB-C cable

The KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 from Arturia is a clearly laid-out USB/DAW & MIDI controller with an elegant and modern design. Despite its compact size, the master keyboard features an arpeggiator, 8 pads, 9 knobs, 9 faders, as well as Scale Mode and Chord Mode. The updated hybrid synth-piano-feel keyboard features a highly playable 49-key action, is robustly built and is equally suited for use on stage and in the (home) studio. The eight velocity-sensitive pads are ideal for playing accented drums and percussion. The built-in arpeggiator can be used directly via the keyboard with a range of playback patterns. A chord function is also integrated, allowing you to play entire chords with just one finger. Thanks to Scale Mode, scales other than the widely used 12-note scale can be played effortlessly. The highlight of the Mk3 version is the larger, graphics-capable display with its four context-sensitive buttons, which further simplifies software control. Pre-configured DAW scripts for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase and Bitwig Studio make getting started particularly straightforward.

On the rear panel, alongside the switchable pedal input (sustain, footswitch or expression), you’ll also find the MIDI output. This allows you to play other MIDI instruments that do not have their own keyboard. The arpeggiator can also be activated via this output. Thanks to the transport function, you can control global functions of a DAW, such as start/stop and recording, directly from the KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3.

The manufacturer provides a comprehensive downloadable software package free of charge with the KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 White. Please refer to the Arturia website for details of updates and compatibility with Windows and Mac systems, as well as DAWs.

• Ableton Live Lite
• Analog Lab V
• UVI Model D
• Native Instruments The Gentleman Piano
• Loopcloud subscription (free two-month subscription)
• Melodics subscription (40 free piano lessons)