Pricing and availability

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Sweetwater
4.0 (18)
$249.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (7)
$209.00 $169.00 $40.00 · All time low
Amazon
4.5 (147)
Used
Reverb
$168.59 New
$120.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$249.00
B&H
5.0 (1)
$219.00
Thomann
4.8 (43)
$175.00 $166.00 $9.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£185.00

Average Price: $192

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Arturia Keylab Essential 49 Mk3 Midi Keyboard Controller Black". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Presenting the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 Midi Keyboard Controller, a game-changer in the realm of music production and performance. With a sleek, modern design and enhanced creative workflow, this keyboard controller is designed to enhance the setup of any musician or producer, regardless of their musical style. It's not just about the look and feel, this controller is a powerhouse when it comes to functionality, featuring MIDI out and USB power for seamless integration into your setup.

One of the standout features of the KeyLab Essential mk3 is its deep DAW compatibility. This feature allows it to effortlessly integrate with popular software like Analog Lab V, Pigments, and V Collection. Plus, it doesn't require complex configuration or menu diving to operate, making it an accessible and enjoyable tool for music making.

The KeyLab Essential mk3 is much more than just a keyboard controller. It's an instrument that breaks down creative barriers, empowering musicians to take their music making to the next level.

Key Features:

  • 49 velocity-sensitive keys
  • 8 Velocity-sensitive RGB-lit pads
  • 1 Detented encoder
  • 9 Rotary knobs
  • 9 Faders
  • Transport section with 4 function keys
  • 2.5" LC display
  • Pitch bend and modulation wheel
  • Scale mode
  • Chord mode
  • Arpeggiator
  • Mackie/HUI Control compatible
  • 2000 Presets via Analog Lab
  • 1 Control pedal input: 6.3 mm jack
  • MIDI output: 5-pin DIN
  • 1 USB-C connector (supplies power as well as MIDI and control information)
  • USB class compliant
  • Colour: Black
  • Incl. Ableton Live Lite, Arturia Analog Lab, UVI Model D Grand Piano, NI The Gentleman Upright Piano as well as a subscription for Loopcloud (2 months) and Melodics (unlimited trial subscription + bonus lessons)

Product specs

Available since May 2023
Aftertouch No
Split Zones 0
Layer function No
Pitch Bend / Modulation Yes
Rotary Encoder 9
Fader 9
Pads 8
Display Yes
MIDI Interface 1x Out
Sustain Pedal Connection Yes
USB-port Yes
Mains Operation No
Battery Operation No
Bus-Powered Yes
Dimensions 790 x 240 x 70
Weight in kg 2,8 kg
Special Features incl. Ableton Live Lite, Arturia Analog Lab, UVI Model D Grand Piano, NI The Gentleman Upright Piano and 2 Months Loopcloud and Melodics (Endless Test Account + Bonus Lessons)

FAQs

What DAWs are compatible with the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3?

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 is designed to integrate seamlessly with major DAWs like Ableton Live, which is included. It also works well with other popular DAWs such as Logic Pro, FL Studio, and Cubase, making it versatile for various music production setups.

Does the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 MIDI Keyboard Controller have aftertouch?

No, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 does not feature aftertouch. However, it offers other expressive controls including pitch bend, modulation wheels, and 8 velocity-sensitive pads.

What software is included with the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3?

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 comes with a comprehensive software package including Arturia Analog Lab V, Ableton Live Lite, UVI Model D Grand Piano, and a choice of Native Instruments Komplete 15 Select bundles. It also offers subscriptions to Loopcloud and Melodics.

Is the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 is suitable for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and included software, which provides a wide range of sounds and tools to start music production right away.

Can the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 be powered via USB?

Yes, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 is bus-powered, meaning it can be powered directly through a USB connection without the need for an external power supply.

Arturia

Arturia

KeyLab Essential mk3 | Keys For Modern Creatives | ARTURIA

Video thumbnail for KeyLab Essential mk3 | Keys For Modern Creatives | ARTURIA by Arturia

KeyLab Essential mk3 | Keys For Modern Creatives | ARTURIA

Arturia

Arturia

Video thumbnail for Keylab Essential mk3 Thoughts After One Week by Free Beat

Keylab Essential mk3 Thoughts After One Week

Free Beat

Free Beat

Video thumbnail for Arturia KeyLab Essential MKIII Play Through by Professor Dirt

Arturia KeyLab Essential MKIII Play Through

Professor Dirt

Professor Dirt

Video thumbnail for The BEST Budget MIDI Keyboard 2023 | Arturia KeyLab Essential MK3 Review by Al Be

The BEST Budget MIDI Keyboard 2023 | Arturia KeyLab Essential MK3 Review

Al Be

Al Be

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Arturia Keylab Essential 49 Mk3 Midi Keyboard Controller Black.

Build quality

  • The Keylab Essential Mk3's keybed action feels plasticky, leading to discomfort during extended playing, especially for pianists accustomed to weighted or semi-weighted keys.

    Source
  • Some users find the knobs and faders on the Keylab Essential 49 Mk3 to feel flimsy, impacting the tactile experience during performance.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Despite having a screen, adjustments like velocity curves require the Midi Control Center app, which frustrates users seeking on-board configuration.

    Source
  • Velocity sensitivity is consistent across white and black keys, enhancing playability and control.

    Source
  • The middle dial on the Keylab Essential 49 Mk3 only interacts with Arturia's software, limiting its use for MIDI CC mapping.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users experience dropped notes during light play, even after extensive velocity curve adjustments, making it unsuitable for pianists seeking a responsive feel.

    Source
  • Owners praise the keyboard's sensitivity, as it registers even the slightest touch, offering a nuanced playing experience.

    Source
  • Some users report frustration due to the lack of aftertouch on the Keylab Essential models, highlighting its absence as a downside for expressive playing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Arturia Keylab MKII is noted for having a semi-weighted action, although its keybed quality is still criticized when compared to high-end options like Fatar keybeds.

    Source
  • The iRig Keys Pro is mentioned as having a very light, fully unweighted action, but lacks the features and build quality found in larger controllers like the Keylab Essential Mk3.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Bundled with Analog Lab software, the Keylab Essential Mk3 offers additional value, enhancing its appeal as a budget-friendly option.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Keylab Essential 49 Mk3 integrates well with Studio One, but users note the need for additional setup steps to ensure smooth operation.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The controller excels in integration with Arturia's Analog Lab, Pigments, and V Collection synths, offering pre-mapped and labeled controls for a streamlined workflow.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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