A Full Arturia Keystep Review

Arturia’s Keystep is a popular choice among music enthusiasts, DJs, producers, and even beginners exploring the world of music production. As one of the leading names in the industry, Arturia has a strong reputation for producing high-quality and innovative musical tools. Keystep is no exception, as it is acclaimed for being a highly versatile and compact MIDI keyboard controller. Offering several significant key features, it stands out as not just a primary asset for producing music, but also for performing live with numerous possibilities. This review will thoroughly delve into its characteristics, functionality, and overall value, providing insight to those considering this as their instrument of choice.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Unboxing the Arturia Keystep is an experience designed to elicit joy from any music enthusiast. This MIDI controller is tightly packaged and comes with an impressive array of the essentials you need to get started. Inside the box, you will find the Keystep itself, a USB cable, and a few MIDI adaptor cables in case you want to hook up the controller directly to your hardware synths.

Upon first glance, the Keystep flaunts a sleek design that seamlessly combines a modern aesthetic with a nostalgic touch. It’s neatly constructed and doesn’t have the flimsy feel that sometimes plagues compact MIDI controllers. The unit is relatively light and thin, making it highly portable and easy to carry around.

One can’t help but notice the 32-note keyboard that takes up most of the unit’s real estate. The keys are slim, yet have a soft and responsive feel. They offer velocity and aftertouch, which is a feature that you don’t typically find in MIDI controllers in this price range. Above the keyboard, there are pitch bend and modulation touch-strips that provide additional levels of expressivity.

The right-hand side of the Keystep houses a variety of creative options. There are controls for an in-built arpeggiator, a sequencer, and a chord memory function which captures and triggers chords from single keys. You’ll also notice several connectivity options on the back of the unit, such as MIDI In/Out, Sync In/Out, and a sustain pedal input – again, not a given for a controller of this size.

Arturia certainly proves that first impressions matter. The unboxing experience and initial exposure to the Keystep leave you with an urge to plug it in and start creating.

Product Name Amazon Link
Arturia 430201 KeyStep Find more info on Amazon here!
Arturia KeyStep 37 key Controller Sequencer Find more info on Amazon here!

Key Features and Functionality

The Arturia Keystep is a highly sought-after keyboard controller due to its intuitive features and reliable functionality.

First and foremost, the Keystep boasts a 32-note, slim-key keyboard with an adjustable velocity and aftertouch. Not only does this offer a comfortable and tactile playing experience, but it also allows the musician to get expressive with their performance, as the keys respond to the amount of pressure applied.

The standout feature in the Keystep, however, is the sequencer and arpeggiator. The sequencer supports 64-step sequences, 8 simultaneous notes per step, and offers step recording, chaining, and overdubbing capabilities. This feature provides a broad stage for creating complex musical patterns.

The Keystep’s arpeggiator offers eight distinctive modes (like Order, Random, and Inclusive), a sustain function, and swing settings. The arpeggiator and sequencer can also be used simultaneously, giving musicians further creative freedom.

Another important feature is the extensive connectivity options in the form of MIDI in/out, Sync in/out, and USB MIDI, catering for all your studio interfacing needs. Also, it leverages CV/GATE outputs, enabling you to control modular and vintage gear.

You can use Arturia’s free MIDI Control Center software to edit the controller’s MIDI parameters and sequences. This flexibility and customization make the Keystep key to adapting to any studio or stage use.

With the Tap tempo function and a rate knob, you can set the rate at which the sequences and arpeggios are played back. Additionally, the Shift button allows you to access the secondary functions of various keys and buttons.

Finally, the Keystep’s compact size, robust build quality, and the capability to run on USB, battery, or an optional AC adapter, make it portable and perfect for on-the-go musicians.

In short, the Arturia Keystep packs a punch in terms of features and functionality. It is far more than a standard MIDI keyboard, providing musicians and producers with a multi-functional controller for an expansive sonic exploration.

Sound Quality and Performance

The Arturia Keystep stands out in the market not merely because of its flexibility, but also for its remarkable mix of sound quality and performance. Its ability to interpret sequencers and arpeggios, coupled with outstanding MIDI capabilities, allows it to deliver exceptional tonal qualities. When it comes to playing melodies, basslines, and sequences with seamless precision, this 32-key controller is simply in a league of its own.

The Keystep controls offer a broad range of sound sculpting possibilities, producing everything from sharp, staccato notes to flowing and smooth sustained tones. It is outfitted with various knobs and sliders that modify pitch and modulation, significantly boosting its performance.

The musical expression this compact and lightweight controller provides is enhanced by velocity-sensitive keys and aftertouch. This means your playing style and technique significantly impact the sound output, providing you with a more personalized experience.

Keystep’s sound versatility is further enhanced by the integration of USB, MIDI, and CV/GATE outputs, facilitating connection with a broad array of instruments. This feature-single makes it compatible with vintage synthesizers, modular setups, and modern digital DAWs.

Moreover, Keystep’s built-in polyphonic step sequencer can handle 64 steps per sequence, and it is capable of storing up to 8 sequences. The sequencer, along with the tap tempo and synced looper/divider controls, ensure that you can modulate your tonal output in a variety of ways to get exactly the soundscape you desire.

Overall, the Arturia Keystep offers impeccable sound quality and performance flexibility that cater to both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Its vast range of features and the quality of sound it produces make it an excellent value proposition for anyone seeking to elevate their music-making journey.

Connectivity and Integration

The Arturia Keystep excels in its connectivity and integration abilities. This keyboard is a fantastic choice for any music producer looking for a controller that can seamlessly connect to a variety of devices. One of its stand-out features is its ability to communicate with both modern digital devices and vintage analog gear.

The Keystep is equipped with a USB MIDI connection that makes it possible to instantly integrate it with a computer DAW or standalone digital synths. It also hosts a 5-pin DIN MIDI Out connector, that allows for interfacing with classic hardware synths.

Additionally, the inclusion of Control Voltage (CV) and Gate outputs allows for interaction with modular synths and analog gear, something that is quite uncommon on a keyboard within this price range. The Sync In/Out connections can also interface with other gear, maintaining the tempo across various devices.

But perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Keystep’s connectivity is its ability to integrate all of these connections simultaneously. This means you can control and sequence your digital soft-synths, vintage hardware synth, and modular Eurorack all at the same time. This level of connectivity and integration naturally extends the scope of what you can achieve in a live performance or while producing in a studio.

Also worth noting is that the Arturia Keystep comes with the MIDI Control Center software. The software allows you to fully customize the settings of the keyboard to perfectly fit your setup and workflow. It provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface where you can modify configurations such as MIDI channel settings, sync settings, and controller configurations.

In conclusion, the Arturia Keystep provides a level of connectivity and integration that stands out from its competitors, especially considering its affordable price. Being able to function as a hub that merges your digital and analog music gear truly sets the Keystep apart. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, the connectivity features and flexible integration offered by Arturia Keystep can elevate your music production experience.

Pros and Cons

When looking at the Arturia Keystep, it’s clear that there are several advantages and disadvantages that potential buyers should consider.

Pros

  1. Portability – The Keystep is ultra-compact and lightweight which makes it a perfect companion for musicians on the go.

  2. Connectivity – With a USB port, MIDI in/out and sync in/out, the Keystep offers superb connectivity options that cater to all your music production needs.

  3. Arpeggiator and Sequencer – The built-in arpeggiator and sequencer features make it unique, offering functionality often found on more expensive models.

  4. Touch-Sensitive Keys – The 32-mini key keyboard is velocity-sensitive, providing smoother control for an expressive performance.

  5. Versatility – The Keystep’s ability to interface with a variety of equipment, from vintage synthesizers to modern digital audio workstations, makes it a versatile piece of gear.

Cons

  1. Limited Keys – With only 32 keys, you will need to frequently transpose to access a full range of notes, which can be a drawback for those wanting to play more complex parts.

  2. Build Quality – Some users have raised concerns about the long-term durability of the Keystep, with some reports of keys losing sensitivity over time.

  3. No Internal Sounds – Keystep does not have sound generation capabilities. It works as a MIDI controller, and therefore needs to be connected to a sound module or synth.

  4. Complex User Interface – The interface can be somewhat tricky to navigate for beginners as it’s not the most intuitive.

  5. Power Supply – It’s powered by USB and does not include an AC adapter, which can be inconvenient for those wanting to use it away from a computer or power bank.

Comparisons with Other MIDI Keyboards

When compared to other MIDI keyboards in the market, Arturia Keystep brings a combination of elements that standout and a few trade-offs that make it an also a middle-ground choice.

For instance, Novation’s Launchkey Mini is in the same price range as Arturia KeyStep but offers sixteen color-coded pads and more control over Ableton Live. The M-Audio Oxygen 25, while slightly more expensive, offers a greater number of buttons and knobs, allowing more control over DAW’s and VST’s.

However, Arturia Keystep shines brighter than its contemporaries in several aspects. It includes a sequencer as well as an arpeggiator, features rarely found on other MIDI keyboards in the same price range. Additionally, it provides pitch and modulation touch strips instead of wheels, taking less space and giving a modern feel to the keyboard aesthetic.

When compared to the Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3, KeyStep offers full-size keys, which can be a huge game-changer for those who prefer proper key sizes for a better feel when playing. This is complemented by its aftertouch feature, something that is also hard to find in a device of its price range.

The connectivity options are another strong suit for the Arturia KeyStep. Where other similar keyboards offer standard USB connection, the KeyStep’s MIDI and Sync I/O puts it a step ahead, offering the ability to connect to a variety of other devices, including analog gear. This opens up a world of versatility and options for musicians.

That said, the trade-offs go for the lack of drum pads and limited rotatory controls, which may make it less suitable for beat-makers or producers that use extensively DAWs or VSTs.

Price Point and Value for Money

When considering the Arturia Keystep, one of the most phenomenal aspects is its price point. For an exceptionally pocket-friendly price, this MIDI controller offers an impressive range of capabilities and features. It easily undercuts many of its rivals by offering a competitive package that packs a solid punch without wreaking havoc on your wallet.

For its price, the Arturia Keystep provides an assortment of features that makes it a go-to choice for both beginners and experienced producers. Apart from being an affordable mini MIDI controller, it is also a polyphonic step sequencer and possesses various options for connectivity. Therefore, the unit delivers excellent value for money by combining multiple functionalities into one compact device.

The build quality is also notable, as it feels robust and durable which is quite remarkable considering its affordable price. It lets you connect with any hardware or software due to its vast array of connectivity options – a feature usually found in higher-end MIDI controllers.

The unit also boasts an extensive selection of control options, along with the capability to record, overdub, and transpose your sequences. This ease of use and versatility further elevates the value that Arturia Keystep provides for its cost.

Therefore, when talking about price point and value for money, the Arturia Keystep is surely a standout. For those on a budget, this MIDI controller is a worthy investment that delivers more than what is expected for its price. It offers affordability without compromising in features or quality, thus providing excellent value for money.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

The Arturia Keystep is a highly versatile MIDI controller and an absolute powerhouse for any home studio or on-stage performance. Its range of features such as the polyphonic step sequencing, unrivaled connectivity, and compact size make it an attractive prospect for both novices and professional musicians.

The unit itself is sturdy and well-built, being small enough for transportation but not compromising durability or quality. The 32 note keyboard is velocity-sensitive and has aftertouch, providing a great deal of expressivity. The sequencer and arpeggiator functionalities are intuitive and easy to engage giving your compositions that extra edge.

However, for those seeking weighted keys and onboard sounds, it may not be the best fit. The Keystep doesn’t come with these attributes and to fully leverage its vast capabilities, you’ll need to connect with an external sound module or software instrument.

In conclusion, the Arturia Keystep MIDI controller is a highly reliable piece of equipment with an impressive array of features for its price point. It will greatly enhance your music creation process whether you are in the studio or performing on stage. Its versatility and durability make it a great investment for any musician. To get the most out of it, ensure you have a solid understanding of MIDI controllers, connections and the relevant software in the market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Arturia Keystep?

The Arturia Keystep is a versatile MIDI keyboard controller that includes a polyphonic step sequencer, chord & arpeggiator modes, with multiple connectivity options.

What makes the Arturia Keystep unique?

The Arturia Keystep is unique due to its integration of a high-performance keyboard with a polyphonic step-sequencer and multiple connectivity options, providing a broad range of creative possibilities.

Is the Arturia Keystep suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Arturia Keystep is suitable for beginners. It has user-friendly features and offers a high degree of functionality and versatility which can be beneficial for people learning music production.