Arturia KeyStep mk2 37

Arturia KeyStep 37 mk2 is aimed at producers, keyboardists and modular synth enthusiasts looking for a compact yet complete controller. It combines an expressive keyboard, advanced sequencer and extensive connectivity. You can compose, sequence and control your setup without constraints. It's the right choice for both home studio and live performance, with an excellent feature-to-size ratio.

Features

Expressive, compact 37-key keyboard

The Slimkey 37-key velocity- and aftertouch-sensitive keyboard lets you play with nuance without taking up too much space. Ideal for a home studio desk or compact live setup. You gain expressiveness without sacrificing mobility.

Integrated polyphonic sequencer

The step-by-step sequencer with up to 64 steps and 8 voices lets you create melodic lines, chords or basses without opening your DAW. Program an idea, loop it, transform it. Perfect for composing fast or driving an external synth live.

16-mode arpeggiator and idea generation

The 16 arpeggiator modes, combined with the Mutate, Spice & Dice functions, generate instant variations. You start with a simple riff and get new musical directions in real time. A real inspirational tool for breaking out of classic patterns.

Chord and scale modes

Chord and Scale modes make harmonic creation easy. You stay in the right key and trigger complete chords with a single finger. Ideal if you're new to music theory or want to compose faster.

Direct, customizable control

The 4 assignable encoders and MIDI CC button (4 banks, 16 controllers) give you immediate access to essential parameters. You can control a virtual instrument, an external module or CV outputs without having to go through complex menus.

Full studio and modular connectivity

MIDI USB-C, MIDI DIN In/Out, Sync 3.5 mm, pedal input and 4 configurable CV/Gate outputs: you can connect virtually anything. Control a modular system, hardware synth or software. A single keyboard to centralize your setup.

What we like / What we need to know

- Compact size but really usable 37-key keyboard - Powerful sequencer and arpeggiator without the need for a computer - 4 configurable CV/Gate outputs, rare at this price level - Compatible with iPad and hybrid hardware/software setup - Requires Camera Connection kit for iPad - No dedicated AC power supply: power via USB

FAQ

Does KeyStep 37 mk2 work without a computer?

Yes, you can use the sequencer, arpeggiator and control hardware or modular synths without a computer. It operates as a stand-alone unit, with USB power supply.

Is it suitable for a modular system?

Yes, the 4 CV/Gate outputs (Pitch, Gate, Mod 1, Mod 2) are configurable. You can control pitch, modulation and dynamics directly from the keyboard.

Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes, especially thanks to the chord and scale modes. They simplify musical creation. It's an excellent choice for beginners with room to grow.

Can I control software like Ableton Live?

Yes, you can control any DAW or virtual instrument via USB-MIDI. Encoders can be assigned to MIDI CC parameters.

Who is it primarily aimed at?

Home studio producers, live musicians and modular synth users looking for a compact, creative and versatile controller on an intermediate budget.