Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $109
Budget/Beginner
$200
$501+
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Budget
Standard
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Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "M-Audio KeyStation 49". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash your creative potential with the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3, the ultimate USB MIDI controller for musicians and producers of all levels. Designed to seamlessly integrate with your Mac or PC, this controller features 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys that deliver a natural feel, making it perfect for composing, recording, and performing with virtual instruments. Its lightweight and compact design ensures that it fits comfortably in any studio or live setup, while still offering a robust set of controls.
The Keystation 49 MK3 is packed with intuitive features like pitch-bend and modulation wheels, a volume slider, and transport controls that allow you to navigate your DAW without ever touching a mouse. Fully USB-powered and class-compliant, it connects effortlessly to your computer or iOS device, making it a versatile tool for on-the-go music creation.
Whether you're scoring a film or rocking a live gig, the Keystation 49 MK3 offers advanced functionality to customize its controls, providing maximum expression and creativity. It also supports external sustain pedals for that authentic piano feel, expanding your expressive capabilities even further.
Enhancing your experience, the Keystation 49 MK3 comes with an exciting software bundle including Pro Tools | First M-Audio Edition, Ableton Live Lite, and a suite of virtual instruments and sound loops that will inspire your next masterpiece.
Key Features:
- 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive synth-action keys
- USB-MIDI connection for seamless integration with your DAW
- Pitch-bend and modulation wheels for expressive control
- Volume slider and transport controls for intuitive workflow
- Advanced functionality for customizable MIDI control
- USB-powered, plug-and-play with Mac/PC
- iOS compatibility with Apple Camera Connector (sold separately)
- 1/4-inch sustain pedal input for extended playability
- Includes software bundle with Pro Tools | First and Ableton Live Lite
Product specs
| Type | Keyboard Controller |
| Number of Keys | 49 |
| Type of Keys | Synth Action, Full-sized |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes |
| Other Controllers | Pitchbend, Mod Wheel |
| Dedicated Transport Control | Yes |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (sustain) |
| MIDI I/O | USB |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Computer Connectivity | USB |
| Software | AIR Music Mini Grand/Velvet/Xpand!2, Ableton Live LIte, Skoove, Touch Loops, Melodics Tutorial |
| Power Supply | USB bus powered |
| Height | 2.68" |
| Width | 32.36" |
| Depth | 7.44" |
| Weight | 4.72 lbs. |
FAQs
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Does the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 have weighted keys?
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The M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 features 49 full-size synth-action keys, which are not weighted but offer a responsive feel suitable for virtual instrument play.
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How do I connect the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 to my computer?
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You can connect the Keystation 49 MK3 to your computer using the included USB cable. It is USB bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from your computer, and no additional power supply is needed.
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Is the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 compatible with Ableton Live?
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Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 is compatible with Ableton Live, and it even includes Ableton Live Lite software to get you started with music production.
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Can I use a sustain pedal with the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3?
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Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 has a 1/4" pedal input for connecting a sustain pedal, enhancing your playing experience with more expressive control.
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What software comes bundled with the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3?
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The M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 comes bundled with a suite of software, including AIR Music Mini Grand, Velvet, Xpand!2, Ableton Live Lite, Skoove, Touch Loops, and Melodics Tutorial, providing a comprehensive set of tools for music creation.
Videos
Home Studio Gear Reviews
M-Audio Keystation 49 Honest Review
Reviews
PROS
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Quick and easy setup, operational in minutes
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Compatible with major DAWs like Reaper and Pro Tools
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Offers seamless integration with Apple computers
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Mod wheels preferred over push buttons for modulation
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Keys have a good action, suitable for two-hand playing
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Affordable option for those new to music production
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Solid construction and reliable performance
CONS
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Key action may not fully replicate a piano feel
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Simplicity means it lacks advanced features or frills
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about M-Audio KeyStation 49.
Build quality
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Some users worry about the longevity of the pitch/mod wheel coating, noting potential degradation over time if it's synthetic rubber rather than silicone.
Source
Features and functionality
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The Air Velvet Electric piano VST included is highly praised for its emulation of Rhodes, Wurlis, and Pianet, offering comprehensive control and effects.
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The keybed is noted for its quiet operation, dampened to feel semi-weighted, providing a silent thump without resonating in the chassis.
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The MK3 supports iOS connectivity with an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter, unlike the 49es which has fewer connector jacks.
Source
Software and compatibility
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Users mentioned compatibility issues with iPads not providing enough power despite the controller being marketed as low-power.
Source
Comparisons
User experience
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 19 Ratings
807
Good to get you started
KS 49 is good keyboard to get you started with. This was originally my dads keyboard then mine. I used it for the basics and it did its job well. When I decided that music was going to be a permanent thing for me I upgraded to a Oxy 49. But I would give this keyboard five starts, it's solid and gets the job done.
Artist usage
Add artist
Tyler Joseph is confirmed to use the M-Audio KeyStation 49 as evidenced in the video of twenty one pilots performing "Ode to Sleep" live at Newport Music Hall in 2012. The video, produced by Reel Bear Media and uploaded by twenty one pilots on YouTube, clearly shows the recognizable M-Audio logo, pitch and modulation wheels, and the curved side panel on the MIDI controller that Tyler is playing.
“The M-Audio MIDI keyboard is another staple for any producer. It’s the go-to when testing out sampled instruments or playing out a rhythm. I have no piano training, so I rely more heavily on manually-drawing MIDI.
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 KeyStation 49, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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