Arturia MiniLab 3 25-Key Universal MIDI Controller

The Arturia MiniLab 3 is a compact 25-key MIDI controller for making music with a computer, compatible iPad, or external MIDI equipment. It gives producers and performers hands-on control of virtual instruments, DAW functions, clips, and software parameters without relying entirely on a mouse. Its small footprint suits home studios, mobile production setups, learning environments, and desktop workspaces where space is limited.

This controller is designed for musicians who want to play melodies, program drums, shape sounds, and adjust mix functions from one compact surface. The velocity-sensitive slim keys provide expressive MIDI note input, while the RGB pads can be used for finger drumming, clip launching, performance functions, or transport control. Eight encoders and four faders add direct access to assignable sound and project controls.

MiniLab 3 does not generate audio on its own; it sends MIDI data to software instruments, DAWs, or connected MIDI hardware. Its performance character comes from responsive key, pad, touch-strip, encoder, and fader control rather than an onboard sound engine. Built-in arpeggiator, chord, hold, octave, and semitone transpose functions help turn simple note input into playable musical parts.

Arturia integrates MiniLab 3 with Analog Lab and supports DAW workflows through dedicated scripts or MCU/HUI control where applicable. The mini display and clickable browser encoder provide visual feedback while navigating presets and controller functions. Up to five user presets support customized mappings for different instruments, software projects, or external MIDI devices.

For a production system, MiniLab 3 can serve as the front-end controller for a laptop-based studio, iPad music setup, or MIDI hardware rig. USB-C provides computer and iPad connectivity and bus power, while the 5-pin DIN MIDI output can address external instruments. A pedal input also lets players add sustain, expression, or footswitch control to a compact keyboard workflow.

Key Features

• 25 Velocity-Sensitive Slim Keys Compact keys provide expressive MIDI note input for melodies, bass lines, and chords.
• RGB Performance Pads Eight velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads support drums, clips, transport functions, and custom assignments.
• Eight Endless Encoders Rotary controls provide hands-on adjustment of mapped instrument and DAW parameters.
• Four Assignable Faders Faders offer direct control of levels, effects, and other software functions.
• USB-C and MIDI DIN Connect to computers, compatible iPads, and external MIDI equipment.
• Creative Play Modes Arpeggiator, chord, hold, octave, and transpose functions expand performance options.

Design & Installation

MiniLab 3 combines a compact white enclosure with a 25-key slim keyboard, RGB-lit pads, low-profile pitch and modulation touch strips, faders, encoders, and a high-contrast OLED display. Arturia states that the controller is made with a minimum of 50% recycled plastic and ships in fully recyclable cardboard packaging. Its layout groups playing, browsing, performance, and mixing controls into a portable desktop-oriented format.

Connect the included USB-C to USB-A cable directly to a computer USB port for power and MIDI communication, or use USB-C with a compatible iPad setup. Connect external synths or MIDI devices through the 5-pin DIN MIDI output, and connect an optional sustain, expression, or footswitch pedal to the 1/4-inch TRS control input. Install the included or chosen music software, select MiniLab 3 in the software MIDI settings, and use Arturia's dedicated DAW scripts when available for deeper control integration.