With Keystep mk2, that formula has evolved in every way that makes sense - becoming more creative, more connected, and more immediate than ever. It introduces Mutate and generative tools, a bright OLED display, and a redesigned sequencer and arpeggiator that make idea generation effortless. Keystep mk2 is priced at $139 in the USA and 129 ā¬ (or $129) in other regions.
**_Whatās new with Keystep
Patch into modular, trigger drum machines, and control synths from past and present. With USB-C reliability, DIN MIDI I/O, assignable CV outs, and pedal support, Keystep mk2 is ready to command any setup - live, in the studio, or on the move.
More creative idea generation
Mutate, Spice/Dice, and real-time transforms for instant variation.
Hardware-first control
OLED display + clickable encoder reduces reliance on MIDI Control Center.
Better connectivity
USB-C, power switch, and an extra CV out (Mod 2) alongside MIDI DIN, Sync I/O, and pedal input.
Upgraded sequencer
8Ć more memories, unquantized recording, Bend & Mod automation, Undo, step edit, pattern chaining.
Smarter arpeggiator
Classic Arpeggios, Arp Reset to turn arps into phrases, Generative āArp Patternā mode provides all sorts of fresh melodies, basslines, chords, using the keys that are pressed.
I was looking for getting a ks37 again, this is coming right on time !
New features are really interesting, especially arp2seq and seq2arp along spice and mutate, keeping the strum chords function which was a pretty unique feature on the 37 and desperatly missing on any other keyboard of the arturia line !
First impression looking at this, the design. I prefer sharp corners rather than rounded ones.
New functions are really cool.
Arturia could use a healthy dose of competition though in that segment, and not just a half baked Behringer knock off. There is the āAKAI MPK mini Plusā with CV around the same price point, what else?
Nice, I was about to spill for a Keystep Pro to get aftertouch even though I dont need all the KS Pro sequencing. And the sequencing on this looks fun for improv.
Touch strips for the modulator will still be annoying, youāll forget youāll have left it on and youāll be left wondering why you needed to mess around with the octave settings in your patch.
As an Elektron gear head, I donāt have a need for yet another sequencer built into my keyboard and Iād rather trade that for a few knobs. Which I suppose suggests that Iād prefer the MiniLab 3, but I feel that one is too deep/boxy - I much prefer the more horizontal ratio of the KeyStep and with a few more keys too.
Was considering a 37 again funnily enough. Itās my favourite MIDI keyboard to play, with those slim keys. I guess the only slight things Iād be looking to check is how well it behaves with Ableton, since the old sequencer could be finnicky when starting patterns. Iām also a tad suprised they didnāt do the 37 at the same time but I presume thatās coming at some point, as well as the pro and maybe even the Beatstepā¦
, Iām glad I didnāt.