Hi, how many ppl. are here, that share my wish for a KeyLab MK3 with 37 Mini-keys (preferably from the Minifreak)? I had the KeyLab 49 Mk3 here…I loved it…but it is to large for my limited desk space…I really wish Arturia would bring it out with the same built quality and feature, just smaller with the Minifreak 37 mini-keyboard. That would be perfect for me. Who wishes the same?
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Not me personally but I get where you’re coming from.
Arturia once sold a Keylab 25, which they discontinued because I guess not many people bought it. Since then they’ve only offered 49, 61 and 88.
I can see a market for a KeyLab 32 or KeyLab 37, but probably not with mini keys. They already sell midi controllers with 37 mini keys: the KeyStep Pro.
Yes I have that (Keystep Pro), but that’s not a DAW integrated Controller like the Keylab, rather a DAWless standalone Sequencer device. The DAW integration is so bad, that I am using now my Minifreak as keyboard in combination with an Akai APC40 mk2 for the DAW controller part, which is imho not ideal either regarding desk space real estate and comfort UI.
I am pretty sure there is a market, since Novation did release their Launchkey mk4 series with a 37 mini key version. Unfortunately the hardware feels very cheap and I would prefer a Arturia Keylab 37, as described.
The KeyLab 25, isn’t that the MiniLab now?
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I like this suggestion (and voted for it). I have a KeyStep 37, and I really like the construction and feel, but it’s not great for software integration. I also have a Minilab 3, and it’s good for what it is, but something with an extra octave and a bit higher build quality would be a nice upgrade (maybe also real pitch bend and mod wheels). I’d love a 49 or 61 key controller, but don’t really have the space.
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Not exactly…the KeyLab 25 had 25 full-sized keys, not mini keys.
MiniLab MK3 owner here.
I would totally support this.
I’m actually in the market for a compact 37 key controller.
None of the offerings from popular manufacturers (nor from Arturia) have what I need. I literally need the MiniLab with one additional octave with the portability the MiniLab offers.
I need it to be USB powered and have a 5 pin MIDI connector to control hardware synths.
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HI @nous.loppers and welcome to The Sound Explorers Forum!
If you’re after a compact, 37 key, USB/DIN Midi onboard, USB powered controller that’s built like a tank; then The KeyStep 37 is a great choice. I have one here, among other controllers, and it gets used A LOT as it’s great for throwing ideas down, the ‘strum’ function is WONDERFUL if you work with virtual string/guitar etc libraries too.
HTH!
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Thanks! Appreciate the insight here.
I’ve been looking at it and have it on my final list along with the Novation mini 37 mk4 that someone mentioned in this thread.
The strumming feature is pretty neat, but seems dated when compared to all the Novation does, also $50 less than Arturia’s.
Arturia really needs to renew some of their product lines in 2025.
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As I mentioned above…Mat, the Keystep series is great for standalone usage. But I was talking about a DAW Controller Keyboard, just like the KeyLab MK3 series…but with the Minifreak Minikeyboard. Completely different thing.
Sorry, ok.
100% worth a shot. There is a gap in the market for this at the moment, which is possibly a bit occupied because Novation and Akai now have those mini key 37 versions of their popular controllers - but none with Arturia’s quality. Arturia has better encoders, better keys and the build while plastic feels really good.
I own a Launchkey49 mk3 (full size), Launchkey Mini mk3, and Minilab3 (plus I owned a Keystep) and wish there were a compromise between them. Technically, that could be considered to be the Launchkey 37 mk4. It has full size keys, the Novation features - but a bit bulky by comparison to the mini controllers.
- Minilab3: 355 x 50 x 220 mm
- LK37mini: 478 x 49 x 177 mm
- KS37: 550 x 35 x 147 mm
- LK37: 557 x 79 x 251 mm
Like you, I tried a Keystep and it was almost perfect (sleek, low profile, great keys), but all the arp stuff felt a bit non optimal and it behaved oddly with Ableton - though of course it was designed for harware use. A simple DAW script would unlock it and probably solve this particular issue.
As you say, the problem with the Novation boards is the keybed. The mini versions are cheaper and feel less well made than the full size versions. But in terms of overall features, they nudge out the keylab in my view. The arp is really fun to use, and if you use Ableton you can sequence directly on the device (a first outside of Push.) But the key quality on the small boards is not good, arguably a showstopper.
I guess in the end it comes down to picking the tool for the job. If you’re doing production style stuff - you know, playing in a quick bassline or working out a few chords, maybe the mini keyboards are the better choice - you get all the features in a lightweight package, at the expense of quality.
I do still think there is a market for a DAW/plugin mapped 37 key mini keyboard, and right at the minute that’s probably the LKMini37 mk4.
Let’s see if Arturia decide to step into that arena!
Yes, 37 keyboard.
If Keystep and MiniLab 3 had a baby.
LK Mini 37 MK4 is pretty nice. But hate the USB C