Arturia KeyStep mk2 32-Key MIDI Controller & Sequencer

The Arturia KeyStep mk2 is a compact 32-key USB MIDI controller and polyphonic step sequencer designed to connect software instruments, MIDI hardware, and CV-equipped modular gear from one keyboard. It gives musicians a direct way to play notes, build patterns, and manage clocking without requiring a large controller or separate sequencer. USB-C MIDI, full-size MIDI DIN, Sync I/O, and CV/Gate outputs make it suitable for hybrid desktop and performance setups.

The velocity- and aftertouch-enabled Slimkey keyboard provides an expressive playing surface in a narrow footprint. Capacitive pitch and modulation touch strips add real-time control for bends, modulation, gate changes, and generative functions. Chord and Scale modes help players create harmonically focused parts while retaining hands-on control of performance details.

Its built-in polyphonic sequencer stores 64 patterns across four banks, with patterns supporting up to 64 steps and up to eight notes per step. The 16-mode arpeggiator can create conventional and generative note patterns, while Hold, octave expansion, swing, and time-division settings allow fast changes during a session. Mutate, Spice, and Dice functions provide controlled variation for evolving sequences and arpeggios.

An OLED display, clickable encoder, Back button, and RGB LED feedback provide direct access to settings and editing functions. The controller can record note data, velocity, rests, incoming MIDI or USB data, and selected automation including pitch bend, modulation, gate, Spice, and aftertouch. Patterns can also be chained, overdubbed, transposed, and managed with Arturia MIDI Control Center.

KeyStep mk2 fits naturally between a computer-based music system and hardware instruments. Its four analog outputs include Pitch, Gate, Mod 1, and Mod 2, allowing the controller to address compatible semi-modular and modular synthesizers alongside MIDI devices. It can operate from USB bus power and supports use with compatible iPad setups when the required camera connection hardware is used.

Key Features

• 32-Note Slimkey Keyboard: Velocity and aftertouch support expressive playing in a compact format.
• Polyphonic Sequencer: Stores 64 patterns with up to 64 steps and eight-note polyphony.
• 16-Mode Arpeggiator: Creates traditional, random, and generative melodic patterns.
• Four CV/Gate Outputs: Controls compatible modular and analog instruments with pitch, gate, and modulation signals.
• OLED Editing Interface: Provides direct parameter access through a screen and clickable encoder.
• Hybrid Connectivity: Integrates USB-C MIDI, MIDI DIN, Sync I/O, and pedal control.

Design & Installation

KeyStep mk2 uses a low-profile, travel-friendly layout built around a 32-note Slimkey keybed, capacitive control strips, OLED display, encoder, and illuminated controls. A dedicated power switch and Kensington lock slot support practical desktop, studio, and stage use. The rear panel groups MIDI, sync, pedal, USB-C, and analog CV/Gate connections for organized integration with external equipment.

Place the controller on a stable desktop, keyboard shelf, or performance surface, then connect it by USB-C for power and MIDI communication with a computer or compatible host. Use standard 5-pin MIDI cables for MIDI hardware, 3.5 mm TRS cables for Sync I/O, and compatible patch cables for CV, Gate, Mod 1, and Mod 2 connections. Configure CV pitch standard, gate format, modulation sources, MIDI channel, and sync behavior to match the connected instruments before use.