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Average Price: $134
Budget/Beginner
$200
$501+
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Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Samson Technologies Carbon 49-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Dive into a world of musical creativity with the Samson Technologies Carbon 49-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard, a compact and versatile instrument designed for both seasoned musicians and budding creators. This semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keyboard brings a responsive and expressive touch to your performances, making it feel more like an instrument than just another MIDI controller. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Carbon 49 stands out with its easy-to-use features and lightweight design, ensuring it fits perfectly in any musical setup.
With the Carbon 49, you have an array of controls at your fingertips. From the dedicated Transpose and Octave buttons to the classic Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels, this MIDI controller lets you manipulate your music's tone and expression with ease. The assignable data encoder and volume slider further enhance your control, allowing you to adjust up to 14 performance-related parameters on the fly. Plus, its integrated iPad slot not only makes it an ideal companion for mobile music-making but also ensures it's a great tool for harnessing the power of your favorite music and synth iPad apps.
Additionally, the Carbon 49's compact design does not compromise on versatility. It includes traditional MIDI Out, Sustain pedal input, and USB connections, providing all you need to connect and control your music software efficiently. Whether you're crafting your next masterpiece or performing live, the Samson Technologies Carbon 49-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard is a reliable, expressive tool designed to elevate your musical journey.
Key Features:
- 49-key velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keyboard
- Dedicated Transpose and Octave buttons for easy key changes
- Classic Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels for expressive control
- Assignable data encoder and volume slider for in-depth control over your music
- Edit key allows adjustment of up to 14 control parameters
- Three-digit, seven-segment LED display for real-time feedback
- Includes traditional MIDI Out, Sustain pedal input, and USB connections
- Integrated iPad slot for making music on-the-go with iPad apps
- iPad and USB bus powered for enhanced mobility
- Compatible with Mac OS X and Windows, ensuring wide-ranging compatibility
Product specs
| Type | Keyboard Controller |
| Number of Keys | 49 |
| Type of Keys | Semi-weighted |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes |
| Other Controllers | Pitchbend, Mod Wheel |
| Encoders/Pots | 1 |
| Faders | 1 |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" TRS (sustain) |
| MIDI I/O | Out/USB |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Power Supply | USB bus powered |
| Height | 3.00" |
| Width | 31.20" |
| Depth | 8.50" |
| Weight | 6.2 lbs |
FAQs
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How do I connect the Samson Carbon 49 to my computer?
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You can connect the Samson Carbon 49 to your computer using the included USB cable. This connection will provide power to the controller and allow it to transmit MIDI data.
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Is the Samson Carbon 49 compatible with iPad?
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Yes, the Samson Carbon 49 can be connected to an iPad via a USB connection, using an appropriate adapter. This allows you to use the controller with various music apps on the iPad.
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Does the Samson Carbon 49 have velocity-sensitive keys?
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Yes, the Samson Carbon 49 features semi-weighted keys that are velocity-sensitive, allowing for expressive playing dynamics.
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Can I use a sustain pedal with the Samson Carbon 49?
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Yes, the Samson Carbon 49 has a 1/4" TRS input for a sustain pedal, giving you additional control over your performance.
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What are the main control features of the Samson Carbon 49?
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The Samson Carbon 49 includes pitch bend and modulation wheels, as well as a single fader and encoder, providing versatile control options for your music production.
Videos
Reuben Chng
Samson Carbon 49 Midi Controller - Honest review | Audio Mentor
Reviews
PROS
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Integrates well with DAWs and iPads for versatile music production
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Semi-weighted keys offer a good balance between synth and hammer action
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Built-in tablet holder is convenient for live performances or studio use
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USB powered for a clutter-free setup
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Includes valuable software like Komplete Elements Mk2 bundle
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Visible and attractive design with a white color scheme
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Offers good depth of MIDI implementation for its price
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Comparatively better value and features than similar price-range controllers
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Sturdy key feel, despite some criticism of key action
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Lightweight and portable for musicians on the go
CONS
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Key action described as the worst by a long-term keyboard player
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Lacks 127 levels of MIDI velocity control out of the box, requiring extra setup
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Some users report poor build quality and issues with knobs and buttons over time
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Requires strong playing to register velocity accurately
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Included virtual controllers (VCs) mostly seen as useless
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No aftertouch feature, which might be a drawback for some users
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Volume and octave control problems indicated, affecting performance reliability
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Samson Technologies Carbon 49-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard.
Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 13 Reviews and 35 Ratings
199
I'd avoid it
It's...not great. I bought it in a Black Friday sale and there are some positives, so let's get those out of the way:
- The keys and wheels are actually not bad at all.
- It's really light.
- If you play softsynths from a tablet (especially an iPad or iPad 2) there is a dedicated tablet holder front and center that is a great feature. It was actually one of the main reasons I bought it, and then I never ended up using my tablet live. Oops. But still a great feature.
- It's cheap, especially used.
Ok, so that's the good. The bad is that the quality is pretty terrible. Things stopped working properly almost immediately and after a few months the volume knob didn't do anything and the volume would stay stuck on around 55 (I say around because it was never still on it...constantly fluctuating very rapidly up to 10 in either direction) and the octave buttons were finicky, often either not responding or going up 2 octaves. I didn't abuse mine, it just started falling apart.
Nice Controller
Great controller for the price, better than others of the same price-range. The only bad thing is that you have to play very strong with the velocity on.
576
Agreed on both fronts. I like it a lot for the price but it's not a piece of gear I looooooove.
My cheap little MIDI keyboard
This is my small, 49-key £80 MIDI keyboard that I use to play in melodies when I have to. Nothing special, but it's useful.
89
Affordable and the best midi controller for beginners
I ve been using this since 2013....and I'm pretty well satisfied.Honestly its not for pros,but if its gonna be your home studio,defenitely you must go for it....Simple plugin and play ,USB powered controller.... also comes up with a pressure-sensitive, semi-programmable interface for performing music through a tablet or computer.
53
Amazing midi keyboard for beginers
I have been using this midi controller for six months and its good and easy to use. It came free with a Komplete elements Mk2 bundle, so that's an advantage.
Artist usage
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Used With
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