Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (20)
$299.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (6)
$259.00
Amazon
4.6 (6725)
$259.00 New
$225.33 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
$220.37 New
$105.00 Used
Musician's Friend
$299.00 $259.00 $40.00 · All time low
B&H
5.0 (2)
$299.00
Thomann
4.6 (104)
$209.00 $205.00 $4.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£169.00

Average Price: $245

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 88-key Keyboard Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unlock your musical potential with the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3, a streamlined powerhouse designed for musicians who crave full control over their creative process. This 88-key, semi-weighted keyboard controller offers a natural feel, making it perfect for both seasoned pros and newcomers diving into the world of MIDI. Its lightweight design ensures portability without sacrificing quality, making it an ideal companion for both studio and stage.

With a plethora of intuitive controls, the Keystation 88 MK3 provides seamless integration with your DAW and hardware synths. The assignable volume slider, pitch bend and modulation wheels, along with transport controls, put you in the driver’s seat of your music production journey. Plus, its USB-MIDI connectivity and compatibility with iOS devices turn your mobile setup into a full-fledged music studio.

The Keystation 88 MK3 doesn’t just stop at hardware; it includes an impressive array of software to fuel your creativity. Dive into renowned DAWs like Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats, or explore the rich sounds of the included AIR Music Technology virtual instruments. Whether you're crafting lush piano melodies with Mini Grand or laying down vintage drum beats with Boom, the Keystation 88 MK3 provides an expansive virtual instrument suite to realize your musical visions.

Key Features:

  • 88 full-sized, velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys
  • USB-MIDI connection for software control and virtual instrument play
  • 5-pin MIDI output for connecting legacy MIDI gear
  • Assignable slider, pitch bend and modulation wheels
  • Transport and directional buttons for DAW navigation
  • Sustain and expression pedal inputs
  • Plug-and-play with Mac, PC, and iOS devices
  • Includes software like Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats
  • Comes with AIR Music Tech instruments: Xpand!2, Mini Grand, Velvet, and more
  • 3-month Skoove subscription and 40 Melodics lessons included

Owner's manual

M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 88-key Keyboard Controller User Manual

Product specs

Type Keyboard Controller
Number of Keys 88
Type of Keys Semi-weighted, Full-sized
Velocity Sensitive Yes
Other Controllers Pitchbend, Mod Wheel
Faders 1 x Volume
Pedal Inputs 1 x 1/4" TS (sustain), 1 x 1/4" TRS (expression)
MIDI I/O Out/USB
USB 1 x Type B
Computer Connectivity USB
Software Ableton Live Lite, MPC Beats
OS Requirements - Mac macOS 10.13 or later
OS Requirements - PC Windows 10 or later
Power Supply 9V DC 500mA power supply (sold separately) / USB bus powered
Height 2.88"
Width 54.24"
Depth 8.52"
Weight 13.75 lbs.

FAQs

Is the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 is suitable for beginners. Its semi-weighted keys provide a good balance between playability and response, making it ideal for learning and practicing.

Does the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 require an external power supply?

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 can be powered via USB, eliminating the need for an external power supply. However, an optional 9V DC power supply can be used if preferred.

What software is included with the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3?

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 comes with Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats, providing essential tools for music production and performance.

Can the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 be used with a sustain pedal?

Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 has a 1/4" TS input for connecting a sustain pedal, allowing for expressive playing.

Is the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 compatible with macOS and Windows?

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 is compatible with macOS 10.13 or later and Windows 10 or later, ensuring broad compatibility with most current systems.

What type of keys does the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 have?

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 features 88 full-sized, semi-weighted keys that are velocity-sensitive, providing a realistic and dynamic playing experience.

Keys Review

Keys Review

M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 REVIEW

Video thumbnail for M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 REVIEW by Keys Review

M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 REVIEW

Keys Review

Keys Review

Video thumbnail for M-Audio || Introducing the Keystation 88 MK3 by M-Audio

M-Audio || Introducing the Keystation 88 MK3

M-Audio

M-Audio

Video thumbnail for M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 review: Is this the best cheap MIDI keyboard with 88 keys in 2022? by Frank Elda - Music

M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 review: Is this the best cheap MIDI keyboard with 88 keys in 2022?

Frank Elda - Music

Frank Elda - Music

Video thumbnail for The 3rd Time's The Charm! |M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 Review| by John Mike

The 3rd Time's The Charm! |M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 Review|

John Mike

John Mike

Video thumbnail for Let Me Tell You The Truth...|M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 After 6-Months| by John Mike

Let Me Tell You The Truth...|M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 After 6-Months|

John Mike

John Mike

Video thumbnail for M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3: can you play classical music on it? by Frank Elda - Music

M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3: can you play classical music on it?

Frank Elda - Music

Frank Elda - Music

Video thumbnail for NEW M-audio Keystation 88 mk3! - UNBOXING by Frank Elda - Music

NEW M-audio Keystation 88 mk3! - UNBOXING

Frank Elda - Music

Frank Elda - Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Plug and play, no driver needed

  • Keys offer better control of velocity compared to similar models

  • Suitable for users at different skill levels due to its simplicity

  • Weighty, robust key action preferred by musicians used to traditional instruments

  • Full 88-key range enhances music production capabilities

  • Offers necessary features for DAW integration

  • Includes useful ports and buttons for MIDI control, enhancing playability

  • Comes with valuable included software, not just marketing gimmicks

  • Highly responsive with 7 octave range, suitable for creative goals

CONS

  • Casing feels somewhat cheap, affecting the overall feel

  • Keys have short travel and weird spring back, making playing uncomfortable for some

  • Keys produce considerable noise, which can be distracting

  • Some features like program changes and bank switches may be hard to use on stage due to no back lighting

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 88-key Keyboard Controller.

Features and functionality

  • The MK3's keys require slightly more force than real pianos, leading to quicker finger fatigue, especially for seasoned pianists.

    Source

Build quality

  • The MK3 keys are thinner and shorter than standard piano keys, differing from previous models like the MK2 and MK1.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users note the Keystation 88 MK3 has a less springy action compared to real or semi-weighted pianos, impacting playability over extended sessions.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Owners mention compatibility with Ableton Live, though some experienced issues with lost software codes and defunct services like Ignite.

    Source
  • Users suggest using a refurbished iPad 8 with a $30 adapter for seamless integration and free GarageBand access, avoiding complex PC setups.

    Source

User experience

  • Initial use of the MK3 is manageable for beginners, but limitations become apparent after a few months, especially when playing complex chords.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For a simpler setup, users recommend the Music Lab Chrome Experiments website, which pairs well with the keyboard and functions on older machines.

    Source

Critic Reviews

M-Audio Keystation 88 Mk3

soundonsound.com

A solid option for budget-conscious musicians, the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 offers a surprising amount of functionality for its price. Its lightweight design and USB power capability make it ideal for portable setups, while the assignable fader and expression pedal input enhance playability. However, the semi-weighted keys can be noisy and lack the depth that traditional piano players might expect. Additionally, the absence of aftertouch and adjustable velocity curves may limit some users. Despite these drawbacks, it stands out as a practical choice for beginners and gigging musicians alike, especially with its bundled software. At this price point, it’s hard to argue against the value the Keystation brings to the table.

positive

M-Audio Keystation 88 Mk3 Review

musictech.com

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 shines as a budget-friendly option for musicians seeking an 88-key controller. Its lightweight design and solid construction make it a practical choice for both studio and stage. The semi-weighted keys offer a surprisingly good feel, although the absence of aftertouch may disappoint some. While the user-friendly layout allows for quick MIDI assignments, the lack of a power supply in the box is a notable oversight. Overall, this controller delivers essential features without frills, making it a smart pick for those prioritizing value over extras.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
galaxyjames

Love this product

I've been using this piano for almost a year now and it has not limited me on reaching my creativity goals. This keyboard is highly responsive and I love how it has a 7 octave range. I also have a sustainment pedal plugged into it which allows me to create more dynamics when creating music. This is the perfect product if you are looking for a keyboard that has no preset sounds. All my sounds I use come from virtual instruments that I use in my DAW so this was the perfect keyboard for me.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andrew Horowitz uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 88-key Keyboard Controller

Andrew Horowitz

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Tally Hall

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video, Andrew Horowitz can be seen using an M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 keyboard. He used this in all three recent performances where he was the opener for the band Jukebox the Ghost.

It can be confirmed in this X (formerly Twitter) post from someone who acquired the keyboard he used for those shows, where it clearly says "Keystation 88 MK3". https://x.com/RubyRed64/status/1791650902790566023

See how Masashi Hamauzu uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 88-key Keyboard Controller

Masashi Hamauzu

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via note(ノート)

In a blog post on note(ノート), Masashi Hamauzu explicitly identifies the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 88-key Keyboard Controller as his master keyboard.

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 88 MK3 88-key Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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keyhead

keyhead

Gear IQ 126

dave_weiss

dave_weiss

Gear IQ 343

dave_weiss

dave_weiss

Gear IQ 343

dave_weiss

dave_weiss

Gear IQ 343

J

jeffrey_soble

Gear IQ 193

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