Arturia is now shipping the KeyStep, a portable musical tool combining the functionalities of a keyboard controller with a polyphonic step sequencer to control both analog and digital devices.

Arturia KeyStep

You need a portable USB MIDI controller but also want a keyboard that provides a musical playing experience? You have some MIDI modules you want to connect as well but don’t want the footprint of a large keyboard? You have modular and analog gear you want to control via CV/GATEs? You want a step sequencer with polyphonic capability that can sync to your favorite modern and vintage gear? If only a single piece of gear could do all of this…

KeyStep features

  • Arturia’s own Slimkey keybed with velocity and aftertouch.
  • Arpeggiator mode: Up, down, inclusive, exclusive, random, note order, double up, double down modes.
  • Sequencer mode: 8 polyphonic step-sequences with Rest, Tie, and Legato note entry.
  • Rate control and tap tempo: REC, PLAY, and STOP buttons for performance control over the sequencer and arpeggiator.
  • Sustain HOLD button.
  • Sustain pedal jack.
  • Chord play mode.
  • SHIFT button selection: MIDI channel selection, GATE time, SWING values.
  • DC jack for standalone operation.
  • USB MIDI connects to computers and our MCC editor.
  • MIDI in/out ports.
  • Sync i/o ports: Supports 1 pulse per step, 2 PPQ (Korg Volca), 24 PPQ DIN sync, 48 PPQ DIN sync.
  • Sync select switches: Internal, USB, MIDI, Clock.
  • CV/GATE outputs: CV supports 1Volt per octave, Volt>Hz modes, Gate output 5V or 12V for modern or vintage gear support; CV Velo/Aftertouch/Modwheel output.
  • Capacitive-touch pitch bend and mod wheels.
  • Each sequence can have 64 steps, each step can have up to 8 notes.
  • Low power; can be powered by Apple iPad® (camera connection kit required).

KeyStep is shipping now, priced at 119 EUR/USD.

More information: Arturia / KeyStep