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Description
The M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller is a versatile tool designed for musicians and producers seeking a seamless integration into their creative workflows. This 61-key controller offers a semi-weighted action and aftertouch, making it feel more like a traditional instrument while providing the expressive control needed for dynamic performances. The Axiom 61 is not just about keys; it's a complete control surface. Equipped with an intuitive interface, it features eight trigger pads, nine faders, and eight rotary encoders, allowing you to tweak your sounds and manage your mix with precision.
Connectivity is a breeze with its USB interface, ensuring a straightforward setup with your digital audio workstation (DAW). The controller is also equipped with transport buttons, making it easy to control playback and recording functions without touching your computer. Plus, the DirectLink technology automatically maps these controls to popular DAWs, speeding up your workflow.
With customizable zones and split modes, the Axiom 61 provides flexibility for live performances or studio work. Whether you're layering sounds or splitting the keyboard to play multiple instruments, this controller adapts to your needs. A backlit LCD screen offers clear visibility of your settings, even in dimly lit environments.
Key Features:
- 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch for expressive performance
- Eight trigger pads for finger drumming and sample triggering
- Nine faders and eight rotary encoders for comprehensive mixing control
- USB MIDI connectivity for easy integration with DAWs
- DirectLink technology for automatic mapping to popular DAWs
- Customizable zones and split modes for versatile performance options
- Dedicated transport buttons for easy control of DAW functions
- Backlit LCD screen for clear visibility of parameters
Product specs
| Brand | M-Audio |
| Model | Axiom 61 Key MkII USB MIDI Keyboard Controller |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| 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 | 61 Keys |
| Number of Pads | 8 Pads |
FAQs
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What type of keys does the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen have?
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The M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen features semi-weighted keys, which provide a balance between the feel of a traditional piano and the responsiveness needed for MIDI performance.
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How does the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen integrate with DAWs?
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The M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen is designed to integrate seamlessly with major DAWs, offering direct control over software instruments and plugins through its transport and parameter controls.
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Are the pads on the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen velocity-sensitive?
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Yes, the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen features 8 velocity-sensitive pads, allowing for expressive drum programming and dynamic control over samples.
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Does the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen require external power?
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The M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen is powered via USB, eliminating the need for an external power supply and making it convenient for mobile setups.
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What connectivity options are available on the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen?
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The M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen offers USB MIDI connectivity as well as traditional MIDI input and output, providing versatile options for integrating with various MIDI setups.
Reviews
PROS
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Affordable, straightforward controls
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Faders, knobs, and pads useful for settings and automation
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Semi-weighted keyboard feels great
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Sturdy build quality
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Automaps to almost everything
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Can be mapped for use in DJ setups
CONS
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Not fully-weighted keys
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Build quality feels cheap due to plastic
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Pads and knobs (endless encoders) not for everyone
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Requires workarounds for full integration with some DAWs
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Heavy and somewhat bulky
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Pitch bend wheel feels cheap and unresponsive
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Durability issues, may start failing after 3 years
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller.
Features and functionality
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The Axiom 61 offers 9 assignable faders, a rarity compared to the typical 8, useful for mimicking the 9 drawbars of a Hammond organ.
Source
Build quality
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Owners report the Axiom 61 has less play in knobs and faders compared to M-Audio's entry-level models, indicating a more solid construction.
Source
Use cases and applications
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Semi-weighted action on the Axiom 61 is preferred for orchestral writing, offering better piano control while still acceptable for organ play.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 11 Reviews and 53 Ratings
271
Good basic Keyboard
This keyboard is just that a keyboard it has eight faders, knobs and pads, on my model the pads werent great and to be honest i wasnt a big fan of the knobs as they are endless encoders, which is not my thing. however the semi weighted keyboard feels great which i would argue is the most important part.
68
Great keyboard with bad drivers.
I am using it in Logic Pro X and to use all the buttons on the keyboard I had to "hack" the files and move some stuff around. Shouldn't be needed for a Midi keyboard that is still being sold and loved. I like the way it feels though, very sturdy and a great keyboard.
134
it's ok, not my favorite thing anymore.
I own 2 of these and both start crapping out after 3 years. I guess when it comes to midi controllers, M-Audio need's to find a way to improve their products to last.
96
The mk1 is built to last
i broke the usb port because i raped that thing, but it still works fine through midi
You can do anything to the keys, walk on them, sit on them, throw heavy stuff on it. It simply continues to work like the first day
59
Good Keys, bad integration
The keyboard plays pretty well but the integration into the DAW is in my opinion not that good and easy
339
my 1st Midi controller
it is a Midi Controller you make the patches your self with outside plugins so total control love it...
Artist usage
Add artist
Zedd has classical training and plays the piano, so it's important to him to use a very solid, reliable, and high-end keyboard. In photos of Zedd in the studio he can be spotted working with an M-Audio Axiom 61 keyboard controller.
In a user-uploaded photo on Miaopai, Jacob Collier is seen using the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller during a live performance, showcasing its role in his setup.
Dirty South's primary keyboard is the M-Audio Axiom 61, as seen in a photo of his studio he posted to Instagram.
In this Facebook video in Blasterjaxx's studio, the controller in front of their screen is the second-generation Axiom 61.
In this Noisey special, at about the 2:27 mark, Earl is visibly working with the M-Audio Midi Controller
30 Seconds to Mars all used the Axiom keyboard throughout the Into the Wild tour. Jared namely used it for performances of "Stranger in a Strange Land". It could also be seen as a part of his set up with his Nord piano when performing "Alibi" and "Hurricane".
In this picture storch is in the studio making music with the m audio 61 axiom
confirmation at 0:01 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdOybV7PJB4
Album Usage
The M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller 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 61 2nd Gen 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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