Arturia Keylab MK3 Review: A Comprehensive Comparison with Essential MK3

In this detailed review, we will analyse the Arturia Keylab MK3 against the Essential MK3, to help narrow down the specific MIDI controller for your needs. Whether you are a music professional or a hobbyist trying your hand at music production, knowing the difference in features and pricing will definitely enrich your music-making experience.

Table of Contents

🔍 Intro KeyLab Mk3 Vs Essential MK3

The Arturia KeyLab MK3 and the Arturia Essential MK3 are the most popular MIDI controllers on the market. Both controllers satisfy different requirements from users; KeyLab MK3 is for people who need a lot of functions, but the Essential MK3 is a more budget-friendly option with the essential functions. It all depends on your requirements, whether you prefer numerous or fewer advanced functions.

Key Features Comparison

  • KeyLab MK3: Features a larger display, more rotary controls, and additional velocity-sensitive pads.
  • Essential MK3: Lightweight, portable design with a more compact feature set.

Though both keyboards can be integrated into your DAW (digital audio workstation, i.e., your computer-based music setup), the KeyLab MK3 makes the task more elegant with better touch response and superior feel and construction. This is the keyboard you’d buy if you intended to compose and perform on it for a living.

👍 Pros and Cons of KeyLab MK3 & Essential MK3

When weighing (1) the pros and cons, it’s essential to consider how each model aligns with your (2) music production style; however, one must also take into account the nuances involved. Although the models offer various advantages, they may not perfectly suit your needs (3) because personal preferences play a significant role. This consideration is paramount, but keep in mind the potential drawbacks as well.

KeyLab MK3

  • Pros:
    • Superior build quality and tactile feedback.
    • More extensive control options with additional pads and knobs.
    • Larger display for enhanced usability.
  • Cons:
    • Higher price point compared to the Essential MK3.
    • Heavier, making it less portable for gigging musicians.

Essential MK3

  • Pros:
    • Cost-effective, making it accessible for beginners.
    • Lightweight and easy to transport.
    • Retains most essential functionalities for music production.
  • Cons:
    • Limited tactile feedback compared to KeyLab MK3.
    • Monochrome screen requires more navigation through menus.

💼 Personal Experience With Each

So, having used both the Arturia KeyLab MK3 and the Essential MK3, I’m confident that this assessment is accurate. Coming into music production for the first time, the Essential MK3 was a fantastic starting point. I could throw it in a bag and carry it around without strain, and having even a tiny bit of MIDI knowledge was more than enough to get producing with it.

But, as my production work grew, I upgraded to the KeyLab MK3. The tactile feel and workflow were night and day. The keys were more comfortable to play on for long periods of time. The tactile feel of the rotary controls and faders on the KeyLab MK3 complemented my workflow.

Daily Use and Performance

Quality-wise, in the day-to-day, the KeyLab MK3 feels like a truly tangible piece of kit. The metal wheels for pitch bend and modulation really respond well and fold a little, giving you much more scope for expression while you perform than the Essential MK3, whose controls are passable, but noticeably inferior during live sessions.

Versatility in Music Production

Both controllers are compatible with DAWs such as Logic Pro and Ableton Live, and the KeyLab MK3’s level of DAW integration is far deeper – and quicker to edit – than that offered by the Essential MK3, which is aimed more at the no-frills individual.

(© Arturia) Ultimately, choosing whether you’ll pick up the Arturia KeyLab MK3, or the Essential MK3 comes down to what you need as a musician. If you have the budget, the added features and build quality will be worth it, if that’s what you need. If you’re a beginner, or you’re looking for something reliable and portable, the Essential MK3 is a great choice.

For more insights on music production, including tips and tricks for using MIDI controllers effectively, check out our blog on mixing vocals and mastering techniques.

⚖️ Direct Comparison KeyLab MK3 Vs Essential MK3

Arturia KeyLab MK3 and the Essential MK3, while very similar, are quite different from each other. However, their features, performance, and value are so different that by the end of this article, you will be able to make a well-informed decision which will suit your needs.

Design and Build Quality

Being made of metal, it is sturdier than the Essential MK3, which, despite being lighter and more portable, might feel more like a toy. This makes the KeyLab MK3 the hands-down choice for musicians who want a pro vibe.

Keybed and Tactile Feedback

The KeyLab MK3 also boasts a better keybed, attesting to you and me (whom I’ve seen on YouTube videos) as experts in this matter. The keys are cushioned and, as a result, a bit better for performance. (I can tell you from experience that there’s a limit to your ability to play for hours on end if the keys are a bit too unresponsive!) The Essential MK3 doesn’t quite give that same sort of tactile feedback when playing, and I can imagine it might affect you or me, too.

Controls and Functionality

Both controllers are equipped with a range of pads, knobs and faders, but you’ll find more of them and more capability to tinker with in the KeyLab MK3 than on the Essential MK3, which still gives you enough functionality for most beginner or casual users.

Display and Navigation

The larger, full-colour display of the KeyLab MK3 is easier to read and setting changes can be made with fewer menu dives. And for someone working live, this can translate to less SRU (see above) and a smoother gig.

Software Integration

Both controllers work seamlessly with most DAWs, but the KeyLab MK3 offers deeper integration with Arturia’s software package. If you’re using various Arturia plugins, the KeyLab MK3 offers a more convenient experience.

Price Considerations

For me, this would be the big differentiating point between the two: the former is more affordable than the latter, which works in the Essential MK3’s favour if you’re a beginner; if, however, you view music production as a serious endeavour, and can afford it, the investment could well be worth it for the additional features and build quality you’d get with the KeyLab MK3.

Who Should Choose Each?

The KeyLab MK3 is ideal for professional musicians and serious hobbyists who want a solid, pro-level MIDI controller that has all the functions they need and requires no head-scratching. If you spend a lot of time in the studio and want your instrument to aid, rather than hinder, your workflow, the KeyLab MK3 is for you.

The Essential MK3, on the other hand, will suit beginners or anyone who wants a small, portable solution. It is the cheapest route for music producers to begin experimenting with MIDI functionality, and is an excellent gateway into music creation.

📝 Conclusion

To conclude, both the KeyLab MK3 and the Essential MK3 are good choices depending on who you ask. The KeyLab MK3 is the brightest star of the two, with its dampened action, outstanding build quality, numerous controls, and a wide set of features that come with it. The KeyLab MK3 is perfect for a professional, who needs fully fledged controller for their work. On the other hand, a beginner can get a lot on the Essential MK3 – making it perfect for a newcomer, who would like to have a high-quality, lightweight option to get their training away from home.

The selection you make is ultimately up to you as a performer, and will depend on what you need from your controller. If you’re looking for a top-end budget setup that offers everything a keyboard player needs and prefers a premium feel, the Arturia KeyLab MK3 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re starting out and on a budget, or need to watch your cash more carefully, the Essential MK3 will do you just fine without sacrificing anything fundamental.

For more insights on music production and tips on using MIDI controllers effectively, check out our blog posts on mastering your own music and getting more plays on SoundCloud.

 

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