The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is Arturia's streamlined universal MIDI controller, combining a 49-note velocity-sensitive hybrid synth-action keybed with focused DAW integration and creative performance tools. Compact yet capable, it provides a responsive playing surface suited to melodic production, beat-making, and software-based composition. Designed to bridge virtual instruments and recording workflows, it offers hands-on control over plug-ins, mixer functions and project navigation. A bright 2.5" LCD display with contextual buttons provides direct access to chord, scale, and arpeggiator functions, while pre-mapped integration with Analog Lab Pro and major DAWs via custom scripts ensures immediate compatibility. More than a simple controller, KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 functions as a complete creative hub for modern production environments. Its robust housing, set off nicely by Arturia's signature wood-look endpieces, comes in a black and a white finish.
The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 organises its controls intuitively into clearly defined performance and production sections. Pitch and modulation wheels sit to the left alongside octave and transpose controls for rapid range adjustment. Eight velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads handle drums, clips, and MIDI triggering, while dedicated buttons activate chord, scale, arpeggiator, and hold functions. At the centre, the 2.5" LCD works with contextual buttons and a clickable encoder for browsing presets, adjusting parameters, and managing DAW assignments. The Part function enables two-layer keyboard splits and quick switching between performance setups. A dedicated DAW Command Center provides transport control including play, record, undo, and metronome functions, while nine rotary encoders and nine 30mm faders offer tactile control over mixer levels, plug-in parameters, and automation.
Arturia's KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is aimed at producers, songwriters, and performers who require a compact keyboard without sacrificing control. Its four-octave range is ideal for desktop studios, portable rigs, and space-conscious setups, while still offering enough scope for expressive melodic playing and layered arrangements. Equally suited to home studios, educational settings, and live setups, it provides streamlined access to mixing, instrument parameters, and DAW navigation, supporting efficient project development. Creative tools such as chord, scale, and arpeggiator modes further encourage experimentation while keeping workflow straightforward. For musicians seeking an accessible yet capable production controller, KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 balances portability, integration, and hands-on control within a unified design.
Arturia's success story began with software emulations of well-known analogue synthesizers such as the Moog Minimoog, Sequential Prophet-5, and Oberheim SEM. The popular software instruments included in the V Collection are still flagship products of the French developer today. Over time, Arturia has gradually expanded its range and now also offers a host of hardware devices, ranging from synthesizers and keyboard controllers to sequencers. Since then, the former software developer has thus also become a household name in the world of analogue synthesizers and other equipment.
Connectivity centres on USB-C, providing bus power and MIDI communication with DAWs and the Arturia Software Center. The KeyLab's 5-pin MIDI output also enables direct connection to external hardware instruments, extending its use beyond purely software-based setups. The rear panel includes a freely assignable pedal input for sustain, expression, or footswitch control. Support for custom DAW scripts alongside MCU and HUI protocols ensures integration with major platforms including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, and Bitwig Studio. Seamless mapping with Analog Lab Pro and NKS compatibility further extend its adaptability within software-based environments. Up to six user presets can be stored internally, allowing tailored MIDI configurations for different production or performance contexts to be recalled instantly.
A complete production starter suite
Arturia's KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 ships with a comprehensive software package designed to facilitate immediate music production. Analog Lab Pro provides over 2,000 presets drawn from Arturia's flagship V Collection, spanning synths, keys, orchestral and hybrid textures with intuitively mapped macros for real-time sound shaping. Ableton Live Lite offers a streamlined version of Ableton's production environment, while UVI Model D and Native Instruments' The Gentleman deliver pristine concert grand pianos. Users can select one Komplete 15 Select bundle – Beats, Band or Electronic – tailored to their production style. A time-limited Loopcloud subscription adds access to royalty-free samples, and Melodics offers guided lessons for developing keyboard and pad technique. As bundled software may evolve, the manufacturer's website should be consulted for current details.