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Average Price: $169
Budget/Beginner
$200
$501+
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Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Elevate your music production and performance with the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller. Perfectly balancing simplicity and power, this controller is a versatile tool for both seasoned musicians and beginners venturing into the world of digital music. Its 61 full-sized, semi-weighted keys provide a natural, responsive feel that mirrors an acoustic piano, making it easy to transition from traditional to virtual instruments.
The Keystation 61 MK3 is designed to streamline your workflow with a suite of intuitive controls that include assignable pitch bend and modulation wheels, octave range buttons, and a volume slider. These features allow you to express your musical ideas effortlessly, whether you're performing live on stage or crafting intricate compositions in your studio. For those who prefer to work without a mouse, the dedicated transport and directional controls are a game-changer, giving you complete command over your music software directly from the keyboard.
This lightweight and durable controller is USB-powered and supports plug-and-play connectivity with both Mac and PC, eliminating the need for an external power supply. With its 5-pin MIDI output, you can easily connect to your favorite hardware synths, expanding your creative possibilities. Additionally, the Keystation 61 MK3 is compatible with iOS devices, allowing you to compose and perform using your favorite apps on the go.
Included in the package is a premium software suite offering Pro Tools | First M-Audio Edition, Ableton Live Lite, and a collection of AIR Music Technology instruments, providing everything you need to jumpstart your musical journey.
Key Features:
- 61 full-sized, semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys
- USB-MIDI connection for virtual instruments and recording software control
- Ergonomic pitch bend and modulation wheels
- Assignable octave buttons, transport, and directional controls
- 5-pin MIDI out for connecting to external synths
- USB-powered, plug-and-play connectivity with Mac and PC
- iOS compatibility with the Apple Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
- Includes Pro Tools | First, Ableton Live Lite, and AIR Music Technology software suite
Whether you're in the studio or on the road, the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 is your go-to MIDI controller for intuitive and expressive music creation.
Owner's manual
M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Keyboard Controller |
| Number of Keys | 61 |
| Type of Keys | Semi-weighted |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes |
| Other Controllers | Pitchbend, Mod Wheel |
| Dedicated Transport Control | Yes |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (sustain) |
| MIDI I/O | Out/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 / 9V DC 500mA power supply (sold separately) |
| Height | 2.68" |
| Width | 39.2" |
| Depth | 7.44" |
| Weight | 9 lbs. |
FAQs
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Does the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 require an external power supply?
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The M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 is USB bus-powered, meaning it does not require an external power supply when connected to a computer. However, it can also be powered by a 9V DC 500mA power supply, which is sold separately.
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What type of keys does the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 have?
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The M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 features 61 full-size, semi-weighted keys that are velocity-sensitive, providing a responsive playing experience suitable for both beginners and experienced musicians.
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Can the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 be used with popular DAW software?
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Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 is compatible with popular DAWs, including Ableton Live Lite, which is included with the controller. It integrates easily via USB for seamless music production.
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What additional controls are available on the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3?
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The M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 includes pitch bend and modulation wheels, as well as dedicated transport controls, allowing for enhanced expressive capabilities and improved workflow during recording sessions.
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Does the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 come with any software?
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Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 comes with a suite of software, including AIR Music’s Mini Grand, Velvet, and Xpand!2, as well as Ableton Live Lite, Skoove, Touch Loops, and Melodics tutorials to enhance your music production experience.
Videos
Musik Arbeiter
M-Audio Keystation 61 MKIII Unboxing & First Impressions
Reviews
PROS
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Simple, effective design without unnecessary knobs and sliders
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Semi-weighted, full-size keys offer a realistic piano feel
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Includes rich-sounding AIR Music Mini Grand plugin
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Lightweight and portable, ideal for traveling musicians
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Plug and play compatibility with various DAWs
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Comes with a comprehensive suite of software including Ableton Live Lite
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USB powered with optional AC adapter for versatility
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Durable build quality for the price range
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Keys provide expressive, consistent velocity
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Easy to integrate into a minimal setup or with iPad
CONS
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Pro Tools no longer supports included software
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Documentation lacks clarity on feature activation
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No aftertouch feature for added expression
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Some users find the keys less natural compared to higher-end models
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Limited control options may not suit all production needs
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller.
Comparisons
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It's noted that the Casio CDP-S100 has hammer action keys and built-in sounds, offering a more piano-like experience compared to the M-Audio's semi-weighted keys.
Source
Features and functionality
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The M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 is often contrasted with digital pianos, emphasizing its lack of built-in sounds and speakers, which some users find limiting for standalone use.
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Offers 5 octaves, providing a comfortable range for playing without requiring excessive workspace.
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The M-Audio Keystation 61 functions effectively as a MIDI controller for exploring diverse virtual instrument libraries, expanding its versatility in music production.
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User experience
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Some users find 61 keys insufficient for playing a wide range of music, suggesting that 88 keys might be more versatile for varied genres like jazz or classical.
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Users report satisfaction with Skoove's piano sound and lagless response when paired with the M-Audio Keystation, indicating seamless integration and performance.
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Build quality
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The Casio CDP-S100 is praised for its robust build and more realistic key feel, suggesting a higher quality experience compared to the M-Audio's more budget-friendly construction.
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Keys are noted to feel flimsy and lack resistance, suggesting a less durable construction compared to other models.
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Use cases and applications
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 12 Ratings
1122
Reassuringly heavy
This keyboard may be as slim as MIDI controllers come, but the keys are as big as they get - they are full length, full depth, semi-weighted piano-style keys and they give the unit some heft. A firm stand is recommended to avoid wobbling and flexing. The keyboard lacks any knobs and has only one slider, but this is fine if you are plugging it into anything other than a rack-mount or bare-box synth. It comes with a comprehensive suite of software, particularly Ableton Live Lite and Reason Lite, which are good VSTi hosts.
269
solid all around keyboard
i wanted an upgrade from my oxygen-49 and this was exactly what i needed. the semi weighted keys feel incredibly natural and dynamics translate well when printing to midi. what i really love is that they only added essential buttons like play, pause, etc. it really creates a piano oriented experience rather than worrying about sampler pads and knobs.
Preferred Settings + Usage:
i like the piano setting
2065
Good Weight
It's simple to use, and you can lay into the keys and get a good response. There's good weight to them, and this keyboard doesn't feel as toy-ish as its competitors.
87
Perfect for anyone!
Doesn't matter if you know how to play or not, you'll be getting chords and melodies out of this piano in no time! This is not too big and not too small !
Artist usage
Add artist
In the BBC Radio 1 performance of "Exits" at Kew Gardens, visible at the 1:50 mark, Jimmy Smith of Foals uses an M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller. For their tours, the keyboard is fitted with a custom shell resembling a Rhodes, as seen in a separate video.
In an Instagram post by Octave One, they are visibly using the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller as part of their setup for live shows. The post, captioned "Constructing The Mothership 🛸 This what goes into every live show, before the people, before the lights, before the chaos," provides a glimpse into their preparation process.
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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