M-Audio Keystation 88 MKIII - 88-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
The M-Audio Keystation 88 MKIII is a simple yet powerful MIDI controller keyboard designed for sequencing music and playing virtual instruments on your Mac or PC. This third-generation controller offers a complete solution for music producers, composers, and pianists looking to seamlessly integrate an 88-note keyboard into their studio. Featuring 88 full-size, velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keys, the Keystation 88 MKIII delivers a natural and fluid response, ideal for composing complex orchestral pieces or triggering drum samples. Its lightweight yet robust design makes it a perfect choice for musicians who need a reliable controller for both studio and live performances.
Simplicity is key in the Keystation 88 MKIII, but without sacrificing essential control. It features transport and directional controls that allow you to operate your digital audio workstation (DAW) directly from the keyboard, eliminating the need to constantly use the mouse or trackpad. This streamlines your workflow and keeps you focused on creativity. It also includes modulation and pitch bend wheels, an assignable volume fader, and octave buttons for accessing the piano's full range. Connectivity is versatile, with a 5-pin MIDI output for connecting external hardware synthesizers and inputs for sustain and expression pedals (not included), enabling a much more emotive and detailed performance.
Main Features
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88-note keyboard: Enjoy a full range with 88 full-size, semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys for an expressive playing experience.
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Integrated DAW Control: Transport and directional buttons to control play, stop, record and navigation functions of your music software without the need for a mouse.
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Expressive Controls: Includes ergonomic pitch bend and modulation wheels, plus a fully assignable volume fader for precise control over your virtual instruments.
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Professional Connectivity: Equipped with a 5-pin MIDI output for controlling external MIDI devices, a USB-MIDI port for computer connection, and 1/4" (6.3mm) sustain and expression pedal inputs.
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USB Power: It is powered directly through the computer's USB port, eliminating the need for an external power adapter and making it more portable.
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Universal Compatibility: Fully compatible with Mac and PC systems (plug-and-play, no drivers required) and also with iOS devices via the Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (sold separately).
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Complete Software Package: Includes a suite of professional music production software, such as Pro Tools | First M-Audio Edition, Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats, along with a collection of virtual instruments and sample packs.
Benefits for the Modern Musician
The Keystation 88 MKIII is designed to remove barriers to creativity. For the producer seeking a central control keyboard in their studio, it offers intuitive control and a full-range keyboard in a compact format. For the pianist or student, the feel of the semi-weighted keys is an excellent starting point for practicing and performing pieces with dynamics and feeling. Its lightweight and durable design makes it ideal for live performers who need equipment that is easy to transport and set up.
Use Cases
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Music Production Studio: Use it as your studio's main controller to compose, record MIDI tracks, control virtual synthesizers, and mix with its assignable fader.
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Live Performance: Its light weight and USB power make it perfect for taking to concerts and controlling your virtual instruments or sound modules on stage.
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Education and Learning: Ideal for piano students who need an 88-note keyboard to practice at home with learning apps or music notation software.
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Soundtrack Composition: The full 88-key range is essential for composers working with orchestral libraries and needing quick access to all octaves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to install any drivers to use the Keystation 88 MKIII?
No, it's a class-compliant or plug-and-play device. Simply connect it to a USB port on your Mac or PC and the operating system will automatically recognize it without the need to install drivers.
Are the keys weighted like those of an acoustic piano?
The keys are semi-weighted, meaning they offer more resistance than typical synthesizer keys but less than those of a hammer-action acoustic piano. It's a good middle ground that works well for both playing piano parts and controlling other virtual instruments like organs, strings, or synthesizers.
Can I use it with an iPad?
Yes, you can connect the Keystation 88 MKIII to an iPad or other iOS device using the Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (sold separately).
Does it come with a sustain pedal?
No, the sustain pedal is not included. However, the keyboard has a standard 1/4" input so you can connect any universal sustain pedal, such as the M-Audio SP-2.
What software is included?
It includes a complete software package to start creating music right away: Pro Tools | First M-Audio Edition, Ableton Live Lite, MPC Beats, and virtual instruments such as Mini Grand, Velvet, Xpand!2, Boom, DB-33 and Vacuum.
Project description
The M-Audio Keystation 88 MKIII MIDI controller keyboard features 88 full-size, semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys. It offers USB-MIDI connectivity, a 5-pin MIDI output, and 1/4" (6.3mm) inputs for sustain and expression pedals. Additional features include pitch bend and modulation wheels, an assignable volume fader, and transport and directional buttons for DAW control. USB bus-powered. Compatible with Mac, Windows, and iOS operating systems. Compact and lightweight design.
