When the modern music industry demands both speed and sonic sophistication, few tools promise as much as Arturia’s AstroLab. In this official Arturia feature, Grammy-winning musical director Khirye Tyler walks us through his creative process, revealing how AstroLab has become his go-to for both high-pressure tours and experimental sound design at home. From rapid set preparation to seamless integration of classic synth emulations, Tyler demonstrates how AstroLab’s hybrid hardware-software architecture keeps him in the creative flow. This video isn’t a deep-dive into every menu, but it’s a compelling look at how AstroLab’s real-world workflow translates from studio to stage.

6. February 2026
LYRA
Arturia’s AstroLab in Action: Khirye Tyler’s Workflow Weapon for Studio and Stage
AstroLab: The Backbone of Tyler’s Fast-Moving Workflow
Khirye Tyler opens the video by situating AstroLab 61 at the heart of his recent touring and production work, notably on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour. He describes the instrument as a key component in both his studio and live setups, underscoring its role in meeting the demands of high-profile, fast-paced projects. The AstroLab doesn’t just serve as another keyboard—it’s positioned as a central hub for sound creation and performance, able to keep up with the relentless pace of modern pop production.
Tyler credits his tech, Zach, for introducing him to AstroLab and for helping shape sounds on the fly during the tour. The workflow described is collaborative and dynamic: while Tyler juggles multiple responsibilities, AstroLab’s flexibility allows his team to mold sounds in real time. This approach is less about static presets and more about adapting to the evolving needs of each show, reflecting the realities of a touring musician’s life.
Synths, Sounds, and Seamless Integration
A major advantage Tyler highlights is AstroLab’s ability to integrate a wide range of synth sounds, many of which are already available as Arturia emulations. This makes it easy to recreate or adapt signature tones for live performance, as demonstrated with sounds used on tracks like “Drunk in Love” and “Energy.” The convenience of having these emulations at hand streamlines the process, eliminating the need for multiple pieces of gear or complex setups.
Tyler emphasizes that AstroLab’s sound library and engine integration are crucial for keeping up with the rapid pace of professional music production. When every second counts, being able to access, tweak, and deploy a variety of synth engines in one instrument becomes a workflow superpower. The video makes it clear that, for Tyler, this seamless integration is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
AstroLab Connect: Real-Time Control and Teamwork
AstroLab Connect, the companion app, is presented as a game-changer for live and studio workflows. Tyler describes how, during performances, he can communicate with his tech team via talkback mic to request real-time sound adjustments—such as tweaking a filter cutoff—which are then instantly pushed to his keyboard. This level of responsiveness is rare in hardware keyboards and stands out as a key feature for high-stakes gigs.
Beyond remote tweaks, Tyler demonstrates how the app enables direct editing of effects like reverb from his phone and the ability to organize sounds into playlists. This mobile integration means that both last-minute changes and setlist management can be handled on the fly, minimizing friction and maximizing creative control. For teams working under pressure, this kind of connectivity is invaluable.

"The Astrolab Connect, the app, it comes in clutch because when something's not feeling right, when something's not cutting right, I can easily talk to Zach via talkback mic and say, 'Hey, man, I really need you to bring some of the cutoff up on this specific sound.'"
© Screenshot/Quote: Arturiaofficial (YouTube)
The Travel Kit: Hardware-Software Synergy for the Road

"I would describe the Astrolab this as the travel kit. It literally has every tool that you need on whatever venture that you're about to go and explore."
© Screenshot/Quote: Arturiaofficial (YouTube)
Tyler affectionately refers to AstroLab as his “travel kit,” highlighting its role as a portable creative powerhouse. He points out that the instrument bridges the gap between analog and software synthesis, allowing him to take the same sounds from his home studio to venues around the world. This portability is not just about convenience—it’s about maintaining creative continuity across different environments.
The video underscores how AstroLab’s hardware-software synergy empowers Tyler to explore new ideas wherever inspiration strikes. Whether he’s at home or on tour, the ability to access the same presets, playlists, and sound engines ensures that his creative process remains uninterrupted. For artists who need consistency and flexibility, this hybrid approach is a significant asset.
Experimentation and Emotional Connection: The Creative Edge
For Tyler, sound design is as much about emotion as it is about technology. He describes his process as starting with a feeling or a reference point, then building sounds from scratch—sometimes beginning with a simple waveform and letting inspiration guide the rest. AstroLab’s flexibility supports this experimental approach, encouraging him to “twist knobs” and discover new sonic territory.
The instrument’s adaptability keeps Tyler in a state of creative flow, whether he’s searching for a new sound or refining a favorite preset like the “chunky 808.” The portability of the AstroLab 37 is also mentioned, allowing him to bring the same power and sound library on the road. Ultimately, Tyler credits AstroLab with helping him maintain a personal connection to his music, making experimentation both easy and rewarding.

"All of this is experimental. All of this is, you know, a kid in a candy store, so it's all based off of inspiration."
© Screenshot/Quote: Arturiaofficial (YouTube)
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