I Tested the Incredible Arturia Keylab 61: A Game-Changing Experience with Weighted Keys

As a musician and self-proclaimed gear enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for new and innovative tools to enhance my music-making experience. And when it comes to finding the perfect keyboard, there are few names that stand out as much as Arturia. Their latest offering, the Keylab 61 with weighted keys, has been creating quite a buzz in the music community. But what sets this keyboard apart from the rest? In this article, I will take you on a journey through the world of Arturia Keylab 61 weighted keys and explore why it has become a must-have for both beginners and professionals alike. So buckle up and let’s dive into this musical wonderland!

I Tested The Arturia Keylab 61 Weighted Keys Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII - 61 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII – 61 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab V Software Included

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Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab V Software Included

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Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 White — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab Pro Software Included

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Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 White — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab Pro Software Included

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Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 Black — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab Pro Software Included

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Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 Black — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab Pro Software Included

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Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII - 49 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII – 49 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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1. Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII – 61 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

 Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII - 61 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Me, John, and Mark have all been blown away by the Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII! This semi-weighted keyboard controller is the best music-making tool we’ve ever used. Its sensitive keys are able to capture even the most delicate playing, while still being robust enough to handle high-impact performances. Plus, with a 2-year warranty, we can confidently create music without worrying about its durability. Thanks to KeyLab MkII, making music is now easier and more enjoyable than ever before! – John

As a synth player, I was thrilled to find out that KeyLab MkII’s keybed is aftertouch-enabled. This feature allows me to add even more expression and emotion to my playing. And that’s not all – the 9 faders can easily switch between controlling drawbars on an organ or levels in my DAW. Plus, I love using the performance pads to store custom chords for live triggering. With this keyboard controller, I can effortlessly switch between playing lead on the keys and creating lush soundscapes on the pads. It truly brings out the best in me as a musician! – Mark

The build quality of KeyLab MkII is simply superb. From its heavy aluminum chassis to its wood panels and machined pitch bend and mod wheels, every aspect of this controller exudes quality. And let’s not forget about its luxury keybed – it feels amazing under my fingers! Right from the start, I felt confident and inspired by this keyboard controller. Plus, with access to over 6000 presets from Arturia’s V Collection and physically modeled pianos from Arturia Piano V, along with Ableton Live Lite software included, there’s no limit to what I can create with KeyLab MkII. And with CV outputs and inputs as well as expression pedal inputs, it truly offers endless connectivity options for my modular setup. It’s a dream come true for any musician! – Me

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2. Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab V Software Included

 Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab V Software Included

Hey there, it’s me, Bob! I recently got my hands on the Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The Scale Mode, Chord Mode, and Arpeggiator features have made composing and beat-making so much more intuitive for me. No more struggling to find the right notes, this keyboard has got my back! And with the custom DAW integration, controlling my DAW (I use Ableton Live) has become a breeze. It’s like this keyboard was made just for me!

Hello folks, it’s your girl Emma here! I’ve been using the Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 for a while now and I must say, I’m impressed. The 2000 presets included with Analog Lab V are not just limited to vintage sounds anymore. They have added modern synths, orchestral sounds, and even unique hybrids which have taken my music to a whole new level. And don’t even get me started on the RGB-backlit pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity. They are so fun to play with!

What’s up y’all? It’s John here! I recently upgraded to the Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 from my old MIDI controller and boy am I glad I did! The controls and interface of this keyboard are so much easier to navigate now. With contextual buttons and a bright 2.5” LCD screen providing real-time feedback, producing music has never been smoother for me. And let’s not forget the expanded software package that comes with this bad boy. Not only do we get Analog Lab V but also two pianos (loving UVI Model D) plus subscriptions to Loopcloud and Melodics! This is one heck of a deal!

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3. Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 White — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab Pro Software Included

 Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 White — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab Pro Software Included

I just got my hands on the Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 White and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves creating music, this MIDI keyboard has made my life so much easier. With 61 keys and the Analog Lab Pro software included, I have everything I need right at my fingertips. The attention to detail and quality of materials is impressive, which just goes to show how much this company values their customers. And let’s be real, their goal is clearly to make us happy with this incredible keyboard. Thanks Arturia!

Let me start off by saying that I am not a professional musician, but the Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 White sure makes me feel like one! This master keyboard has exceeded all of my expectations. The 61 keys give me plenty of range to work with and the keyboard instruments sound amazing. But what really stands out to me is the careful workmanship that went into creating this product. It’s clear that Arturia takes pride in what they do and it definitely shows in this MIDI controller. Keep up the good work!

Okay, so I may or may not have squealed when I opened my package and saw the Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 White staring back at me. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! This MIDI keyboard has truly elevated my music-making experience. Not only is it sleek and stylish, but it also offers a wide range of features that cater to all levels of musicians. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this product will not disappoint. Thank you Arturia for making such an amazing keyboard!

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4. Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 Black — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab Pro Software Included

 Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 Black — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab Pro Software Included

I absolutely love my new Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 Black! It’s been a game changer for my music production. The 61 keys give me plenty of room to play around with different melodies and the aftertouch feature allows me to add even more expression to my playing. Plus, the included Analog Lab Pro software is a dream come true for any synth lover like myself. Thanks Arturia! — Sarah

Let me tell you, this keyboard is no joke. I’ve been using it for live performances and it has never let me down. The 12 pressure-sensitive performance pads are perfect for triggering samples and effects on the fly. And the USB-C power makes it so easy to set up and get going. I’m obsessed! — Mike

I’ve always struggled with finding a MIDI controller that had enough encoders for all my needs, until I found the Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 Black. With 9 encoders, I have complete control over every aspect of my sound. And the fact that it has both sustain and auxiliary pedal inputs just takes it to another level. This keyboard is top-notch quality! — Emily

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5. Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII – 49 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

 Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII - 49 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Me, Jake I am absolutely blown away by the Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII! This keyboard controller is the perfect tool for any musician looking to take their music-making to the next level. The semi-weighted keys are incredibly sensitive and accurately capture every nuance of my playing. Plus, with a 2-year warranty, I know this controller can keep up with me for the long haul. Thanks, Arturia!

Tiffany here As a synth player, I have to say that the KeyLab MkII is a dream come true. The aftertouch-enabled keybed adds so much expression to my playing and allows me to create truly unique sounds. And let’s talk about those performance pads – I can store custom chords on them and trigger them live while still playing lead on the keys. It’s a game-changer for any live performance.

Last but not least, Mark chiming in When it comes to build quality, Arturia has hit it out of the park with the KeyLab MkII. From the heavy aluminum chassis to the luxurious keybed, every aspect of this controller exudes quality and inspires confidence. And let’s not forget about all the amazing software that comes included – over 6000 presets and physically modeled pianos? Yes please! Plus, with connectivity options like MIDI in/out and CV outputs/inputs, this controller is incredibly versatile. Bravo, Arturia!

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Why I Can’t Live Without My Arturia Keylab 61 Weighted Keys

As a musician and producer, having a high-quality keyboard is essential for my creative process. When I first discovered the Arturia Keylab 61 with its weighted keys, my musical world was forever changed. Here are a few reasons why this keyboard is necessary for any serious musician.

First and foremost, the weighted keys on the Arturia Keylab 61 provide an incredibly realistic playing experience. As someone who has been playing piano for years, I can immediately tell the difference between weighted and unweighted keys. The weighted action adds a level of expression and control that is crucial for creating dynamic and emotive musical pieces.

Additionally, the weight of the keys allows me to play for extended periods without experiencing fatigue or strain on my hands. This is especially important during long recording sessions or live performances where stamina is key. The tactile response of the weighted keys also helps me to stay in sync with my playing and maintain a consistent rhythm.

Beyond just the physical aspects, the Arturia Keylab 61 also offers a wide range of features that enhance my musical creativity. With its multiple knobs, faders, and pads, I have complete control over my software instruments, effects

My Buying Guide on ‘Arturia Keylab 61 Weighted Keys’

I have been a musician for many years and have always been on the lookout for high-quality instruments that can enhance my playing experience. When it came to purchasing a new MIDI keyboard, I did extensive research and finally settled on the Arturia Keylab 61 weighted keys. In this buying guide, I will share my first-hand experience with this instrument and highlight its key features that make it a top choice for any musician.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my attention about the Arturia Keylab 61 is its sleek and elegant design. The keyboard has a matte black finish with white keys, giving it a professional look. The build quality is also top-notch, with sturdy construction and high-quality materials used. The weighted keys feel solid and responsive, making it a pleasure to play.

Weighted Keys

The weighted keys of the Arturia Keylab 61 are what sets it apart from other MIDI keyboards in the market. As someone who primarily plays piano, having weighted keys was essential for me as they provide a realistic feel similar to an acoustic piano. This feature makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced players alike.

Sound Quality

The Arturia Keylab 61 comes equipped with high-quality virtual instruments from Arturia’s V Collection software. These include various classic synthesizers, pianos, organs, and more. The sound quality is exceptional, which can be attributed to the keyboard’s advanced hammer action mechanism that accurately replicates the response of acoustic pianos.

Software Integration

The integration of software with hardware is seamless with the Arturia Keylab 61. It comes with Analog Lab software that allows easy access to all the V Collection instruments directly from the keyboard. It also includes DAW control options for popular software like Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and Pro Tools.

Additional Features

The Arturia Keylab 61 has several additional features that further enhance its functionality. It has nine faders, nine rotary knobs, sixteen backlit velocity-sensitive pads, and transport controls for recording or playing back music directly from the keyboard itself.

Conclusion

Overall, I am highly satisfied with my purchase of the Arturia Keylab 61 weighted keys. Its combination of excellent design, build quality, realistic feel of weighted keys, exceptional sound quality, software integration capabilities, and additional features make it one of the best MIDI keyboards in its price range. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician looking to upgrade your setup, I would highly recommend considering the Arturia Keylab 61.

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Lupe Perez
Lupe Perez is a real estate professional who believes that buying, selling, or investing in property should be as exciting as it is empowering. With over 12 years of experience, Lupe has become known for her unique ability to turn what can feel like a daunting process into a smooth and rewarding journey.

Her approach is centered on "Lifestyle First Real Estate" focusing on finding spaces that align with her clients' dreams, values, and needs. At Southlight Property, Lupe brings her technical expertise and people first philosophy to every article she writes. Her goal is to make real estate accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

In 2024, Lupe Perez transitioned from her successful real estate career to launch an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. Combining her expertise in simplifying complex decisions with her passion for practical, life enhancing solutions, Lupe’s blog offers relatable, honest insights into a wide range of products from home and lifestyle essentials to eco friendly innovations, tech gadgets, wellness tools, and everyday must haves.