Arturia’s KeyStep has made its mark as a favorite among MIDI controller users, particularly for musicians who love modular synths and prefer a DAWless setup. Launched in January 2016, it has a simple design, user-friendly sequencer, and good connectivity. In comparison, many of Arturia’s other controllers have already evolved multiple times since then, leading to the introduction of the updated KeyStep mk2 at $139.
The KeyStep mk2 brings several upgrades over the original model. It features 16 arpeggiator modes, significantly boosting creativity with patterns and rhythms. For those who might struggle with playing, the scale mode ensures you stay in key, making it easier to produce music. However, some musicians find it less natural on a traditional keyboard.
What stands out are the new arpeggiator options and the innovative generative sequencing features called Spice and Mutate. These tools help jumpstart your creativity during moments of writer’s block. When sitting down to create, it’s often hard to get into a flow. The KeyStep mk2 aims to make this easier, offering tools to help generate ideas quickly.
When I start creating, I usually pick a simple chord and use the Mutate function. This adds unexpected changes and keeps things fresh, allowing me to quickly find something I enjoy. With the Spice function, I can tweak note lengths and add complexity, giving my music character.
Once I stumble upon a catchy phrase, I can save it to the sequencer, extending it to 32 or 64 steps. The KeyStep mk2’s sequencer also supports polyphony, allowing me to layer melodies, chords, and basslines, creating rich soundscapes.
One feature I appreciate is the ability to pass saved sequences back to the arpeggiator. This allows for an entirely new interpretation of previously played notes, breathing life back into standard chord progressions.
It’s intriguing to see just how vital tools like the KeyStep mk2 can become in overcoming creative blocks. Instead of spending time browsing preset sounds, I can simply start playing and exploring. This approach fosters a more spontaneous and enjoyable creative process.
While the KeyStep mk2 maintains its original design with 32 keys and basic controls, it does make some notable adjustments. The new interface includes clickable buttons and a small OLED display, which enhance functionality.
However, the build quality has taken a hit. The original model boasted a durable metal base, while the mk2 opts for plastic. Although it feels less sturdy, it’s still usable and does not detract significantly from its performance.
Many users share similar sentiments on social media, highlighting how the KeyStep mk2 serves as an excellent tool for inspiration during creative slumps. People are posting videos of spontaneous jam sessions and unique arrangements made possible through its features.
In today’s fast-paced music world, having reliable tools that encourage creativity is crucial. The KeyStep mk2 is not a magic solution, but it has proven to be a useful catalyst for musical expression, especially for those moments when ideas feel out of reach.
For more details on the KeyStep mk2, check out Arturia’s official overview here.
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