KeyStep MK2

The Arturia KeyStep mk2 is engineered to be the ultimate compact controller and sequencer for modern music production, excelling in both DAWless workflows and hybrid setups. This device is designed as a catalyst for creative ideas, unifying intuitive control, generative tools, and performance-ready sequencing within a modern design. Keeping the core essence of the original KeyStep—powerful, playful, and connectivity-first—the mk2 evolves these features in ways that matter most to musicians.

Serving as a powerful bridge, the KeyStep mk2 enhances your entire setup, making it tighter, more connected, and highly creative. It allows for its full creative potential to be unlocked without the need for a computer or software. The device is particularly well-suited for two main user groups: Synth & Modular Musicians who need keys and extensive connectivity in a compact controller, and Bedroom Producers seeking creative, powerful functionality that fits easily into their workspace. New generative tools like Mutate, a clearer OLED interface, extended connectivity, and a more powerful sequencer and arpeggiator all build upon the original KeyStep's success.

The KeyStep mk2 is a one-of-a-kind ideas machine, bringing a wide range of inspiring, real-time control and sequencing features to your hands. It introduces the Mutate function for instant phrase mutation and generation, offering melodic and rhythmic variation with a single touch to reshape sequences or arpeggios for fresh, unpredictable ideas. The arpeggiator is significantly expanded, now featuring 16 modes, 9 pattern variations, octave control, Arp Length Reset, and time division for deeper rhythmic and melodic capabilities. Sequencer workflow is also enhanced, supporting unquantized or real-time recording, pattern chaining, live step editing, and transformation tools like Spice and Dice for controlled randomness and dynamic gate length adjustment. Scale locking and Chord Modes, which allow for expressive voicings similar to the KeyLab 3, ensure you can stay musical and generate harmonically consistent phrases.

KeyStep mk2 Feature Overview

Keyboard and Control:

• 32-key slim keybed with velocity and aftertouch for expressive control.
• Pitch bend and modulation touch strips.
• RGB LEDs provide efficient visual feedback on the front panel.

Sequencing and Arpeggiation:

• Sequencer features pattern chaining and unquantized recording for editing or evolving ideas.
• Arpeggiator with 16 modes and a generative pattern engine for inspiration beyond classic arp types.
• Mutate function for one-touch phrase mutation and generation with melodic and rhythmic variation.
• Spice function to inject controlled randomness into rhythms.
• Phrase Arp (Sequence Arpeggiator) to turn pre-recorded sequences into real-time arpeggio patterns that follow played notes, or to remap existing sequences to any key or chord.
• Live Step Editing allows for nudging, transposing, or reshaping steps on the fly without stopping playback.
• Overdub with Double Length to duplicate sequences and layer new material for richer patterns.

Musical Tools:

• Scale Modes for scale locking to ensure phrases remain harmonically consistent.
• Chord Modes for creating harmonies and recording/playing chords with expressive voicings.
• New sliders and functions to adjust gate length, transpose, and double patterns in real time.

Connectivity and Hardware:

• CV/Gate, MIDI In/Out, USB-C, and Sync I/O for full compatibility with modular, DAW, and hardware synth environments.
• New USB-C port and power switch on the back panel.
• Built-in OLED screen and clickable encoder for direct access to all editing from the hardware.
• Dedicated Tap Tempo and Transport controls.
• Sustain (Pedal) input.
• Custom CV Mapping to assign Mod 1/Mod 2 outputs to Aftertouch, Velocity, or Mod Wheel for personalized modular control.
• Kensington lock slot.