Arturia AstroLab: Brandon Coleman’s Astral Funk Workflow Revolution

Arturia positions the AstroLab keyboard as a tool that redefines how musicians approach their workflows and performances. In this video, Brandon Coleman describes the instrument as a game-changer, particularly for those who want to bridge the gap between studio sound design and live execution. The emphasis is on the seamless transition from crafting sounds in the studio to deploying them on stage, eliminating the need for external computers or complex setups.

Coleman’s perspective underscores the AstroLab’s role as more than just another digital keyboard. By allowing users to transfer their custom sounds directly into the hardware, the AstroLab promises a new level of immediacy and reliability for performing musicians. This approach is presented as a significant evolution in keyboard workflow, especially for those who have struggled with laptop-based rigs in live contexts.

Brandon Coleman is quick to highlight the AstroLab’s realistic sound quality, drawing a direct comparison to classic hardware synths. He recalls his initial surprise at how Arturia’s software instruments could convincingly emulate the tactile, organic character of vintage gear. In the AstroLab, this tradition continues, with advanced sound modeling that aims to capture not just the timbre but the nuanced response of iconic keyboards.

Coleman demonstrates several presets, including a modeled Yamaha CS-80 patch and an Earth, Wind & Fire-style Rhodes, noting how closely the filters and overall tone match the originals. The video makes it clear that for players who crave the authentic feel and sound of classic instruments, AstroLab’s engine delivers a compelling digital alternative. The focus here is on expressivity and realism—qualities that are often elusive in software-based setups.

AstroLab’s feature set is designed to streamline the music-making process without overwhelming the user. Coleman points out the built-in effects, such as reverb and delay, which are accessible directly from the front panel. This immediacy allows for on-the-fly sound shaping, crucial for both studio sessions and live jams. The effects are presented as both high-quality and practical, letting musicians rival guitarists in expressive capability.

Another highlight is the inclusion of aftertouch, which Coleman demonstrates as a tool for adding subtle or dramatic dynamics to performances. He stresses the importance of this feature for creating expressive swells and nuanced articulations. Importantly, Coleman contrasts the AstroLab’s interface with more complex keyboards, noting that its streamlined controls and reduced menu-diving make it approachable for pianists and synth players alike. The design philosophy here is clear: empower creativity, minimize friction.

One of the standout aspects of the AstroLab, as described by Coleman, is the ability to load personal presets directly onto the keyboard. This feature enables musicians to craft their own sounds in the studio and then take those exact patches to the stage, sidestepping the need for a laptop or external host. For Coleman, this means every performance can feature his own signature tones, making the instrument feel uniquely tailored.

The workflow described is particularly appealing for touring artists who value reliability and consistency. Coleman recounts past frustrations with laptop-based setups and emphasizes how AstroLab’s self-contained architecture provides peace of mind. The result is a keyboard that supports both creative exploration and the practical demands of live performance, reinforcing the idea that technology should serve the musician—not the other way around.