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Average Price: $80

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Description

Discover a seamless blend of creative control and practical functionality with the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1. This 49-key semi-weighted MIDI keyboard controller is designed for musicians who demand precision and versatility in their music production. Whether you're creating beats in a compact bedroom studio or enhancing live performances, the Axiom 49 delivers intuitive control, making it an essential tool for any setup.

With its nine fully assignable sliders and eight responsive, touch-sensitive velocity pads, the Axiom 49 puts a world of sonic possibilities at your fingertips. The layout is designed to streamline your workflow, providing quick access to essential functions for dynamic music creation. Moreover, its compatibility with a wide range of production software, along with convenient USB connectivity, ensures you can easily integrate it into your existing setup.

The M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 doesn’t just offer control; it invites you to explore new musical landscapes. Its robust build and user-friendly interface make it a reliable companion for both novice producers and seasoned musicians. Unleash your potential and transform your creative ideas into reality with this versatile MIDI controller.

Key Features:

  • 49 semi-weighted keys for a natural playing experience
  • Nine fully assignable sliders for custom control
  • Eight touch-sensitive velocity pads for dynamic performance
  • Compatible with a variety of music production software
  • USB connectivity for easy plug-and-play integration
  • Compact design, suitable for studio and live environments

Product specs

Brand M-Audio
Model Axiom 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
Finish Black
Year 2000s
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Semi-Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 49 Keys
Number of Pads 8 Pads

FAQs

Does the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 have semi-weighted keys?

Yes, the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 features 49 full-sized, semi-weighted keys, providing a more expressive playing experience compared to unweighted keys.

What connectivity options are available on the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1?

The M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 offers USB MIDI connectivity as well as traditional MIDI Input and Output ports, allowing integration with both computer-based setups and standalone MIDI hardware.

How many pads are included on the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1?

The M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 includes 8 velocity-sensitive pads, suitable for triggering samples, loops, and other MIDI events during live performances or studio sessions.

Is the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 compatible with popular DAWs?

Yes, the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 is designed to work seamlessly with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Logic Pro, often providing pre-mapped controls for easy integration.

What kind of action does the keyboard on the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 have?

The keyboard on the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 has a semi-weighted action, offering a balance between the feel of traditional piano keys and the responsiveness needed for dynamic MIDI control.

John Mike

John Mike

This Was One Of The Best Controllers Ever Made! |M-Audio Axiom #ThrowbackThursdays|

Video thumbnail for This Was One Of The Best Controllers Ever Made! |M-Audio Axiom #ThrowbackThursdays| by John Mike

This Was One Of The Best Controllers Ever Made! |M-Audio Axiom #ThrowbackThursdays|

John Mike

John Mike

Video thumbnail for m audio axiom 49 demo test by Максим Котов

m audio axiom 49 demo test

Максим Котов

Максим Котов

Reviews

PROS

  • Can be powered through USB, enhancing portability

  • Quick tone selection from different banks using buttons near the screen

  • Suitable for both live and studio use

  • Integrates well with software instruments and DAWs

  • Features like velocity sensitivity and aftertouch add expressiveness

  • Provides a wide range of assignable knobs, faders, and functions for customization

  • Offers more octaves for flexibility in playing

CONS

  • Reports of MIDI output issues

  • Some buttons below the screen may not work

  • Build quality feels cheap, with a largely plastic construction

  • Keys are light and not weighted, might not satisfy all players

  • Transport buttons can be user-unfriendly for programming

  • Encounters with quality control issues across M-Audio products

  • Some users report difficulty finding compatible drivers

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1.

Build quality

  • The pitchbend wheel is prone to malfunction, often causing a half-semitone drift unrelated to its physical position.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Axiom 49 MK1 allows users to disable the pitch wheel without software intervention, useful for avoiding tuning issues.

    Source
  • Owners note that the Axiom 49 MK1 can potentially be powered via USB, though some units may require a powered USB hub for sufficient energy.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Despite its age, the Axiom 49 MK1 is compatible with Windows 10, ensuring continued usability with modern systems.

    Source
  • The Axiom 49 MK1 is class compliant, eliminating the need for drivers on Windows 11, enhancing its plug-and-play capability.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the key action quality, often choosing repairs over replacement due to this feature.

    Source
  • There's confusion about power requirements, with some units failing to power via USB, suggesting variability in hardware specifications or power supply needs.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Some users prefer drawing pitch automation in their DAW, bypassing the pitch wheel issue entirely.

    Source
  • Owners have utilized the Axiom 49 MK1 with both Mac and iPad, highlighting its versatility across different platforms.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • An owner considers £30 for the Axiom 49 MK1 a great deal, indicating high value for budget-conscious musicians.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users struggle to identify the correct 12V power supply, highlighting the need for a clear model distinction between Mk1 and Mk2 versions.

    Source
  • The Axiom 49 MK1 manual indicates USB power is possible, but real-world experiences vary, emphasizing the importance of verifying individual unit capabilities.

    Source

Critic Reviews

M-Audio Axiom 49 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The M-Audio Axiom 49 impresses with its ease of use, solid build, and feature-rich design, making it a worthy upgrade for musicians looking for reliable DAW control. While its price is slightly higher than some competitors, the intuitive setup and seamless integration with DAWs justify the cost. Users can easily map controls to their DAW or plug-ins, thanks to the DirectLink system, offering a smooth workflow. The firm keyboard action and quality controls add to its appeal. However, if you're already equipped with similar gear, the Axiom might not offer enough to warrant a switch. Highly recommended for those lacking hardware DAW control.

positive
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 30 Ratings

5 star
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2 star
1 star
jajodd

Paperweight?

I don't feel bad as some people probably do, as I only paid $30 for it used, in great shape. I'm having no luck find a driver that will allow my setup to recognize this keyboard.

So eh... anyone looking to buy a 1st Gen Axiom 49? I know a guy.

alteredstate

Good MIDI controller

This was my first MIDI controller, plug and play with Logic and GB. The transport buttons weren't very user friendly when it came to programming and like alot of M-Audio equipment, there are quality control issues. For the price, it should be better built. Velocity sensitive with aftertouch are some nice features though.

alphy

all in one

you have everything here.just assign knobs and faders to your DAW and have fun

vanderkant

Main Midikeyboard with to many features

I use that only for playing my synths.. i dont care about all the other midi functions.

omka_deliba

pretty good overall does the job / bit expensive for its uses

pretty good overall does the job / bit expensive for its uses 7/10

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andy Morin uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Andy Morin

Bassist, Keyboardist

Death Grips

...
Verified via Photo

Andy is seen playing this controller in this image

See how Jared Leto uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Jared Leto

Singer, Guitarist

Thirty Seconds to Mars

...
Verified via Photo

In a concert photo uploaded to Flickr, Jared Leto is shown using the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 MIDI Keyboard Controller.

See how Marc Rebillet uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Marc Rebillet

Singer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

In his YouTube video titled "EQUIPMENT RUNDOWN," Marc Rebillet discusses his use of the M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 MIDI Keyboard Controller.

See how Hot Sugar uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Hot Sugar

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Proof on YouTube at the 0:30 mark.

See how Blue Stahli uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Blue Stahli

...
Verified via YouTube

Bret used this keyboard during the Live Upon A Blackstar Tour.

See how Tropkillaz uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Tropkillaz

...
Verified via YouTube

In the "Making Of Tropkillaz" video by What's Next? on YouTube, Tropkillaz member Laudz is shown using an M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 in his studio.

See how InsideInfo uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

InsideInfo

...
Verified via YouTube

The keyboard can be seen at 1:56 in this video.

See how Deventter uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Deventter

...
Verified via Photo

Main midi controller - not used live

See how Erick the Architect uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Erick the Architect

Flatbush ZOMBiES

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video at 3:39, Erick can be seen using the M-Audio Axiom 49 at The Beat Suite.

See how Alex Wright uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Alex Wright

Singer, Guitarist

Kiev

...
Verified via YouTube

Plainly visible in this live performance of Kiev's "Loot Recovered" at 3:49.

See how Andy Stavas uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Andy Stavas

Keyboardist

Kiev

...
Verified via YouTube

Visible in this live performance of Kiev's "Opening In G," particularly at 2:33.

See how Jim Jonsin uses M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1

Jim Jonsin

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

An Axiom-49 can be seen in this Instagram post

Album Usage

The M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use M-Audio Axiom 49 MK1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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