Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $100

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition, a compact MIDI keyboard controller that doesn’t compromise on functionality. Ideal for musicians on the move or those with limited space, this portable powerhouse is your gateway to a world of sound exploration. With its sleek design and intuitive controls, this MIDI controller offers a hands-on approach to music creation, making it a staple in any studio setup.

Experience the tactile sensation of 25 velocity-sensitive slim-keys, designed to capture every nuance of your performance. The MiniLab MK II is loaded with 16 full-size rotary encoders and two banks of velocity-sensitive RGB backlit performance pads, offering versatile options to manipulate your sound seamlessly. Its pitch and modulation touch-strip controls elevate your musical expression, allowing you to craft intricate melodies with ease.

The MiniLab MK II doesn’t just stop at hardware; it comes bundled with a suite of software that propels your music production. Analog Lab Lite brings over 500 sounds, encompassing everything from classic synths and iconic keyboards to cutting-edge modern soundscapes. Additionally, the inclusion of Ableton Live Lite ensures you have a robust platform for composing, recording, and performing your tracks.

With USB bus-power and a footswitch input, this controller is built for both studio and stage, ensuring you have the tools you need wherever inspiration strikes.

Key Features:

  • 25 velocity-sensitive slim-keys
  • 16 full-size rotary encoders
  • Two banks of velocity-sensitive RGB backlit performance pads
  • Pitch and modulation touch-strip controls
  • USB bus-powered with footswitch input
  • Includes Analog Lab Lite with 500+ sounds
  • Bundled with Ableton Live Lite for comprehensive music production

FAQs

Is the Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition compatible with iPads?

Yes, the Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition is compatible with iPads. You can connect it using an Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit, and it can be powered directly from the iPad.

What software is included with the Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition?

The Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition comes with Analog Lab Lite, Ableton Live 9 Lite, and UVI Grand Piano Model D software, providing a wide range of sounds and music production capabilities.

How many keys does the Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition have?

The Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition features 25 velocity-sensitive keys, allowing for expressive playing and compact portability.

Does the Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition require an external power supply?

No, the Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition is USB-powered, eliminating the need for an external power supply and making it convenient for use with laptops and mobile devices.

How does the Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition integrate with DAWs?

The Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition integrates seamlessly with popular DAWs like Ableton Live, offering pre-mapped controls and easy setup for smooth music production workflows.

John Mike

John Mike

Midi In Black! |Arturia MiniLab MKII(Black Edition) Review!|

Video thumbnail for Midi In Black! |Arturia MiniLab MKII(Black Edition) Review!| by John Mike

Midi In Black! |Arturia MiniLab MKII(Black Edition) Review!|

John Mike

John Mike

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition.

Features and functionality

  • The Arturia MiniLab MK II comes with Analog Lab software and a demo version of Ableton, enhancing its utility beyond just a controller.

    Source
  • The Essential 88's issues with key pressure towards the back end make it challenging for music with numerous sharps/flats, highlighting a design flaw not present in the MiniLab.

    Source
  • The MiniLab's pads can be set to "note mode," allowing users to load and play a drum rack directly from the controller.

    Source

User experience

  • After three months of use, owners report no significant issues, indicating reliable performance for beginners.

    Source
  • Owners found the MiniLab's key action favorable compared to the Essential 88, citing better dynamic control and less fatigue during play.

    Source
  • Despite initial positive impressions, some users reported increasing dissatisfaction with the Essential 88 over time, likening it to uncomfortable shoes after extended use.

    Source
  • Beginners may find the learning curve steep, requiring manual reading and guidance to fully utilize the MiniLab's capabilities in a DAW setup.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users who own both the MiniLab MK II and Akai MPK Mini MKII note that the MPK is more compact, while the MiniLab might suit those who prioritize software integration.

    Source
  • The MiniLab's unweighted synth action is preferred by users who switch between synths and acoustic pianos, unlike the Essential 88's semi-weighted keys, which many found problematic.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MiniLab MK II isn't ideal for extensive piano play due to its 25-key limitation, but it's adequate for other musical applications.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At $100, the MiniLab MK II's value is primarily in its bundled software, which continues to add utility even when the hardware is outgrown.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Essential 88 faced criticism for inconsistent key response, particularly with black keys being more responsive than white ones, affecting even playability.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Analog Lab can be used as a plugin within Ableton, facilitating seamless integration between the software and the MiniLab controller.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users may need to explore the manual to effectively troubleshoot and integrate the MiniLab's functions within Ableton.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Arturia MiniLab MkII review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Arturia's MiniLab MkII Black Edition is a robust MIDI controller with stunning build quality and enhanced features like RGB pads and improved touchstrips. While the hardware impresses, it disappoints by cutting down to just 500 presets from the original's 5000, making its bundled software feel more like a demo. Yet, for those seeking a portable, high-quality MIDI controller with a solid build and excellent playability, it's a great choice. Just be prepared to potentially invest more into software upgrades for a fuller experience.

positive

Arturia MiniLab Mk II Review - a Pint-Sized Package

musictech.com

The Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition impresses with its compact design and useful features, making it ideal for space-constrained setups or portable use. The upgraded keybed feels more robust, though the mini keys may not suit everyone, especially those used to full-sized keyboards. The inclusion of 16 encoders and drum pads, along with Arturia's Analog Lab Lite software, adds significant value, offering a rich sound palette. However, the software installation process is cumbersome and a mismatch in encoder visualization can be annoying. Despite these hiccups, the overall package is solid for its price, making it an attractive option for beginners or as a secondary controller.

positive

Arturia Minilab MKII Review - Durable & Portable

keyboardkraze.io

A robust and portable option for musicians, the Arturia MiniLab MKII shines with its sturdy build and compatibility with all major DAWs. Its slim keys offer surprising action for a compact controller, making it a solid choice for both studio producers and gigging musicians. However, the light version of Analog Lab 2 with only 500 patches is a noticeable limitation compared to other Arturia models. While heavier than some might like, its durability justifies the weight. Overall, it’s a versatile and affordable MIDI controller that caters well to beginners, though some users might miss the full software package.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Masego uses Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition

Masego

Singer, Drummer

TrapHouseJazz

...
Verified via YouTube

In a performance on The Late Late Show with James Corden in 2021, Masego is seen using the Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition MIDI Controller.

See how Pole Folder uses Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition

Pole Folder

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

Pole Folder uses the MiniLab Black Edition

N

Na'el Shehade

Music Producer

DRAMA

...
Verified via YouTube

Spotted at 1:29 in this video.

Album Usage

The Arturia MiniLab MK II Black Edition 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 MiniLab MK II Black Edition, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Yamaha PSR-170 Portable & Arranger Keyboards
1
Boss RC-505 Loop Station
Boss RC-505 Loop Station Looper Effects Pedals
1
Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3
Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3 MIDI Keyboard Controllers
1
Akai Professional MPC Live
Akai Professional MPC Live Keyboards, Synthesizers & MIDI
1

Community setups

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parmajohniv

parmajohniv

Gear IQ 226

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