The Arturia KeyStep 37 offers a fresh approach to MIDI control and sequencing. While many modern musicians have become accustomed to using their keyboard controller for basic note input only and doing all sequencing and arranging in their DAW, there are many situations where hardware control over sequencing, arpeggiation, and chord and scale modes offers a distinct advantage. That’s where the KeyStep 37 comes in. Arturia has packed this compact controller with advanced features that will supercharge your music creation process. Beyond its 37-note keyboard, knobs, buttons, and LED screen, there’s a lot of high tech under the hood that doesn’t readily meet the eye.
The KeyStep 37’s velocity-sensitive keybed has aftertouch — something you typically see only on high-ticket controllers — as well as RGB LED feedback. Take a look at the rear panel and you’ll see control-voltage (CV) pitch, gate, and modulation connections for integration with modular synth setups. Then there’s the 64-step polyphonic sequencer with eight patterns, an 8-mode arpeggiator with new random modes, and a unique Chord mode with 12 voicings. You’ll appreciate the capacitive pitch and mod strips, which are easy to play but don’t have moving parts to collect dust or get damaged. Add in 5-pin MIDI DIN I/O as well as USB-MIDI and USB bus power, and it all adds up to a formidable, attractive, compact, and roadworthy package designed for the modern musician and producer on-the-go.
While 37 synth-weighted mini keys obviously won’t satisfy serious concert pianists, the KeyStep 37 will hit the sweet spot for many musicians looking for playability in a compact package. Three octaves is an expansive enough range to accommodate limited two-handed playing and melodic lines that incorporate octave displacement without having to hit the octave shift buttons (which are conveniently located, in any event). And Arturia made sure the keybed is highly playable. The piano-style keys are a bit larger, with wider spacing than most minis on the market, and assuming you have average-sized hands, they are satisfying to play and feel great to dig into.
The KeyStep 37’s advanced features offer an interactive and uniquely creative way to write, arrange, and produce your music. At Music Experience, we’re particularly impressed with Arturia’s unique, enhanced Chord mode, which lets you choose from 12 chord types and a selection of strum effects, and spread the voices out into complex, velocity-sensitive parts that sound and respond like a real stringed instrument. Get exotic with Scale mode, where you can map out KeyStep’s 3-octave keyboard range with a scale of your choosing. Don’t worry, you can’t hit a wrong note — any key you play will automatically quantize to the closest note in your selected scale.
KeyStep 37 gives you sophisticated control over the inner workings of your hardware and software. 16 MIDI CC parameters across four switchable banks let you adjust your settings in real time using KeyStep’s four new rotary controllers. Connect your hardware synths with MIDI I/O. Take command over your VST instruments with MIDI over USB. Integrate your modular gear using the CV pitch, gate, and mod ports. KeyStep’s onboard clock connectivity keeps your entire rig in sync. To get you up and running right out of the box, the KeyStep 37 includes Ableton Live Lite and the MIDI Control Center app for effortless MIDI mapping or your Mac or PC. Take creative control over your MIDI setup with the Arturia KeyStep 37.
A controller, evolved. KeyStep 37 combines a flexible 37-note keyboard with intuitive sequencing, instant chord generation and creative real-time MIDI controls that let you discover and interact with music like never before.
Overcome creative hurdles. Smash artistic barriers. Discover new musical horizons. A powerful tool that seamlessly controls your hardware and software instruments simultaneously. An exploratory device that encourages spontaneous creativity with its musical features. Surrender to the musical journey - where will KeyStep 37 take you?
With velocity, aftertouch and real-time RGB LED indicators for a comfortable, responsive performance.
Sequence up to 64-steps with 8-note polyphony and 8 pattern slots, or explore 8 modes of arpeggiation.
Generate instant chord sequences that respond to your velocity, with 12 chord types, and an articulate instrument-like strum control.
Connect to your computer, your desktop MIDI synths, or your CV & modular gear for simultaneous control over hardware and software.
Quantize the keyboard and never play a wrong note. Choose from 5 scales, including a user-defined scale, to set your own musical terms.
Interact with your hardware and software with 16 assignable MIDI CC parameters across 4 switchable banks. Push the boundaries of your expression with real-time MIDI CC control and LED feedback. Unlock undiscovered creative potential with the inspiring and unique Chord and Scale functions. KeyStep 37 isn’t just a keyboard controller - it’s your new source of inspiration.
KeyStep 37 goes beyond an easy-to-use sequencer and arpeggiator. It's responsive, dynamic, and expanded in every direction to encourage musical exploration. Record, perform, and experiment with a compact, accessible keybed that’s familiar and enjoyable in equal measure. Unite your hardware and software with deep connectivity, offering seamless control over your setup.
The same velocity-sensitive 37-note keybed as the KeyStep Pro, complete with aftertouch and RGB LED feedback. A lightweight and compact keyboard that offers full and familiar creative flexibility, whatever your style or ability. At the center of KeyStep 37’s interface we’ve added 4 new control knobs with a screen, giving you instant access to inspiring new expressive tools and MIDI tweaking - total control.
KeyStep 37’s unique & enhanced Chord mode takes your single note melodies and unfinished ideas and transforms them into musical stepping stones. Choose from multiple voicings, instrument-like strum effects, and velocity settings and make your music really sing. Map out KeyStep 37’s 3-octave keyboard range with a scale of your choice using Scale mode. Any key you play will automatically quantize to the nearest note in the chosen scale - never play a wrong note again. Tap into the inner workings of your MIDI hardware and software with assignable 16 MIDI CC parameters across 4 switchable banks. Use the 4 new controls to tweak settings on the fly for dynamic performances.
KeyStep 37 is designed to be put in control. An accessible interface, a compact design and comprehensive connectivity make it the perfect centerpiece for your rig - whatever your needs. Hook up your synth hardware with MIDI in/out. Control your favorite VST instruments with MIDI over USB. Use CV pitch, gate and mod connections for modular integration. Analog sync in/out keeps everything in time without hassle. The best bit? Use it all at the same time.
An introduction to one of the most intuitive, popular production platforms around Included is a free copy of Ableton Live Lite, an accessible music-making suite for your Mac or PC. Register KeyStep 37 for your free download and get creative right out the box - let the music flow freely.
Number of Keys | 37 |
---|---|
Type of Keys | Synth action, SlimKey Keybed |
Aftertouch | Yes |
Other Controllers | Pitchbend, Mod Wheel touch strips |
Dedicated Transport Control | Yes |
Sequencer | 64-step, 8-note polyphony, 8-pattern slots |
Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" sustain pedal |
MIDI I/O | In/Out/USB |
USB | 1 x Type B |
Other I/O | 2 x 1/8" (sync in/out), 3 x 1/8" (CV Mod/Gate/Pitch) |
Computer Connectivity | USB |
Features |
Scale Mode, Chord Mode, 8-mode Arpeggiator |
Software |
MIDI Control Center app, Ableton Live Lite |
Power Supply | USB bus powered / 12V DC 1.5A power supply (sold separately) |
Height | 1.38" |
Width | 21.7" |
Depth | 5.78" |
Weight | 3.5 lbs. |
Manufacturer Part Number | 430221 |