Arturia KeyStep 37 Review - Is It Worth To Upgrade?

In this in-depth review, I take a close look at KeyStep 37, the latest member of Arturia’s midi controller keyboard family. Compared to the regular-sized KeyStep, the slightly larger model has been upgraded with many useful improvements, such as a 3 octave keyboard, rotary encoders, a new chord mode and more.
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Time Stamps:
00:29 Introduction
01:21 Disclaimer
01:41: Hardware Overview
05:04 Chord Mode
06:51 Scale Mode
08:12 Arpeggiator
09:15 Sequencer
09:48 Conclusion
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[@XanderEwald]

Time Stamps: 00:29 Introduction 01:21 Disclaimer 01:41 Hardware Overview 05:04: Chord Mode 06:51 Scale Mode 08:12 Arpeggiator 09:15 Sequencer 09:48 Conclusion

[@mpmi7588]

Do you think this would be ideal for the new Korg Arp 2600 M? Or is the keyboard that comes with it sufficient enough?

[@XanderEwald]

I have not tested the ARP 2600 M, but several people told me the included keyboard is of rather poor quality. If you want to replace it, the KeyStep 37 is a great option for sure.

[@leonmccormick2909]

Awesome info, very glad I found your video. I've got one coming. After seeing this I can't wait.. Thanks bro!!

[@dharmageek3732]

Never seen your channel til now, but I have to say I watch a lot of reviews and even though-this review is 2 years ago (got ours 1 year ago) - I have to say this is the best! easy to follow, clearly touches all the important points - cudos and thanks- I needed a refresher- now let me go get it out of the corner and actually start using it! You have inspired me - Thank You.

[@discodave6153]

Very useful thanks for making this 👌🏻

[@ksan4800]

Oh man your Videos are so damn good you need so much more attention!

[@XanderEwald]

Thanks, much appreciated :)

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Excelente video! Beautifully shot, very well structured and explained👏🏼 thank you for the quality content, very inspiring!

[@XanderEwald]

Thanks for the kind words, much appreciated!

[@avrilcadabra]

I've watched a few of these reviews for the 37 and this was by far the most informative and nicely filmed.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Great overview and yes 🙌 think your suggestions are really good ones. I don’t have this yet but I do have the Microfreak which I love. So who knows ?!!

[@msquared84]

Great review, thanks a lot! It's an interesting controller, especially with the chord mode. I like my Keystep but I might just swap it for the 37. Btw, I would have loved to see you play it some more. You're obviously a good musician so why not show it :)

[@koreanfriedchildren]

I love my keystep 32 partly for its size. I wish they made this upgrade in a 32 key

[@JonMurray]

Fantastic review buddy. New subscriber ✌🏻😊

[@JonMurray]

Rewatching! Definitely sealed the deal for me on which one to go for. Maybe the Pro one day but it’s far beyond what I need or want right now. And the ability I have to be able to use it haha!

[@work4synths]

I completely agree with you on the chord mode which would be much more useful if you could make an arp from a chord with the chord feature!

[@mike_qbik]

this is some serious product video. almost beats the Arturia’s one ... hold on ... is there one? Hats off. Very nice intro video either way ..

[@BiteTheBoxer]

I have one and absolutely love it. Mostly use it with my Roland MC-101

[@benbauer1065]

More videos from Daccie Pucci please (if possible) my favorite KZbin channel by far.

[@Thomasabraser]

Thank you so much for this very clear and informative Video. IMHO you pointed out everything that seems to be important to know before you decide. I have mixed feelings about the new KeyStep 37. I am sure it's over all a great sequencer / midi controller and it seems that Arturia improved something that was allready pretty good. But on the other hand I'm wondering why they didn't do some things better. Because I know they could have done. For example the knobs: The five year old Beatstep Pro allready had endless and touch sensitive encoders. So it would have been nice to see them here, too. Are they really so much more expensive to build? Also the sync switches. I mean, this is not really a big problem, but WHY? For the other things I think we can expect an update from Arturia. For me the most important improvement would be using the leds to indicate which Notes are in the scale and which not. Thanks again!

[@HOLODECK-MUSIC-PROJECT]

He has styled his mustache right like his eyebrows 💪

[@XanderEwald]

Triple Brow!

[@Lalairu]

I loved the previous version, but I thought it needed more keys. When they released the pro I got sad because despite being awesome, it had too much and was too expensive. I am glad they did this one!

[@MattLab-wr2eu]

Yes yes it is!

[@treyhudson73]

Great video about a great machine! You missed the two new arp modes"Walk" and "Pattern"?

[@XanderEwald]

I did not realize they were new modes, thanks for pointing that out.

[@mike_qbik]

I look forward to you NI Machine + video soon

[@XanderEwald]

Mike _72 Already working on it! Maschine+ should arrive here soon :)

[@ANTWANPICKLES]

Will the keystep 37's midi knobs automatically map to Arturia's Analogue lab (v7 collection)? Or would you have to manually assign macros each time? Incredible video!

[@XanderEwald]

I just checked with in Ableton Live and there is no midi controller layout for the SKS37 available in Analogue Lab yet. So as of now you would have to assign the knobs manually and save it as an instrument rack eg. I assume they wil add the preset later as they did with most of their other controllers.

[@stevenwheeler7999]

What are capabilities of Keystep37using hardware synthesizer and daw control in tandem? What is your suggestion for a mid-sized mono/poly synth.This would be an initial purchase.Thanks

[@XanderEwald]

I don't really see KS37 as a controller to address multiple things at once, although you could pull it off to a certain degree. The CC knobs are freely addressable and with MIDI-through-ports or a split box, you could use the 4x4 CC controls on multiple destinations at once, be it hardware or your DAW. As for your question on the synth, it is impossible to recommend anything without knowing more about your preferred workflow, skillset, level of knowledge, musical taste, budget etc. There are thankfully plenty of options available right now, so there really should be something for everyone.

[@codyfranklin1282]

So if I used this as a controller for a Mono synth would it polyphonic the mono synth? please be kind I’m new to synth hardware and I’m still learning. Just want to see if this would be a good option for expanding my Microbrute instead of buy a super expensive polyphonic synth. Thanks!

[@vprice509]

It would not turn the mono synth polyphonic. What it would do, though, is add some new features that would expand the sound capabilities of the Microbrute. The strum mode, arpeggio mode and (maybe) the chord mode could play the notes in such a way that it would *almost* sound polyphonic. Not several notes at once, but notes in such rapid succession (that all go together) so that you get a richer sound. The Microbrute sounds awesome, but the sequencer is pretty basic. The sequencers on the Keystep series are quite a bit more powerful. I'm new to synth hardware, too. Sounds like just a couple months ahead of you. Keep watching KZbin. I have learned SO much from the synthtubers out there, and there are lots of them. I find videos like this lots more informative than official company videos.

[@lunarize]

thanks mate I really needed this video to double check if I want to get one:) Do you also recommended to learn to play the piano? And do you know if it is compatible with FL Studio?

[@XanderEwald]

Happy to be helpful! As it’s a generic midi controller, it should be compatible with any DAW including FL Studio. I can’t really give any advice on learning the piano,. But I think if you did, you would need a keyboard with full sized keys to practice, so this one would be too small.

[@lunarize]

@@XanderEwald alright okay for me it's now most important to learn the theory and play a bit to control my vst's and hardware synth so I ordered it and it will arrive this afternoon (I am from the Netherlands). Thanks a lot for your answer!

[@IQM24]

Very cooo, did they update the chord arp feature to resolve it into an arpeggio ?

[@XanderEwald]

Not as far as I know.

[@jonr5886]

Thank you for this. I really struggle with Akai MPK Mini key bed. It feels so flimsy and it's hard capture the feeling of playing a decent keyboard. Very different than, say, a Moog. Wondering the tactile experience with this Arturia. thanks!

[@XanderEwald]

In my eyes, Arturia keybeds are in a different league and much better than Akai.

[@aboriginalshoota9269]

What be nice if those key led backlights did color effects

[@SaadNajmi]

Would you see this as a good midi controller to just have on your desk at all times only connected to your DAW / Software Synths? I especially like the small form factor

[@XanderEwald]

Absolutely, that's what I use it for! My main midi keyboard is too large for the desk, so I like having a smaller one like this in front of me to have quick access to some keys during sound design or browsing.

[@SaadNajmi]

@@XanderEwald Thanks! I was looking at this vs the Native Instruments M32, which both seem to be great for that

[@XanderEwald]

M32 is probably a good choice too, but I haven’t tested it yet.

[@SaadNajmi]

@@XanderEwald I went for the Keystep 37. I just looked the build / form factor better. Thanks again for the video!

[@anthonyhuerta3432]

@@SaadNajmi how do you like the keystep? I’m trying to decide between the m32 and keystep as a midi controller as well.

[@masonkahn1229]

I am a beginner with just a computer. Would you recommend this because of the interesting arpeggiator or the mini lab mk2 because of the simplicity and drum pads? Thanks!

[@XanderEwald]

That depends. What software do you use and what type of music do you make?

[@masonkahn1229]

@@XanderEwald I am using logic right now and I am a drummer with some keyboard experience so I guess you could say sort of jazzy electronic music.

[@frankyr.8514]

Question, can I use the arturia keystep with the APPLE IPAD Pro.... and if so what device can I use for connection . Also is it true that there is A NEW DRUM KIT INCLUDED WITIN the keys .....??6???

[@XanderEwald]

I was able to use the KeyStep37 with my iPad by with a USB-C to USB-A connector I bought from Amazon for around 5 bucks. Worked perfectly fine. Not sure about the drum kit part of your question, what do you mean?

[@faculea7680]

Hi, can I transpose the whole keyboard e.g half step down to play a C note to sound a B or the function is just to use with sequencer?. Thanks.

[@XanderEwald]

It should be possible when using scale mode, but not 100% sure about this one.

[@faculea7680]

@@XanderEwald Thanks!

[@Arjun-md2in]

Hey bruv , I'm a bit confused whether I should buy the Arturia Keystep 37 or Novation Launchkey MK3 37. Any suggestion?

[@XanderEwald]

I have not tested the Launchkey MK3 37 yet, so I can't really give you any suggestions there. I used the 49 key version of it and it was excellent. I think quality-wise both Arturia and Novation are in the same league with these controllers, so I would pick one based on features you need.

[@Arjun-md2in]

@@XanderEwald Thx for response bruv. Cheers ! 🍻

[@maaz4354]

So I am just getting into making music, I want to use ableton live as software and this keyboard, is that a good choice or should I do something else? Oh and can I just select instruments in ableton live or do you get software with this keyboard? (and I currently play the piano for 7 years so I have some experience with music)

[@XanderEwald]

This and Live is a good combination to get started, of course depending on what kind of music you are planning to produce. Live contains several instruments and many effects which should keep you busy for a long time before getting into third party plugins.

[@maaz4354]

@@XanderEwald Okay thank you so much! I am planning to make game-like music and ambient music so hopefully this will work fine for that.

[@samprock]

Cool review DP! One question, is it exactly same dimensions as 32 classic? I realized can just put my existing 32 as extender to a new 37 as a main controller and have large, but still small footprint in front of Iridium and Maschine Plus next :) or make a small Hammond hehe

[@XanderEwald]

It has the same dimensions, just a bit longer because of the new keys.

[@ksan4800]

do you like your Maschine or the Push 2 more

[@XanderEwald]

I like both a lot, but use them for very different things. With Maschine, I mostly make loop-based, rather simple tracks. With Ableton+Push, I tend to make more complex arrangements.

[@nikonovitch]

Any way I can use it with OP-Z on the road without the wall/pc charge?

[@XanderEwald]

I don’t think the OP-Z can provide enough power to run the KeyStep, you would likely need a wall charger. Or a powerbank with USB.

[@drcentertainment4756]

You would think Arturia would have come out with the 37 first and then the pro. No strum on the pro! WTF??? However, this is a good justification to the wife to get the 37.

[@bartjanc]

Are the rotary encoders endless (for controlling different parameters through midi) ?

[@XanderEwald]

bartjanc No, they are just regular rotary knobs, not endless encoders.

[@bartjanc]

@@XanderEwald thanks, good to know.

[@Christosmaybeyes]

I can’t help myself but wonder how any company is giving you the chance to use 16 functions with just 4 encoders and they don’t make them endless... is this some kind of joke? Similar complaint i have from the notation launchcontrol XL

[@XanderEwald]

I guess endless encoders would make the controller more expensive, so it’s cost vs. functionality.

[@pierrenhy3835]

Quelqu'un sait il comment régler la hauteur du pichbend de la molette, qui est sur un octave ?

[@XanderEwald]

Centre de contrôle Midi pour CV. Pour Midi, je pense que vous devez définir la plage dans l'appareil ou le plugin qui reçoit les données.

[@eancurtis9333]

Can you note transpose the arp while its on hold?

[@XanderEwald]

I think so.

[@NicolasMelis]

It would be nice if Keystep pro had full size keys like you said on the beginning of the video…but unfortunately it has mini keys as well

[@XanderEwald]

True, I never used it so I assumed it has large keys for some reason.

[@gerinovmedto3127]

what usb hub are you using here to connect the keystep to computer?

[@XanderEwald]

Not entirely sure, but I almost exclusively use Anker USB hubs since a couple of years.

[@gerinovmedto3127]

@@XanderEwald do you also need a power adapter on Anker USB hub to turn on the keystep?

[@XanderEwald]

The USB hubs I use have a power adapter. KeyStep should be able to run on USB bus power itself, but unpowered hubs sometimes cause issues when too many devices are plugged in.

[@Geekraver]

So you said if you were buying new you would get the 37, but did you answer the question of whether its worth the upgrade?

[@XanderEwald]

It was worth it for me, I wouldn't want to go back to the smaller version. Actually bought a second 37 recently.

[@stephenwagner1500]

Will this work with vsts like arturia analog 4?

[@doverbeachxyz]

of course

[@XanderEwald]

Yes, it will work with any plugin in your DAW. But you might have to manually adjust the midi routings to the encoders.

[@JohnTrasher]

Can u use it as midi to cv Konverter?

[@XanderEwald]

As it can both receive Midi and can send CV, I guess it should also work as a converter. I'm not an expert on CV though, so not entirely sure.

[@djyucatec4999]

oh§! soon we should have a behringer swing "47 at half price! LOL

[@QuantizStudioRecords]

It worth even only for Tempo find!!!

[@yvindlindahl1222]

Thanks for pointing out that scales are not illuminated by the light guide. That is a dealbreaker for me.

[@brentfontenot1754]

You owe it to yourself to learn a bit of music theory. A little goes a long way. Look at it as an investment.

[@yvindlindahl1222]

@@brentfontenot1754 I see your point. I learn more and more every day. With great help from the light guide on my SL MKIII.

[@XanderEwald]

As an electronic musician, I honestly don’t see the point in memorizing hundreds of scales and chords and inversions etc. when I can look them up or use a light guide instead. I’d rather invest my time in making music. YMMV if you’re a piano player or score composer.

[@Jeremy-su3xy]

My synth is mono. Can I use chord button on it?

[@XanderEwald]

Jeremy Is it monophonic as in 1 voice? Then the answer is no, you won’t be able to play chords. You can however use chord mode in combination with strum mode on a monophonic synth, as I demonstrate with the MicroFreak in the video. This will play all notes of the selected chord sequentially as if you were strumming a guitar (without the overlapping release of the strings of course).

[@Jeremy-su3xy]

@@XanderEwald it doesn't have strum mode.

[@XanderEwald]

The KeyStep 37 has a strum mode, you can see it in the „chord mode“ segment of the video.

[@Jeremy-su3xy]

@@XanderEwald Thanks for replies. I'm watching it now. Hey man, I want to control my moog and software synths all together. Do I go for keystep pro or new 37?

[@XanderEwald]

If you want to control multiple synths at once, you will be better off with the Pro. It has multiple sequencer tracks, while the 37 can only play one sequence at a time.

[@HiddenTechnique]

I thought keystep 37 has the exact same keys as the keystep pro ?!

[@XanderEwald]

That is correct, they are the same size. I will add a notice to the video.

[@jc3drums916]

Did you answer the question in the video title? It wasn't in the Conclusion...

[@XanderEwald]

jC3drums I think I did.

[@MrCowfood]

I clearly heard him say I should sell my keystep 32 and it's worth it to get the 37 as a replacement. . . Nope.. didn't. Nor did I hear him say if I have the 32 I should just be happy with that. He did answer a question for someone in the market that owns neither. Which obviously doesn't answer the title question. Or does it! (Is it worth to upgrade?) Upgrade from what? nothing? Yes, yes from nothing to something. Good video and review otherwise. (BTW I personally have both and now want to sell my 32)

[@XanderEwald]

Which is your favourite compact midi controller keyboard?

[@samprock]

Keystep 32 and XKey 25 Air (for Bluetooth and poly-aftertouch). Use Keystep with iPad and now with Iridium/Moog (midi) . Always missed assignable knobs, and we still missing transport control. Still not expensive for lights/knobs/dual. Would take 49 keys :) Why makers never notice no one travels per-say with mobile kB, but you see Keystep literally on every studio table because of small footprint. Poly-AT would make it killer if anything else. .... what, it does not align to black keys?!?1 haha Cool review DP!

[@errorkit]

Keystep Pro no doubt 🔥

[@ancientmartianunderground6413]

All those LEDs and they don't illuminate the scales....what on earth?

[@XanderEwald]

I can imagine this feature will be added in a future update. Arturia are pretty good at improving their gear over time.

[@willjosef8087]

I like your videos, but I think an ad every 3 minutes is bit too much... actually quite annoying...

[@XanderEwald]

Will Josef Thanks for your feedback! Unfortunately, KZbin now places mid-roll ads automatically. I usually turn them off after uploading, but might have forgot in this video.

[@yanasitta]

Is this John Waters son?

[@XanderEwald]

Spiritually, yes.

[@MYLIFE-hq7je]

Hi! Do you using this device now. can you recommend it for purchase after time?

[@XanderEwald]

Absolutely! It’s holding up great, no issues so far.