Arturia Keystep vs. MiniLab MKII

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7 жыл бұрын

►Please support me on Patreon if you enjoy my content: www.patreon.com/synthanatomy?...
►Arturia launched in the last month two very affordable portable midi controllers. To offer you a compact overview, I show you the differences and main features. The reason for producing this videos comes from user questions: should I buy a MiniLab or a Keystep.
► More Informations here:
www.arturia.com/products/keys...
www.arturia.com/minilab-mkii/...
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Пікірлер: 98

@2112jonr 6 жыл бұрын

A useful comparison between the two controllers. I'd narrowed my choice already to these two, but your clear, fact based video has helped me decide on the Keystep. Thank you for making this, it was very useful to me. Subscribed. :)

@cgawainf4785 3 жыл бұрын

I have both. Bought Minilab II originally and found it great for control of Analog Lab with the encoders. When I got a hardware synth, I needed the Keystep. I use them both.

@clioem 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the review; very useful info about both!

@GiI11 4 жыл бұрын

This was super helpful, thanks!

@Zaubrer488 6 жыл бұрын

wondering which is the best option to just jam around on my iPad at home. I think there are more possibilities with the KeyStep but I am not sure

@mikeexits 4 жыл бұрын

Got the keystep for laptop + external synths, realized it doesn't fit in my backpack let alone my laptop bag, so I think I'm gonna be owning both pretty soon. :)

@fradomenico5030 3 жыл бұрын

first ofall thanks for talking slowly, easy to understand.very good and synthetic review.keystep seems to me the best solution,to compose and make songs "home made"lots of plugings can compensate other features of minilab.keystep seems to be a more "evolutive" solution

@fishpotpete 2 жыл бұрын

Good video. I recently discovered the Minilab - but I already have the Keystep. Your video covered the exact questions I had when I thought about the MiniLab. For me the Keystep is the perfect tool for my setup. but I can definitely see how useful the MiniLab would be in a live performance. Since you can get either one for about $100, it really boils down to what you want to do with it... Or just buy both and figure it out for yourself. They're both super affordable!

@isaacbasil 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks. They are still very decent controllers even till today. I'm tempted to get the Key Step and Beat Step.

@ceniza_honey 3 жыл бұрын

I have a regular beatstep and I'm thinking of getting a keystep for the sync and the aftertouch.

@vincenturies7422 6 жыл бұрын

Now that was a Great summery, straightforward and right to the point, with only clear and valuable information. This is the first review I have ever seen where 0% of my time was wasted. You literally answered all my questions about both products. Flawless, you get 5 out of 5 stars for this review, an A+ at 100%. You gained a new subscriber.

@jonvincentmusic 6 жыл бұрын

Aftertouch on the Keystep swung the decision for me, even though I use it solely as a USB MIDI controller.

@CapitaineBleuten 3 жыл бұрын

Very helpful, thanks !

@valdiskrebs566 6 жыл бұрын

I wish the Keystep had a row of assignable knobs across the top ... then it would be perfect for iOS apps!

@zilchgott 6 жыл бұрын

Awesome review! Just recently bought my Keystep but I am having problems with it. MIDI CC would not recognise my Keystep. Can you please help me? Thanks

@lifesweb 7 жыл бұрын

thank you for the great review!!

@synthanatomy 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your support and your comment :)

@donvittoriosierra 4 жыл бұрын

Can the 16 channels on the keystep be assigned to separate midi tracks on a daw using different instruments on each channel?

@matirojasc 3 жыл бұрын

What did you use to record your voice? It sounds soo good

@liljimmyyo5851 7 жыл бұрын

Great video. I got the Minilab MK2 yesterday and im loving it. Very good for the price.

@synthanatomy 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your comment :) Great to hear

@4thNebula 2 жыл бұрын

Would love to have a midi controller that has 32 or 37 keys with aftertouch like the Keystep but the all in one with a laptop like the Minilab. I don't need a sequencer. So, neither is the ideal for me. 32 or 37 keys seems the perfect desktop/travel solution.

@maxencemiller6059 2 жыл бұрын

37 touch without séquencer ? Do you need pads ?

@javierz.c.7518 3 жыл бұрын

i bought the mk2 for the "all in one" stuff, i don't have any external gear

@montxsuz 3 жыл бұрын

Good review thanks. My question is this though. I own Arturia software already (not hardware). How can I combine the sequencer and creative features of Keystep to the software integration of Minilab? Should I go for the MiniLab + Keystep or hope for a possible enhanced Keylab Mk3?

@deletadoparasempre 3 жыл бұрын

I have been wondering the same! Have you find a way to use sequencer/arpeggiator with Minilab trough software?

@waffletube5707 5 жыл бұрын

I don't have any other gear, other than a laptop, but I'm still leaning towards the Keystep. I like the idea of the sequencer and arpeggiator (even though I can probably use garage band for that purpose if I went with the Minilab?), but still undecided. Minilab seems fun, but the Keystep seems like it has more room for adding components if I wanted to add something like a Volta down the line. and I don't really see the need for the drum pads. I'm not trying to be swizz beatz.

@DarrylMcGee 7 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the comparison. I find it frustrating to choose a mini-controller. I don't know why Arturia made the Mini-Lab without the Keystep functionality. Cost I suppose. I can only hope the make a super Keystep with the knobs and pads. In the meantime, I think the Akai MPK mini is a pretty nice alternative for a USB only solution as it has an arpeggiator. The Korg LPK25 is also interesting for the mobile musician, with Bluetooth as an option.

@synthanatomy 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your comment ;) It's the AKAI LPK25 ;)

@DarrylMcGee 7 жыл бұрын

Oops, I was thinking Korg Nanokey Studio and the LPK25 snuck into my brain, the other Bluetooth option. Not sure about the Nanokey key pad things... I'll have to touch them to judge.

@joaogimenez3230 5 жыл бұрын

@schtickkicker 7 жыл бұрын

It'd be really really nice if the Minilab had the I/O spec of the keylab.

@synthanatomy 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your comment :) This would be nice but for that price, it's fair to have only USB ;)

@schtickkicker 7 жыл бұрын

I suppose so. How much could adding even just actual MIDI functionality and a dedicated power input cost, though?

@moimeme1640 10 ай бұрын

curious about why there is not comparison between arturia keystep 37 vs keylab 49?

@deletadoparasempre 3 жыл бұрын

bought the minilab mk2 and now I miss the sequencer/arpeggiator from keystep... I wish I had watched this video before buying :(

@Zekushion6 6 жыл бұрын

Have both the same key size? And Keystep found on Analog Lab 3?

@synthanatomy 6 жыл бұрын

Hello Guille ;) The key size/form is the same, The KeyStep has 32 keys, the MiniLab 2 25 keys. Keystep doesn't come with software, MiniLab 2 comes with Analog Lab Lite not the full version. Cheers ;)

@maxencemiller6059 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your video, i have keystep37 for my home station and i m waiting for a minilab for travel on iPad. But i Think it s too big in a bag…. Another One after… microlab for travel ? Thanks a lot

@GONZOFAM7 5 жыл бұрын

I'd like to see the keystep up to 61 keys plus the features of the minilab MKII.

@slave138 4 жыл бұрын

Sounds like you want a KeyLab 61 Mk II www.arturia.com/products/hybrid-synths/keylab-mkii/overview

@rafalvarenga 4 жыл бұрын

im looking for a midi keyboard to control a volca keys and its being hell trying to find one. everybody says its midi when in fact its usb....

@synthanatomy 4 жыл бұрын

Try a keystep should work fine :)

@rafalvarenga 4 жыл бұрын

@@synthanatomy exactly. :)

@Strongbear2013 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the helpful review. Does the keystep also have a USB port or can it only plug into MIDI sockets? I want to be able to control my drum program (EZ drummer) on my laptop. If the keystep doesn't have pads, can I still control it and drum with the keys? Or is it not that effective? How well will the keystep work with a DAW? Is the Minilab like a combination of the Keystep and Beatstep but just smaller with fewer keys and pads? Does the Keystep come with that Grand Piano software package like the Minilab? If not, what are the Keystep piano sounds like? thanks

@synthanatomy 6 жыл бұрын

Hi. Both keyboards doesn't make sound, they are just MIDI controller. The keystep can send out CV/Gate message also for analog Synthesizers/modular synths. The Keystep is more the keyboard for notes because it has a built-in arpeggiator/sequencer. All controllers works nicely with DAW's that why they are mainly made for. MiniLab is a simple MIDI keyboard with keys, pads and controllers. No arp or sequencer. So not really a combination. No keystep doesn't have additional software included.

@Strongbear2013 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the reply. I know that both keyboards don't make the sound themselves. I was wondering though if it came with a piano program like the MiniLab, but obviously it doesn't. What kind of piano program would you use for the Keystep then to produce the sounds (similar to the Grand Piano software)? Does the Keystep require me to have to purchase a separate piano software (or for other virtual instruments) in order to get the sounds I want? What's the advantage of the drum pads on the Minilab compared to tapping out a rhythm on the keys if I used the Keystep to control a drum program? Is it just as easy to tap out on keys? And does the Keystep have the USB socket like the Minilab to connect to my laptop or is the only way I can connect it via MIDI leads (ie through the MIDI socket and into an audio interface)? Thanks.

@isaacbasil 5 жыл бұрын

@@Strongbear2013 Both KeyStep and Minilab come with USB terminal and can be connected to your laptop/ computer.

@roudrosakibkarim2161 4 жыл бұрын

Does the Keystep come with Analog Lab Lite like the Minilab mk2 does?

@synthanatomy 4 жыл бұрын

no, extra software. Only the Keystep Black Edition comes with 2 cables + Ableton Live Lite

@slave138 4 жыл бұрын

I have a standard white Keystep and it also came with Ableton Live Lite.

@JimJWalker 7 жыл бұрын

Just got a Minilab. The knobs and pads will insure I can make adjustments to virtual instruments on stage without menu diving into my PUSH 2. 16 knobs on a mini controller is just great. The Analog Lab and other software are of no real interest as I already have more VI than I can use.

@JimJWalker 5 жыл бұрын

After owning Minilab MK2 for a year I cannot recommend it. It is too hard to use these knobs with anything other than Analog Lab, Any CC assignments for using the knobs and button with other things must be saved and loaded as a preset Arturia's proprietary MIDI Control Software, and cannot be saved in a DAW session. That is a huge PITA.

@obezijana 5 жыл бұрын

thanks@@JimJWalker

@deletadoparasempre 3 жыл бұрын

@@JimJWalker with the recent firmware updates, they fixed this issue with the knobs ;)

@alisonmorre3098 6 жыл бұрын

Keystep + Beatstep [Pro] ... ... ... or Keystep + eg Novation Launchkey Mini (or 25/49/61). Then you have MIDI, modular control, big keys and pitch & modulation wheels (larger Launchkeys), Ableton control (any Launchkey) well covered ... for as little as 200 - 250 (Keystep + Launchkey Mini), with a selection of good software from Ableton Live/Novation/Arturia ... :)

@mikeexits 5 жыл бұрын

I used to own the Launchkey 49. It was nice at first, but the Ableton connection was finicky. Half the time it worked perfectly, the other half only the keyboard would work. I'd restart my daw and computer and it would work, again, half of the time. Plus the build quality is pretty bad, especially on the keyboard. I personally wouldn't recommend the Launchkey to anyone, unless they don't mind those things *and* it's available for a steep discount.

@ArtinRu 5 жыл бұрын

keystep + homemade controller on the Arduino with midi entrance and exit for $ 20 ))))

@brooklynhitz 4 жыл бұрын

Does the MiniLab have chord mode?

@XconsigliereX 4 жыл бұрын

Good questions but it seems to have fallen upon deaf ears...

@ireadysucks3026 3 жыл бұрын

no, unless I have just been ignoring a very important feature of my midi

@johnoakes7922 5 жыл бұрын

How does someone with no experience get the Arturia keystep to work in Windows 10....Not a single video on youtube to show how this installs and works in windows. Right now I have a $118 paper weight. The users manual is useless unless your an experienced user. I just want to make some noise...Why things have to be so difficult? This should be plug and play or step by step instructions on getting this to work in windows....Any help or a video on the subject would be helpful....thanks in advance.

@selimshakur3189 5 жыл бұрын

Maybe you should register your product on arturia's website and it will make you download the right software to use it. I did that with my minilab

@johnoakes7922 5 жыл бұрын

@@selimshakur3189 that's what I needed to do. Working now, TY!!!

5 жыл бұрын

Buy both.

@backpackingvillager1480 4 жыл бұрын

Which one to go for to create Psychedelic Rock Music and classical Japanese 60s music?

@synthanatomy 4 жыл бұрын

if you want to make sequences, than go with the Keystep which includes an arpeggiator and sequencer

@backpackingvillager1480 4 жыл бұрын

@@synthanatomy but it doesn't produce sound as It is just sound controller rite? Then what device creates sound as the way i want to create? Without any instruments.

@synthanatomy 4 жыл бұрын

@@backpackingvillager1480 it's a MIDI keyboard, it doesn't produce sound! There are thousands of virtual instrument plugins available on PC/Mac which can be loaded in any DAW from free to payware. Check www.synthanatomy.com, the free software section where you can find many free stuff.

@backpackingvillager1480 4 жыл бұрын

@@synthanatomy thanks i'll have some look onto it

@ImplosiveCatt 3 жыл бұрын

The only reason to buy Minilab would be knob controls and drum pads. Everything else + a lot more you get with Keystep.

@HathorRa 7 жыл бұрын

hm keystep+beatstep seems better than mk2

7 жыл бұрын

went for that option and i am not sorry.

@synthanatomy 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your comment :) It's a good combination :)

@sorcey6957 7 жыл бұрын

it also costs way more than just a mk2. though if you were going to get a beatstep anyway than the keystep is better. if you just want a good all rounder then the minilab is good

@djilyaz 5 жыл бұрын

An arpeggiator is cool, but is not needed if you are working in the computer, like me, and so mk2 would be better, but looking at akai too.

@lifesweb 7 жыл бұрын

I have had the mkii for about a week now, and it has been a disappointing week. first of all the knobs do not have the same resistance, some are more loose then others. also the biggest problem. the keybed is the worst that I have experience, same as the knobs some of the keys do not have the same sensitivity. furthermore, they are super stiff, and sometimes some of the keys don't register. I plan on getting an exchange, and if that does not resolve the issue, I will just buy from another company. I had high hopes that arturia would make a better product. anyways I hope that you guys have a better experience with the mkii.

@synthanatomy 7 жыл бұрын

The knobs are this way, sorry that you experience this. One of my highlights is the new keybed which works fine at my device because if you compare it with the MKI, it's a big difference. It's maybe a problem on your unit.

@lifesweb 7 жыл бұрын

Synth Anatomy I have read online that these are common issues, maybe the quality control is very low at their factories. I will exchange it.

@synthanatomy 7 жыл бұрын

Ok interesting. Thanks for the comment, I will check this out maybe with them because I was beta tester for this device. I had not that heavy problems.

@joaogimenez3230 5 жыл бұрын

@stanL9 3 жыл бұрын

Microlab ?

@888Winkler Жыл бұрын

Aah das iz gud ja.

@Arperture 7 жыл бұрын

Keystep is a much better option than the mk2. Don't let the knobs and pads fool you. The Minilab is pretty crappy...sold mine.

@synthanatomy 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your comments :) I love also more the Keystep :)

@Sh4rkSkin 7 жыл бұрын

That's not true, it will depend on the usage you aim. -For me the key step is in first place an instrument with Sequencer and Arpeggiator, thus a combination with other instruments such as Synths, would be the best added value. It also aims a live performance. -The Minilab, it's a controller (all in one transportable)and thus makes your life a lot easier dealing with DAW and other SW synths. It aims a fine tuning and post processing of samples or tracks as well as slow paced exploration and thus is not suitable for live performances. That's of course is only my opinion but the beginers looking for ableton exploration, go straight forward with minilab ;)

@vincenturies7422 6 жыл бұрын

SYNTH ANATOMY Now that was a Great summery, straightforward and right to the point, with only clear and valuable information. This is the first review I have ever seen where 0% of my time was wasted. You literally answered all my questions about both products. Flawless, you get 5 out of 5 stars for this review, an A+ at 100%. You gained a new subscriber.

@2112jonr 6 жыл бұрын

Well said, exactly the same reasons I subscribed too.

@joaogimenez3230 5 жыл бұрын

@malcolmbliss777 7 жыл бұрын

I have many Arturia items, the minibrute, keylab 49, spark, sparkle, and the minilab mk II. I use it all with a mac book pro, except the sparkle and the mk II, which I use on an iPad mini 2. Well, I try to use the mk II. Actually, it does not work on the iPad at all. I have tried many many many different and expensive fixes. I have bought 3 apple camera cords $120, a powered USB hub $50, assorted USB cables $50, and it still does not work with the iPad. The iPad says it does not recognize the mk II. Long story short, I bought the keystep today because it seems to be made for the iPad, as it has its own power supply. Here's hoping. It arrives next week. If u plan on using yer keyboard with an iPad, stay away from the mk II. It does not work.

@synthanatomy 7 жыл бұрын

Hey Malcom, you have written me already the same story, please let us discuss on the posting. Thanks ;)