Arturia Minilab 3 Review

Are you looking for a powerful MIDI controller without breaking the bank? Look no further than the Arturia MiniLab 3.

This compact and portable controller is perfect for both studio and live performances, and is praised for its intuitive interface and assignable controls.

It’s got 25 velocity-sensitive keys, 16 rotary encoders, 8 touch-sensitive pads, pitch bend and modulation touch strips, and a built-in arpeggiator.

Plus, it’s compatible with Mac, PC, iOS, and Android devices, and comes with Ableton Live Lite and Analog Lab Lite software.

Get the MiniLab 3 today and take your music production to the next level.

Key Takeaways

  • Compact and portable design
  • Impressive new additions: assignable faders, MIDI out, and mini screen
  • Extensive software bundle included
  • Tactile, hands-on workflow with assignable controls

Overview

Getting a feel for the Arturia MiniLab 3 starts with its compact and portable design. This MIDI controller has 25 velocity-sensitive keys, 16 rotary encoders, 8 touch-sensitive pads, and two touch strips for pitch bend and modulation.

Its compatibility with Mac, PC, iOS, and Android devices, as well as its seamless integration with popular DAWs, ensures it’s easy to use. Included is Ableton Live Lite and Analog Lab Lite software, making it a great choice for electronic music production.

What’s more, the MiniLab 3 can be used as a standalone MIDI controller. The design and portability of this controller, combined with its software integration and compatibility, make it an excellent choice for any musician.

Improvements

The MiniLab 3 has seen some impressive new additions, such as assignable faders, MIDI out, and a mini screen. It has an eco-friendly design, which makes it a great choice for those who are conscious of their environmental impact.

The enhanced software features make this controller even more appealing. The included software bundle offers a variety of production tools, including an arpeggiator and chord mode. It also has two banks of eight velocity-sensitive pads that are great for creating beats.

The assignable controls make it easy to customize the controller to fit your workflow. The mini screen and clickable browsing knob provide real-time feedback and make it easier to select instruments and presets.

All in all, the MiniLab 3 is an excellent choice for electronic music production.

Assignable Controls

Continuing from the improvements of the MiniLab 3, the assignable controls are impressive in their range and capabilities. The MiniLab 3 has eight assignable rotary knobs, replacing the previous model’s 16 knobs. Additionally, four assignable faders have been added.

The touch strips are still provided, although some users may prefer pitch/mod wheels or a joystick. The MiniLab 3 also allows users to customize their workflow with hands-on tactile controls.

With the MiniLab 3, users can easily perform complex tasks, such as controlling their DAW and other software. Overall, the assignable controls offer a great level of flexibility and customization to meet the needs and preferences of the user.

Workflow

How easily can you control your workflow with the Arturia MiniLab 3?

The tactile interaction of the assignable controls provides an impressive range of hands-on options, making it easy to achieve your desired sound.

Navigating presets and instruments is simplified via the built-in mini screen and clickable browsing knob, and the addition of four assignable faders in place of the missing rotary knobs adds further control and versatility.

The MiniLab 3 also offers a built-in arpeggiator for beginners, as well as a chord mode and dynamic capture for experienced players.

With its intuitive interface and robust feature set, the MiniLab 3 provides an effortless and seamless workflow for any type of music production.

User Reviews

Many users have praised the Arturia MiniLab 3 for its build quality and intuitive interface. It has received positive feedback from both beginners and professionals alike. The MiniLab 3 offers a tactile, hands-on workflow and has an impressive range of assignable controls.

Navigating instruments and presets still requires some mouse and screen interaction, however. Pros and cons of this controller include its eco-friendly build, improved production tools, two banks of pads, and a built-in arpeggiator. It also captures all dynamics in a performance, while the included software bundle is a great added value.

Despite some minor drawbacks, the MiniLab 3 is highly recommended for electronic music production, both in the studio and live.

Recommendations

Overall, the Arturia MiniLab 3 is an excellent choice for electronic music production, offering great value for money compared to other MIDI controllers.
Its impressive range of assignable controls, tactile workflow, and hardware instrument-like experience make it highly recommended for its performance capabilities and software compatibility.

The MiniLab 3 captures all dynamics in a performance and its controls are pre-mapped to the included Arturia software for a seamless integration with popular DAWs.
It also comes with an extensive software bundle, making it suitable for both studio and live performances.

In addition, the MiniLab 3 has improved production tools compared to its predecessor.
All in all, this MIDI controller is sure to provide an enjoyable and inspiring experience.

Conclusion

The Arturia MiniLab 3 is a great choice for any musician looking for a high-quality MIDI controller.

With its intuitive interface and impressive range of assignable controls, it’s perfect for both studio and live performances.

It’s easy to use and comes with Ableton Live Lite and Analog Lab Lite software, making it ideal for those just starting out.

Whether you’re a professional or a beginner, this MIDI controller is sure to help you create music that stands out.

Leave a Comment