Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 Black is a 61-key USB MIDI controller designed to provide hands-on control of software instruments, DAWs, and compatible MIDI hardware. Its semi-weighted, synth-action keyboard includes aftertouch and release-velocity response for more detailed performance input than a basic controller. It is suited to producers, composers, keyboard players, and live performers who want a central control surface for a computer-based music setup.

The controller combines an expressive keybed with 12 RGB performance pads, nine touch-sensitive encoders, and nine touch-sensitive faders. These controls can be used for playing notes and drums, triggering clips, adjusting virtual-instrument parameters, and mixing tracks. Pitch and modulation wheels, transport controls, and contextual display buttons keep common performance and DAW functions within reach.

KeyLab 61 mk3 is built around MIDI control rather than internal sound generation, allowing it to become the physical interface for a chosen software or hardware instrument collection. Its aftertouch-enabled keys and pressure-sensitive pads support dynamic playing styles for synth parts, pianos, drums, samples, and clip-based production. Built-in Scale, Chord, Arpeggiator, and Hold functions provide practical composition tools when developing parts or performing.

A 3.5-inch full-color display provides feedback for settings, parameter control, and navigation, with eight contextual buttons positioned around the screen. Arturia integration supports Analog Lab Pro and V Collection instruments, while dedicated DAW integration is available for FL Studio, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, Bitwig Studio, and MainStage. MCU/HUI compatibility and user-program support broaden its use with additional music-production software.

For hybrid studio and stage systems, KeyLab 61 mk3 provides USB-C connectivity alongside 5-pin MIDI input and output. Dedicated sustain, expression, and auxiliary pedal inputs allow foot control to be incorporated into a performance setup. The included software package gives a new system a starting sound library and DAW tools, while the controller can also serve as an upgrade path for users expanding into external MIDI instruments and deeper DAW control.

Key Features

• 61-Key Aftertouch Keybed: Semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys provide expressive control for software and MIDI instruments.
• RGB Performance Pads: Twelve velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads handle drums, samples, notes, and clips.
• Touch-Sensitive Controls: Nine encoders and nine faders provide tactile parameter and mix control.
• Color Display: The 3.5-inch screen and eight contextual buttons simplify navigation and feedback.
• Creative Performance Modes: Arpeggiator, Chord, Scale, and Hold functions support writing and live performance.
• Hybrid MIDI Connectivity: USB-C, MIDI I/O, and pedal inputs connect computer and hardware-based setups.

Design & Installation

The KeyLab 61 mk3 Black uses a durable high-density plastic chassis with ruggedized controls and real-wood side panels. Its full-size layout places the pads, faders, encoders, display, wheels, and transport controls around the 61-note keybed for a unified workstation-style control surface. A Kensington security slot is provided for compatible security locks.

Connect the controller directly to a computer with the included USB-C-to-USB-A cable for power and MIDI communication, then install and activate the included software through Arturia Software Center. Use the 5-pin MIDI ports for compatible external gear and connect optional sustain, expression, or auxiliary pedals as needed; pedal calibration is available from the controller settings. For reliable USB operation, Arturia advises connecting directly to a computer USB port rather than through an unpowered hub, adapter, or extension cable.