Hi mate, hope ur doing good! I wanna ask you something i'm about to buy a mini keyboard but i don't know which i should buy akai mpk mk3 or arturia minilab 3 i feel like im gonna go with arturia but i just wondered your opinion... Also i just need the keyboard and a pc to make beats right?
weight is a no issue. these things are not something you slap on the lap and play lol this is for sitting in a chair and it being on some sort of table or stand
For the price, very hard to fault this. Arturia never disappoints. The Arturia virtual synths are fantastic and having a purpose-built controller brings them to life in your hands.
This is a perfect package for beginners. Arturia should make the Shift button lockable (firmware update), so transport buttons could be used by one hand.
Literally the perfect midi keyboard. Arturia got really good engineers they really know just what we need. Was considering buying the midi fighter twister just to have knobs to modulate effects with and other parameters but after coming across this I don’t think I’ll be needing it anymore
Save the 500 dollars or whatever that ridiculous price is nowadays lmao - dumb midi fighter is honestly ridiculous (as a fellow “looking for a controller so I don’t have to pay a ridiculous amount for 16 infinite encoders…” kinda guy )
@@EdwardoDeLeon-c9l depends! Are you using an iPad or are you gonna be using the recommended DAW for your “more known brand”? Support (for example) for ableton, is probably best with the launch key. I however have very specific needs - I don’t use traditional DAWs - so most of my controllers need to have the best midi compliance possible (midi usb compliance is an actual thing for midi devices, maybe check that out). For my needs, it is substantially better - but this is because I DO NOT use a DAW which has proper integration for ANY of my controllers (I use AUM, Loopy Pro, Cubasis 3, at most… the new Logic for iPad). This is a relevant question for you so definitely check it out - if your daw has support for your controller, you’re probably better off with just that. Especially if you’re “new to midi” (it can get complex). Good luck 👍🏼
I just think Arturia are really on fire at the moment. The new keyboards and synths are fab and really great value! Loving Augmented Grand Piano too. I have the MiniLab Mk2 and KeyLab Mk2 (I'm quite jealous now of the beautiful new one. It's gorgeous!) and they're a pleasure to use! Great stuff Arturia! Well done!
Great video 🙂 The control of virtual instruments to workflow is just so important. They've nailed it here.. the only thing missing is the automatic audition of each preset as in NI's Komplete Kontrol. But this interests me whay more as I can't stand the loud, clicky buttons on the NI keyboards.
Good morning Sanjay. Great review! Looks like it is time to upgrade. I think this is hard to beat for the price. BTW, thanks for the shout out last week. 😀
@@SanjayC For the price, anything more would just be greedy. I'll have to see if the faders instead of knobs is a good tradeoff or not. Love the added arp and screen. Pre-ordering from Sweetwater today (using your link 😉)
I don't know has anyone mentioned yet, but I'd like to point out that MkII has (at least some) integration with both Analog Lab 4 and Analog Lab V. Knob 1 is for type selection and knob 9 for preset selection.
I cannot believe the way they implemented those faders. If they cannot be remapped this puts me off what seems otherwise to be an excellent mini controller. Also wish they’d expand it to 37 keys to mirror Akai’s latest offering in the Mpk mini plus
Your content really keeps improving Sanjay! Straight to the point and crystal sharp footage. I think the new MiniLab looks amazing and it makes me very curious about the design language of the next iteration of the KeyLab and KeyLab Essential series.
@@SanjayC does it work for garage band on iPad and iPhone with full control? Not just playing the keys. I’m talking about pressing record and stopping and stuff like that? Let me know because I am blind. I am struggling finding the perfect keyboard for iOS with full control
Analog labs is the only one that you can’t control with a Komplete Kontrol keyboard. But you can edit something like Cubase Quick controls to use any midi keyboard to change the sounds in Analog Labs.
Can't wait for mine to arrive! Have a dawless setup and had always wished I could use the Minilab, but the USB Midi was a deal breaker for my setup. Thinking this will be the perfect device to pair with my Electribe 2 and Volcas. Only missing feature for me is battery power, but I can make do with a USB battery bank.
Great review! Yes, automated integration with virtual instruments is very important to me. I don't like spending a lot of time programming control messages. I have an Arturia Keylab and use it mostly with Analog Lab.
It saddens me that the great DAW once known as Sonar, which is now currently known as Cakewalk under Bandlab’s label, is always missing from the presets of these new controllers. The last time that I checked; Cakewalk is still a very powerful DAW that a lot of producers use. I do hope that manufacturers, in the future, show Cakewalk some love, respect and TLC.
Actually before it was called Sonar, it was Cakewalk. Started DirectX plugins and audio in Cakewalk 7.0 CMIIW, ended the Cakewalk reign at 9.0 and started Sonar. Cakewalk is the grand daddy of DAWs today, my favorite was the very stable Cakewalk 3.0 (MIDI only) that I used in the early 90s under Win 95.
@@arfandroid6729 is it really the daddy of DAWs? It’s good news for me then cuz I find it easier than other daws and I’ve tried fl and ableton. It’s just that there is almost no content available online on cakewalk.
@@sandhuwave - I do not know if you paid for Sonar Platinum, before Cakewalk went bust, but if you did then you can “Overlay” Cakewalk over Sonar and bring almost everything you paid for, back then, to be used today. There was a lot of content back then.
Fantastic, thanks for making this video. I've back-ordered one - I look forward to seeing a future revision of the 49-key keylab, with all of these updated features
And also the video was great Sanjay has reviled ' a lot'... Sanjay you are the best to share us review even though i m not having it but but by seeing your video i feel like i m having it ☺️
Seen almost ALL my go-to guys be like, "MiniFreak. MINIFREAK!" after the Arturia product announcement yesterday and it's exciting and cool and all but I'll never have one... and then my boi, the absolute legend, Sanjay C out here just like, "Yeah, uhh... well my audience is more into just portable midi... send me that MiniLab3 to review". Thank you for everything you do man.
Hi Sanjay After watching this video a while back i decided to buy the minilab 3 .. everything is really amazing apart from the black selection rotary knob which i think is too hard to push and makes a loud click or puk sound.. after a few selections i really paid attention to this .. i have two more people that have said the same thing.. i think in the long run the loud click sound will be an annoying issue..
Thanks for the review! I'm really torn now. I'm a complete midi beginner and this holiday will bring me my first midi keyboard. I had settled in with the Komplete Kontrol 32, but this Arturia Mk3 really has me rethinking. Especially given that I just got some used Maschine drum pads. It really feels like I should take advantage of what looks like a more beginner-friendly interface and software set.
Same bro, i actually ordered Arturia Minilab 3 today, and ive been also wanting to buy Kontrol M32 for a long time and i also have the Maschine drum pads. Also the fact that Arturia has the FL integration is a bit better imo, the only thing i dont like is the fact that there are only 25 keys compared to 32 on Kontrol M32, but i hope 25 will be enough for me
Hi, I discover you today because I will buy a mini keyboard (I think I will buy this one) and personally you're the best one in reviews of material. I naturally subscribe on your channel and even I'm French, with the translation the videos are great 👏👏👏
Great video. Controling virtual instruments from the midi keyboard is super important. Bravo to Arturia, but one think that I would like to see is an undo function through a firmware update.
Hi Sanjay & fellow musicians! I did get it yesterday. It looks good and it feels good. The pads definitely need your fingers to apply pressure. As a standalone, on analog lab intro the main knob isn't working with none of the presets, plus it can't modify the sounds and be seen at the same time on the screen. There's no synch between them. In vst, studio one & Mixcraft 9 ,the main knob still doesn't do stuff. I did send them a request to see if it's a matter of upgrade to full analog lab (they give it for 69 dollars) or anything else. So my first impression is bittersweet guys. Hopefully this will be taken into consideration. 😊🎶
@@SanjayC oh my they do have a dedicated support. After some instructions we did fix the standalone version and my excitement at the moment couldn't be described. It kinda felt like magic, the main knob changing presets and sculpting sounds while playing... Such an amazing experience! We still have the daw issues. I am talking about it with their support, which is phenomenal, and we will see how this goes. It does play on Ableton Lite 11. I downloaded it just to make sure I didn't have any factory problems. Their comments were positive, they believe those functions should be a part of any daw. They will run tests. They believe in theory that it should play with Mixcraft and Studio One without any problems. So Sanjay, I will get back to you when they reply to me again. It will be my pleasure. Thanx for your reply!
Great review as always! Thank you! And about your question, for me controlling virtual instruments / synths (like Vital, Helm, etc) is the most important, I actually bought midi controllers just for that, not really to control any DAW, so that fact that there is even less knobs in the Minilab3 that in the Minilab MkII I think is a shame. But in the other hand, been able to control hardware synths with this one is a big plus. I will have to think if it worth the upgrade from the Minilab Mkii. Best!
In the latest v1.1 firmware, it is possible to press Shift + long hold Pad 2 to lock transport mode, so you can simply press the transport controls directly instead of using Shift. Also there is MCU/HUI protocol support but I couldn't make it work in Ableton Live or Bitwig. Maybe I was missing something.
Have you done any testing to see if the knobs play well with NKS based plugins/instruments? NKS is mentioned on the technical specs page but I'm unclear in what context or if this just means it will work if you are loading sounds via Komplete Kontrol.
Great video Sanjay. I'm in the market for getting a controller at around this price point. Should I get this or the Akai Mini MK3 or their new Akai MPK Mini plus which is a little pricier?
I dont find VI control all that important from a midi keyboard, its nice, but it wont make me upgrade from my mk2. My DAW (Studio one) has macros that allow me to assign hidden features of plugins from MIDI CC or pre-setup features. For example in spitfire LABS i can change the microphones they recorded with which you cant do with the VI. So i use these macros rather than keyboard knobs
New to this but picked up the Minilab3 after watching your video. Seems like easy barrier to use but with the option to take my skills to the next level if desired. Thanks for the info friend.
Thank you so much for the review Sanjay! You decided me to get the minilab. Today I went to my local store to buy the minilab 3 and when we compared to the minilab mkII we were surprised that the quality was not exactly on par. They added a midi out which is a + compared to the competition, and also added a mini screen so they had to cut the corners (pun intended). The plastic is somehow lighter, they replaced the bottom metal plate by a plastic one, hence the newer v3 feels more like a toy. It doesn't feel as pro as the mkII IMHO. Also they chose to replace 8 encoders with 4 short faders which are not mapped as conveniently as the 16 encoders in Analog Lab V. Don't get me wrong, the v3 a great product, but if you don't need the midi out capabilities, go with the mkII, they even are on sales now.
An excellent review. A couple of things that weren't mentioned that give me some pause. I would have preferred real wheels over touch strips, and the keys are not full sized.. They are what, mini? slim?. Finally, the software integration is a big plus, but not sure I'm a fan of Analog Lab's vague, generic knob system.. Movement? I would prefer traditional synth parameter functions like Cutoff, Resonance, ADSR, etc...
@@SanjayC Arpeggiator with on-the-face parameter controls, no menu diving, Deep built-in integration with Bitwig and Studio One (and other DAWs of course). Keep the knobs and fader count the same. Chord scale mode would be very cool (like Novation has on the Launchkey, where every chord in a given scale can be auto-loaded onto the pads). Better screen, just bigger with more info. They should take the foundation they used with this new Minilab and just expand from there. The current Keylab is CLOSE, but wasn't close enough for me to end up buying. I'm glad I held off. If this new Minilab is any indication of where the Keylab ends up it'll be worth the wait.
@@SanjayC chiming in i want the 61 with the control of FL like the new one here. The FL Key 37 and 25 are just too small. love Arturia stuff but want that last piece of deep DAW integration.
A really nice demonstration of this mini keyboard. I have the Arturia Collection, so might have to retire my old and trusty Akai Mini and make use of the features on the Minilab, instead of carrying my Keylab 49 out with me, when a smaller form factor is needed. Nice one Sanjay.
Not only that, but they now include step transpose, which was infamously missing on their other controllers. Ai least last time I looked, anyway. Mine arrives Monday ....
Awesome review. Loved the production of your videos. This model also comes with a Melodics subscription, which is a great addition I feel in this price point. I may pick this up soon. Thank you and God Bless! 😊🙏🏻❤
Great review. So hard between this and the Keylab with the tiny keys and modular connectivity. And yeah note-repeat is pretty cool for MPC-style programming.
I like the new design and the 4 faders instead of the 8 knobs as they provide some variety while you still have enough controls for most cases. The added Midi Out and the Arpeggiator are very good features but they are only relevant if you need them. If you use it mostly with your PC biggest deal is keys and pads (depending how you use it) and as they stayed mostly the same the older version is still fine I guess.
@@SanjayC Integration is great yes. The new screen is also a nice touch. Although it may seem minor the added icons on the pads are also nice if you use them as buttons a lot. Anyway great review. Cheers.
@@SanjayC im Not sure about the new Faders, because they are not motorized, they aren’t on the same position as the fader in the software, that’s why I liked the infinity encoders more
Deep virtual instrument control is very important in my music making process since I use Native Instruments keyboard with their accessibility mode. WIthout this feature I wouldn't be able to use a lot of instruments, not only from NI but from other companies as well. You said Arturia provided even more control with their keyboard, in what aspect actually there's more features available for us? I'm asking because it might be a good start for Arturia to be accessible in similar way.
My first few days with the minilab 3 are not great. Biggest drawback, in my opinion, are the pads. They are squishy and just not sensitive enough. You need to hit them pretty hard to register a press. There is no "full level" button either, and the only way to change velocity curve is through Arturia's midi control software, no "on the fly" option present. No not repeat toggle either. The second annoying thing is the raised plastic bit either side of the key bed. Why? You have to constantly be aware of it when playing top and bottom keys next to it or You will hit the shell instead of the key. There is no excuse for it - just poor design. No other midi keyboard that I've played has this flaw. Arturia miniFreak has raised plastic bits either side of the key bed, but they sit just below the key and don't interfere. Because of the high sides, the minilab 3 key bed feel cramped and uncomfortable to play with both hands. Key feel is good though, I prefer it to AKAI MPK mini. Also there are 25 keys and the only "shift+key" functions available are midi channel selection - something that could have easily been solved with a menu and the encoder knob. Just seems like a waste of a control option. I do like the arturia software implementation a lot, and pairing the minilab 3 with Analog Lab is magic. Still not sure wether to return it or keep it for use with Arturia's software synths.
Just received mine for Christmas and have same concerns. About the velocity curve, My feeling is that it is not possible having soft touch on the keys. Even in the video, you can hear it :-) I tried to change the proposed 3 curves, but not been able to change this minimum “volume”.
I wish these keyboards would stop adding crappy pads to them. I have decent pads already and would love for that space to be used for something else. If pads are going to be put on a keyboard then they need to be on par with pro drum pads.
Another great video, Sanjay! Thanks to much! I have an 88 Key (Studio Logic: SL88 Studio) and a 61 Key (M-Audio: Axiom 61) - keyboard and am hesitant of adding/buying a small one (having larger hands and fingers). Then again, these larger Keyboards need lots of space. Even in a drawer under the desk (which also makes the desk have to be set-up really high (read too high) for me to be really comfortable to work on, without getting your legs in an awkward position or knocking your knees etc) So, I was leaning toward the Novation Launchkey 37 [MK3], and wondering about the Arturia MiniLab MKII after watching your review videos, but now I think I need to go for the Arturia MiniLab MKIII. But wait, how do the key-sizes compare? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this dilemma. Fondly, Michael
The key size of mini keyboards like this are definitely going to be far different from your Studio Logic and Axiom. BUT, what I think is more useful is the Analog Lab integration because this will give you very nice integration with Analog Lab and all of Arturia's software. That pairs very well with your existing keyboard collection.
I don't need this but I'm thinking of getting it as a 2nd controller to have in front of my monitor. I like my Advance 49 but it's big and fits better off to the side. That being said the main reason I would get this is because of the presets. I think the presets alone are worth the price.
Honest question. Why aren't you talking about VST control outside of Arturia's? Your last video on the old minilab glossed over that as well. Is it Vst dependent, or controller dependent? For example, I like using the U-he Diva. Can i expect flexible control with mapping?
Great review. MK3 looks great and very promising. Really love the thing about faders and controlling each channel separately. But...Does it worth purchasing it while already having the MK2 plus my beloved Keystep 37 (midi in/out , arp , step seq, chord etc) ?
should i get arturia minilab 3 or m-audio oxygen pro mini as sombody who never had a midi keyboard or a regular keyboard, and want to do beats and full songs in ableton live. (i don't mind mixing, setting plugins with my pc mouse)
Sanjay, thank you for your very informative video on the Minilab 3. I was wondering if you could produce another video this time showing how to use the Minilab 3 to setup and control Arturia Pigments 5, which I feel would be a great benefit to your subscribers as this synth has become so popular even if you just use it for it's great Presets alone.
I didn't need another midi controller, let alone another Arturia controller but dammit now I do. That virtual instrument control at that price point just sold me.
Thanks for the awesome videos. Can you tune this midi keyboard? Or is that something you do in your DAW just wondering because I'd like to tune down a few HZ
There is a major criticism that is a huge difference with mk2 not only less knobs but... much less custom modes, that is a huge deal breaker for who want to map synths
Great Reviews thanks so much! Do you think for a piano player 2 octave is enough or better have at least 3? this is for travelling, not for using it as main keyboard! Appreciated your help.
This might be a silly question, but can I learn how to play the piano on this midi controller? I don’t have the space or budget for an actual size piano so I thought this mini lab could break me into piano playing without breaking the bank :). Btw thanks for sharing this video
hi sanjay, Please could you advise on this . 1. Nektar SE49 or 2. Nektar Impact GX49 3. ARTURIA MINILAB 3 Really confused to pick one, please could you advise which one to go for
@Sanjay C Interesting. In what respect do you consider the minilab 3 / AL combo somewhat superior to a KK keyboard / software combination ? As far as I can see the KK stuff covers a lot more including NKS support for most Arturia instruments.
I’m so glad I happened upon this video . I was just talking yesterday to a friend about Sound design. we were reminiscing about the prophet synthesizers when you had knobs to change the different wave forms. It was also help that you mentioned it had touch sensitivity since I’m a pianist. And also that you mentioned logic pro and Kontact since I use both of those. I am now a new subscriber! Thanks. all the best, Nancy Prestipino
Great review! I'm torn between this and the 50% more expensive Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus. As a beginning "dabbler" which would anyone recommend if price isn't an issue? Oh, I just scored an MPC ONE so maybe the Akai? Thank you
Hi what would you recommend for a 12 years old kid who wants to produce with a Mac/Ipad+garageband in terms of ease of use and learn? I was about to buy Akai MPK, but also Arteria minilab seems great. Thanks
I was waiting for this as soon as that livestream ended. Are you going to check out Augmented Grand piano too? And the minifuse 4 maybe (although that seems unnecessary)
@@SanjayC please Sanjay! Bro I need your review ASAP about the Minifuse 4, I've been thinking of changing my Steinberg ur22 for months but I didn't see anything cool until now. Thanks for your honesty reviews and opinions ❤️
@@alexdiaz23. Hey, I don't know if the minifuse 4 will have anything new except the extra I/O other than the Minifuse 1 and 2... And Sanjay already has a video on those, you could check that out
Terrific video! How can you set a scale on chord mode? A simple transpose of the same chords is a little bit a useless on a live contest in my opinion. There is a way to play a series of notes or pads and play a chord on a specific selected scale?
⬇ Links to all keyboards ⬇
1. Minilab 3 geni.us/qjYl
2. Akai MPK Mini MK3 geni.us/6M2JNEM
3. M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini geni.us/cdGB7p
4. Launchkey Mini MK3 geni.us/lL0Yhsy
5. Native Instruments M32 geni.us/r1YI
Hi mate, hope ur doing good! I wanna ask you something i'm about to buy a mini keyboard but i don't know which i should buy akai mpk mk3 or arturia minilab 3 i feel like im gonna go with arturia but i just wondered your opinion... Also i just need the keyboard and a pc to make beats right?
weight is a no issue. these things are not something you slap on the lap and play lol this is for sitting in a chair and it being on some sort of table or stand
For the price, very hard to fault this. Arturia never disappoints. The Arturia virtual synths are fantastic and having a purpose-built controller brings them to life in your hands.
This is a perfect package for beginners. Arturia should make the Shift button lockable (firmware update), so transport buttons could be used by one hand.
Totally agree on that! It's a shame
Yeah, I'm a bit shocked that they didn't implement it that way. Kinda defeats the purpose.
Great idea, FW update could solve it. Cheers!
They listened to you with the new firmware update 🙌
@@heimdall4148 Wow, I'm impressed! Great company. 👋
Literally the perfect midi keyboard. Arturia got really good engineers they really know just what we need. Was considering buying the midi fighter twister just to have knobs to modulate effects with and other parameters but after coming across this I don’t think I’ll be needing it anymore
Save the 500 dollars or whatever that ridiculous price is nowadays lmao - dumb midi fighter is honestly ridiculous (as a fellow “looking for a controller so I don’t have to pay a ridiculous amount for 16 infinite encoders…” kinda guy )
@@EnriquePage91 Would this be ok for beat making/production, or would you say launchkey would be a better option?
@@EdwardoDeLeon-c9l depends! Are you using an iPad or are you gonna be using the recommended DAW for your “more known brand”? Support (for example) for ableton, is probably best with the launch key.
I however have very specific needs - I don’t use traditional DAWs - so most of my controllers need to have the best midi compliance possible (midi usb compliance is an actual thing for midi devices, maybe check that out).
For my needs, it is substantially better - but this is because I DO NOT use a DAW which has proper integration for ANY of my controllers (I use AUM, Loopy Pro, Cubasis 3, at most… the new Logic for iPad).
This is a relevant question for you so definitely check it out - if your daw has support for your controller, you’re probably better off with just that. Especially if you’re “new to midi” (it can get complex).
Good luck 👍🏼
@@EnriquePage91midi fighter is 250e
I just think Arturia are really on fire at the moment. The new keyboards and synths are fab and really great value! Loving Augmented Grand Piano too. I have the MiniLab Mk2 and KeyLab Mk2 (I'm quite jealous now of the beautiful new one. It's gorgeous!) and they're a pleasure to use! Great stuff Arturia! Well done!
The integration with Analog Lab and the KeyLab is also pretty good. Definitely something I'd consider performing live with, in fact.
Yeah great for love. I agree.
does it come with Ableton live lite ??
Great video 🙂 The control of virtual instruments to workflow is just so important. They've nailed it here.. the only thing missing is the automatic audition of each preset as in NI's Komplete Kontrol. But this interests me whay more as I can't stand the loud, clicky buttons on the NI keyboards.
Great point! And I think the preview of the presets is something they could easily implement in software. I hope they do that soon.
Good morning Sanjay. Great review! Looks like it is time to upgrade. I think this is hard to beat for the price. BTW, thanks for the shout out last week. 😀
Hi Pat...no need to thank me. I'm thanking YOU! :-) Yes, I think Arturia did very well with this Minilab update. Anything you think they missed?
@@SanjayC For the price, anything more would just be greedy. I'll have to see if the faders instead of knobs is a good tradeoff or not. Love the added arp and screen. Pre-ordering from Sweetwater today (using your link 😉)
@@SanjayC BTW, no Patreon for you?
I don't know has anyone mentioned yet, but I'd like to point out that MkII has (at least some) integration with both Analog Lab 4 and Analog Lab V. Knob 1 is for type selection and knob 9 for preset selection.
I cannot believe the way they implemented those faders. If they cannot be remapped this puts me off what seems otherwise to be an excellent mini controller.
Also wish they’d expand it to 37 keys to mirror Akai’s latest offering in the Mpk mini plus
Your content really keeps improving Sanjay! Straight to the point and crystal sharp footage. I think the new MiniLab looks amazing and it makes me very curious about the design language of the next iteration of the KeyLab and KeyLab Essential series.
Hey thanks so much for noticing. Yeah these videos take time but I’m always trying to improve them. I appreciate the kind words.
@@SanjayC does it work for garage band on iPad and iPhone with full control? Not just playing the keys. I’m talking about pressing record and stopping and stuff like that? Let me know because I am blind. I am struggling finding the perfect keyboard for iOS with full control
With a NI Komplete Kontrol Keyboard you can control Arturia instruments via NKS. Can you use the Minilab 3 to control NI instruments in the same way?
You’ll be able to map the controls to Komplete Kontrol
Analog labs is the only one that you can’t control with a Komplete Kontrol keyboard. But you can edit something like Cubase Quick controls to use any midi keyboard to change the sounds in Analog Labs.
Sorry I misread your post. No you can’t use Minilabs to control NKS vst’s unless you manually map them
Can't wait for mine to arrive! Have a dawless setup and had always wished I could use the Minilab, but the USB Midi was a deal breaker for my setup.
Thinking this will be the perfect device to pair with my Electribe 2 and Volcas.
Only missing feature for me is battery power, but I can make do with a USB battery bank.
Let me know how it goes.
Great review! Yes, automated integration with virtual instruments is very important to me. I don't like spending a lot of time programming control messages. I have an Arturia Keylab and use it mostly with Analog Lab.
Yeah me too
It saddens me that the great DAW once known as Sonar, which is now currently known as Cakewalk under Bandlab’s label, is always missing from the presets of these new controllers. The last time that I checked; Cakewalk is still a very powerful DAW that a lot of producers use. I do hope that manufacturers, in the future, show Cakewalk some love, respect and TLC.
I use that daw, people don’t use cakewalk and try bandlab instead, they don’t acknowledge that cakewalk is really powerful.
Actually before it was called Sonar, it was Cakewalk. Started DirectX plugins and audio in Cakewalk 7.0 CMIIW, ended the Cakewalk reign at 9.0 and started Sonar.
Cakewalk is the grand daddy of DAWs today, my favorite was the very stable Cakewalk 3.0 (MIDI only) that I used in the early 90s under Win 95.
@@arfandroid6729 is it really the daddy of DAWs? It’s good news for me then cuz I find it easier than other daws and I’ve tried fl and ableton. It’s just that there is almost no content available online on cakewalk.
@@sandhuwave - I do not know if you paid for Sonar Platinum, before Cakewalk went bust, but if you did then you can “Overlay” Cakewalk over Sonar and bring almost everything you paid for, back then, to be used today.
There was a lot of content back then.
@@slres8716 I’m only 18 and started making music recently so I didn’t pay for sonar platinum. I just hope cakewalk gets more recognition now.
What a great video. Thank you. Very informative and your personality is very welcoming. You earned a new subscriber. Well done and thanks again.
I grabbed this the other week and absolutely love it for a small keyboard I need on the go or just to come up with quick ideas
Fantastic, thanks for making this video. I've back-ordered one - I look forward to seeing a future revision of the 49-key keylab, with all of these updated features
And also the video was great Sanjay has reviled ' a lot'... Sanjay you are the best to share us review even though i m not having it but but by seeing your video i feel like i m having it ☺️
Seen almost ALL my go-to guys be like, "MiniFreak. MINIFREAK!" after the Arturia product announcement yesterday and it's exciting and cool and all but I'll never have one... and then my boi, the absolute legend, Sanjay C out here just like, "Yeah, uhh... well my audience is more into just portable midi... send me that MiniLab3 to review". Thank you for everything you do man.
🙏🏼 Thank you for noticing 😊
Hi Sanjay
After watching this video a while back i decided to buy the minilab 3 .. everything is really amazing apart from the black selection rotary knob which i think is too hard to push and makes a loud click or puk sound.. after a few selections i really paid attention to this .. i have two more people that have said the same thing.. i think in the long run the loud click sound will be an annoying issue..
Thanks for the review! I'm really torn now. I'm a complete midi beginner and this holiday will bring me my first midi keyboard. I had settled in with the Komplete Kontrol 32, but this Arturia Mk3 really has me rethinking. Especially given that I just got some used Maschine drum pads. It really feels like I should take advantage of what looks like a more beginner-friendly interface and software set.
Same bro, i actually ordered Arturia Minilab 3 today, and ive been also wanting to buy Kontrol M32 for a long time and i also have the Maschine drum pads. Also the fact that Arturia has the FL integration is a bit better imo, the only thing i dont like is the fact that there are only 25 keys compared to 32 on Kontrol M32, but i hope 25 will be enough for me
@@fbiopnpl1200 hi, can you give an update on your MK3? I’m considering buying it. After 5 months how as it impressed you or disappointed you?
Excelent video!! I was just looking for my new MIDI controller and you just show me the best one apparently on the market rn, thank u so much :)
Finally! Minilab 3 and it's amazing!
Yup...they did a great job with this. Are you getting it?
Hi, I discover you today because I will buy a mini keyboard (I think I will buy this one) and personally you're the best one in reviews of material. I naturally subscribe on your channel and even I'm French, with the translation the videos are great 👏👏👏
Arturia really is a solid company doing solid work
After watching this video we got one- and it’s fab. 10/10.
It looks beautiful! Thank you for the great review and video, Sanjay C.
You’re welcome
Great video.
Controling virtual instruments from the midi keyboard is super important. Bravo to Arturia, but one think that I would like to see is an undo function through a firmware update.
Hi Sanjay & fellow musicians! I did get it yesterday. It looks good and it feels good. The pads definitely need your fingers to apply pressure. As a standalone, on analog lab intro the main knob isn't working with none of the presets, plus it can't modify the sounds and be seen at the same time on the screen. There's no synch between them. In vst, studio one & Mixcraft 9 ,the main knob still doesn't do stuff. I did send them a request to see if it's a matter of upgrade to full analog lab (they give it for 69 dollars) or anything else. So my first impression is bittersweet guys. Hopefully this will be taken into consideration. 😊🎶
I hope you get that main knob issues solved. Let me know if/when you do.
@@SanjayC oh my they do have a dedicated support. After some instructions we did fix the standalone version and my excitement at the moment couldn't be described. It kinda felt like magic, the main knob changing presets and sculpting sounds while playing... Such an amazing experience! We still have the daw issues. I am talking about it with their support, which is phenomenal, and we will see how this goes. It does play on Ableton Lite 11. I downloaded it just to make sure I didn't have any factory problems. Their comments were positive, they believe those functions should be a part of any daw. They will run tests. They believe in theory that it should play with Mixcraft and Studio One without any problems. So Sanjay, I will get back to you when they reply to me again. It will be my pleasure. Thanx for your reply!
We did make it happen for Studio One with 3 steps. ✌️😊
Great review as always! Thank you! And about your question, for me controlling virtual instruments / synths (like Vital, Helm, etc) is the most important, I actually bought midi controllers just for that, not really to control any DAW, so that fact that there is even less knobs in the Minilab3 that in the Minilab MkII I think is a shame. But in the other hand, been able to control hardware synths with this one is a big plus. I will have to think if it worth the upgrade from the Minilab Mkii. Best!
Been waiting on this one. Will buy it tomorrow..thanks sanjay
You’re welcome
In the latest v1.1 firmware, it is possible to press Shift + long hold Pad 2 to lock transport mode, so you can simply press the transport controls directly instead of using Shift. Also there is MCU/HUI protocol support but I couldn't make it work in Ableton Live or Bitwig. Maybe I was missing something.
Have you done any testing to see if the knobs play well with NKS based plugins/instruments? NKS is mentioned on the technical specs page but I'm unclear in what context or if this just means it will work if you are loading sounds via Komplete Kontrol.
Great video Sanjay. I'm in the market for getting a controller at around this price point. Should I get this or the Akai Mini MK3 or their new Akai MPK Mini plus which is a little pricier?
I dont find VI control all that important from a midi keyboard, its nice, but it wont make me upgrade from my mk2. My DAW (Studio one) has macros that allow me to assign hidden features of plugins from MIDI CC or pre-setup features.
For example in spitfire LABS i can change the microphones they recorded with which you cant do with the VI. So i use these macros rather than keyboard knobs
New to this but picked up the Minilab3 after watching your video. Seems like easy barrier to use but with the option to take my skills to the next level if desired. Thanks for the info friend.
Thank you so much for the review Sanjay! You decided me to get the minilab. Today I went to my local store to buy the minilab 3 and when we compared to the minilab mkII we were surprised that the quality was not exactly on par. They added a midi out which is a + compared to the competition, and also added a mini screen so they had to cut the corners (pun intended). The plastic is somehow lighter, they replaced the bottom metal plate by a plastic one, hence the newer v3 feels more like a toy. It doesn't feel as pro as the mkII IMHO. Also they chose to replace 8 encoders with 4 short faders which are not mapped as conveniently as the 16 encoders in Analog Lab V. Don't get me wrong, the v3 a great product, but if you don't need the midi out capabilities, go with the mkII, they even are on sales now.
An excellent review. A couple of things that weren't mentioned that give me some pause. I would have preferred real wheels over touch strips, and the keys are not full sized.. They are what, mini? slim?. Finally, the software integration is a big plus, but not sure I'm a fan of Analog Lab's vague, generic knob system.. Movement? I would prefer traditional synth parameter functions like Cutoff, Resonance, ADSR, etc...
This looks awesome! White color design is really unbeatable :D
Yeah, and the Minilab 3 has a brighter white than the previous model! I love it
@@SanjayC Sanjay are you going to review minifreak? 🤩
Another excellent review SanjayC! Thank you!!
Glad you liked it!
What great videos you make. Straight to the point ,and it's about the instrument. Thank you.
I love the analog lab 4,5 presets, also the bundled piano from UVI sounds good, amazing value here
Agreed
Grabbing one of these, but REALLY looking forward to Keylab Mk3 after seeing what they've done with the Mini.
Now they need to enhance the Keylab - especially that outdate screen. What are you hoping for on the Keylab?
@@SanjayC Arpeggiator with on-the-face parameter controls, no menu diving, Deep built-in integration with Bitwig and Studio One (and other DAWs of course). Keep the knobs and fader count the same. Chord scale mode would be very cool (like Novation has on the Launchkey, where every chord in a given scale can be auto-loaded onto the pads). Better screen, just bigger with more info. They should take the foundation they used with this new Minilab and just expand from there. The current Keylab is CLOSE, but wasn't close enough for me to end up buying. I'm glad I held off. If this new Minilab is any indication of where the Keylab ends up it'll be worth the wait.
@@SanjayC chiming in i want the 61 with the control of FL like the new one here. The FL Key 37 and 25 are just too small. love Arturia stuff but want that last piece of deep DAW integration.
A really nice demonstration of this mini keyboard. I have the Arturia Collection, so might have to retire my old and trusty Akai Mini and make use of the features on the Minilab, instead of carrying my Keylab 49 out with me, when a smaller form factor is needed. Nice one Sanjay.
Nice idea! Glad you checked out my review, Clive!
Not only that, but they now include step transpose, which was infamously missing on their other controllers.
Ai least last time I looked, anyway.
Mine arrives Monday ....
Arturia does a great job at personalizing your Arturia Keyboards in the Manager💯Jeep Jammin Sanjay!
Awesome review. Loved the production of your videos. This model also comes with a Melodics subscription, which is a great addition I feel in this price point. I may pick this up soon. Thank you and God Bless! 😊🙏🏻❤
Right as I was about to buy the MK2 model convinced there is no newer one, I got recommended this video. Thanks I guess
Great review. So hard between this and the Keylab with the tiny keys and modular connectivity. And yeah note-repeat is pretty cool for MPC-style programming.
Yeah, the note repeat would be a nice feature.
I like the new design and the 4 faders instead of the 8 knobs as they provide some variety while you still have enough controls for most cases. The added Midi Out and the Arpeggiator are very good features but they are only relevant if you need them. If you use it mostly with your PC biggest deal is keys and pads (depending how you use it) and as they stayed mostly the same the older version is still fine I guess.
Good points. What about the integration with Analog Lab?
@@SanjayC Integration is great yes. The new screen is also a nice touch. Although it may seem minor the added icons on the pads are also nice if you use them as buttons a lot. Anyway great review. Cheers.
@@SanjayC im Not sure about the new Faders, because they are not motorized, they aren’t on the same position as the fader in the software, that’s why I liked the infinity encoders more
As a french , very proud of the work of Arturia doing !!
😂🎉😂🎉
And thanks for your Nice vidéos !
Always a plaisir sanjay !!
Merci Mister Grooveman! Thank you for watching my video! I think the French influence gave us a beautiful design on the Minilab 3!
Does this controller play nice with Garageband for Mac? Does the Analog Lab V and piano apps work with GB?
Deep virtual instrument control is very important in my music making process since I use Native Instruments keyboard with their accessibility mode. WIthout this feature I wouldn't be able to use a lot of instruments, not only from NI but from other companies as well. You said Arturia provided even more control with their keyboard, in what aspect actually there's more features available for us? I'm asking because it might be a good start for Arturia to be accessible in similar way.
Thanks for the review! Mine will be here in two days.
This is so incredibly helpful. Thank you so much!
My first few days with the minilab 3 are not great. Biggest drawback, in my opinion, are the pads. They are squishy and just not sensitive enough. You need to hit them pretty hard to register a press. There is no "full level" button either, and the only way to change velocity curve is through Arturia's midi control software, no "on the fly" option present. No not repeat toggle either. The second annoying thing is the raised plastic bit either side of the key bed. Why? You have to constantly be aware of it when playing top and bottom keys next to it or You will hit the shell instead of the key. There is no excuse for it - just poor design. No other midi keyboard that I've played has this flaw. Arturia miniFreak has raised plastic bits either side of the key bed, but they sit just below the key and don't interfere. Because of the high sides, the minilab 3 key bed feel cramped and uncomfortable to play with both hands. Key feel is good though, I prefer it to AKAI MPK mini. Also there are 25 keys and the only "shift+key" functions available are midi channel selection - something that could have easily been solved with a menu and the encoder knob. Just seems like a waste of a control option.
I do like the arturia software implementation a lot, and pairing the minilab 3 with Analog Lab is magic. Still not sure wether to return it or keep it for use with Arturia's software synths.
Just received mine for Christmas and have same concerns. About the velocity curve, My feeling is that it is not possible having soft touch on the keys. Even in the video, you can hear it :-) I tried to change the proposed 3 curves, but not been able to change this minimum “volume”.
I wish these keyboards would stop adding crappy pads to them. I have decent pads already and would love for that space to be used for something else. If pads are going to be put on a keyboard then they need to be on par with pro drum pads.
Another great video, Sanjay! Thanks to much! I have an 88 Key (Studio Logic: SL88 Studio) and a 61 Key (M-Audio: Axiom 61) - keyboard and am hesitant of adding/buying a small one (having larger hands and fingers). Then again, these larger Keyboards need lots of space. Even in a drawer under the desk (which also makes the desk have to be set-up really high (read too high) for me to be really comfortable to work on, without getting your legs in an awkward position or knocking your knees etc) So, I was leaning toward the Novation Launchkey 37 [MK3], and wondering about the Arturia MiniLab MKII after watching your review videos, but now I think I need to go for the Arturia MiniLab MKIII. But wait, how do the key-sizes compare? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this dilemma. Fondly, Michael
The key size of mini keyboards like this are definitely going to be far different from your Studio Logic and Axiom. BUT, what I think is more useful is the Analog Lab integration because this will give you very nice integration with Analog Lab and all of Arturia's software. That pairs very well with your existing keyboard collection.
@@SanjayC Thanks Sanjay, that helps a lot!
Was waiting for this one !
Hey Fleet Admiral Sidiqi! Thanks so much for the Super Thanks! Very nice of you to support my videos like that! Much appreciate, buddy!
I don't need this but I'm thinking of getting it as a 2nd controller to have in front of my monitor. I like my Advance 49 but it's big and fits better off to the side. That being said the main reason I would get this is because of the presets. I think the presets alone are worth the price.
got mine in deep black. love it!
I have one ordered. So excited!
Another good one by Arturia. Nice one Sanjay
Honest question. Why aren't you talking about VST control outside of Arturia's? Your last video on the old minilab glossed over that as well. Is it Vst dependent, or controller dependent? For example, I like using the U-he Diva. Can i expect flexible control with mapping?
Excellent demo, thanks. I am a beginner : AKAI APC 25 key or MINILAB 3 ? Awful dilemna 😄!
Very impressive and I like the Virtual instrument ecosystem and control using this mini keyboard.
Been waiting for your verdict on the mk3 Sanjay 😂 it looks a beauty though, can't wait to get it.
So what do think?
@@SanjayC Great review as always 👍
Great review. MK3 looks great and very promising. Really love the thing about faders and controlling each channel separately. But...Does it worth purchasing it while already having the MK2 plus my beloved Keystep 37 (midi in/out , arp , step seq, chord etc) ?
This will be my first MIDI controller. And at last, I found one with USB-C! Been researching for a week now.
And the MiniLab 3 is minimum 50% recycled plastic! And the Melodics plug in :D
should i get arturia minilab 3 or m-audio oxygen pro mini as sombody who never had a midi keyboard or a regular keyboard, and want to do beats and full songs in ableton live. (i don't mind mixing, setting plugins with my pc mouse)
Sanjay, thank you for your very informative video on the Minilab 3.
I was wondering if you could produce another video this time showing how to use the Minilab 3 to setup and control Arturia Pigments 5, which I feel would be a great benefit to your subscribers as this synth has become so popular even if you just use it for it's great Presets alone.
I didn't need another midi controller, let alone another Arturia controller but dammit now I do. That virtual instrument control at that price point just sold me.
Thanks for the awesome videos. Can you tune this midi keyboard? Or is that something you do in your DAW just wondering because I'd like to tune down a few HZ
There is a major criticism that is a huge difference with mk2 not only less knobs but... much less custom modes, that is a huge deal breaker for who want to map synths
Aahh the review i have been waiting for , please can you cover komplete 14 . thank you. Your reviews are awesome as always. Thank you Sanjay
Yes Komplete 14 is coming! What do you think of the Minilab 3?
@@SanjayC omg I love it and I hope you make some tutorial videos on it . thank you
What would you like to learn on the Minilab 3?
@@SanjayC well my daw of choice is ableton , so just the basic set up and how to use it to make your best etc..
Sanjay, I would like to see basic setup in Komplete Kontrol and Plugin Guru's Unify.
great overview . I was looking to replace my Akai MPK Professional. Sold
Transport controle (albeit not perfect) and UCB C are the deciding factors for me.
Great Reviews thanks so much! Do you think for a piano player 2 octave is enough or better have at least 3? this is for travelling, not for using it as main keyboard! Appreciated your help.
Love the review...does it work well with Maschine software?
Just won one a Minilab 3 and it's my first introduction to daw etc, very mind bending for me 😂😂
Just got this over the mpkmini plus
This might be a silly question, but can I learn how to play the piano on this midi controller? I don’t have the space or budget for an actual size piano so I thought this mini lab could break me into piano playing without breaking the bank :). Btw thanks for sharing this video
hi sanjay,
Please could you advise on this .
1. Nektar SE49 or
2. Nektar Impact GX49
3. ARTURIA MINILAB 3
Really confused to pick one, please could you advise which one to go for
Thanks for the video! : ) Between MINILAB 3 and Akai Professional - MPK Mini Plus ... What you you choose?
@Sanjay C Interesting. In what respect do you consider the minilab 3 / AL combo somewhat superior to a KK keyboard / software combination ? As far as I can see the KK stuff covers a lot more including NKS support for most Arturia instruments.
That desk is beautiful. If you don’t mind I’d like to know what wood that is and where did you buy the desk?
I’m so glad I happened upon this video . I was just talking yesterday to a friend about Sound design.
we were reminiscing about the prophet synthesizers when you had knobs to change the different wave forms. It was also help that you mentioned it had touch sensitivity since I’m a pianist. And also that you mentioned logic pro and Kontact since I use both of those. I am now a new subscriber! Thanks.
all the best, Nancy Prestipino
Great review! I'm torn between this and the 50% more expensive Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus. As a beginning "dabbler" which would anyone recommend if price isn't an issue? Oh, I just scored an MPC ONE so maybe the Akai? Thank you
Hi what would you recommend for a 12 years old kid who wants to produce with a Mac/Ipad+garageband in terms of ease of use and learn? I was about to buy Akai MPK, but also Arteria minilab seems great.
Thanks
Congrats for the great video. You have a talent to make things clear and understandable.
Are the software that come with it are free? Will not expire for a period of time that need to buy it to continue using it?
Good vid and keep it up!
I was waiting for this as soon as that livestream ended. Are you going to check out Augmented Grand piano too? And the minifuse 4 maybe (although that seems unnecessary)
Yes I’ll cover the other products this Saturday in my news video :-). What are you most excited about?
@@SanjayC The Augmented grand piano is what I wanna know more about absolutely
OK...I'll give it a try!
@@SanjayC please Sanjay! Bro I need your review ASAP about the Minifuse 4, I've been thinking of changing my Steinberg ur22 for months but I didn't see anything cool until now. Thanks for your honesty reviews and opinions ❤️
@@alexdiaz23. Hey, I don't know if the minifuse 4 will have anything new except the extra I/O other than the Minifuse 1 and 2... And Sanjay already has a video on those, you could check that out
Sanjay Big Drip that crew neck is tuff 🔥
Haha thank you 🙏🏼
Great review. Would be awesome to see arturia launch a controller on the lines of a launch control / midimix
Really Awesome look man..on this ARTURIA MINILAB 3 ..Waiting to get hands on it ..AWESOME REVIEW SANJAY ..😍😍
Thanks Philip. You getting this?
@@SanjayC Yup planing bro ..😁
Hey Sanjay - Nice one! 😊 Couldn't quite work this out but does the Mk III offer any more control over Analog Lab than the Mk II?
Same control, and it adds the screen for visual feedback.
@@SanjayC Thanks, Sanjay 👍
Terrific video! How can you set a scale on chord mode? A simple transpose of the same chords is a little bit a useless on a live contest in my opinion. There is a way to play a series of notes or pads and play a chord on a specific selected scale?
Always helpful! thanks dude!
Great video Sanjay! Informative and fun 🙂
Thank you so much 😁 Glad you enjoyed it!
@@SanjayC it's my pleasure :)