@ttme and @yghartsyrt how does this one compare directly with the OG/37 now it’s in your hands? Are there still reasons to prefer the originals as the reviews suggested (eg:simplicity) , or are they outdone by the new features? I’m imagining the key feel with the plastic base to be on par with the Minilab.
I wasn’t aware of reviews preferring the old keybed. Theme one felt less mushy. But I suck big time at playing keys and it has always been mini keys, so how serious does the discussion need to be. The features are killer thougj
Yeah it’s less the keybed (which I imagine is identical if not similar) and more the general hands on component with the physical switches vs the buttons etc. That seems to be the main critique which is that it’s more of a menu diving experience
It depends on what you think is important on such a device, I really like the MK2 compared to OG because of:
- Keybed feels quieter (can also be because it has not been used that much yet)
- Power switch
- USB-C
- The screen (and all settings on device, although it suffers from the unevitable “menu-diveyness”)
- Omission of blinking lights (most inportant one for me!)
I like the new arp/seq and generative features (+ chord inprovements etc) but I could live without them, I can imagine they are killer features for others.
Dislikes so far:
- All plastic, also the bottom plate
Make such a device with full metal casing and I’d pay €100,- extra for it with love - No MIDI channel quick select via the keys
Edit: Dislike the build quality because the keybed already shows some wear (some keys became a bit less responsive) and the power button is almost completely loose.
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Unfortunately it isn’t. shift + stop is a shortcut to the midi channel select menu, you’ll need the encoder to select the channel and press it to confirm it.
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Is there an assumption out there that a Keystep Pro Mk2 will be coming?
Just asking because I’m considering a KSP…
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Flip it around, would there be a reason to presume there would not be ?
We don’t know but what seems more reasonable to expect ?
When is a whole different question.
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Is it possible to switch patches on an external synthesizer (like the Moog Minitaur) using this device?
And how does it work? How difficult is it?
- Yes
- https://dl.arturia.net/products/keystep-mk2/manual/keystep_mk2_Manual_1_0_0_EN.pdf read p35
- Pretty straightforward.
You’re welcome !
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Thank you! I bought this device today. I’ll try to figure it out.
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It’s a pretty straightforward machine, you’ll figure it out ! 
I’m really impressed by the arp and chords functionnalities, especially the ability to add more notes with aftertouch. Does it also work in the same time that the strum function ? Or is it a choice between the two functions ? Is the chord mode available with arp mode ? I would love to play an arp and add/reduce amount of notes with aftertouch 
chiming in to say that the on/off switch is seemingly extremly fragile, as mine just broke after having it for like 2 weeks. thankfully it stayed on the on position so no worries, but something to note.
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Mine is also very loose. Keybed is already a bit less responsive for some keys. Build quality is certainly much worse compared to OG. Meh 
.
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How do you guys rate it? I was looking into it as a good companion to Ableton for arping and coming up with melodies, but I am worried I will have better results with having chains of midi tools and any keyboard other than a keystep.
Fuck yes, I waited enough! XD
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Interesting. The encoders to control parameters seems to put some key controls back on the front plate.
Patiently waiting for black color versions to drop.
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Interesting. Is there anything notable that is new compared to the 37 Mk1? I love the Mk1, but I might be in a minority - I don’t really use CV or the sequencer. Does the screen add anything? Any other creative features that have been added?