The KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 is Arturia's streamlined universal MIDI controller, combining a 61-note velocity-sensitive hybrid synth-action keybed with focused DAW integration and creative performance tools. Its velocity-sensitive keyboard spans five octaves, offering a balanced playing experience suited to keyboard and synth work, detailed arrangement tasks, and studio composition, while remaining compact enough for desktop production. Designed to bridge virtual instruments and recording workflows, it offers hands-on control over plug-ins, mixer functions, and project navigation. A bright 2.5" LCD screen with contextual buttons provides direct access to chord, scale, and arpeggiator functions, while pre-mapped integration with Analog Lab Pro and major DAWs via custom scripts supports immediate compatibility. More than a simple controller, KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 functions as a flexible hub for modern software-based music making. Its robust housing, set off nicely by Arturia's signature wood-look endpieces, comes in a black and a white finish.
For intuitive operation, the KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 organises its controls into clearly defined performance and production sections. Pitch and modulation wheels sit to the left alongside octave and transpose buttons for rapid range adjustment. Eight velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads handle drum programming, clip launching, and MIDI triggering, while dedicated buttons activate chord, scale, arpeggiator, and Hold functions without menu diving. At the centre, the 2.5" LCD screen works with contextual buttons and a clickable encoder for browsing presets, adjusting parameters, and managing DAW assignments. The Part function enables two-layer keyboard splits and quick switching between performance setups. A dedicated DAW Command Center manages transport control, including play, record, undo, and metronome access, while nine rotary encoders and nine 30mm faders provide tactile control over mixer levels, plug-in parameters, and automation.
Arturia's KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 is aimed at producers, songwriters, and performers who want an extended key range without stepping up to a flagship controller. Its five-octave span accommodates layered parts and split configurations, while the streamlined control surface keeps mixing, instrument parameters, and DAW navigation close at hand. Equally suited to home studios, educational settings, and portable rigs, it adapts easily to different workflows. Creative tools such as chord, scale, and arpeggiator modes encourage experimentation while keeping operation straightforward. For musicians seeking an accessible production controller with expanded range, KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 balances integration and hands-on control within a unified design.
Arturia's success story began with software emulations of well-known analogue synthesizers such as the Moog Minimoog, Sequential Prophet-5, and Oberheim SEM. The popular software instruments included in the V Collection are still flagship products of the French developer today. Over time, Arturia has gradually expanded its range and now also offers a host of hardware devices, ranging from synthesizers and keyboard controllers to sequencers. Since then, the former software developer has thus also become a household name in the world of analogue synthesizers and other equipment.
Connectivity centres on USB-C, providing bus power and MIDI communication with DAWs and the Arturia Software Center. The KeyLab Essential 61 also has a 5-pin MIDI output, enabling direct connection to external hardware instruments, extending its use beyond purely software-based setups. The rear panel includes a freely assignable pedal input for sustain, expression or footswitch control. Support for custom DAW scripts alongside MCU and HUI protocols ensures integration with major platforms including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, and Bitwig Studio. Seamless mapping with Analog Lab Pro and NKS compatibility further extend its adaptability within software-based environments. Up to six user presets can be stored internally, allowing tailored MIDI configurations for different production or performance contexts to be recalled instantly.
A complete production starter suite
Arturia's KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 ships with a comprehensive software package designed to facilitate immediate music production. Analog Lab Pro provides over 2,000 presets drawn from Arturia's flagship V Collection, spanning synths, keys, orchestral and hybrid textures with intuitively mapped macros for real-time sound shaping. Ableton Live Lite offers a streamlined version of Ableton's production environment, while UVI Model D and Native Instruments' The Gentleman deliver pristine concert grand pianos. Users can select one Komplete 15 Select bundle – Beats, Band or Electronic – tailored to their production style. A time-limited Loopcloud subscription adds access to royalty-free samples, and Melodics offers guided lessons for developing keyboard and pad technique. As bundled software may evolve, the manufacturer's website should be consulted for current details.