Arturia KeyStep mk2: The Hybrid Sequencer-Controller That Wants to Run Your Rig

Arturia introduces the KeyStep mk2 as a versatile compact controller and sequencer, designed to serve as the central hub in hybrid hardware–software environments. The video opens with Brendan Void positioning the mk2 as more than just a keyboard, emphasizing its role in bridging DAWs, synths, and modular gear. The focus is clearly on workflow fluidity: the mk2 is pitched as a device that lets you spark ideas, compose, and perform without breaking your creative flow.

From the outset, Arturia’s presentation style is confident and direct, highlighting the mk2’s generative features and its ability to enhance both studio and live setups. The promise is clear—this is a tool built to keep your ideas evolving, whether you’re patching cables or piloting virtual instruments.

Arturia leans into generative creativity with the mutate function, which allows for unpredictable or drastic variations of sequences and arpeggiator patterns. The amount of mutation is visually indicated on the display, and the process is reversible—holding shift and mutate resets to the original pattern. Importantly, mutated patterns can be saved as new presets or chained for live performance, making this more than a mere randomizer.

Scale lock and chord mode further expand the mk2’s creative palette. Scale lock ensures mutated or newly recorded notes stay in key, either globally or per pattern. Chord mode lets users program custom chords or select from presets, playable with a single finger, and includes a strum feature for added expressiveness. These features are clearly aimed at speeding up harmonic experimentation and performance workflows.

The arpeggiator on the KeyStep mk2 is robust, offering 16 modes ranging from classic directions to more experimental patterns that introduce silences, note density changes, and even chords. Modes are easily selected via blue-labeled keys, with instant visual feedback on the display. The hold button latches notes for hands-free operation, and octave shifting is available on the fly.

A standout workflow feature is the ability to convert an arpeggio into a sequence with a simple shift+arp command. This blurs the line between sequencing and arpeggiation, allowing users to treat both as parts of a single creative process. The video demonstrates how mutate and arp modes can be combined for endless idea generation, and how detailed settings for both sequencer and arpeggiator are accessible via long-press menus. Editing tools like nudge, octave transpose, double, quantize, reload, clear, and undo round out the performance and compositional toolkit.