Arturia’s versatile MIDI/CV controller KeyStep Pro gets a big update with version 2.5. The release accompanies a sleek dark-gray, customizable Chroma edition but applies to all KeyStep Pro models.
The KeyStep Pro is an exceptionally useful piece of gear. It’s a 4-track sequencer, and it’s a keyboard, and it’s got a bunch of control options. The BeatStep Pro remains great, but you just get a lot more flexibility with the KeyStep Pro – whether or not you’re playing chromatic/keyboard lines on it. I find it just as useful for percussion sequencing and non-equal-tempered melodic parts. It can work as a computer controller and easily swap to standalone controller for MIDI gear, or CV/gate for analog gear and modular, or a combination, setting it apart from the usual unitasker mold. And you know the issue with unitaskers: they turn into dust collectors. Not this.
Pretty much my vibe, ideal rig-wise, pictured…
The limited edition KeyStep Pro Chroma is really a KeyStep Pro under the hood, but it’s slightly more than just a different paint job. The main feature is the dark gray finish, yes, but there are also new “great-feeling” knob caps, plus blue LEDs, and the ability to customize track colors.
You can actually get the Chroma for the same price as the original white model, and I think it’s worth it for the updated look and customization. Most retailers have the Chroma for slightly more, but I see them both priced at $449 right now at Guitar Center:
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Arturia KeyStep Pro Controller and Sequencer Black
But If the visual refresh and customization aren’t important to you, you should feel fine just going with the OG KeyStep Pro – or upgrade the firmware of the gear you’ve already got. They are otherwise functionally identical.
Readers know I love gear that lasts, though, so I’m personally most excited about the updated firmware features:
- Send Program Changes both per pattern and per MIDI track.
- Transpose Latch so the Transpose button can be configured as a toggle, meaning you don’t have to hold it down. (As God intended.)
- Shift + Track to change settings for each track.
- Fixed Velocity option both for keys you’re pressing and notes you’re triggering, when you want it.
I’m happy with my white KeyStep, thanks – though, hey, maybe it’s time to 3D print some new knob caps for it. But the 2.5 firmware, I’m in. I need every single one of those.
And don’t forget that 2021’s v2.0 firmware was also a big one – with global transpose, global value offset, arpeggios and sequences, chord record, step listen, and other improvements. It’s worth a little review; this is one of those controllers you actually invest some time in learning:
I wrote about some other performance tips back in 2020:
And it’s great to see the amazing producer and live artist Andreas Tilliander in a profile up on Arturia’s site now. Always love your work, Andreas.
