The KeyStep Pro from Arturia was launched at the 2020 NAMM Show and represents an enhanced version of the original KeyStep. The Pro vesion adds an extended range of functions as well as numerous additional inputs and outputs, which means it can become the centre of every setup. It can be used to control various external synthesizers using a single source. Whether analogue or digital, the numerous output options mean that you can remain flexible at all times. The KeyStep Pro can also be used as a master clock, and its keyboard features 37 velocity-sensitive keys with an aftertouch function.
The internal sequencer is equipped with four tracks that can implement 16 64-step patterns that in turn can hold 16 notes per step, and up to 16 patterns can be combined into a song. With the integrated memory, the patterns can be loaded, duplicated, optimised, edited, modified using the Time Shift function, and saved as required. In addition to a standard playback function, the KeyStep Pro also has two modes for random playback. The recording of played notes is possible via quantisation and in user-defined scales via the Step function. The arpeggiator has a range of five octaves and has seven modes with which the patterns can be arranged in various ways. Furthermore, a random generator is included with which sequences can be created at the touch of a button, and the Chord mode can be used to create simple chords.
The KeyStep Pro can be used to control vintage synths, DAWs, and Eurorack modules, among other devices. This is thanks to the flexible outputs, which include four CV/gate/mod units, eight drum gate outputs, a MIDI input, and two MIDI outputs. In addition to a clock input and a clock output, there is also a reset output for the clock. A sustain pedal can also be plugged in, and there is a dedicated output for the integrated metronome. This signal can thus be forwarded to another musician, such as a drummer. The KeyStep Pro is flexible in terms of its power supply, as it can be operated either via a 12V power supply unit or via the USB connection.
Arturia's success story began with software emulations of well-known analogue synthesizers such as the Moog Minimoog, Sequential Prophet-5, and Oberheim SEM. The popular software instruments included in the V Collection are still flagship products of the French developer today. Over time, Arturia has gradually expanded its range and now also offers a host of hardware devices, ranging from synthesizers and keyboard controllers to sequencers. Since then, the former software developer has thus also become a household name in the world of analogue synthesizers and other equipment.
The KeyStep Pro has an OLED display on which the project details can be edited with the encoder located to the right of it. In addition, the display shows the respective values of the keys and encoders that are actuated. Each key has an LED for visual feedback. The five encoders can be used to send and automate MIDI CC messages. Snapshots of the patterns or scenes can be made using the scene function, and these can be replayed on all four tracks at a specific time. These snapshots can then be accessed again later on. As you edit, the buttons indicate which notes are in the step. Notes can be marked and grouped together, and then edited with the five encoders. Instead of being within a single step, the length of the gate can be changed from a 64th of a step to as much as 64 steps - the Arturia developers' idea here being to avoid endless numbers of connected notes.