Arturia KeyStep 37 MkII

Arturia KeyStep 37 MkII: The Evolution of the Compact Sequencer

Finding the right balance between portability and functionality is an ongoing challenge for many producers. A keyboard that is too small limits musical expression, while a controller that is too large takes up valuable desk space. The Arturia KeyStep 37 MkII solves this problem by combining a “Slimkey” keyboard with aftertouch with features you would normally only find on much larger and more expensive equipment. With the addition of a sharp OLED display and improved visual feedback, this MkII version allows you to execute complex musical ideas without having to constantly interrupt your workflow to check settings.

Most important features

• 37 Slimkeys with Aftertouch: A perfect balance of compact size and professional playing feel for dynamic performances.

• Advanced 64-step Sequencer: Program up to 8 voices per step with convenient features such as ‘Tie’, ‘Rest’ and real-time recording.

• Unique Chord & Scale Modes: Create complex chord progressions with one finger and always stay in the right key with Scale quantization.

• Sharp OLED display: instant visual feedback of BPM, note values and menu settings for a faster workflow.

• Extensive Connectivity: Effortlessly control software via USB, or link hardware via MIDI, CV/Gate and Sync connections.

• Customizable MIDI Control: Four rotary knobs spread across multiple banks to manipulate your favorite parameters in real time.

Why choose the Arturia KeyStep 37 MkII?

Choosing the Arturia KeyStep 37 MkII is a choice for versatility. For the professional musician, this means having one device that can control your modular synth rack, your vintage analog hardware as well as your favorite VSTs in the studio. The addition of the “Strum” feature in Chord mode gives your productions an organic, human character that is normally difficult to program.

At i4studio, we recommend the KeyStep 37 MkII to producers who don’t want to be tied to their computers. Its robust build quality and intuitive controls make it a reliable workhorse for both live performances and intense studio sessions. It is not simply a MIDI keyboard; it is an interactive composition tool that helps you discover melodies and rhythms you would never find with a mouse and keyboard.

Technical specifications

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. Can the KeyStep 37 MkII drive my modular synthesizer? Absolutely. Thanks to its CV, Gate and Mod outputs, this keyboard is a favorite among users of Eurorack and other analog synthesizers without MIDI support.

2. What exactly is the “Strum” feature? With the Strum function, you can make chords sound as if they were struck on a guitar. You can adjust the speed and direction of the “strum” for a very realistic effect.

3. Do I need a computer to use the KeyStep 37 MkII? No, you can use the unit via an external 12V power supply (sold separately) to control hardware synths directly via MIDI or CV, completely independent of a computer.

4. Is the keyboard touch sensitive? Yes, the Slimkeys are both touch-sensitive (velocity) and feature aftertouch, which is essential for adding expression to your playing.

5. Does the KeyStep 37 MkII work with Ableton Live? Sure. It is instantly recognized as a MIDI controller, and you can easily assign the buttons and sequencer to functions within Ableton or other DAWs.