Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $485
Standard/Professional
$200
$501+
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Based on price data from 7 merchants for "M-Audio Hammer 88". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The M-Audio Hammer 88 is a MIDI keyboard controller crafted for musicians who crave a realistic grand piano feel with modern versatility for their digital compositions. Designed with 88 fully-weighted, hammer-action keys, this controller captures the expressive nuances of your performance with remarkable precision. Whether you're a professional musician or a budding enthusiast, the Hammer 88 integrates seamlessly with both virtual instruments and traditional MIDI gear, offering a tactile response akin to a classic grand piano.
The Hammer 88's intuitive layout features essential controls like pitch and modulation wheels, a master volume fader, and assignable up/down buttons, all strategically placed to enhance your creative flow. With multiple keyboard zones, you can effortlessly layer sounds, split the keyboard, or even trigger 4-note chords with a single key press. For added flexibility, the Hammer 88 is USB-powered and supports plug-and-play connectivity, eliminating the need for external power supplies or drivers when used with Mac or PC systems.
Moreover, iOS compatibility means you can connect to your favorite audio apps via the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately), expanding your creative possibilities on the go. The bundled software suite, including Ableton Live Lite and premium virtual instruments, further enriches your music production toolkit, making the Hammer 88 not just a controller, but an integral part of your musical journey.
Key Features:
- 88 fully-weighted, hammer-action keys
- USB-MIDI connection for virtual instruments and DAW control
- 5-Pin MIDI output for external MIDI devices
- Pitch bend, modulation wheels, volume fader
- Multiple keyboard zones for layering, splits, and 4-note chords
- Inputs for Sustain, Expression, and Soft pedals
- USB-powered, plug-and-play with Mac/PC
- iOS compatibility via Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit
- Includes Hammer 88 Controller Editor and a premium software suite
- Music rest included
Owner's manual
M-Audio Hammer 88 User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Keyboard Controller |
| Number of Keys | 88 |
| Type of Keys | Weighted Hammer Action |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes |
| Other Controllers | Pitchbend, Mod Wheel |
| Zones | 4 |
| Pedal Inputs | 3 x 1/4" (sustain, soft, expression) |
| MIDI I/O | Out |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Software | Ableton Live Lite (download code), Hammer 88 software editor |
| OS Requirements - Mac | OS X 10.8 or later, iOS (iPad camera connection kit required) |
| OS Requirements - PC | Windows 7 SP1 or later |
| Power Supply | USB bus powered, 9V DC 800mA power adapter (sold separately) |
| Height | 5.0" |
| Width | 55.9" |
| Depth | 11.9" |
| Weight | 38.5 lbs. |
FAQs
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Does the M-Audio Hammer 88 have weighted keys?
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Yes, the M-Audio Hammer 88 features 88 fully weighted hammer-action keys, providing a realistic piano feel ideal for both practice and performance.
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Is the M-Audio Hammer 88 compatible with DAWs like Ableton Live?
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Yes, the M-Audio Hammer 88 is compatible with Ableton Live and comes with a download code for Ableton Live Lite, making it easy to integrate into your music production setup.
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What are the connectivity options available on the M-Audio Hammer 88?
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The M-Audio Hammer 88 offers USB Type B for computer connection, MIDI Out for external devices, and three 1/4" pedal inputs for sustain, soft, and expression pedals.
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Does the M-Audio Hammer 88 require an external power supply?
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The M-Audio Hammer 88 is USB bus-powered, but it can also be used with a 9V DC 800mA power adapter, which is sold separately, for additional power options.
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How many zones can be assigned on the M-Audio Hammer 88?
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The M-Audio Hammer 88 allows for up to four assignable zones, enabling flexible control over different sounds and MIDI channels during performances.
Videos
Sam Diaz Producer
M-Audio Hammer 88 Midi Controller Review with Demos
Reviews
PROS
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Authentic "grand piano-ish" feel with fully-weighted, hammer-action keys
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Minimalistic design without unnecessary knobs and sliders
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Solid construction with metal body and MDF base
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Plug and play with no drivers required, compatible with Mac/PC and iOS via Apple Camera Connection Kit
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Includes pitch bend and modulation wheels, volume fader, and +/controls
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Supports multiple keyboard zones for layering and splits
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USB-MIDI and 5-Pin MIDI DIN ports for versatile connectivity
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Class-compliant device with simple software editor for customization
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Comes with a premium software suite and music rest
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Designed for durability, making it road-worthy for touring musicians
CONS
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No built-in sounds, requires a computer or external module for sound generation
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Some users may find the keys a little slippery
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No option to turn off LED lights, which some users find aesthetically displeasing
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Lacks graduated action (consistent resistance across all keys, unlike an acoustic piano)
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Massive size may not fit in smaller studio spaces
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No power button, remains on when connected to power
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings
377
M-Audio Hammer 88 Keyboard Controller
M-Audio Hammer 88 Features:
88 fully-weighted, hammer-action keys USB-MIDI connection for playing virtual instruments, controlling music software, and more 5-Pin MIDI DIN port for triggering external MIDI hardware Pitch bend and modulation wheels, volume fader, and +/- controls for expressive performances Multiple keyboard zones for layering, splits, and playing 4-note chords with a single key press Sustain, Expression, and Soft pedal jacks USB-powered; power adapter available separately for stand-alone use Class-compliant, no drivers required, plug-and-play connectivity with Mac/PC iOS compatibility via Apple Camera Connection Kit (available separately) Included Hammer 88 Controller Editor and premium software suite Music rest included
Artist usage
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