NAMM 2020: Arturia Unveil New Keylab Essential 88 Controller

Today Arturia has announced an 88-note version of their KeyLab Essential range which sits alongside their 49 and 61 Key models, with the 88-key featuring an all-new semi-weighted waterfall keybed. It’s also got 8 performance pads, 9 pots and sliders, Pitch-bend and modulation wheels plus twin-line LCD display for DAW/Analogue Lab integration. 

From the press release: 

One of the most affordable 88-note controllers on the market, it features an all-new keybed that strikes the perfect balance between fast synth-action and a traditional weighted piano feel. Thanks to the fantastic features and included software, KeyLab Essential 88 provides everything they need to create and record music straight out of the box. Its intuitive performance controls, perfect Analog Lab support, and excellent DAW integration mean it’ll inspire you every day and improve the way you make and perform music. 

The KeyLab Essential range of keyboards come bundled with Analog Lab 4, which provides streamlined access to 6500 presets sounds from Arturia’s highly acclaimed V-Collection. The KeyLab features controller templates for all major DAW’s making it a breeze for integrating into your projects. When you have an instance of Analog Lab loaded in your DAW, the Keylab can switch from regular transport and navigation control to exclusively controlling all Analog Lab sounds and parameters, directly from the hardware. We’re looking forward to getting our hand on one and playing its new KeyBed. Stay tuned.

Features:

• 88 note, velocity-sensitive keyboard with hybrid synth-piano feel, 8 back-lit, customizable performance pads
• 9 faders & rotary encoders
• Mackie / HUI compliant DAW Command Center
• Clickable jog-wheel
• Velocity & modulation wheels
• Full Analog Lab integration
• “Chord play” mode
• Twin-line LCD screen
• Class-compliant USB: use with iOS and Android devices, Optional sustain pedal and DC power supply

Head to the Arturia Website for more info: