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Guitar Center
4.5 (19)
$209.00
Reverb
5.0 (18)
$161.78 New
$75.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$209.00

Average Price: $164

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Arturia Essential 49 Black". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Dive into a world of musical creativity with the Arturia Essential 49 Black. This versatile MIDI controller is designed for musicians who crave seamless integration with Arturia's renowned virtual instruments. Whether you're composing in the studio or performing on stage, the Essential 49 offers a tactile experience that bridges the gap between your musical ideas and reality. With its intuitive layout, you're granted immediate access to an array of controls, enabling you to manipulate your sound with precision.

The Essential 49 is more than just a keyboard; it’s your entry point into an expansive universe of sound design. Its 49 velocity-sensitive keys offer a natural playing feel, while the onboard encoders, faders, and transport controls provide comprehensive command over your DAW and plugins. The standout feature is its seamless compatibility with Arturia's Analog Lab software, granting you access to over 6,000 presets of meticulously crafted sounds, from vintage keys to modern synth textures. This controller is as much about playability as it is about inspiration.

Whether you're a seasoned producer or an aspiring musician, the Arturia Essential 49 Black is engineered to enhance your workflow and elevate your music production.

Key Features:

  • 49 velocity-sensitive keys for expressive play
  • Seamless integration with Arturia Analog Lab software
  • 8 backlit pads for dynamic beat-making and triggering samples
  • 9 faders and 9 rotary knobs for precise control over your DAW and virtual instruments
  • Dedicated transport controls for efficient session navigation
  • USB connectivity for plug-and-play operation with Mac and PC
  • Compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio

Product specs

Brand Arturia
Model KeyLab Essential 49 Black Edition MIDI Controller, KeyLab Essential 49 MIDI Controller
Finish Black, White
Year 2017 - 2025
Made In France
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 49 Keys
Number of Pads 8 Pads

FAQs

Does the Arturia Essential 49 Black have weighted keys?

The Arturia Essential 49 Black features a 49-key synth action keybed, which is not weighted. This makes it ideal for synthesizer-style playing and quick transitions, rather than the feel of a traditional piano.

What software is included with the Arturia Essential 49 Black?

The Arturia Essential 49 Black comes with Analog Lab software, providing access to over 6,500 preset sounds, and Ableton Live Lite, which is perfect for music production and live performance.

How does the Arturia Essential 49 Black connect to a computer?

The Arturia Essential 49 Black connects to a computer via USB, which provides both MIDI data transfer and power, eliminating the need for an external power supply.

Can the Arturia Essential 49 Black control external hardware?

Yes, the Arturia Essential 49 Black features a MIDI Out port, allowing you to connect and control external hardware and sound modules.

Are the pads on the Arturia Essential 49 Black velocity-sensitive?

Yes, the Arturia Essential 49 Black includes dual-function RGB performance pads that are velocity-sensitive, providing expressive control for drumming and triggering samples.

Is the Arturia Essential 49 Black compatible with DAWs?

The Arturia Essential 49 Black offers DAW control with full Mackie/HUI command support, making it compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and more.

Reviews

PROS

  • Seamless integration with Logic Pro X and Mainstage

  • Full-size keys for comfortable playing experience

  • Offers extensive controls with faders and pads

  • Comes with a valuable software package

  • Affordable price point under $200

  • Sturdy enough to withstand regular use

  • Facilitates creative workflow as a stand-alone synth

  • Suitable for both beginners and experienced users

  • MIDI out jack for versatile connectivity

  • User-friendly interface with Analog Lab

CONS

  • Plastic construction feels weak and flimsy

  • Some functions may not perform as claimed

  • Optional power feature requires USB connection

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Arturia Essential 49 Black.

Software and compatibility

  • Arturia transfers software to new owners if provided with a photo of the serial number and activation code, facilitating secondhand purchases.

    Source
  • Integration with Arturia’s Analog Lab and V Collection is seamless, but mapping to Logic’s stock instruments can be challenging and unreliable.

    Source
  • To use VSTs, the original owner must unregister the device, allowing the new owner to register it and access software downloads.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The mk1 Keylab is noted for superior hardware quality compared to newer Essential models, despite lacking some modern features.

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Features and functionality

  • Keylab Essential models include Analog Lab Pro software, valued at $200, enhancing their appeal for those without existing software.

    Source

User experience

  • Arturia's customer service is frequently praised for prompt license transfers, making used purchases more viable.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The inclusion of Analog Lab Pro with new purchases offers significant value, equating to the keyboard's price.

    Source
  • Owners often recommend purchasing a new unit for bundled software value, despite the lower price of used options.

    Source

Build quality

  • Rotary controls are perceived as cheap and flimsy, contrasting with the overall good quality of keys and pads.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Analog Lab is highlighted as an exceptional starting VST for new users, enhancing the MIDI controller's appeal.

    Source

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