M Audio Keystation 88

Traditional beginner keyboards were designed to provide an easy learning experience, with limited features based on the belief that learners wouldn’t require advanced specifications. Unfortunately, this resulted in many average keyboards that became obsolete as students progressed, creating a significant problem. As a music student dedicated to building a successful career, you need a keyboard that will continue to challenge you throughout your development. You require a keyboard that will never become outdated and will continually offer new and unique features to help you hone your skills. The M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII piano is precisely what you need.

There are numerous reasons why this keyboard is perfect for both beginners and advanced piano players. The M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII is an excellent choice for individuals who are passionate about music and are dedicated to improving their skills. Here are some of the reasons why the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII is the ideal keyboard for you:

M-AUDIO KEYSTATION 88 MK II DESIGN

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII is a sleek and compact MIDI keyboard controller that is designed to be both functional and portable. It features an 88-note, semi-weighted keyboard with velocity-sensitive keys that provide a realistic and responsive playing experience. The keyboard has a matte black finish that gives it a professional and modern look, and it is made of high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity.

The Keystation 88 MKII has a minimalist design with a straightforward layout that makes it easy to use and navigate. It features a range of controls and settings, including pitch bend, modulation, octave shift, and volume controls, which can be easily accessed using the dedicated buttons on the keyboard. The keyboard also includes a sustain pedal input and a USB port for connecting it to a computer or mobile device.

The Keystation 88 MKII is a lightweight and compact device that can be easily transported and set up in different locations. It measures 53.5 x 7.5 x 2.8 inches and weighs just 15.1 pounds, making it one of the most portable 88-key MIDI keyboards on the market. The keyboard can also be powered directly from a computer or mobile device, eliminating the need for an external power source.

Overall, the M-Audio Keystation 88 MKII is a well-designed and functional MIDI keyboard controller that is suitable for both beginners and professionals. Its sleek and minimalist design, combined with its portability and range of features, make it a popular choice among musicians, producers, and composers.

M-AUDIO KEYSTATION 88 II FEATURES

The M Audio Keystation 88 II is a keyboard that is packed with fitting and super-effective features. Its 88 full-sized super-rapid keys promise to mimic and improve your piano playing experience, and the keys are natural and well-designed, making the keyboard suitable for both professional and amateur musicians and performers.

The sustain pedal input of 6.3 mm works perfectly with all universal control pedals, ensuring real piano sustainability. The keyboard is USB-powered and works perfectly with USB-MIDI connectivity, Apple iPad camera connectivity, and iOS connectivity.

Moreover, it includes the space-age Ableton Live Lite program, which allows you to efficiently compose, record, remix, and edit your musical ideas in a fluid audio environment. This amazing virtual keyboard controller also comes with a Multitimbral workspace referred to as Xpand!2, which includes four dynamic audio components on each area. 

What makes this keyboard controller even more amazing is the FM synthesis and wavetables sampling capabilities, as well as the availability of many different ready-to-play patches. Another wonderful feature of the M Audio Keystation 88 II is SONIVOX’s 88 Ensemble piano system that lets you reliably capture a 9-foot CD327 Steinway piano. This device is expertly experimented and will allow you to proficiently add your favorite performances, compositions, and recordings.

Whether you are a student, an advanced pianist, or a professional musician, the M Audio Keystation 88 II is an ideal choice for you.

88 Full Sized Keys

The M Audio Keystation 88 II is equipped with M Audio Keystation 88 full-sized, semi-weighted keys that are velocity-sensitive, providing a natural and expressive playing experience for musicians and producers. The keys are designed to feel like a traditional piano keyboard, with a realistic weight and response that allows for nuanced playing and expression.

The 88 keys also provide a wider range of notes compared to smaller keyboards, making the Keystation 88 II suitable for playing a variety of musical genres and styles. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pianist, the 88 full-sized keys on theM Audio Keystation 88 II make it a versatile and reliable MIDI keyboard controller.

ADVANTAGES OF M-AUDIO KEYSTATION 88 II

There are several advantages to using the M Audio Keystation 88 II as a MIDI keyboard controller. Some of these advantages include:

Excellent durability and portability

The M Audio Keystation 88 II has a sturdy body design and is also lightweight, making it easy to move around the studio. It weighs only 17 pounds, which means you can safely place it on any type of table without worrying about it being too heavy or unstable.

Comes with multiple easy to operate keys

The 88 keys on this keyboard are sensitive to touch and easy to play, making it accessible to musicians of all skill levels without requiring any special knowledge or training.

Convenient and Easy to Use and safely- Power Your Device with USB

Another advantage of the M Audio Keystation 88 II is that it can be safely powered by a USB connection. This means that it does not require an external power supply to operate, making it a convenient and streamlined option for musicians and producers who prefer a simplified setup.

With just a USB cable and a computer or mobile device, the Keystation 88 II can be up and running in no time, ready to control virtual instruments and DAWs with ease. The ability to be powered by USB also adds to the M Audio Keystation 88 II’s portability, allowing it to be used in a variety of settings without needing access to an electrical outlet.

The controls

The M Audio Keystation 88 II has octave buttons for control purposes, and every control feature is carefully designed to serve its intended purpose while maintaining a pleasing aesthetic appearance. Unlike other MIDI controllers, there are no superfluous pads and buttons.

In addition, the keyboard has a slim footprint that can fit comfortably on a desk, leaving room for other musical devices.

DAW Compatibility

The M Audio Keystation 88 II is compatible with a wide range of digital audio workstations (DAWs), making it a versatile MIDI keyboard controller for music production. Whether you use Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, Pro Tools, Cubase, or any other popular DAW, the M Audio Keystation 88 II is designed to seamlessly integrate with your preferred software.

The keyboard can be easily mapped to control virtual instruments and effects within your DAW, allowing you to manipulate and shape your sounds with precision and ease. This high level of DAW compatibility makes the M Audio Keystation 88II a great choice for musicians and producers who work across multiple platforms and want a MIDI keyboard controller that can adapt to their changing needs.

Portability

Portability is one of the key advantages of the M Audio Keystation 88 II. Despite having 88 full-sized, semi-weighted keys, the M Audio Keystation 88 II is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport to gigs, rehearsals, and other musical events. Its slim design and streamlined layout allow it to fit into a variety of spaces, from small home studios to crowded stages.

The M Audio Keystation 88 II is also easy to set up and use, thanks to its USB connectivity and plug-and-play functionality. This portability and ease of use make the M Audio Keystation 88 II an ideal MIDI keyboard controller for musicians and producers who need a reliable and flexible instrument that can keep up with their busy schedules and creative workflows.

Student and Pro Friendly

Another advantage of the M Audio Keystation 88 II is that it is both student and pro-friendly. As a MIDI keyboard controller, it offers a high level of functionality and flexibility that appeals to professional musicians and producers, while its user-friendly design and affordable price point make it accessible to students and beginners.

The M Audio Keystation 88 II’s range of features, such as its velocity-sensitive keys, pitch bend and modulation wheels, and octave up and down buttons, provide a versatile and expressive playing experience that is suitable for a range of musical styles and genres. Additionally, the Keystation 88 II comes with a range of bundled software, including Pro Tools First, Ableton Live Lite, and AIR Music Tech’s Xpand!2, providing users with a comprehensive suite of tools for music production and recording. This combination of

M-AUDIO KEYSTATION 88 II SPECS

• 88 full-sized, semi-weighted keys with velocity sensitivity
• Pitch bend and modulation wheels
• Octave up and down buttons for extending the keyboard range
• Transport and directional buttons for controlling your DAW
• USB-powered, with no external power supply required
• Class-compliant MIDI over USB for plug-and-play operation with PC, Mac, or iOS devices
• 5-pin MIDI output for connecting to external MIDI hardware
• Sustain pedal input for adding expression to your playing
• Lightweight and portable design, weighing just 17.6 lbs (8 kg)
• Bundled with Pro Tools First, Ableton Live Lite, and AIR Music Tech’s Xpand!2 for a comprehensive music production setup

CONS OF M-AUDIO KEYSTATION 88 II

While the M-Audio Keystation 88 II has many strengths, there are a few cons that potential buyers should be aware of:

• No built-in speakers: The Keystation 88 II does not have built-in speakers, which means that it must be connected to an external sound system or headphones in order to be heard.
• Limited features: The Keystation 88 II does not have some of the more advanced capabilities found on more expensive keyboards, such as aftertouch or weighted keys.
• Limited connectivity: The Keystation 88 II only has one MIDI output and no MIDI inputs, which may be a limitation for some users who need to connect multiple devices.
• No pedal included: The Keystation 88 II does not come with a sustain pedal, which is an essential accessory for many keyboard players.
• Keys may feel slightly spongy: Some users have reported that the keys on the Keystation 88 II feel slightly spongy, which can be a matter of personal preference.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the M Audio Keystation 88 II is a highly versatile and affordable M Audio Keystation 88 controller that is suitable for both beginners and professionals. Its full-sized keyboard with 88 keys, USB power option, and compatibility with a wide range of DAWs make it an ideal option for music production and live performances.

The control features are also well thought out and user-friendly. However, the lack of aftertouch and the absence of a sustain pedal and power adapter in the package are notable drawbacks to consider before purchasing this keyboard. Overall, the M Audio Keystation 88 II is a reliable and solid choice for those seeking an affordable MIDI keyboard controller that offers excellent value for the price.