Arturia AstroLab 61 vs Novation KS4
| Arturia AstroLab 61 | Novation KS4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Key action | 61 semi-weighted piano-size keys with velocity and aftertouch (premium synth-action keybed) | 49-note (4-octave) keyboard - official spec line 'Keyboard 49 note (KS4)'; the manufacturer does not name the action type (semi-weighted/hammer) |
| Aftertouch | yes | — |
| Polyphony | — | 16 |
| Sounds / presets | 1800 | — |
| Sound engine | 40+ instrument engines from Arturia's plugin line (V Collection/Analog Lab platform: vintage and modern synths, pianos, organs, hybrid instruments), expandable via Analog Lab Pro | — |
| Effects | 2 dedicated FX (delay, reverb) + 2 assignable FX knobs; up to 12 insert FX types | — |
| Speakers | None (line out only) | — |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No |
| USB audio | No | No |
| Pads / faders | no | — |
| Weight | 9.9 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 935 × 99 × 330 mm | 852 × 94 × 300 mm |
| Battery power | no | — |
| Released | 2023 | 2002 |
| USB to host | — | no |
| Discontinued | — | 1 |
| Status | current | legacy |
| Keys | 61 | 49 |
Which one should you buy?
- Choose the Novation KS4 if lighter to carry to gigs and lessons (9.9 kg vs 7.5 kg).
- Choose the Arturia AstroLab 61 if you want wireless MIDI/audio from a phone or tablet.
Full spec sheets: Arturia AstroLab 61 · Novation KS4. Rows with a highlighted background differ.