Anyone using an M-Audio controller?

[satchriani]

Basically, I have an 88 key fully weighted Fatar. It has NO midi control on it. Not even pitch bend. I need one that has some control, and the M-Audio has a few budget minded pieces. Anyone familiar and have any opinions? I don't want a PC88 or expensive Roland Controller. Trying to stay under $400-500

[audiochild]

I recently purchased a M-Audio 88 Controller and get along very well with it.
I remember someone here having stated that a korg would have better keys but after trying them out I have to say I think differently.
of course the keys will never feel the same as along as they are not full weighted (then there are still big differences) but what can you expect in that price class.
I use a yamaha clp-130 clavinova for playing and the m-audio for trying around and for the wheels.

so in my opinion M-Audio is better than Korg as controllers in that price class.
they cost about the same but for Korg you also pay for some extra control buttons. so you can guess the Korg keys are built in a cheaper way.

I'm sure there are different opinions this is just my impression :)

[HornMeister]

i use their axiom 61 at home

and a 25 for the road

no complaints here

[dcoscina]

I have an Axiom 61 at home and use a Korg K-49 controller on the road. I like the Korg key action a little better in most cases except piano but I think the Axiom is the best thing M-Audio has released of their controller series.

[wesleydevore]

I used to use the Fatar weighted controller but switched to the M-Audio 88Pro. I could never get it to work as a USB device, but it works great via MIDI. You can dial in the key sensitivity somewhat which is very nice for piano work. I like the action on it much better than the Fatar. I still like the CME's action best, but 88Pro's price tag was much more to my liking :D

[SOJO7]

The M-Audio Oxygen 61 is a nice choice. I just got one not too long ago to test out what MIDI controllers can do... Seems very impressive so far.. but then again, I just got it.;) Definately worth a look.:)

[jmdbrady]

I had a similar problem but instead of changing my controler(Studiologic) I kept it and added to my setup an Evolution UC-33e wich gives me 24 knob plus 9 faders and several switchs that I individually assigned to various midi controllers. Cost about 150€. Just jeeds a free USB port.

[JosephF]

I figured I would bump this instead of starting a new thread. Since we're talking about M-Audio controllers, I was thinking about getting this one:

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/MAudio-Keystation-49e-USB-MIDI-Controller-Keyboard?sku=703605

All I want is a basic controller that will allow me to control modulation and expression. I'm not very picky about the key action, so that's not really an issue. The main thing I like about it is it's price. But I want to make sure it'll let me do what I want to do. It only has a pitch and mod wheel, and then one fader-type thing. Can I use the fader to control expression data? Really, all I need is to be able to control one thing at a time for now. Maybe when I get more experienced, I can upgrade. So should I get this?

[dcoscina]

Get the Korg K49 instead. Same price, better action, more assignable knobs, and comes bundled with M1e light. I have both K49 and K61p (with some great built-in sounds) and I love 'em!

[JosephF]

Hey, Thanks a lot!! I'll definitely get that one instead. It looks a lot better.