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Description

Step into a world of effortless music creation with the M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller. Designed for both budding musicians and seasoned producers, this MIDI keyboard controller strikes the perfect balance between functionality and affordability. With 49 synth-action keys, it offers a responsive playing experience that's ideal for everything from dynamic performances to intricate compositions.

The KeyRig 49 connects seamlessly to your Mac or Windows PC via USB, requiring no additional power supply—just plug and play. Its intuitive design includes an assignable modulation wheel, pitch bend wheel, and volume slider, giving you complete control over your sound. Whether you're crafting lush soundscapes or laying down a catchy melody, the octave buttons and sustain pedal input ensure you have all the expressive tools at your fingertips.

Included with the KeyRig 49 is a robust software bundle that features the M-Audio KeyRig software and Ableton Live Lite, transforming the controller into a versatile music-making powerhouse. From classic piano sounds to modern synth tones, the KeyRig software offers a rich palette of instruments to fuel your creativity. Whether on stage or in the studio, the KeyRig 49 is your ticket to musical freedom.

Key Features:

  • 49-note, synth-action keyboard
  • Assignable modulation wheel and volume slider
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Assignable octave +/- buttons
  • Sustain pedal input
  • USB 2.0 and 1.1 compatible
  • Plug and play with Mac OS X and Windows XP
  • Includes M-Audio KeyRig software (PC only) and Ableton Live Lite CD
  • Powered via a single USB cable

Product specs

Brand M-Audio
Model KeyRig 49 MIDI Keyboard Controller
Finish Silver
Year 2008 - 2012
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O USB MIDI
Number of Keys 49 Keys

FAQs

Is the M-Audio KeyRig 49 compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and FL Studio?

Yes, the M-Audio KeyRig 49 is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live and FL Studio, through its USB MIDI connectivity, allowing seamless integration for music production.

Does the M-Audio KeyRig 49 require any special drivers or software to function?

The M-Audio KeyRig 49 typically connects via USB and does not require special drivers for basic functionality on most systems. However, checking for any specific software updates on the M-Audio website is recommended for optimal performance.

What kind of key action does the M-Audio KeyRig 49 have?

The M-Audio KeyRig 49 features a synth-action keyboard, providing a light and responsive feel suitable for fast playing and synth-style performances.

Is the M-Audio KeyRig 49 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the M-Audio KeyRig 49 is a great choice for beginners due to its straightforward design, full-size keys, and easy USB connectivity, making it user-friendly for those new to MIDI controllers.

How portable is the M-Audio KeyRig 49 for live performances?

The M-Audio KeyRig 49 is relatively portable due to its lightweight design and compact size, making it a practical option for musicians who need a versatile MIDI controller for live performances.

oleg94

oleg94

M-audio KeyRig 49 Review

Video thumbnail for M-audio KeyRig 49 Review by oleg94

M-audio KeyRig 49 Review

oleg94

oleg94

Video thumbnail for M-Audio KeyRig 49 Easy-to-Use 49-Note USB Keyboard: Unboxing by Damen Roy

M-Audio KeyRig 49 Easy-to-Use 49-Note USB Keyboard: Unboxing

Damen Roy

Damen Roy

Video thumbnail for M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Midi Creator by wheredidiputthatremote

M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Midi Creator

wheredidiputthatremote

wheredidiputthatremote

Video thumbnail for Product Review: M-Audio KeyRig 49 | Willful Nomad by Willful Nomad Entertainment

Product Review: M-Audio KeyRig 49 | Willful Nomad

Willful Nomad Entertainment

Video thumbnail for M Audio keyRig 49 | M Audio keyRig 49 setup by Rockstar Music Store

M Audio keyRig 49 | M Audio keyRig 49 setup

Rockstar Music Store

Rockstar Music Store

Reviews

PROS

  • Affordable, great for budget-conscious musicians

  • Simple, straightforward design without unnecessary features

  • Compact and easily portable for musicians on the go

  • Light and responsive keys suitable for various music production needs

  • Supports a wide range of DAWs, enhancing versatility

  • Ideal for basic MIDI control in both live and studio settings

  • Suitable for creating a wide range of sounds with software like GarageBand and FL Studio

CONS

  • Lacks additional controls like drum pads, faders, and potentiometers

  • Non-weighted keys may not suit those looking for a piano-like feel

  • USB connection can be fragile, requiring careful handling

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The M-Audio KeyRig 49 requires external software for sound; it's a MIDI controller without built-in sounds.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Cantabile Lite is recommended as a free and capable VST host for beginners using the KeyRig 49.

    Source
  • 4Front Piano is a suggested free plugin for a basic upright piano sound, compatible with the KeyRig 49.

    Source
  • Users report audio issues on Windows 11, suggesting checking audio drivers or trying ASIO4ALL for better performance.

    Source
  • Cantabile Lite's MIDI Ports and Plugin Options settings are critical for ensuring sound output from the MIDI controller.

    Source
  • Key mapping issues may arise if Logic or other DAWs are in shortcut learning mode, affecting the keyboard's note output.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users experience robotic sound output, possibly due to audio device or CPU bottlenecks; adjusting buffer size may help.

    Source
  • Pressing and wiggling the USB jack might temporarily restore power, indicating potential damage to the jack's connection points.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for beginners wanting a simple setup to produce piano sounds through digital audio workstations or VST hosts.

    Source
  • Consistent key group failures across Mainstage, Logic, and Musescore suggest common setup or configuration issues rather than hardware faults.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • MIDI Monitor can diagnose if KeyRig 49 sends expected MIDI signals, useful in troubleshooting non-responsive keys or setup issues.

    Source
  • A loose USB jack can be repaired with a simple soldering job, as the part is common and inexpensive.

    Source

Build quality

  • The USB connector can be easily damaged if the keyboard is knocked while plugged in; the metal contact strips may detach from the board.

    Source

Critic Reviews

M-Audio KeyRig 49 USB/MIDI Controller Review

guitarmasterclass.net

At just $100, the M-Audio KeyRig 49 offers excellent value for a USB/MIDI controller, especially for beginners or guitarists looking to expand their setup. Despite its "semi-weighted" keys not mimicking the feel of a real piano, it serves well as a versatile tool for triggering samples and creating custom beats. Its USB connectivity simplifies integration with PCs and Macs, enhancing its plug-and-play appeal. The lack of a need for additional drivers is a plus, making it ideal for quick setups. However, serious keyboard players might find its spring-loaded action lacking. Overall, it's a great budget-friendly choice for those venturing into digital music production.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 11 Reviews and 42 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
patrickwatsonofficial

Super simple, but essential and affordable.

The KeyRig49 is ideal for keyboard midi control that doesn't require playing Chopins greatest works on piano. Nice and compact, and easily transported if needs be. The response is just fine, typical non-weighted keys you'd be likely to find on most synths and keys out there, it isn't designed to feel like a piano. I use it primarily for writing lead and basslines, and recording in chordal structures and harmonic overdubs, it's perfect for more compact setups, or even larger setups that only require basic midi control over synths.

F

For what it is, it's great.

I bought this because I wanted a simple, relatively cheap midi keyboard for production. There's no point complaining about the lack of drum pads, or potentiometers, or faders because I could quite as easily have bought a keyboard with those on for a similar price! At the time I bought it, this keyboard was a quick fix, and I haven't actually needed to upgrade yet, although now I could do with some extra controls. It does what it says on the tin well, it's low profile and alright-looking (although I'd prefer it in black, not shiny silver), and I haven't ever had issues with it.

M

Budget-friendly keyboard with connectivity concerns

Super light, only 99$, covers 4 octaves of notes. This is the perfect budget keyboard for your production needs! I would take care of the USB cord though, they tend to pry on the insert making it a nuisance when it doesn't connect without using tape or a tooth pick. Great production non-the-less!

Z

LOVE IT

I really love the way they press i know there are better ones but at this price range for me they are the ones who make the job done

antiverse

An easy go-to midi keyboard

Very light keys, im satisfied with the support of my DAW's when it integrates with them, i can use my pitch bend and modulation wheels on any selected instrument channel both in FL Studio and Cubase.

Its perfect for what i do!

r33son

Lightweight and affordable midi controller without knobs

Didn't need a midi controller with knobs. kr49 is light and affordable!

erlinb

Its Great

is a great interface to do sool stuff live and on home studio(only works on computers )

S

Its a simple to use midi keyboard which makes life much easier

delightdrop

I use this key rig to make mad cool sounds with GarageBand.

luckymind

Best by far

The best on the market

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kygo uses M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller

Kygo

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 4:39 you can clearly see Kygo using a M-Audio KeyRig 49 in his Homestudio.

See how Arty uses M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller

Arty

Music Producer

...
Verified via Twitter

As of June 2010, Arty's MIDI Controller Keyboard of choice is an M-Audio KeyRig, as evidenced by his tweet.

See how Matisse & Sadko uses M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller

Matisse & Sadko

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo of Matisse & Sadko working and playing music in the studio, the midi keyboard controller on their desk is the M-Audio KeyRig 49. The 4 octave keyboard, and the name of the keyboard written in a straight line in the upper right corner of the keyboard give away that it is the KeyRig 49.

See how Ashley Wallbridge uses M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller

Ashley Wallbridge

Music Producer

...
Verified via Twitter

In this Twitter photo, the MIDI keyboard in front is an M-Audio KeyRig 49. The three buttons in an L-shaped arrangement on the left and the key count are indicative of this particular model.

See how seeB uses M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller

seeB

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post, seeB is shown using the M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller in Nick's studio, highlighting its role in their music production process.

See how Black Tiger Sex Machine uses M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller

Black Tiger Sex Machine

Black Tiger Sex Machine

...
Verified via Facebook

At 0:24, One of the memebers of BTSM can be seen playing the Keyrig 49.

See how Witt Lowry uses M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller

Witt Lowry

Rapper

...
Verified via Instagram

"Working on Kindest Regards @deltahotel9" Showing off his setup and you can see the KeyRig.

See how Hoodie Allen uses M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller

Hoodie Allen

Rapper

...
Verified via Instagram

Hoodie Allen is seen using an M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller in a photo he shared on Instagram on December 27, 2011. The distinctive button on the side of the keyboard is visible, identifying it as the KeyRig 49.

See how TEGERZZ uses M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller

TEGERZZ

Music Producer

...
Verified via Equipboard

Artist TEGERZZ uses the M-Audio KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller, as noted on Equipboard.

Album Usage

The M-Audio KeyRig 49 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 KeyRig 49 Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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