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Average Price: $194
Budget/Beginner
$200
$501+
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Arturia KeyLab Essential 49". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash your creative potential with the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49, a robust MIDI Keyboard Controller that seamlessly integrates with your music production setup. This versatile instrument boasts a full-sized, synth-action 49-key keybed, offering the perfect blend of light weight convenience and sturdy feel. Tailored to enhance your workflow, it features a comprehensive DAW control area and a central screen section for instant access to over 5000 Analog Lab presets.
With the KeyLab Essential 49, you get more than just a keyboard. It is equipped with all the knobs, sliders, and pads you could dream of. Its unique feature is the 8 mappings assignations, allowing you to switch between settings in a flash. This MIDI controller isn't just about performance; it's also about giving you control over your music.
Bundled with Ableton Live Lite, UVI Grand Piano Model D, and Arturia's award-winning Analog Lab 2, the KeyLab Essential 49 is a powerhouse of creativity and control.
Key Features: - Full-sized, synth-action 49-key keybed - Comprehensive DAW control area - Instant access to over 5000 Analog Lab presets - 8 mappings assignations for quick setting changes - Includes Ableton Live Lite, UVI Grand Piano Model D, and Arturia's Analog Lab 2 - Comprehensive music software bundle included - Pitch bend & modulation wheels - Transposition by semitones & octaves - 8 RGB back-lit, multi-purpose performance pads - 9 faders & rotary encoders - DAW Command Center & transport section - 6 fully-customizable user memories - "Chord play" mode - Twin-line LCD screen - Class-compliant USB, enabling use with iOS and Android devices - Optional sustain pedal and DC power supply
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
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Does the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 have weighted keys?
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The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 features a synth-action keybed, which is not weighted but offers a responsive playing experience suitable for a variety of music styles.
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What software is included with the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49?
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The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 comes bundled with a selection of software, including Analog Lab, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano Model D, providing a comprehensive suite for music production.
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How does the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 connect to a computer?
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The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 connects to a computer via USB, allowing for seamless integration with DAWs and other music software.
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Is the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 compatible with Ableton Live?
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Yes, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is compatible with Ableton Live and includes Ableton Live Lite, making it easy to start creating right away.
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How many pads does the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 have?
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The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 features 8 velocity-sensitive pads, which can be used for triggering samples, loops, or beats.
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Can the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 be used for live performances?
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Yes, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is well-suited for live performances with its robust build, intuitive controls, and versatile software integration.
Reviews
PROS
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Integrates seamlessly with popular DAWs like Logic Pro and Mainstage
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Full-size keys provide a better playing experience
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Comes with a comprehensive software package enhancing value
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Durable build can withstand use by children
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Features lots of assignable pads/knobs/faders for extensive control
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MIDI out jack allows for control of hardware or patch through to other MIDI devices
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Great for beginners with user-friendly interface and functions
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Feels more substantial compared to other entry-level controllers
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Tight software integration for enhanced control and creativity
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Suitable for live and studio use with a solid and responsive key feel
CONS
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Feels lightweight and may seem cheap to some
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Pads lack firmness and responsiveness desired by some users
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Requires some MIDI knowledge for full feature utilization
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Knobs and faders may feel loose and come off easily
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Not ideal for rigorous gigging due to build quality
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Arturia KeyLab Essential 49.
Build quality
Features and functionality
User experience
Comparisons
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The KeyLab Essential's keybed is unfavorably compared to the Fatar TP/9 series, which is praised for its superior feel.
Source -
The Arturia KeyLab Essential's keybed is critiqued as inferior to other models like the iRig Keys Pro, despite the latter's lower price and build quality.
Source -
Compared unfavorably to the Novation Launchkey, which is noted for better build quality and features for Ableton users.
Source
Software and compatibility
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 8 Reviews and 38 Ratings
140
Easy to use, nice compact setup, smooth knobs and faders, and the keys and pads are very responsive.
Very easy to setup and use in conjunction with Arutrias Analog Lab VST collection of Vintage Synths, Organs, Pianos, and Modular Synths. Huge collection and super easy to program, edit, and add effects. Works seamless with the Analog Lab v3.0 which I have currently setup.
Fantastic master controller on a budget
Lots of assignable pads/knobs/faders, great DAW integration, plays nice with Analog Lab 4 right out of the box. 49 keys sounds small but it feels plenty big enough for me. Love it.
115
Incredible MIDI controller
I love this MIDI controller because it's great for rave stabs and finger drumming.
Preferred Settings + Usage:
Chord button and drum pads
137
Too New to Rate
I recently purchased this from Amazon and waiting on delivery. I'll update my review and rating once I've had a chance to check it out.
First MIDI KEYBOARD
The best MIDI KEYBOARD for beginner musicians. has many functions m user settings for convenient operation.
159
Artist usage
Add artist.jpg?v=1783050947)
In the YouTube video titled "How Jon Bellion Changed Music Forever, Then Walked Away" by Daniel Wall, Jon Bellion can be seen with the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 next to him on his basement home studio desk.
In the music video for Discoteque, Pavel is using his Arturia Keylab Essential 49 for synth sounds. He is also using this in his live performances and rehearsals as seen in the band's Instagram stories.
Used during Newsboys United Tour 2019
At 0:27 in this video Amp Fiddler can be seen in front of his Arturia Keylab Essentials 49
In this Instagram post we can see ARTURIA KEYLAB ESSENTIAL 49
During this presentation he is using this midi controller. More clearly appreciated on 11:49
In this Instagram video, Ziger is seen using the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 during a studio session with @jim_k_athens.
Album Usage
The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Arturia KeyLab Essential 49, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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