User's Manual

2.3.2. Activating Transpose
The Transpose function lets you shift the pitch of the keyboard to make performance as
straightforward as possible.
For example, you may wish to transpose the keyboard to perform with a vocalist who
finds it more comfortable to sing a song in a particular key. You can simply transpose the
keyboard, and play the song as you normally would.
To transpose in KeyLab Essential, simply press and hold the Trans button, and select the
note you wish to hear at the position of C on the keyboard. Notes lower than middle C will
transpose down, and notes above Middle C will transpose up.
The Trans button will now brightly light up, letting you know that transpose mode is
activated.
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NOTE: The range of the Transpose function is -11 to +11 notes. To extend this range, you can use it in
conjunction with the Octave function.
You can toggle the previously set transposition on and off. While disabled, the transpose
button will remain dimly lit to indicate that it remembers your previous selection.
2.3.3. Resetting Transpose
To reset transpose mode, simply hold the Trans button down and select a C note. The light
will then turn off.
This feature can be used in combination with the Octave buttons.
2.4. Chord mode
KeyLab Essential features a Chord mode which lets you perform a chord of your choice
using only one finger. This is a great creative tool for thickening up your composition and
giving your melodies extra depth.
2.4.1. Activating Chord mode
To activate Chord mode, simply press and hold the Chord button, and then enter your
preferred chord on the keyboard, up to a maximum of 10 notes. Once you release the Chord
button, this chord can be played by pressing just one note.
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NOTE: If you want to program a chord that would be difficult to play with one hand, you can simply
hit each note one by one while the Chord button is held.
The lowest note of the chord selected is considered to be the root note, and is automatically
transposed to any new note you play. For example, if you wanted to perform a simple 2-note
chord using the Chord feature, you would press the Chord button, simultaneously play a C
and G, and then release the Chord button. Now this chord can be played on any key.
This function can be toggled on and off but pressing the Chord button, and the previously
used chord will be stored while the unit remains powered.
6 Arturia - User Manual KeyLab Essential - Guided Tour