Arturia 231512

Arturia MicroLab Mk3 - Universal MIDI Controller User Manual

Model: 231512

Introduction

The Arturia MicroLab Mk3 is a compact and versatile MIDI controller designed for music production. It features a high-quality keybed, intuitive controls, and seamless integration with popular music software. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your MicroLab Mk3.

Product Features

  • Compact and Portable Design: Small, lightweight, durable, and USB-powered, making it ideal for mobile music-making and compact studio setups.
  • Responsive Keybed: Features a high-quality slim keybed for a responsive and authentic playing experience.
  • Comprehensive Software Integration: Includes 500 curated presets from Analog Lab Intro and instant music production capabilities with Ableton Live Lite.
  • Intuitive Controls: Equipped with four buttons and two touch strips for expressive performance and control.
  • Plug-and-Play Connectivity: Simple USB connectivity ensures immediate use without complex setup.

Package Contents

Please ensure all items are present in the package:

  • Arturia MicroLab Mk3 MIDI Controller
  • USB-C to USB-A Cable
  • Software Registration Card / Download Instructions

Setup Guide

1. Connecting Your MicroLab Mk3

  1. Locate the USB-C port on the rear of your MicroLab Mk3.
  2. Connect one end of the provided USB-C cable to the MicroLab Mk3.
  3. Connect the other end of the USB-A cable to an available USB port on your computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  4. The MicroLab Mk3 is USB bus-powered and does not require an external power supply.
Rear view of Arturia MicroLab Mk3 showing USB-C port and control output.

Image: Rear view of the MicroLab Mk3, illustrating the USB-C port for connectivity and the control output jack.

2. Software Installation and Registration

  1. Visit the official Arturia website (link provided on your registration card).
  2. Register your MicroLab Mk3 using the serial number and unlock code found on the included card.
  3. Download and install the Arturia Software Center.
  4. Use the Arturia Software Center to download and activate your included software, such as Analog Lab Intro and Ableton Live Lite.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions for software installation and setup within your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).

Operating Instructions

The MicroLab Mk3 features a streamlined interface for intuitive control over your music production.

Top-down view of Arturia MicroLab Mk3 showing keys, buttons, and touch strips.

Image: Top-down view of the MicroLab Mk3, illustrating the 25-key keyboard, control buttons, and touch strips.

Keybed and Octave Control

  • The 25 velocity-sensitive keys provide a responsive playing experience.
  • Use the Oct- and Oct+ buttons to shift the keyboard's octave range up or down. The current octave setting is indicated by the LED lights above the buttons.

Control Buttons

  • Shift: Activates secondary functions for other buttons. Hold this button while pressing another to access its alternate mode.
  • Hold: Sustains notes played on the keyboard. Press once to toggle on/off.
  • Chord: Enables Chord Mode, allowing you to play full chords with a single key press. Configure chords within the Arturia software.
  • Previous/Next: Used for navigating presets or parameters within compatible software when in specific modes (e.g., Analog Lab Intro).
  • Category/Preset: These buttons, often used in conjunction with the Shift button, allow for browsing categories and presets in Arturia's Analog Lab Intro software.

Touch Strips

  • The two touch strips function as Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels, providing expressive control over your sounds.
  • The left strip typically controls Pitch Bend, allowing you to smoothly vary the pitch of notes.
  • The right strip typically controls Modulation, which can be assigned to various parameters like vibrato, filter cutoff, or volume within your software.

Maintenance and Care

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the surface of the MicroLab Mk3. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
  • Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts. Do not place heavy objects on top of the unit.
  • Liquid Exposure: Keep the MicroLab Mk3 away from liquids. In case of accidental spills, immediately disconnect the device from your computer and allow it to dry completely before reconnecting.

Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible Cause / Solution
MicroLab Mk3 is not recognized by computer.
  • Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the MicroLab Mk3 and your computer.
  • Try a different USB port on your computer.
  • Try a different USB cable.
  • Restart your computer.
  • Check your operating system's device manager (Windows) or System Information (macOS) to see if the device is listed.
No sound or MIDI input in DAW.
  • Ensure the MicroLab Mk3 is selected as a MIDI input device within your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) preferences.
  • Verify that the track in your DAW is armed for recording or monitoring MIDI input.
  • Check that the correct virtual instrument or sound is loaded and active on the MIDI track.
  • Confirm that the octave range is set appropriately on the MicroLab Mk3.
Buttons or touch strips are unresponsive.
  • Ensure the device is properly connected and powered.
  • Restart the MicroLab Mk3 by unplugging and re-plugging the USB cable.
  • Check for any firmware updates for the MicroLab Mk3 via the Arturia Software Center.
  • Verify that the software you are using is compatible and correctly configured to receive MIDI CC messages from the touch strips.

Technical Specifications

  • Model Number: 231512
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 15.98 x 4.92 x 1.55 inches (40.59 x 12.50 x 3.94 cm)
  • Weight: 1.35 pounds (0.62 kg)
  • Keyboard: 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys
  • Connectivity: USB Type-C
  • Controls: 4 buttons (Shift, Hold, Oct-, Oct+), 2 touch strips (Pitch Bend, Modulation), Category/Preset buttons
  • Power: USB Bus-powered
  • Color: Black

Warranty Information

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Arturia website. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region.

Customer Support

If you encounter any issues not covered in this manual or require further assistance, please contact Arturia customer support through their official website. You can find FAQs, support articles, and contact forms on their support page.

Arturia Official Website: www.arturia.com

© 2025 Arturia. All rights reserved.

Arturia MicroLab Mk3 User Manual - Version 1.0

Ask a question about this manual

Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.

After a successful submission, we securely hash the supplied account or form email before sending it to Microsoft Advertising for conversion attribution. Privacy details.