Pricing and availability

* 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 Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller, your gateway to a world of sonic possibilities. Designed with both beginners and seasoned musicians in mind, this versatile MIDI controller offers a seamless integration with your favorite Mac music software, including GarageBand and Logic. Featuring 49 synth-action keys, the Keystudio is engineered to deliver a responsive and expressive playing experience, letting your creativity flow effortlessly.

Whether you’re crafting the next big hit or exploring new soundscapes, the Keystudio's intuitive layout makes it easy. Navigate through virtual instruments, audition loops, and compose songs with precision using the pitch bend and modulation wheels. A sustain pedal input provides additional expression, perfect for emotive performances or intricate compositions. With its sleek design and simple USB connectivity, setting up your musical workstation is as easy as plug and play.

Key Features:

  • 49 synth-action keys for dynamic and expressive playability
  • USB-powered for easy connectivity with Mac OS X computers
  • Compatible with popular music software like GarageBand and Logic
  • Pitch bend and modulation wheels for enhanced control
  • Sustain pedal input for expressive performance options

FAQs

Is the M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller compatible with Mac computers?

Yes, the M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller is compatible with Mac OS X computers and offers plug-and-play functionality for instant installation.

Does the M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller require an external power supply?

No, the M-Audio Keystudio is powered via a single USB cable, which also handles its connection to your computer.

Can I use the M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller with GarageBand?

Yes, the M-Audio Keystudio is perfect for use with GarageBand, as well as other popular music applications like Logic.

Does the M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller have velocity-sensitive keys?

The M-Audio Keystudio features a synth-action keyboard, which is typically not velocity-sensitive; it is designed for ease of play and control.

What are the key features of the M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller?

Key features include a 49-note synth-action keyboard, assignable modulation wheel, volume slider, pitch bend wheel, octave +/- buttons, and a sustain pedal input.

6.11 Tactical

6.11 Tactical

M-Audio Keystudio 49 Keyboard: Unboxing/Overview

Video thumbnail for M-Audio Keystudio 49 Keyboard: Unboxing/Overview by 6.11 Tactical

M-Audio Keystudio 49 Keyboard: Unboxing/Overview

6.11 Tactical

6.11 Tactical

Video thumbnail for M-Audio Keystudio Keyboard Unboxing by DVreviews

M-Audio Keystudio Keyboard Unboxing

DVreviews

DVreviews

Video thumbnail for M-Audio KeyStudio MIDI Controller Review and Setup by Cip's Techi Tips

M-Audio KeyStudio MIDI Controller Review and Setup

Cip's Techi Tips

Cip's Techi Tips

Video thumbnail for Avid M Audio KeyStudio Midi Keyboard Unboxing/Review by Glen Reed

Avid M Audio KeyStudio Midi Keyboard Unboxing/Review

Glen Reed

Glen Reed

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller.

Comparisons

  • Owners suggest pairing a smaller MIDI controller like the Arturia Keylab MK1 with a full 88-key digital piano for comprehensive functionality and tactile experience.

    Source
  • Some users prefer keeping their audio interface separate from keyboard controllers, suggesting that the KeyStudio 49 without an audio interface may be advantageous.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Arturia MiniLab 3 is favored for adjusting sounds and VSTs in Ableton, but lacks the full range of keys necessary for extensive music theory practice.

    Source
  • Some users emphasize the importance of semi-weighted keys for adding expressive dynamics and timbre to music, even when not pursuing professional piano playing.

    Source
  • The KeyStudio 49 is noted for its simplicity, providing just keys with pitch control, without an integrated audio interface.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report Arturia products feel reliable and satisfying to use, though M-Audio's reputation is less frequently mentioned in this context.

    Source
  • The Keystation's class-compliant design allows it to work without drivers, and it can be bus-powered via USB, simplifying setup without needing an external power supply.

    Source
  • The M-Audio KeyStudio 49, owned since 2006, remains functional, though the feel isn't top-tier, suiting non-expert keyboardists well.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For non-professional piano playing or basic melody and bass line input, 24-48 keys are typically sufficient, according to multiple users.

    Source
  • For under $100, the KeyStudio 49 is effective for idea generation and basic composition, especially for beginners not needing extensive features.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Older M-Audio Keystation models without USB ports may require a Type A to Type B USB cable for compatibility with modern systems like Windows 10 and Reaper.

    Source
  • Reaper's portable installation can resolve MIDI signal issues; using WaveOut instead of ASIO may eliminate keyboard functionality problems, though it increases latency.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A factory reset on the M-Audio Keystation involves holding ADVANCED, OCT+, and OCT- while powering on, which can resolve certain connectivity issues.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At $90 AUD, the KeyStudio 49 is seen as a cost-effective option for beginners, providing sufficient keys for most compositions by octave shifting.

    Source
Add

4.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 11 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
gidexen

Nice keyboard

Great quality keyboard. This is a must in a music producer setup.

diego_f_ortega

My first midi controller

my first midi controller, very basic but useful and good quality

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tyler Joseph uses M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Tyler Joseph

Singer, Bassist

Twenty One Pilots

...
Verified via YouTube

Tyler played this keyboard in the Regional at Best CD Release Show, it can be seen throughout the entire Guns for Hands video on stage next to Josh's drums, but most visibly @ 4:04 in the video.

See how Jacob Collier uses M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Jacob Collier

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "Jacob Collier's Audience Choir Experiment," Jacob Collier demonstrates his use of a virtual studio technology (VST) plugin with the M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller. This is verified through the video provided by Tape Notes Podcast.

See how Tyson Ritter uses M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Tyson Ritter

Singer, Bassist

The All-American Rejects

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Tyson Ritter expresses his deep connection to music alongside a photo featuring the M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller, highlighting its role in his creative process.

See how Shellback uses M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Shellback

...
Verified via Photo

His MIDI controller in this photo.

See how GRGE uses M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller

GRGE

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Image-line

Menciona que utiliza el Keystudio 49e.

See how Feid uses M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Feid

Singer

...
Verified via Photo

In the third picture posted by Feid on Instagram, he is shown with a keyboard clearly labeled as M-Audio. The keyboard is identified as an older model due to its round-ish, gray design. Upon closer inspection, a screw is visible, which helps narrow down the model. By examining the text and its position relative to the screw, it can be deduced that Feid is using the M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller.

Album Usage

The M-Audio Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller 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 Keystudio 49-Key USB Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Pioneer DDJ-SB2
Pioneer DDJ-SB2 DJ Controllers
1
M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3
M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controllers
1
Shure SM7B
Shure SM7B Dynamic Microphones
1

More M-Audio MIDI Keyboard Controllers

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides