Integrating KeyLab MK3 with Kontakt in a live setting

Lab KeyLab
#1

I was looking to switch to the Keylab MK3 from an Akai MPK261. This is to support my live setup, which is very basic.

Midi controller → Kontakt 8 → iConnectivity I/O

I perform each song in the set using prerecorded sounds along with instruments from the Kontakt library.

With the MPK from Akai I can have a preset for each song in our setlist, and it would let me control the illuminated pads along with the MIDI channel out to Kontakt.

I then have an array of instruments in Kontakt with a different MIDI channel for each song. I preload the entire set as one big multi and easily traverse between songs via MIDI channel.

Is this possible with the Keylab MK3? Would anyone else be willing to share how they use this controller live?

Thanks!

#2

Hi @cspicuzza. Welcome to the community.

From the Keylab 3 manual:

  • 2.2.1. Changing the MIDI Channel
    The MIDI channel of the KeyLab mk3 can be changed by holding the MIDI Channel button and pressing one of the lower 16 keys on the keyboard. After this, all controls that have been set to follow the User MIDI Channel will change to that channel. For example, to change KeyLab mk3’s MIDI output to channel 8, hold the MIDI button and hit the lowest G on the keyboard. -

I assume this is the information you are looking for. But feel free to ask further.

#3

Sort of.

I was hoping to have a preset for each song that would have a different pad illumination and midi channel.

#4

Do you mean select a Preset (a multi) in Kontakt?

EDIT: Keylab 3’s pads can be set to program change, if that’s what you mean. EDIT END

#5

A preset on the controller. With the Akai MPK I can turn a nob and go between songs which display a different color/light configuration on the pads and the midi channel is different

#6

Keylab 3 have 6 User presets setups/ Device Memories, if that can help you.

#7

Thank you! I’ll look into those features now