Recently, I got this new KeyLab Essential Mk3 88 board as a lightweight alternative to my stage pianos for rehearsals and minor events. Stage pianos such as the RD-2000 are killing my back due to their weight and complex handling between small gigs. I like the aesthetics of the Arutia products, specifically the white keyboards with the wood details. I have two issues with this board; if they can’t be resolved, I will return them to the store. At the moment, I am in communication with Arturia’s support to address this situation and determine if I will keep it or return it.
The first and most sensitive issue is that the black keys are way more sensitive than the white ones. I measured this using a MIDI message logger. When applying the same velocity and pressure to the keys, the black keys send 10 to 30 more velocity values than the white keys in general, which makes it very hard to keep the nuance and balance when playing scales and phrases. It is tough to be aware of this issue when performing.
The second issue is with the parts. When I split the keyboard in two parts, using the part feature, the sustain can only control the selected part but not both. It is good when you use a bass sound on the left hand, but when I need to split the keyboard for two sounds that require the sustain in both hands, it is not possible. It defeats the purpose of buying an 88 keyboard. Has anyone resolved this issue?