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Average Price: $387

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Description

Step into computer-based music creation and performance with the Keystation 88 keyboard controller from M-Audio. Keystation 88 is a simple, powerful MIDI controller designed for sequencing music and playing virtual instruments on your Mac or PC. It features 88 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 88 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 88 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 88 is USB-powered, class-compliant, and supports USB-MIDI connectivity. Plus, Keystation 88 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 88 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 88 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.

88-note keyboard controller with a natural feel.

Product specs

Brand M-Audio
Model Keystation 88 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 88 Keys

FAQs

Does the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII have weighted keys?

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII features semi-weighted keys, providing a balance between the feel of a traditional piano and the lightweight touch of a synth action.

How do I connect the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII to my computer?

You can connect the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII to your computer using a USB cable, which will enable MIDI communication with your DAW or music software.

Is the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII compatible with popular DAWs?

Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII is compatible with most major DAWs such as Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Logic Pro, allowing seamless integration into your workflow.

What type of power supply does the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII require?

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII is USB-powered, which means it does not require an external power supply when connected to a computer.

Can the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII be used for live performances?

Yes, the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII's full-size, semi-weighted keys and MIDI output make it suitable for live performances, offering expressive control over virtual instruments.

John Mike

John Mike

New M-audio Keystation 88 MKII Unboxing and Review

Video thumbnail for New M-audio Keystation 88 MKII Unboxing and Review by John Mike

New M-audio Keystation 88 MKII Unboxing and Review

John Mike

John Mike

Video thumbnail for M Audio Keystation 88 USB MIDI Controller Keyboard - M Audio Keystation by American Musical Supply

M Audio Keystation 88 USB MIDI Controller Keyboard - M Audio Keystation

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Video thumbnail for Weighted vs Unweighted Keys & More 🎹 | Keyboard Lesson by Sweetwater

Weighted vs Unweighted Keys & More 🎹 | Keyboard Lesson

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for M-Audio || Accent Piano by M-Audio

M-Audio || Accent Piano

M-Audio

M-Audio

Reviews

PROS

  • Full 88-key controller mimics piano layout

  • Keys have a natural, synth action feel

  • Compact enough to fit under a monitor on a desk

  • Quality build that doesn't feel cheap or flimsy

  • Useful for DAW control and patch changes

  • Good value for the price

CONS

  • Key touch can feel a bit hard

  • Overall build quality considered average

  • Volume fader design could be improved

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The MK3 model's keys are thinner and shorter compared to the MK2, affecting playability for classical pianists.

    Source
  • Fatar-built key assemblies in the Keystation 88 are reportedly prone to breaking during shipping, which is a consideration for buyers of used models.

    Source

User experience

  • The MK2 and MK1 versions are preferred over the MK3 due to better key feel and standard key dimensions.

    Source
  • Some report heavy weight makes the Keystation less ideal for gigging despite its appealing key action for home use.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Keystation 88 MKII requires a computer with VSTi software to produce sound, as it lacks built-in speakers.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Owners use the Keystation with Ableton Live, though some lost access to bundled software like Ableton and Ignite.

    Source
  • The Keystation 88 Pro is compatible with FL Studio 20, continuing its relevance despite being an older model.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Roland FP-30 offers a more piano-like feel compared to the Keystation's semi-weighted keys, at a similar overall investment when considering additional software needs.

    Source
  • The Keystation 88 Pro was once a top choice for MIDI controllers, though newer models like the Hammer 88 and StudioLogic SL88 offer alternatives with hammer action keys.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The total cost of Keystation plus software can rival that of a beginner digital piano, which offers immediate out-of-box use.

    Source
  • Alesis offers the Recital Pro and Prestige 88 as budget-friendly alternatives to more expensive models like the Kawai ES-110, though historical durability concerns exist.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Cleaning metal sliders can reduce voltage shorts causing erratic behavior; oil buildup is a common issue requiring internal cleaning.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 35 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mihneabecea

Solid

Keys goes pretty natural as feeling. In rest does all the job you need it to do as a midi controller. It's nice you can fit it under your monitor on a desk so it's much easier when goffing around in your DAW.

mike_byrd

Great master keyboard

This is a full 88 key controller with a synth action feel with the cosmetics off a piano. You can control your DAW an change patchs with the controls on this it doesn't feel cheap and flimsy also it feels like quality to the touch well worth the money gets the job done.

From Gear Setup
djjowell

GREAT Controller

This is a good cheep full size controller!

nebulossa

nice keys /noce weight / can be used with ableton live 9

volume fader (stick) should have a better design

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Alesso uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Alesso

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this screenshot from Alesso's Instagram story, he can be seen playing a keyboard. Based on the color and layout of the DAW transport controls, he's playing an M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII, which is an 88-key keyboard with semi-weighted keys.

See how Roger Waters uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Roger Waters

Singer, Guitarist

Pink Floyd

...
Verified via YouTube

As seen in this YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lCFaSL9aSE

See how Eminem uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Eminem

Singer, Rapper

D12

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture,It shows Eminem hanging out with some people in his studio with a M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII on the table.

See how JPEGMAFIA uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

JPEGMAFIA

Singer, Rapper

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, JPEGMAFIA is pictured with the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard, highlighting its role in his creative process.

See how Alex Aiono uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Alex Aiono

Singer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see the keyboard just below the T.V. and next to the laptop

See how Jack Garratt uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Jack Garratt

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Jack Garratt - Worry - Berlin Sessions," Jack Garratt is seen using the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard.

See how Clark uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Clark

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube Video at 0:34 - 0:38 and many times later Clark can be seen using the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII in 2017 Death Peak London Session.

See how Said The Sky uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Said The Sky

Drummer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

Said The Sky using the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard at a B2B set w Illenium.

See how Bora Karaca uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Bora Karaca

Singer, Guitarist

Tally Hall

...
Verified via Photo

in good and evil tour 2011 use this.

See how Vincent Lee uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Vincent Lee

Guitarist, Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "In The Studio bei VINCENT LEE," musician and producer Vincent Lee is shown using the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard.

See how Alejandro Aranda (Scarypoolparty) uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

Alejandro Aranda (Scarypoolparty)

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In the attached Instagram post, Alejandro mentions by name in the caption and is playing the Keystation 88 (the MK II deduced from the text on the keyboard).

See how JPB uses M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard

JPB

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Instagram

In the beginning of this NCS Takeover story on Instagram , you can see the Keystation 88 MKII standing against the wall.

Album Usage

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII Mastering Keyboard has been featured on the following albums:

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 MKII Mastering Keyboard, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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deadfred

deadfred

Gear IQ 414

asmickie

asmickie

Gear IQ 104

deadfred

deadfred

Gear IQ 414

mike_byrd

mike_byrd

Gear IQ 773

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