Arturia keystep 37

Yes — the “unusual” keyboard size I mentioned is 32–37 keys. Many experienced synth players prefer this size because it’s still portable but much easier to play real music than a 25-key keyboard.

Let me show you the two that people talk about the most.

1️⃣ The unusual “32-key” type

A classic example is the 32-key portable controller.

M‑Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3

Why some players like 32 keys:

• you get almost three octaves

• enough space for left-hand bass + right-hand melody

• still very small for travel

• usually cheap and lightweight

This size is rare — most companies jump from 25 → 37 keys — which is why it feels unusual.

2️⃣ The keyboard many pros carry with an iPad

This is the one I was hinting at:

The most famous among pros is the:

➡️ Arturia KeyStep 37

Reasons it’s loved:

• excellent mini-key feel

• built-in arpeggiator

• 64-step sequencer

• aftertouch

• MIDI + USB + CV connections

It’s designed to be a creative idea generator, with chord mode, scale mode, and sequencer functions built in.

That’s why touring electronic musicians and iPad composers often carry it.

3️⃣ Why 37 keys is the “sweet spot”

This is the key insight.

25 keys

→ portable but cramped

37 keys

→ real playing becomes possible

You can do:

• bass line + chords

• two-hand synth parts

• full melodies without constant octave switching

Yet it still fits in a small backpack.

4️⃣ For your specific setup

You already own:

• Yamaha P125 (full piano)

• Arturia KeyLab 61

• Yamaha PSR-33

So your travel keyboard should emphasize portability.

Two excellent choices:

Best ecosystem fit

• Arturia KeyStep 37

Best wireless iPad rig

• Korg microKEY Air 37 (Bluetooth)

5️⃣ What many iPad musicians actually carry

A common mobile rig looks like:

Backpack

  ├─ iPad

  ├─ KeyStep 37

  ├─ headphones

  └─ USB-C cable

Apps:

• Model D

• GarageBand

• synth apps

That’s basically a portable synthesizer studio.

✅ My honest recommendation for your setup

Because you already have Arturia software:

➡️ Arturia KeyStep 37 is probably the smartest addition.

It will:

• control Analog Lab V

• work with Mini V

• connect to iPad / Mac / iPhone

• even control hardware synths later.

💡 One more interesting thing:

There is one tiny keyboard that some touring keyboardists prefer even over the KeyStep because the keys feel almost like a real piano despite the small size. If you’d like, I can show you that one too — it surprises many musicians. 🎹