Should You Buy A Minilab 3 In 2024?

[@Taetro]

✨USING THE MINILAB WITH A COOL SYNTH HERE: kzbin.infoPXuok63CVNM?feature=share

[@SiriM-gn9tc]

Two and a half years ago I purchased my first and only mini midi controller without doing any research at all. 😂 It led me to discover what is Ableton live and it was the reason I found your channel Taetro! That was the best purchase in my life! 😄

[@Taetro]

amazing!!! :)

[@andreantunes5251]

Exactly the same experience as me.

[@caioaugusto6819]

Same here, got the minilab MK2 and got overwhelmed by the amount of options. Now it doesn't leave my lap, and I'm integrating it on my live set up (I play psychedelic rock)

[@Powhart]

That's why ableton is so popular. The begginers that are yet to choose their DAW when buying literally anything music gear related will get a intro version of Ableton. You can buy a Chupa-Chups in a music store and will probably get Ableton Live Lite License with it...

[@pekkagronfors7304]

Back in 2016 I bought my Arturia MiniLab Black Edition and I still get updates for the bundled Analog Lab Pro software with 2000+ instruments. Great!

[@tiffanyanthony]

For travel, it is my #1 controller. I bought it when it first came out, and love it. I have issues with the controls in FLStudio, but in my home studio, I use the FLKey 37. Minilab 3 is in my backpack whenever I go mobile. It’s nice & light. 👍

[@bobbylimesmusic]

1. hair is looking Fresh 2. Perfect timing for the next MIDI controller trend

[@emefef]

Thanks to one of your older videos, I bought an Arturia Minilab 3 and I consider it one of my best purchases! This is the first time I've ever made music for one of my podcasts!

[@Taetro]

excellllent!

[@andresmachado.belair]

Fantastic review my man. You're great on your craft. Keep it up!

[@LukeParodiMusic]

Just ordered one today and I'm excited to get started! Thanks for the video!

[@allesfurjeden]

are you satisfied with the performance?

[@LukeParodiMusic]

@@allesfurjeden LOVING it. Also, it came with an Intro version of Analog Lab which has some amazing soubdz

[@allesfurjeden]

@@LukeParodiMusic wow i'm happy that you liked it! i'm looking forward mine to come from the delivery seems really great

[@adorableandray]

I've had it for 24 hours by now so this is so helpful as well as all the other mentions of this keyboard on this channel : ) Thank you

[@Taetro]

awesome! Your journey begins now!

[@billelkactuz1303]

I got this midi controller less than a year ago, and I love it. Pros: -comes with Ableton live 10 Lite - customer support is top notch - keys, knobs and faders feel amazing - it looks dope - lightweight and portable - comes with a bunch of virtual instruments from Analog Lab V Cons: - Pads feel too stiff/insensitive - I miss having more octaves (a tradeoff for portability) - Analog lab is a little too CPU intensive for my pc

[@ProdBaly]

Analog lab V its not lite right ?

[@billelkactuz1303]

@@ProdBaly I think not! Not sure though. Still, it has plenty of functions and options for a beginner like myself.

[@mirkwoodFaerie]

Thanks for the demo! It's helpful to see how someone more experienced uses the controller, lots of good tricks in there!

[@austinray1943]

I love my Minilab 3...except the pads. I feel like I need to smash the crap out of them to get a response. The feel of the keys is great though. They feel firm and responsive and convey my velocity well (unlike the pads). I love the integration and macros control with Analog V controls. Somehow I did not know about the transport lock for the pads. Learn something new every day!

[@Bassface793]

Same with the pads…

[@-adc]

Yeah, you wrote my comment for me. Everything else about this controller is stellar. But yeah, if I am trying to bang out a beat on the pads I have to absolutely pound on them. It's the one drawback I have run into thus far.

[@-adc]

On this topic, I am curious about adding a dedicated pad/sequencer as solid as the MK3 - but just pads. Was eying the NI Maschine Mikro MK3, but it's a bit pricey and maybe overkill. Might look to the AKAI MPD line. Thoughts anyone?

[@jyack]

recently purchased one, I'm having fun with it, don't regret the decision at all

[@TheCelestineProph]

Thanks for making this video my friend. It reinforces (for me) that I made a good choice in purchasing a device to aid in music making. It's not perfect as you mention but I'm happy with it so it works for me. I've been using the Arturia minilab 3 every since I started following you in the January 2024 The Melodics Bootcamp. It's been working just fine for me. I've used it in all the songs I've made so far. The criticisms you gave leave Arturia to upgrades- hopefully firmware upgrades so I dont have to get a new unit. Talk Soon, Cheers🥂

[@ar-gnostic999]

I agree with you in terms of who is comfortable using what. My friends and colleagues use Arturia products. I use M-VAVE SMK25-II paired with Launchpad Mini. And... We make music and don't bother each other and I love that)

[@therealone1288]

as an ob-6 user... chord mode here works same way there. i get where ur coming from but as you mentioned more of a house thing, where u would have sampled a chord and then transposed it.

[@blastofo]

I scored one for dirt cheap. Gonna use it on a cruise ship, in my tiny cabin, when im out at sea. With my laptop running Pigments and V collection. I actually like how chord mode works on it. I just want it to play the same keys I pressed. My 61 key essentials chord mode stays in key.

[@ThatBritishMo]

I really love the way you review stuff. It was from your earlier review of the Minilab 3 that convinced me it was the one for me: and it was the absolute right choice. I really appreciate the balance of your reviews and the honesty. You're awesome, dude. Thank you.

[@selvamprem3994]

Thank you bro . As u said last .first need to start music production with anyone of the midi

[@DarrenHale]

Arturia is definitely edging out the NI stuff for me recently. Really enjoying the recently released Minibrute V plugin! 🤘

[@djpapakuma]

Great video!

[@SoBoomCheckIt]

Thanks for putting this out, I already have a mini lab 3 and have the same frustrations. It does have some advantages too though like you mentioned

[@QuantizStudioRecords]

I prefer Keystep 37 ...for 64 step sequencer...strum...chords...custom Arp...CV/Gate...Midi ...Usb...

[@therealone1288]

only wish this had cv gate. just ordered one. almost went akai for the cv gate. i was using microbrute as a cv gate controller but the keys suck and have to run through inverter to trigger my envelope (intelijel dual adsr). but yooo those microbrute keys suck asssssSSSS

[@PiriakaTrackwrecker]

Word. Love this Taetro.

[@Taetro]

thanks piri!

[@DWatt555]

I love the last part, stop looking for a perfect controller. But I CANT LOooL

[@Taetro]

YOU CAN DO IT!!!

[@DWatt555]

@@Taetro I got the Arturia minilab3, I also found the same problem about the pad sensitivity. But the real problem is I DONT KNOW HOW TO USE IT. 😭😭😭

[@morizanova]

Unless user really have sensitive feeling about piano keybed or need access to their awesome Analog LAB library, BT M-vave SMK MK2 is way to go . At least in my country the price was 1/3rd cheaper .

[@PanamaCultura]

Awesome review, I am new to your channel. I want to buy my first MIDI keyboard. what is the track you played in the 1:48 I really like the mood of it.

[@storka]

all valid criticisms for sure, but having owned all 3 keyboards you show, the Minilab has by far the best feeling keys of the bunch.. its all down to what you need it most for (have a push 2 so ableton control is not a factor for me), great video as always

[@PhilSheardy]

Thank you x

[@pascaljean2333]

Btw the Analog lab included not the PRO version, analog lab INTRO. still awesome tho.

[@Taetro]

TRUE I didn’t mean to imply that. Was meaning to just say that the arturia ecosystem is worth investing in/ growing in

[@pascaljean2333]

I didn't mean to direct to comment towards you. On your screen it shows analog lab "pro", which might have been misleading to viewers.

[@davidadams6863]

Hello, Can you save presets on the Minilab3 without using a PC. I've a Seqtrak. Best regards⭐

[@DaffyD42]

can you save instrument from the library directly to the device ? To be able to use without a computer

[@word2RG]

In terms of pad and knob layout, its lucky for Akai that Arturia largely disregards the MPC community.

[@Itscirosantana]

I see that "A minor" thing you were doing 14:29😅

[@DetroitMicroSound]

I wonder how useful it would be as a controller for 1010m BB? 8 pads, 8 knobs, and 4 sliders could probably work with BB, because it's 16 tracks. If a simple shift function is available in the controller, to move through the tracks, 8 at a time. The MIDI mini-jacks are also both type B. Among about 9 other controllers I'm seriously considering, this, and the MPK are both on the list. This video may help me eliminate it.... I need to be able to launch clips tightly, just exactly like with Ableton. The cheapo M-Vave has 16 pads! 🤔 ....Obviously, the best solution for 1010music Blackbox would have a 4x4 velocity sensitive pad grid with aftertouch. It would be sick to have a 4x4 that has a few buttons, and a rotary encoder with LED ring display for each of the 16 pads.

[@barriebland8765]

You can only do this if you have preloaded samples and have Ableton live, not the lite you get in the box. Everything is designed to make spend more money

[@Taetro]

You can do a lot with Live Lite and the included plugins with the Minilab. Try to concentrate on the things you have vs the things you don’t.

[@crapweasel17]

Agree that chord mode is kind of pointless without a scaler. Can you recommend some other midi controllers that have that feature besides the M-Vave?

[@Drrolfski]

I've contemplated on this device but I ended up settling down on the Akai MPK Mini Plus. The reason being that the Mini Plus hits sweet spot for me between key functionality (mod wheels, quality pads, transport controls, endless encoders) while still being compact enough.

[@riffraffrichard]

I’ve been considering this one the pads look good and the control stick I like the ability to manipulate sound and it looks a bit more fun for that reason. How does it work for using with something like a Elle ton in terms of workflow.

[@Drrolfski]

@@riffraffrichard Not sure if I understand your question. What I can tel is that it comes with mappings for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Garage band, MPC software, and FL Studio. And these work fine. Hooking it up with an iPad works fine as well. I personally use it as a set of piano keys and extra Q-.link knobs for my MPC Live 2. Being quite similar in width this also pairs well

[@riffraffrichard]

@@Drrolfski that’s great I was just wondering about it’s compatibility thank you. I think I agree with you the layout of the hardware looks more interesting for me. Having more keys is important

[@Tyleulenspiegel]

Where do you get your stickers/skins/decals for your controllers (because they look sick!)?

[@flinta788]

You should definitely do this with the AKAI mpk mini mk3! I got it about a week ago because of the drumpads, compatibility, and price.

[@Taetro]

Good idea!!

[@paulbaldie]

I actually had mpk mini mk3, And the pads were terrible almost like in this video.

[@flinta788]

@@paulbaldie you prob got a defect

[@frozennorthproductions]

I noticed that most of your videos, you're either using the MiniLab, LaunchKey mini, or MPK mini. You should do a comparison video between all three of them using all mk3 models.

[@Taetro]

definitely watch the end segment of this video!

[@frozennorthproductions]

@@Taetro I actually just realized how old these controllers are so now I'm holding out for your mk4 comparison whenever they come out lol

[@mitzzzu_tigerjones444]

If I have a mini lab generation one is it still compatible with software and stuff?

[@BPEMETO]

Very nice and informative video! Thank you! : ) Btw what would you recommend between Arturia Keylab Essential 49 mk3 and M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 ? I want to buy one of those two. Thanks!

[@paulgrewal]

Love this controller but I just can’t deal with only 2 octaves, writing melodies with even basic chord extensions becomes impossible.

[@eltripps9684]

I just want a 37 key controller with a 2 channel audiofuse Interface built in with at least one adat in and out option. It's like companies just want to slow play development to maximize long term profits.

[@Chichilele]

My friend , greate videos. I would like to know if smk25II can control each tracks to record on reaper?

[@-adc]

BTW - if there are any #Bitwig users curious if the MK3 integrates well? Yes. Simple setup, the LCD reads from the DAW, and Bitwig adds coloring and UI elements to help you understand what you are controlling.

[@Taetro]

Good to know!

[@jaypkock]

I use a KeyStep 37 in conjunction with a Behringer Synth hooked up too a MPC - i chose the KeyStep since it had aftertouch, however, since i sometimes go for the MPC software just too use the Arturia V Collection but the KeyStep really falls short there... Im kinda torn if i should get the Minilab 3 for it or if i should just bite the bullet on the Keylab 49 (because aftertouch is just so huge for me) dammit Arturia! Aftertouch on your mini controller would be such a deal-breaker

[@federicostanca2409]

In an old video the novation mk3 seemed better to me, today with the new integration to ableton does this one seem better to you?

[@NinchallaBuilds]

Can you do a video on how to use analog lab with abelton as well as how to go about doing live looping also with abelton?

[@hartmuthornstein3268]

How does it works with IOS GarageBand or Logic Pro? I know that the arti can use the power from IPad so you can use Bluetooth for external speakers In GarageBand for example you must activate MPE Controller

[@DR34M3R_Official]

does Arturia work with Fl Studio and Logic Pro X?

[@AA-ge4uj]

I still swear by my Mvave. Originally, I was a little pissed at only having 4 pads across so i mapped the bottom 4 as 1-4 Mute-UnMute & the top 4 as 5-8. That got old so I bought a second unit, which I wanted anyway & mapped all the bottom pads as 1-8 Mute-UnMute & all the top pads as 1-8 Arm-DisArm. Works good for me & Transport Controls are included. Was just about to invest in the SMC Mk2 & the SMC Mixer popped up. That will now replace all that mapping & the last piece will be the Akai APC Key-25 Mini for the 40 Launch pads. 3 Keyboards, 1 with Launch Pads included & a Mixer/Controller, my coffee table is full but I'm good to go, Thanks to the info from this channel & the occasional stupid question.

[@Nova-TechnoLAB]

Got a real question. Is there anything out there which is standalone with enough synths/drums etc etc to actually make a FULL SONG/FULL TRACK??? Something I can sit down with and smash out a full 3-4minute song without the pain in the a$$ nonsense "but you can do this". Straight up, a device which i dont need to funk around with other gear to get a 3-4 minute song. Please. *got 2 OPZs and a Circuit track on top of everything else, and its a pain in the you know what to create just the one damn full track for 3-4minutes long. REally open to suggestions. Solid suggestions please my dudes

[@notmyrealname9059]

Whilst I'm relatively new to daws it was absolutely baffling how many don't come with a separate external midi output. I'm having far more fun controlling a tablet Android soft synths with the launch key mini and using it's midi out simultaneously to the Aira compacts and circuit rhythm from the launch key. Keeping the key step 37 for Ableton

[@Taetro]

Totally. I feel like midi out is becoming more standard now though!

[@tamle604]

I have 2 alternative options: Minilab 3 and Oxygen Pro Mini as It is my time to purchase a MIDI controller. I hope to receive your review comparing them as I did not know what to buy. I went through lots of reviewing, and searching but still wondering.

[@Taetro]

Please use your judgement and choose between the controllers! You don’t need me to tell you what is better for you.

[@gregfromthevaley]

I find analog lab very heavy on cpu on my m1 Mac in comparison to other plugins

[@sneaky_general]

I go through phases where I want to downsize, but growing up playing piano I just can’t get into the mini keys. Going back to Launchkey37 soon to be somewhere in the middle on keyboard size.

[@Taetro]

Yeah 37 keys is a sweet spot for sure

[@aquietgarden]

I love my MiniLab 3. What's the 16 grid controller behind you on the right of the screen at 9:15 in the video? Scrub that… just found it at 10:56.

[@Taetro]

and it's linked in the description!

[@nicolascajiao8615]

Hi Taetro! So you can use the sounds on Arturia lab as plugins in Ableton? How can I do that? great video btw.

[@daniloalves8354]

Yes, you can! The Analog Lab works as a VST plugin :D

[@TreyBruceable]

First. Yes. Yes it is.

[@Tenly_UK]

yes yes

[@Taetro]

🏆

[@scotteepunk]

I'm thinking about buying this Arturia, but Summer NAMM 2024 is next month in July and I'm waiting to see what comes out.

[@michelnassar9706]

The MiniLab 3 is still new, they won't release a new version anytime soon

[@scotteepunk]

@@michelnassar9706 Yeah, but I'm thinking they may release a 37 key minilab, and also what other brands will have at NAMM.

[@rolandodelarosa3827]

Can I use mini lab 3 on a I pad pro 14 ?

[@vladblack447]

Hi, Taetro. Could you please tell me whether I should choose the Minilab 3 or the Launchkey Mini MK3? The Launchkey Mini has better pads, but what about the software and keyboard quality? Does it give a significant advantage to have access to Analog Lab Intro?

[@Taetro]

watch the video to the end where I directly address this question!

[@vladblack447]

Yeah, I've watched for the third time, and I still can't decide between the two 😂

[@zouwerap]

I just bought it but it only comes with the Analog Lab Intro version which contains only 500 presets. I see that you have Analog Lab Pro with many more presets, do you know why this happens?

[@Taetro]

yes because you need to upgrade to Analog Lab Pro if you want more than the 500 presets. If you're just starting out, start with just the 500 and you'll be fine for a while!

[@DR34M3R_Official]

One question , if I purchase this minilab 3 , would I get access to their huge library of presets for free? (I mean along with the purchase)

[@Taetro]

Not the same as the full V collection but if you check their website it will list what is bundled free

[@DR34M3R_Official]

@@Taetro Alright! tysm for replying haha

[@GerenM63]

Hi Taetro, been a minute. Quick question for you -- are you using Live 12 at this point? Thanks!

[@Taetro]

what's up geren - hope you've been well. I am using Live 12 now!

[@GerenM63]

​@@Taetro Thanks, Taetro. Doing great! Hope you are, too. And thank you for the quick response. Looks like I'll prbably be grabbing one of the new MiniLab 3s. I've been having problems with with older controlers, Live 12, and Analog Lab. So, see it actually work helps me a lot. Cheers!

[@manuelgonzales6483]

🎉

[@vigh4696]

Hey Taetro, great video. I wanted to know if the faders can be mapped to use as expression/dynamics controllers for like spitfire audio plugins (LABS and their own player) and Kontakt Libraries (mainly orchestral ones which have expression, dynamics, vibrato etc controllers in them). I use logic and I'm considering getting this keyboard mainly for the faders + keyboard combo (instead of knobs) as a portable composing midi (I have a main setup otherwise), just this seems portable, affordable and durable. If you have any idea, it'll be great, thanks so much for making these videos, I truly appreciate it.

[@Taetro]

The those parameters are midi mappable…you will be able to map them to the minilab! Have you considered and MPE controller like the seaboard block though? More natural control over those expressions rather than using faders

[@vigh4696]

@@Taetro ohkay perfect, I was more worried about the midi controlling my daw and the plugin together because then I’d have to go and do troubleshooting/deleting automations on every track I record over😵‍💫. And yes I have thought of seaboard and I’m a huge fan but it currently doesn’t fit my budget considering the shipping is kinda tricky in my country so I won’t be receiving it on time as well (I’m needing this for a work trip to EU next month). Thanks so much for replying to my comment though, this was helpful. I’ll post an update about my experience or what I end up getting

[@SgtMajor82]

Which version of analogue labs did you use with this video please?

[@Taetro]

Analog Lab Pro with the V collection!

[@Kitteh_Croompeth]

Would Minilab 3 work with Reaper? I can't afford to get both a midi keyboard and another DAW...😅 if there's any other keyboard or synth that someone could recommend, then that would also be helpful

[@Taetro]

any DAW that accepts MIDI will work with any midi controller

[@Kitteh_Croompeth]

@@Taetro Thank you so much!

[@shahindezfouli5108]

Which is good : worlde mini ll or alesis mk ll or akai mpk lll?

[@Taetro]

my friend! Watch the video especially at the end where I discuss multiple controllers.

[@Powhart]

Me: just casually watching the video My Brain: so... when are you going to start learning Pigments? You know... the synth You've PAID FOR and never ever bothered to open?

[@Powhart]

I gotta agree with the Chord mode - I have this inside Roli Studio plugin and it speed up the creative process tremendously. You can easily implement this into the minilab because the hardware is there! Let's say You enter a scale mode via some combination and immediately it's in the scale of the last chord You've played. Each knob represent each step of the scale where You can add 7th's or 6th's or whatever You like or even make a different chord out of it just by turning the knob on each step and the display is showing You exaclty what are You doing to this thing. The last 8th knob (since we have 7 notes in a scale with the 8th being repeated) will determine the invertion of the chord.

[@yashkummar]

Does it compatible with Cubase?

[@Taetro]

Yes

[@chuckfriebe843]

Can this be used with GarageBand and can it interface with iPad?

[@minhtrovert]

Yes just get an adapter and connect it to your iPad.

[@chuckfriebe843]

@@minhtrovert Thanks so much!

[@heimdall4148]

I upgraded from analog lab into to pro like you have but you have more instruments to choose from. how? For example i only have augmented voices and strings but you have 5 augmented instruments. also your showing it like it comes with the keyboard but analog labs intro is far more restricted than the pro version your showing. you even have a lot of the standalone instruments unlocked for hundreds of dollars. For everyone buying this midi keyboard THIS COMES NOT WITH THE CONTROLLER

[@Taetro]

I was trying to demonstrate the overall arturia ecosystem, not say that all these plugins come with the keyboard. Sorry if that was unclear. Analog Lab and the V Collection are two different things. I have the V Collection which has more augmented instruments included. Hope that helps.

[@blurare6822]

lowkey this guy is Brendan urie

[@olodara]

What would be a fix or way around the chord mode with Arturia Mini Lab III

[@Taetro]

you can use the scale / chord MIDI devices in ableton live to create chords that stay in key