Arturia KEYLAB 49 MK3 BLACK USB MIDI Keyboard

The Arturia KEYLAB 49 MK3 BLACK is a 49-key USB MIDI keyboard controller for musicians, producers, and performers who want hands-on control of software instruments, DAWs, and MIDI hardware. It combines an expressive keyboard with pads, faders, encoders, transport controls, and a color display in one desktop-friendly controller. The result is a practical central interface for writing, recording, editing, and performing music.

Its redesigned semi-weighted keybed supports velocity, release velocity, and channel aftertouch, allowing playing dynamics and additional expression to be captured from the keyboard. Twelve RGB performance pads provide velocity- and pressure-sensitive control for drums, samples, notes, clips, and other MIDI assignments. Pitch and modulation wheels add immediate performance control without requiring a separate controller.

KeyLab mk3 is designed to help reduce mouse-and-keyboard work when using compatible music software. Its nine touch-sensitive rotary encoders, nine touch-sensitive faders, transport controls, contextual buttons, and 3.5-inch color display provide direct access to assigned parameters and project functions. Custom DAW scripts are available for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, and Bitwig Studio, with MCU/HUI compatibility for additional control options.

Creative tools including Scale mode, Chord Play, an arpeggiator, and Hold support quick idea development and performance-oriented workflows. The keyboard can store up to six user presets for customized mappings. MIDI DIN input and output also let it work with compatible external synthesizers, drum machines, and other MIDI equipment.

For a computer-based setup, USB-C provides both connection and bus power, while the included USB-C to USB-A cable supports connection to many standard computer USB ports. A configurable pedal input can be assigned for sustain, modulation, or expression use. Analog Lab Pro and additional production software are included, making the controller a useful starting point for an Arturia-centered studio or an addition to an existing DAW and hardware MIDI system.

Key Features

• 49-Key Semi-Weighted Keybed: Provides velocity, release-velocity, and channel-aftertouch response for expressive MIDI performance.
• 12 RGB Performance Pads: Velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads support drums, clips, samples, and custom MIDI assignments.
• Hands-On Mixer Control: Nine touch-sensitive faders and nine touch-sensitive rotary encoders provide direct parameter control.
• 3.5-Inch Color Display: Displays contextual information and works with eight surrounding contextual buttons.
• USB-C And MIDI DIN I/O: Connects to a computer over USB-C and to compatible external MIDI gear via DIN ports.
• Integrated Music Software: Includes Analog Lab Pro, Ableton Live Lite, and selected Arturia software instruments.

Design & Installation

The KEYLAB 49 MK3 BLACK uses a durable high-density plastic construction with ruggedized knobs and real-wood side panels. Its black finish, full-color display, and organized control layout are intended for clear operation in studio or stage environments. A Kensington security slot supports use with a compatible security lock.

Connect the controller directly to a computer with the included USB-C to USB-A cable for MIDI communication and bus power; Arturia recommends a direct USB connection rather than an unpowered hub when possible. Use the 5-pin MIDI input and output for compatible external hardware, and connect a compatible pedal to the configurable pedal input for sustain, modulation, or expression control. Install the included software and applicable DAW integration script, then select a preset or create a user program for the desired workflow.