Gearank Recommendation
The KeyLab 88 MkI earned a place on our recommended list for 88 Key MIDI Controller Keyboards in August 2017 where it remained until it was replaced by the MkII version in November 2019.
Overview
This model has been superseded and we are now recommending its replacement: Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII.
Arturia are famed for their hardware synths and the KeyLab 88 comes bundled with their Analog Lab software which includes virtual versions of synths such as the Mini V, Modular V, CS-80 V, ARP 2600 V, Jup-8 V, Prophet V, Prophet VS, SEM V, Matrix-12 V, Solina V, B-3 V, Vox Continental V, Farfisa V – in all there are over 5000 sounds.
It also comes bundled with UVI Acoustic Grand Piano which is a Steinway Model D Concert Grand model and Piano V which has 9 acoustic piano models.
Specifications
- Keys: 88 hammer-action Fatar keybed with velocity and aftertouch..
- Zones: No.
- Pads: 16 backlit pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity.
- Controls:2 clickable encoders, 6 transport switches, 1 modulation wheel, 1 pitch bend wheel, two banks of 10 encoders, two banks of 9 sliders, 1 volume encoder, 10 assignable switches..
- Automap: It automatically maps to KeyLab but you have to use the MIDI Learn feature for custom mapping.
- Power: Not specified.
- Connectivity: 5-Pin MIDI in & out and USB MIDI. It also has 1/4″ jacks for sustain, expression, and aux footswitch pedals, and a 1/8″ jack for a breath controller..
- Dimensions: 50.9″ (L) x 13.7″ (W) x 4.3″ (H).
- Weight: 32.4 lbs.
- Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab, UVI Acoustic Grand Piano and Piano V.
- Compatibility: Windows 7 SP1 or later or Mac Os X 10.8 or later.
Demo
Here’s a good review by Matt Vanacoro from Ask.Audio:
What exact size are the volume encoders d shaft ? I need to replace the 3 knobs in that section..thank you kindly in advance.
The best way to get this information is to contact Arturia Support directly. I’d recommend reaching out to Arturia’s support team for the exact specifications to ensure you get the correct replacement part.
Great video and wonderful praise for this lovely bit of gear! I just bought the bundle including the Keylab 88, the basic software, PLUS the Arturia V collection 6 (was a $499 value, but VC7 has been released with the Keylab 88 MkII (also @ $499+), and basically just added the Mellotron V. So this kit is approximately $899+$499 ($1398) and mine was $549+$0 ($549+tx w/Free Shipping from Sweetwater), and I’m dying for someone to say that I lost on this deal!! Really, tell me that I got screwed!! Didn’t think so…
It looks like you got a great deal – nicely done!