KeyLab 88 MKII Review – an Essential and Must-Have Keyboard for the Film Composer and Live Performance by Arturia

In this KeyLab 88 MKII Review, we are taking a look at the full-size piano-like Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII (Affiliate Link). We published the review of the KeyLab 49 MKII in 2018 with the outlook for an MKII Version of the 88 Key controllers. Now in 2019, the MKII version of the 88 Keys was released by Arturia. Arturia did send a review unit with no strings attached.

Arturia is a company based in Grenoble, France and it was founded in 1999 by Frederic Brun and Gilles Pommereuil. The company was formerly known as Keylab Ltd until 2017 when the name changed to Arturia. The product line of the company includes synthesizers such as MiniBrute, MicroBrute, and their famous analog synthesizer the MatrixBrute.

Arturia also has a line of Music Production Software, with products such as TAE (True Analogue Emulation), Mini V, and Spark which won the Editors Choice Award at NAMM 2017.

Your Interface to Film Scoring and Other Multimedia Productions

One of the reasons why we like this KeyLab 88 controller is that it delivers everything you need for film scoring and other multimedia productions. The full-size 88 key version comes with great features at a very competitive price, which is around $500 USD. It has everything the musician needs to produce, compose or perform in a studio or on stage. You can control your music software using this controller with no hassle and once you get used to the layout and programming, you will feel like you really need it.

Since we already reviewed the KeyLab 49 MKII previously (which is a great controller by itself), we will compare both versions in this article so that you know which one would fit your budget and what you can expect from each of them.

Woman in Headphones Enjoying Music in Home Studio
Woman in Headphones Enjoying Music in Home Studio

Many other smaller MIDI controllers include 25, 49, or 61 keys. A full-size Keyboard is the central controller of your setup when you score in the DAW.

When getting a 88 Keys midi controller, you should look for a piano feeling when playing it. That piano-like character is driven by the applied keybed. Arturia was selected with the 88 MKII version of the excellent Fatar Keybed.

Arturia’s KeyLab 88 MKII Workflow Enhancement 

Arturia’s KeyLab 88 MKII offers an impressive workflow enhancement and advanced software integration via its DAW Command Center (DAW control). Through the onboard CV/Gate connectivity, your favorite analog vintage synths will integrate seamlessly with the Keyboard.

KeyLab 88 MkIIKeyLab 88 MkII

Shipment – What is included?

When the unit is delivered, you receive a rather heavy and large package. The package includes:

You can style up your Keyboard with Retro Hardwood Legs.

keylab 88 mkII imageArturia KeyLab 88 MkII

Hardware

First announced in June 2019 Arturia Keylab 88 MkII (see KeyLab 88 MkII ready for Summer of Eurorack Love) the full 88 Keyboard supports the full range of notes you can play on a traditional piano. Back in 2018 Arturia updated their smaller Keyboard range and launched KeyLab 49 MKII and a 61 MKII keys version. This year in 2019, it was time to release an updated 88 Key version.

These days 88 key Midi controllers are hard to get, most are produced in a smaller size with fewer keys. 88 key MIDI controllers are best suited for composers and musicians who want full access to their instruments. Several virtual software instruments are fine with fewer keys. In the end, it is down to personal taste.

My Personal Setup in My Studio

My current central midi controller is the S88 from Native Instruments. Comparing the Arturia Keylab 88 MkII to the KOMPLETE Kontroll S88, I can report that the keybed of the Arturia Keyboard feels better. Arturia has the edge over the Native Instrument high-end controller.

Looking back at the past months there are plenty of NKS features on my Native Instruments S88 which I never use. The included fader and drum pads on the Arturia find more uses these days. Arturia is the clear winner here. I plan to replace the S88 with Arturia’s Keyboard.

Music studio
KeyLab 88 MKII Review - an Authentic Professional Full-Size Piano Keyboard 20

My preference is all 88 key controllers are connected to my DAW. Personally, I use in my studio the KeyLab 49, Keystep, and other smaller controllers. I found smaller Keyboards are better when it comes to working with my Eurorack.

Eurorack the New Normal Outside the Box

With my AE Modular. Semi-Modular and Eurorack I perform with the smaller Keystep controller. For my hardware synths and hardware sampler use a mixture of an 88 Keyboard and 49 Keyboards. As always, it is all about different options and your preference.

Does the Arturia Key Lab Essential 88 Have Aftertouch?

My journey started with a light 61 keys Keyboard. Looking back at purchasing different Midi Keyboards I learned that I need a full-size Keyboard with Hammer keys that support Aftertouch. After comparing and working with different Keyboards, I require keys with a specific weight.

The keys of the Arturia 88 MKII have an excellent weight reminding me of a real piano. Keyboards like the 88 MKII from Arturia is in my personal list of Keyboards that I want to use when working in the DAW.

The Hammer Action Keys

The 88 MKII Keyboard supports high-end features like Hammer Action Keys, Aftertouch and comes with additional Fader (Nine) and Pads (16) and common features like Pitch Bend / Modulation, MIDI in & out, Sustain Pedal Connection, and USB.

The extensive control-panel of nine Faders plus nine rotary Knobs and vibrant back-lit Pads are fully integrated with some key Arturia Software Synths and can be used easily to support your DAW. As a standalone advanced let#s call it just a midi controller, Arturia Keylab 88 mkii is an excellent value for money.

When you use the Keylab the first time with a synth that supports the different fader and knobs you experience an essential hardware synth due to the perfect integration and experience. All possible on the full MKII range of Arturia Keyboards.

Keylab 49 Keylab 89Professional Digital Piano Keyboard at the Button

Professional Digital Piano Keyboard

Arturia adopted a Professional Digital Piano Keyboard, namely the Fatar TP/100LR. The keybed comes from a leading company based in Macerata, Italy. Arturia selecting this Keyboard with hammered keys brings this Keyboard to an entirely distinct level. I love the piano-like feel and touch. With the used Fatar TP/100LR keybed composers and musicians achieves extra dynamic control of the action applied on the key and on the hammer. The used Fatar TP/100LR is the reason I plan to replace my Native Instruments S88 and not look back.

Will play it safe and call this Keyboard a Hybrid between an Analog-Modelling Synthesizer and Digital Piano. It sounds very convincing to my ears as a professional musician both live and in the studio.

What About the Various Arturia Software Instruments?

I own already most of their software Synths over the years, some come with presets ready have the Analog Lab 3, Mini V, and Modular V. I also have the Buchla Easel V, Prophet V, CS80V, and Jupiter 8V. (Please Arturia add a Moog Modular 55 to this list!)

The KeyLab 88 MKII comes with a software/firmware update of your choice of Analog Lab 3, Mini V, and Modular V. So you’re good when it comes to the sound straight from the box.

Analog Lab is an extremely powerful software that I use all the time. It offers 6000 sounds ( Presets ) based on Arturia’s award-winning Analog Classics collection–a stunningly accurate reproduction of the original hardware analog synths that helped define multiple generations of dance, rock, film score, fusion jazz-fusion, trance music.

To me, this software is great to have on your pc/mac as reference material for your compositional ideas.

FATAR TP100LR

The Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII (Affiliate Link) is a high-end MIDI Keyboard. It comes with remarkable build quality and is available in white only currently. You can later use Retro Hardwood Legs as a stylish stand.

ArturiaKeyLab 88 MkII & KeyLab 49 MKII – a MatrixBrute at the back

Does Arturia Mk2 Come with Software?

  • Software Specifications:
  • Includes Analog Lab software with 7000 synth and Keyboard sounds
  • Includes Ableton Live Lite, Piano V, Wurli V, and Vox Continental V
  • Hardware – 88 note Fatar TP/100LR keybed
  • High quality, aftertouch, velocity-sensitive, hammer-action, piano feel
  • 16 RGB-backlit performance pads
  • Control bank with 9 faders and 9 rotary knobs
  • Control modular equipment with 4 CV/Gate outputs, controlling pitch, gate, and modulation
  • Seamless integration with all Arturia software musical instrument
  • Presets for multiple DAWs, with magnetic overlays for controls
  • Huge connectivity, including expression, sustain, CV/Gate, MIDI, USB, and 3 assignable auxiliary pedal inputs
REGISTERING YOUR KEYLAB 88 MKII copy

Register your Keylab 88 MKII

Make sure to register your Keylab, to get access to the KEYLAB 88 MKII manuals and Firmware. On top, you can download the included synths (Analog Lab 4 ◦ Ableton Live Lite ◦ Piano V2) using the ARTURIA SOFTWARE CENTER. The required serial and unlock code is on an included card.

KEYLAB 88 MKII Manuals and Firmware

What software comes with KeyLab 88?

ABLETON LIVE LITE 

An introduction to the world of Ableton Live, a high-powered software suite used by top producers, DJs, performers, and remixers. Track your ideas, layer your sounds, apply effects, warp your audio, and take full control of its in-built drum machines and software effects to produce comprehensive, complete tracks.

Use the DAW Command Center to intuitively control playback without using your mouse or the Keyboard, letting you stay focused on the task at hand.

If you do have the more advanced version of Ableton Live you are covered as well. Using the Ableton Live version you can upgrade to the full suite of Ableton Live, look out for regular sales from Ableton.

ABLETON LIVE LITE

PIANO V 

Letting you make full use of KeyLab 88 MkII’s expressive keybed, Piano V is a comprehensive piano software suite that uses the power of Arturia’s Phi physical modeling to recreate legendary acoustic pianos.

Put the sound of a legendary German concert grand in your tracks, or use a contemporary Japanese model to add some bite.

Esoteric instruments are made possible through the magic of physical modelings like glass and metal, and every instrument features full control of multiple parameters to hone the sound of your ideal instrument.

PIANO VPIANO V

WURLI V 

The Wurli 200A stage piano had a sound that could go from delicate and calm, to stimulating and reckless. Wurli’s harder sound cuts through a mix like a knife. Using advanced physical modeling, Arturia recreated this complex and dynamic sound.

On the production Arturia gives you options like a guitar amp and a “Leslie” rotating speaker, letting you explore the zingy, bouncy tone from the comfort of your new 88-note controller.

WURLI VWURLI V

VOX CONTINENTAL V 

VOX Continental V brings back the vintage sound of the famous VOX Continental 300 through Arturia TAE® physical modeling technology.

The transistor circuitry and drawbars behind this excellent organ put it in the forefront on some of the greatest songs by the most famous musicians of the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and beyond. VOX Continental V provides immediate access to these hit-making sounds and much more.

The Synth includes an integrated emulation of the famous Jennings J70 organ, fiery organs with the fantastic playability of KeyLab 88 MkII.

VOX CONTINENTAL VVOX CONTINENTAL V

KeyLab MkII Firmware V 1.1.3 – New features

After you register the hardware with Arturia you gain access to new Firmware that enhances the Keylab. Currently in Aug 2019 Version 1.1.3 is released.

I prefer companies like Arturia that maintain current hardware by adding new features or addressing issues.

  • All settings made for a User memory (Velocity Curves, Knob Acceleration, MIDI In/Out settings, CV In/Out settings,…), also affect the DAW and Analog Lab modes
  • Some controls remain hard mapped in DAW and Analog Lab mode. The list can be found in the User Manual
  • The Keylab can now convert MIDI input (USB or DIN) to CV
  • Added a DAW mode to send MMC standard messages
  • It is now possible to send MIDI notes using the Sustain, Expression and Aux pedals
  • The USER settings menu has been reorganized to allow Input/Output settings to be accessed quickly
  • Reverted the key aftertouch settings displayed in the USER settings menu (Bugfix)
  • Mod Wheel and Pads would not send data when powering the device into DAW Mode (Bugfix)

Eurorack and Semi-Modular support

Eurorack and Semi Modular support

Arturia’s KeyLab 88 MKII supports 4 dedicated CV/Gate connections for pitch, gate, and 2 assignable connections. The KeyLab MkII gives musicians access to exciting new possibilities with vintage outboard, synths, modular, and Eurorack. MK

The quick answer is yes it can, but not all the parameters of a modular synth will respond as expected.

One important thing you need – A Keyboard Controller for the 21st Century

MIDI is a protocol that allows electronic musical instruments, computers, and other devices to communicate. It’s been around since the early 1980s, and despite the advent of more modern communication methods, it’s still going strong.

One of the benefits of MIDI is that a single

Eurorack and Semi Modular support 1KeyLab 88 MKII Modular Control

The Midi Interface KeyLab 88 MkII can interface with practically any sort of music-making technology, letting you use external modulation sources for plug-in instruments in your DAW, like Analog Lab.

You can also start to integrate your modular setup into your software projects by sending accurate, programmed data to your modular gear. If you are shopping for a 88 Keyboard the Arturia 88 MkII is unavoidable.

User interface & Usability

The layout is comparable with the KeyLab 49 MKII. The keys of the 88 Model are way ahead of the 49 Keyboard by Arturia. The build class is best, the pad can be played precisely, and the support of different DAWs is done exceedingly high.

I wish for a bigger screen for the MKIII range. All combined the design is flawless for an 88 key MIDI piano controller.

Support DAW’s as of August 2019: Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, FL Studio, Bitwig, Cubase, Ableton Live, Digital Performer, Studio One. Arturia provides matching overlay templates that you can attach to your Keyboard to efficiently use the DWA controls from the Keyboard.

Arturia provides matching overlay templates

Part of my KeyLab 49 MKII Review was that the 49 Version is a ridiculously good looking MIDI Keyboard controller. … I would consider the bigger version as my central controller and would spend a bit more to get KeyLab 61 MkII or the 88 Key version when an MKII is released.

Now the KeyLab 88 MKII version is available and is a leading full piano-like Keyboard for any composer, producer, and musician.:

The MKII is a great improvement, with the addition of new features (MIDI-Input) and better compatibility with DAWs. I can recommend KeyLab 88 to everyone who looks for a MIDI piano controller in the high class, which is suitable for all-around use in studios or live shows.

21th Century Composers

The composers of the 20th century mostly composed for three or four instruments, and then had to conduct or play themselves at their own concerts. They were expected to be mini-multitasking machines.

In the 21st century, we’re more likely to collaborate with many musicians and singers. As a result, we need more time and space for our music.

As the composer, you’ll play a different role at different points in your career. If you’re starting out as a composer (or if you already are) it’s essential to learn about: Your instrumentation and all the parts of your music that sound best on that instrumentation.

21th Century Composers
21th Century Composers

How those parts work together; And how those parts contribute ruly a masterpiece of art, KeyLab 88 MkII Top Notch. Rent or buy one and you will not regret it – no matter that is your first MIDI Keyboard Controller or 100th, you’re guaranteed to be pleased with the design and functionality.

Trying to choose the right 88 MIDI Keyboard Controller can be overwhelming. With so many on the market, it can be hard to determine which one is best for your needs. If you’re looking for an authentic professional full-size piano keyboard, the KeyLab 88 MKII is a great option.

Conclusion

The following is a summary of the content above. The KeyLab 88 MKII is an authentic professional full-size piano keyboard that provides immediate access to hit-making sounds and more.

To supplement the KeyLab mkII, Arturia offers overlay templates that allow users to map settings on the KeyLab mkII to Native Instrument’s DAW environments. To top it all off, support for DAWs is steadily improving too. out of five stars.

The KeyLab 88 MKII is an authentic professional full-size piano keyboard that provides immediate access to hit-making sounds and more. Your DAW will be the destination for editing and creating your next masterpiece and paired with Arturia Analog Lab, you will have all the synthesis power at your fingertips.

The KeyLab 88 MKII is a good keyboard for music. It has sounds and other things you can use to make music. You can edit the music on your computer and it is easy to use!

The KeyLab MKII can be connected directly to your modular or semi-modular synthesizer. You can use the 5 pin DIN MIDI ports for control and also send Gate and CV signals directly from the controller. The Arturia online community some users have asked if the KeyLab MKII is able to send CV/Gate directly from a modular analog synthesizer.

Rating: Five out of five stars

I absolutely love the full-size 88 keys piano-like midi controller. Arturia’s choice to use for the Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII (Affiliate Link) a Professional Digital Piano Keybed makes all the difference and puts this Keyboard in the first spot.

You get at a reasonable price a leading full-size Keyboard with an extraordinary keybed to write your next compositions or perform live.

The Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII (Affiliate Link) features the best, authentic grand piano feeling enabled by the Fatar TP100LR 88-note hammer-action keybed with aftertouch. Combining the Fatar with Arturia Keyboard layout and design makes the Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII (Affiliate Link) a clear winner and leading Keyboard.

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