Arturia Keystep MK2 Review: The Next Generation of the Classic CV Controller & Sequencer

Arturia’s KeyStep mk2 is the latest evolution of their acclaimed compact controller and sequencer. Both the original Keystep and Keystep Pro were, and still are, wildly popular controllers used in studios everywhere as a hub to power hardware via their CV I/O, and innovative sequencing options. While Arturia’s other controllers are more focused on MIDI and DAW control geared toward software, the KeyStep mk2 is fundamentally designed to be a bridge between hardware and computer, or an impressive standalone sequencer. For musicians looking to control desktop modules, integrate modular gear, or command complex studio setups, this device offers significant new features and represents an essential tool.

First Impression and Build Quality

We’ve reviewed several Arturia controllers and have consistently been impressed by their build quality. The Keystep Mk2 is no exception, featuring a solid and sturdy chassis adorned with Arturia’s signature livery, satisfying controls, and a crisp OLED screen paired with a single encoder knob for navigating menus. It’s a minimalist yet effective design, and its high portability makes it a convenient addition to most hardware setups.

The feel and response of the keybed are critical factors, and the KeyStep Mk2, despite its compact size, delivers a great experience that inspires confidence when played. It features a 32-note Slimkey keyboard with a semi-weighted feel, similar to the Microlab MK3, which we also highly rated.

The key action provides a sense of weight, contributing to a premium feel and avoiding the "dinky" sensation sometimes found in small controllers with mini keys. Arturia has also managed to incorporate aftertouch into the KeyStep Mk2, a highly desirable expressive feature not always present on compact keyboards. Aftertouch can also be transmitted to CV-enabled gear via one of the CV Mod outputs, along with velocity, which can add a level of expressiveness often missing from desktop or eurorack synthesizers.

For pitch bend and modulation, the KeyStep uses touchpads that also offer shift functionality. They work as intended, although touch controls like these aren’t for everyone. However, the choice to use touchpads instead of physical mod and pitch wheels is entirely understandable given the unit's size.

Control and Connectivity

The KeyStep mk2 excels at driving external hardware via MIDI or CV, brilliantly bridging the gap between your DAW and gear. When connected to your computer, it even functions as a MIDI to CV converter. To achieve this, comprehensive connectivity is essential, and the KeyStep doesn't disappoint.

It offers full-size MIDI In and Out ports, along with CV sync I/O for more complex setups, gate and pitch CV, and two assignable CV mod outputs. A sustain pedal input is also included. Power and computer connection are handled by a USB-C port, and a high-quality braided USB-C cable is provided, though CV patch cables are not.

The device now features a bright OLED display and a clickable encoder, allowing for direct navigation of menus, settings, and step editing. Its setup offers surprising depth, with extensive control over CV signal types, sync parameters, and more. The flexible CV mod outputs can send aftertouch, a handy random value generator, velocity, mod wheel control, and other parameters.

This deep CV integration allows the KeyStep mk2 to act as a "little brain" for a hardware setup, while also expanding its capabilities. For example, in our tests, using the KeyStep with Bitwig and Bitwig’s Connect interface freed up additional CV I/O. We offloaded Pitch and Gate duties to the KeyStep by using it as a MIDI output in Bitwig, essentially turning it into a MIDI to CV converter, which allowed us to assign modulators in Bitwig to perform other functions.

Arturia has chosen to retire the knobs on the original Keystep for this revision. Initially this seemed like a strange choice, but when you consider the intended use, which is controlling hardware most likely already laden with controls rather than providing control for a software plugin, the decision makes sense.

Upgraded Sequencer and Generative Tools

The sequencing and arpeggiator capabilities have been thoroughly redesigned to facilitate effortless idea generation. The upgraded sequencer now offers more memory slots and includes tools to refine composition and workflow. Users can now record unquantized patterns and automate bend and mod parameters within them. Thanks to the OLED screen, it's significantly easier to step record sequences, overdub, and change settings such as pattern length.

Many functions are accessible via 'shift' functionality on the keybed. While generally fine, this can sometimes lead to confusion. We found the shift mode particularly frustrating on the mod and pitch touch strips. It's quite easy to accidentally switch to a shift-requiring function while still holding down a note (especially when using the arpeggiator rather than the sequencer). This often results in an unwanted pattern or mode change, or an adjustment of the pattern resolution. It's not a deal-breaker, but it does warrant attention if you're using the Keystep in a live setting.

The Keystep includes generative tools to inspire new ideas through its Mutate function. Pressing this instantly generates randomness and variations within sequences and arpeggios. The Spice control, on the other hand, varies gate lengths and introduces ratcheting, creating pleasantly varied dynamics in arps and patterns.

The arpeggiator has also been enhanced with new modes, offering a comprehensive range from classic arpeggio styles to more generative and chord modes.

Conclusion

The Arturia KeyStep mk2 successfully updates a modern classic, enhancing its role as the definitive bridge between modular hardware, CV equipment, and computers, and at it's suggested retail price of €129, you're getting a lot of bang for you buck here. The original Keystep series cemented itself as a studio staple and this latest entry looks set to only extend this tradition with well thought out additions to an already excellent controller. The robust connectivity truly makes it a fantastic purchase, breathing new creative life into your existing hardware. While users with larger setups might consider waiting for a potential update to the KeyStep Pro line, the KeyStep mk2 is an amazing, powerful, and reliable compact controller that provides a fantastic core experience for studio and mobile producers alike.

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Pros

Solid build.

A lot of functionality for the price.

Arturia's slim-key keybeds are fantastic.

Minimalist lightweight and portable design.

The depth of the sequencer has been greatly improved.

Extensive connectivity for CV and MIDI connections.

Cons

Shift functions can be a bit fiddly.

No physical controls aside from the touch strips.

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