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M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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4.5 (53)

11 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Find out who is using M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen

2 community setups

52 wishlisted

142 saved

Page last updated Jun 09, 2026

Pricing and availability

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Price

Average Price: $58

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Keyboard Controllers category, M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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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

What type of keys does the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen have?: 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.
How does the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen integrate with DAWs?: 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.
Are the pads on the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen velocity-sensitive?: Yes, the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen features 8 velocity-sensitive pads, allowing for expressive drum programming and dynamic control over samples.
Does the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen require external power?: 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.
What connectivity options are available on the M-Audio Axiom 61 2nd Gen?: 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

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PROS

Affordable, straightforward controls
Faders, knobs, and pads useful for settings and automation
Semi-weighted keyboard feels great
Sturdy build quality
Automaps to almost everything
Can be mapped for use in DJ setups

CONS

Not fully-weighted keys
Build quality feels cheap due to plastic
Pads and knobs (endless encoders) not for everyone
Requires workarounds for full integration with some DAWs
Heavy and somewhat bulky
Pitch bend wheel feels cheap and unresponsive
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

Value and pricing

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A used Axiom 61 2nd Gen at AU$150 can be a cost-effective alternative to new MIDI controllers, especially for those prioritizing key feel and fader count over portability.
Source

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 11 Reviews and 53 Ratings

5 star

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darligulv

107

over 6 years ago

Bought it used, great product!

Great controller! I use it as the center of my studio rig. Not the most durable, cheap plastic, but fairly durable.... good for the price I paid!

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Bassist

Genres:

Electronic Rock Dubstep

neko

271

almost 10 years ago

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.

montpluie

over 11 years ago

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.

anoesj

over 11 years ago

Pretty good

I'd say it's pretty good. There are a few reasons I would choose something else if this one broke: It's really heavy. The pitch bend wheel feels really cheap and unresponsive. The keys are also a bit weird.

djgiovanni

134

about 11 years ago

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.