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Description

61 full-sized keys with natural feel.

Step into computer-based music creation and performance with the Keystation 61 keyboard controller from M-Audio. Keystation 61 is a simple, powerful MIDI controller designed for sequencing music and playing virtual instruments on your Mac or PC. It features 61 full-size velocity-sensitive keys and a series of controls that expand the range of playable notes, expressive capabilities, and enhance your recording workflow. Use the octave range buttons; pitch-bend and modulation wheels; and transport and directional controls to play, perform, and record with your music software without using a mouse or trackpad. Keystation 61 also includes a 1/4" (6.3mm) sustain pedal input that lets you use an external control pedal, such as the SP2 (sold separately), for genuine piano sustain.

Pure Player Experience
Lightweight and durable, Keystation 61 is perfect for traveling musicians who want to take command of music software during live performances or producers who wish to add an intuitive MIDI controller with a natural feeling keybed to their studio. For an easy-to-use and portable setup, Keystation 61 is USB-powered, class-compliant, and supports USB-MIDI connectivity. Plus, Keystation 61 supports iOS connectivity with the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately), enabling you to perform and compose with audio apps on your iPad and other iOS devices.

SONiVOX Eighty-Eight Ensemble
Bundled with Keystation 61 is a premium virtual instrument from SONiVOX. SONiVOX's Eighty-Eight Ensemble is a world-class piano instrument that authentically captures a 9-foot CD327 Steinway piano. Meticulously recorded and expertly sampled, Eighty-Eight Ensemble provides every producer and performer the opportunity to infuse their compositions, recordings, and performances with the breathtaking realism of a world-class grand piano. Use the combination patches to layer strings, synth pads, and choral pads with the high-fidelity piano samples and create evolving, lush soundscapes and textures.

Ableton Live Lite
Also included with Keystation 61 is Ableton Live Lite - one of the most popular performance and production programs available in the world. A powerful music creation tool, Ableton Live Lite enables musicians and producers to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit musical ideas in a fluid audio/MIDI environment. Explore sonic possibilities in real time whether on stage or in the studio. When you are satisfied with your work, Ableton Live Lite lets you save it or mix it down.

Product specs

Brand M-Audio
Model Keystation 61 MkII MIDI Keyboard Controller
Finish Blue
Year 2016 - 2018
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Semi-Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 61 Keys

FAQs

How do I connect the M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII to my computer?

Connect the Keystation 61 MKII to your computer using the provided USB cable. This single cable not only powers the keyboard but also facilitates MIDI data transfer between the keyboard and your computer.

Are the keys on the M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII semi-weighted?

Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII features semi-weighted keys, providing a more responsive and dynamic playing experience compared to non-weighted keys.

Is the M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII compatible with both Mac and PC?

Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII is designed to work seamlessly with both Mac and PC systems, allowing you to sequence music and play virtual instruments.

Does the M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII require an external power supply?

No, the Keystation 61 MKII is powered via USB, eliminating the need for an external power supply. Simply connect it to your computer to power the device.

What type of keys does the M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII have?

The M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII is equipped with 61 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, offering a realistic piano feel and dynamic response suitable for expressive playing.

John Mike

John Mike

Here's Why This Wins... |M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 Midi Controller Review|

Video thumbnail for Here's Why This Wins... |M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 Midi Controller Review| by John Mike

Here's Why This Wins... |M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 Midi Controller Review|

John Mike

John Mike

Video thumbnail for M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII USB & MIDI Keyboard Controller by GetintheMix

M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII USB & MIDI Keyboard Controller

GetintheMix

GetintheMix

Video thumbnail for M Audio Keystation 61 Unboxing (Mk II) by A MINOR ERROR

M Audio Keystation 61 Unboxing (Mk II)

A MINOR ERROR

A MINOR ERROR

Reviews

PROS

  • Keys are nice and sensitive

  • Decent for two-handed polyphonic action

  • Key action exceeds expectations for the price

  • Simplistic design, not overloaded with buttons

  • Effective as an additional MIDI controller in a studio setup

CONS

  • Difficult setup with certain DAWs like Reaper

  • Lacks aftertouch and advanced features

  • Some users struggle to find compatible drivers

  • Limited integration with software, e.g., FL Studio

  • Initial learning curve for understanding MIDI channels

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII.

Build quality

  • The keys on the Keystation 61 MKII have been described as flimsy with minimal resistance, affecting the tactile experience compared to other brands like Akai.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users found the Akai keyboard at Guitar Center to have a superior key feel compared to the M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII, though Akai's software is considered less impressive.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for synths and production work, but not suitable for playing intricate piano compositions.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Offers 5 octaves, providing a comfortable range for playing, though it requires more physical space on a workstation.

    Source
  • Owners noted that while pitch/mod wheels and pads map correctly, some additional knobs may not function in GarageBand, requiring alternative DAWs for full use.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Compatible with most DAWs, providing a straightforward setup process and immediate playability.

    Source
  • Some users suggest using a USB 2.0 hub instead of a USB 3.0 hub to resolve connectivity issues with newer Macs.

    Source
  • The Keystation 61 MKII is USB class compliant, potentially ensuring compatibility with newer macOS versions and iPads without needing additional drivers.

    Source

User experience

  • A second-hand Oxygen 61 MK4 worked immediately with an iMac (M1, macOS Ventura) and an iPad, with some mapping issues on GarageBand's knobs, but functional in other DAWs.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 6 Reviews and 30 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
davepepper

Works great when you get your head round the steep learning curve

Took me ages to figure out why this wasn't working in Reaper. Too much of a hassle to get to grips with - there have to be easier solutions out there. Keys are nice and sensitive and it does everything I need it to do. It just took me far far too long to learn how to do them. Hardware manufacturers need to understand that not everyone can get their head round midi channels out of the box.

jimmarchi1

you're not going to get around MIDI channels, its the entire idea of MIDI as conceived by sequential and roland

ecco_aqua

decent controller for piano/rhodes/rompler setups

Pretty decent controller if you need some keys for a little two handed polyphonic action. No aftertouch or anything fancy tho but for the price it gets the job done. Key action is slightly better than I'd expect at the $160 price point of which I got it at

lukkimusic

A good midi-keyboard for the beginner.

It is an awesome midi controller for you that doesn't wan't all of those little buttons on it. So it's not that complicated, it is very basic. Note: I couldn't find the drivers for it so i'm stuck with not using the pitch bend or for example any of the record and play buttons on the keyboard.

ravera

just got them

Just got this midi to my studio, very nice, it feels a bit stiff and cant find the other buttons compotable with FL STUDIO but yeah !! best choice !

lovehousemusic

Good keyboard

nice to have as an extra midi controller.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how JPEGMAFIA uses M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII

JPEGMAFIA

Singer, Rapper

...
Verified via Photo

This photo of Peggy shows a Keystation 61 clearly leaning against the wall

See how Dylan Brady uses M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII

Dylan Brady

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Dylan can be seen with M-Audio Keystation in the background of this video at 0:10

See how Alan Howarth uses M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII

Alan Howarth

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video interview with Alan, he discusses some of his current gear, which includes an Arp Avatar, a Minimoog Model D, a Kurzweil K2661, an M-Audio Keystation, an Arturia Spark, and an Arturia keyboard, presumably a KeyStep.

See how No Fun Haus uses M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII

No Fun Haus

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video, we can see No Fun Haus mention his keystation. The video showcases it is a Keystation 61 and the casing for this is the same casing as the Keystation 61 MKII.

See how Marco Steffiano uses M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII

Marco Steffiano

Drummer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by @casiostore_id, the M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII can be seen in the home studio behind Marco Steffiano.

See how A Himitsu uses M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII

A Himitsu

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Visible in this Facebook post by A Himitsu.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use M-Audio Keystation 61 MKII, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Kurzweil K2661
Kurzweil K2661 Synthesizers
1
Arturia Spark 2
Arturia Spark 2 Music Software
1
Yamaha RBX170
Yamaha RBX170 Electric Basses
1
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interfaces
1
Audio-Technica ATH-M30X
Audio-Technica ATH-M30X Headphones & In-Ear Monitors
1
Arturia Keystep
Arturia Keystep MIDI Keyboard Controllers
1

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