Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII: Comprehensive Guide to Features, Setup, and Performance

Introduction

The Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII is a premium MIDI controller designed to meet the needs of both professional musicians and serious hobbyists. With its full-sized, weighted keys and extensive control options, it aims to provide a comprehensive solution for studio production and live performance. This guide will delve into its features, setup, and performance, offering a detailed look at what makes this controller a standout choice in the market.

Arturia is a well-respected brand in the music industry, known for its high-quality hardware and software products. The company has built a reputation for innovation and reliability, making it a trusted name among musicians and producers.

Key Features Overview:

88 fully weighted keys with aftertouch
16 RGB backlit performance pads
9 faders and 9 rotary knobs
Comprehensive DAW integration
Multiple connectivity options including MIDI, USB, and CV/Gate
High-quality build with aluminum and wood construction

Design and Build Quality

Physical Design

The Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII boasts a sleek and professional design. Measuring approximately 50.9 inches in length, 12.6 inches in width, and 4.5 inches in height, it is a substantial piece of equipment. The controller weighs around 32 pounds, making it relatively heavy but manageable for its size. The materials used include a combination of aluminum and wood, giving it a premium look and feel.

Portability

While the KeyLab 88 MKII is not the most portable option due to its size and weight, it is designed to be moved when necessary. The robust build ensures that it can withstand the rigors of transportation, although it is best suited for studio use or permanent setups in live performance environments.

Durability

The build quality of the KeyLab 88 MKII is exceptional. The aluminum chassis and wooden side panels not only add to its aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its durability. The keys, pads, and knobs are all designed to withstand extensive use, making it a reliable choice for both studio and live applications.

Setup and Configuration

Initial Setup

Setting up the Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII is straightforward. Follow these steps to get started:

Unbox the controller and place it on a stable surface.
Connect the power adapter to the controller and plug it into an electrical outlet.
Use the included USB cable to connect the controller to your computer.
Turn on the controller using the power switch located on the back panel.

Software Installation

To fully utilize the KeyLab 88 MKII, you will need to install the Arturia MIDI Control Center software. Here’s how:

Visit the Arturia website and navigate to the “Downloads” section.
Download the MIDI Control Center software for your operating system.
Install the software by following the on-screen instructions.
Launch the MIDI Control Center and follow the prompts to connect your KeyLab 88 MKII.

Compatibility

The Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII is compatible with a wide range of operating systems and DAWs. Supported operating systems include Windows 7 and later, and macOS 10.10 and later. It integrates seamlessly with popular DAWs such as Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, Cubase, and more.

Features and Functionality

Key Features

The KeyLab 88 MKII is packed with features designed to enhance your music production and performance experience:

88 Fully Weighted Keys: The controller features 88 hammer-action keys with aftertouch, providing a realistic piano feel.
16 RGB Backlit Performance Pads: These pads are velocity-sensitive and can be used for triggering samples, loops, and more.
9 Faders and 9 Rotary Knobs: These controls can be assigned to various parameters within your DAW, offering hands-on control.
Comprehensive DAW Integration: The controller comes with pre-mapped controls for popular DAWs, making setup quick and easy.
Multiple Connectivity Options: Includes MIDI, USB, and CV/Gate connections, allowing for versatile integration with other hardware.

Customizability

The KeyLab 88 MKII offers extensive customization options. Using the MIDI Control Center software, you can create custom MIDI mappings, assign functions to the pads, knobs, and faders, and save different configurations for various projects. This level of customization ensures that the controller can adapt to your specific workflow and preferences.

Unique Functions

One of the standout features of the KeyLab 88 MKII is its integration with Arturia’s Analog Lab software, which provides access to thousands of high-quality sounds. Additionally, the controller includes a Chord Mode, allowing you to play complex chords with a single key press, and an Arpeggiator, which can add rhythmic complexity to your performances.

Integration with DAWs

The KeyLab 88 MKII integrates seamlessly with a variety of DAWs. For example, in Ableton Live, the controller’s pads can be used to trigger clips, while the faders and knobs can control track volumes and effects parameters. In Logic Pro, the controller can be used to navigate the mixer, adjust plugin settings, and more. This level of integration enhances your workflow and allows for more intuitive control over your music production.

Advanced Features

The KeyLab 88 MKII includes several advanced features that set it apart from other controllers. The aftertouch functionality allows for expressive playing, while the built-in arpeggiator can add dynamic movement to your sequences. The controller also includes a Chord Mode, which simplifies the process of playing complex chords, making it easier to create rich harmonic textures.

Performance

Latency and Responsiveness

The KeyLab 88 MKII excels in terms of latency and responsiveness. The keys are highly responsive, with minimal latency, ensuring that your playing feels natural and immediate. The pads, knobs, and faders also respond quickly to input, providing a smooth and intuitive user experience.

Real-World Usage

In practical scenarios, the KeyLab 88 MKII performs exceptionally well. In a studio setting, it provides a comprehensive control surface for your DAW, allowing for efficient workflow and precise control over your music production. In live performance settings, the controller’s robust build and extensive control options make it a reliable and versatile tool.

User Experience

User feedback for the KeyLab 88 MKII is overwhelmingly positive. Users praise the controller’s build quality, key action, and extensive feature set. Many users also appreciate the seamless integration with popular DAWs and the high level of customizability offered by the MIDI Control Center software.

Applications and Use Cases

Beginner vs. Professional Use

The KeyLab 88 MKII is suitable for both beginners and professionals. While its extensive feature set and advanced functionality may be more appealing to experienced musicians and producers, its intuitive design and ease of use make it accessible to beginners as well.

Studio Use

In a studio environment, the KeyLab 88 MKII excels as a comprehensive control surface. Its full-sized, weighted keys provide a realistic piano feel, making it ideal for recording piano parts. The extensive control options, including faders, knobs, and pads, allow for precise control over your DAW and plugins, enhancing your music production workflow.

Live Performance

The KeyLab 88 MKII is also well-suited for live performance. Its robust build ensures that it can withstand the rigors of live use, while its extensive control options provide the flexibility needed for dynamic performances. The controller’s integration with popular DAWs and software instruments makes it a versatile tool for live musicians.

Specific Genres

The KeyLab 88 MKII is versatile enough to excel in a variety of musical genres. Its realistic piano feel makes it ideal for classical and jazz musicians, while its extensive control options and integration with software instruments make it a powerful tool for electronic music producers working in genres such as EDM, hip-hop, and more.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

High-quality build with aluminum and wood construction
88 fully weighted keys with aftertouch
Extensive control options including faders, knobs, and pads
Seamless integration with popular DAWs
Highly customizable with MIDI Control Center software
Robust connectivity options including MIDI, USB, and CV/Gate

Cons:

Relatively heavy and not the most portable option
Higher price point compared to some other MIDI controllers
May be overwhelming for beginners due to its extensive feature set

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Known Issues

While the KeyLab 88 MKII is generally well-received, some users have reported issues such as occasional software glitches and connectivity problems. These issues are relatively rare and are often resolved through software updates or troubleshooting steps.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues with your KeyLab 88 MKII, try the following troubleshooting tips:

Ensure that your software and firmware are up to date.
Check all connections to ensure they are secure.
Restart your computer and the controller.
Consult the user manual or Arturia’s online support resources for additional troubleshooting steps.

Customer Support

Arturia offers excellent customer support for the KeyLab 88 MKII. The company provides a comprehensive online support center with FAQs, user manuals, and troubleshooting guides. Additionally, Arturia’s customer support team is available to assist with any issues or questions you may have.

Comparisons with Similar Controllers

Competitor Comparison

When compared to similar controllers from other brands, the KeyLab 88 MKII stands out for its high-quality build, extensive feature set, and seamless DAW integration. Competitors such as the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 and the Akai Professional MPK88 offer similar features, but the KeyLab 88 MKII’s combination of build quality, customizability, and advanced functionality make it a strong contender in the market.

Feature Comparison

In terms of features, the KeyLab 88 MKII offers a comprehensive set of controls, including 16 RGB backlit pads, 9 faders, and 9 rotary knobs. While the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 offers similar key action and DAW integration, it lacks the extensive control options provided by the KeyLab 88 MKII. The Akai Professional MPK88 offers a similar feature set but is generally considered to be less customizable and less robust in terms of build quality.

Conclusion

Summary

The Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII is a premium MIDI controller that offers a comprehensive solution for both studio production and live performance. With its high-quality build, extensive control options, and seamless DAW integration, it is a versatile and powerful tool for musicians and producers.

Who Should Buy This?

The KeyLab 88 MKII is best suited for professional musicians and serious hobbyists who require a high-quality, versatile MIDI controller. Its extensive feature set and advanced functionality make it an excellent choice for those who need a comprehensive control surface for their DAW and software instruments.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII is a standout MIDI controller that offers exceptional build quality, extensive control options, and seamless integration with popular DAWs. Whether you are a professional musician or a serious hobbyist, the KeyLab 88 MKII is a powerful and versatile tool that can enhance your music production and performance experience.

FAQ

Is the Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII compatible with my DAW?

The KeyLab 88 MKII is compatible with a wide range of DAWs, including Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, Cubase, and more. It comes with pre-mapped controls for many popular DAWs, making setup quick and easy.

Does the KeyLab 88 MKII require any special drivers?

No special drivers are required for the KeyLab 88 MKII. However, it is recommended to install the Arturia MIDI Control Center software to fully utilize the controller’s features and customization options.

Can I use the KeyLab 88 MKII with hardware synthesizers?

Yes, the KeyLab 88 MKII includes MIDI and CV/Gate connections, allowing you to integrate it with hardware synthesizers and other MIDI-compatible devices.

How do I update the firmware on my KeyLab 88 MKII?

You can update the firmware using the Arturia MIDI Control Center software. Simply connect your controller to your computer, launch the software, and follow the prompts to update the firmware.

Is the KeyLab 88 MKII suitable for live performance?

Yes, the KeyLab 88 MKII is well-suited for live performance. Its robust build ensures that it can withstand the rigors of live use, while its extensive control options provide the flexibility needed for dynamic performances.

Where to Buy

The Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII can be purchased from a variety of retailers, including major music equipment stores such as Guitar Center, Sweetwater, and Sam Ash. It is also available from online retailers such as Amazon and directly from the Arturia website.

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