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M-Audio Keystation 61es MIDI Controller

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$40.00 Price Tier: Budget

4.0 (43)

14 Reviews

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1 community setup

40 wishlisted

149 saved

Page last updated Jun 27, 2026

Pricing and availability

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5.0 (3)

$40.00 2 available Used

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Average Price: $40

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Keyboard Controllers category, M-Audio Keystation 61es MIDI Controller is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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Transform your creative ideas into expressive melodies with the M-Audio Keystation 61es MIDI Controller. Designed for musicians who crave both versatility and simplicity, this 61-note velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keyboard promises an authentic feel whether you're composing a symphony or experimenting with electronic beats. The semi-weighted keys offer a balanced touch that captures the nuances of your playing, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned musicians alike.

The Keystation 61es is not just about the keys; it comes equipped with essential controls like pitch and modulation wheels, providing you with the tools to add dynamic expression to your performances. Its USB connectivity ensures a seamless plug-and-play setup with both Mac and Windows systems, making it a go-to for home studios and live performances alike. For those who prefer standalone use, the MIDI Out port allows you to connect to other gear, expanding your creative possibilities.

With the convenience of USB power, you can travel light and set up quickly, or opt for the 9V DC adapter when working with external modules on stage. Its intuitive design includes octave shift buttons and a volume/control slider that can be assigned to any MIDI parameter, allowing you to customize your sound effortlessly. Whether you're recording at home or performing live, the Keystation 61es is a reliable partner in your musical journey.

Key Features:

61-note velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys
Pitch and modulation wheels for expressive control
USB bus-powered; optional DC adapter for standalone use
MIDI Out port for controlling external gear
Compatible with Mac OS X and Windows XP
Assignable volume/control slider and advanced function buttons
Octave +/- buttons to extend keyboard range
Optional sustain foot pedal

Product specs

Brand	M-Audio
Model	Keystation 61es MIDI Keyboard Controller
Finish	Silver
Year	2006 - 2016
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 does the M-Audio Keystation 61es connect to a computer?: The M-Audio Keystation 61es connects to a computer via a USB cable, which also powers the device. Simply plug the USB cable into a free USB port on your computer and the other end into the keyboard.
Is the M-Audio Keystation 61es compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?: Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 61es is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Pro Tools. It sends MIDI data over USB, allowing seamless integration for music production.
What type of keyboard action does the M-Audio Keystation 61es feature?: The M-Audio Keystation 61es features semi-weighted keys, providing a balance between the feel of traditional piano keys and the responsiveness needed for dynamic playing.
Does the M-Audio Keystation 61es require an external power supply?: No, the M-Audio Keystation 61es does not require an external power supply. It is powered via the USB connection to your computer.
Can the M-Audio Keystation 61es be used for live performances?: Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 61es is suitable for live performances, offering 61 full-size keys and lightweight design, making it portable and easy to integrate into a live setup.

Videos

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YouthfulRider

BEST CHEAP MIDI KEYBOARD 2016 - M-AUDIO 61ES

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M Audio Keystation 61es USB problem

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M Audio Keystation 61es midi controller

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Reviews

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PROS

Affordable, providing good value for the price
Compatible with multiple devices and software, including Logic Pro X
Semi-weighted keys offer an authentic playing experience
Compact and lightweight design fits well on desks
Simple form factor without unnecessary extras
Durable keys that have held up well over years of use
Supports DIY modifications, like sustain pedals
Ideal for live performances due to its size and compatibility

CONS

Initial touch may feel peculiar until accustomed
MIDI settings can be challenging to adjust
Volume control and pitch bend may malfunction over time
Requires routine reconnection after computer sleep mode
Limited to MIDI volume up to 100, not the full 127 range
Keys can feel a bit stiff, affecting dynamic sound capture

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

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The keys on the M-Audio Keystation 61es are noted for feeling flimsy with minimal resistance, which may not suit those seeking a more substantial tactile response.
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Features and functionality

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Offers 5 octaves, providing a wider range for playing, but this larger size requires more space on a workstation.
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Comparisons

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Compared to Akai keyboards, the Keystation's keys are perceived as less satisfying, though Akai's software also has mixed reviews.
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Owners find the M-Audio Keystation's key weighting superior to many budget competitors, especially at similar price points.
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Use cases and applications

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Ideal for synths and production rather than fine piano music, making it suitable for electronic music enthusiasts.
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While suitable for budget-conscious users, its key response may not satisfy those focused on piano-heavy songwriting.
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Software and compatibility

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Plays well out of the box with most DAWs, indicating strong software compatibility.
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User experience

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Noted as a solid MIDI controller for beginners to learn basics and experiment within a DAW environment.
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Value and pricing

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A user paid 129 Euros for a 72-key version, suggesting the 100 Euro price for the 61-key model may not be the best deal.
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4.0 out of 5

Based on 14 Reviews and 43 Ratings

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4 star

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1 star

kert_mottus

157

over 7 years ago

Solid piece

Bought it used and works as it should be. The problem for my configuration is (PC, Win7 64x, Reaper DAW) is that after coming back from sleep it doesnt recognize the device, so I have to do a routine of Unlinking the device, On/Off the device, and back on. Other than that the keys feel quite good for being semi weighted, I even made a DIY sustain pedal which works good.

nick_olman

107

over 9 years ago

Good feel, but side controls wore out quick

I've been using this keyboard for about 4 years and it's still serving me well. The keys have held up great. About a year after I got the keyboard the volume control starting acting up, sending data while not being moved. About a year after that the pitch bend started doing the same thing. It may just need cleaning, I suppose. In my workflow I only use the keys and mod wheel (which still seems fine), so I just have the pitch bend and volume messages filtered out.

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist Composer

Genres:

Rock Stage & Screen Pop rock

olleyollet

278

about 11 years ago

If your not someone who needs all the knobs and your more into controllers for just keys, this is what I recommend.

This keyboard is amazing. I love its mackie transport controls. This controller is simple and fits on a desk between your computer keyboard and monitor very well as it is a compact unit. If your not someone who needs all the knobs and your more into controllers for just keys, this is what I recommend.

hellojohnryan

224

about 11 years ago

It's "just right"

I use the Keystation for most of my live keyboard needs, mostly because it runs so well with Logic Pro X. It's large enough so I can play most piano parts, yet small enough where it doesn't take up too much room on smaller stages.

lumitect

over 10 years ago

Most used device in my setup

I love this keyboard it feels semi weighted, working with a almost full sized keyboard like this makes working in the studio feel more authentic, instead of clicking in all the notes in a sequencer/piano roll, it feels more like im making music and not some highschool project. Imho

thatlkjguy

4735

over 12 years ago

Great quality keyboard

No extra buttons or hyped functions. Just a simple keyboard with pitch/mod wheels, volume fader, and octave up/down buttons.

Roles:

Composer Music Producer DJ

Genres:

Electronic Techno Progressive house

ornelasedward

322

over 10 years ago

Really great Midi Keyboard

I basically picked this Midi Controller for its simplistic form factor. It gives me what I need without the un-needed extras. If your in the market for a grear Midi Keyboard without breaking the bank, this is your best bet.