88 great-feeling semi-weighted keys
The M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 has 88 full-sized, semi-weighted keys. This makes it a great choice for players who prefer a lighter touch when playing a wide variety of virtual instruments. Whether you’re performing complex two-handed piano parts, grooving bass lines, or fleet-fingered drumming, the velocity-sensitive keybed is spot on with a semi-weighted action that feels great to dig into; providing the perfect amount of resistance while not being too stiff. By popular request, M-Audio has given the third-generation Keystation 88 matte black keys. It is perhaps a minute detail, but it’s much appreciated by serious keyboardists.
Powerful basic control set
On the left cheek of the Keystation 88 MK3 are ergonomically designed pitch and modulation wheels for control of these essential synth and MIDI parameters. The slider is preset to send MIDI CC 7 (channel volume) messages but it can be assigned to any other MIDI value. You also get dedicated sustain and expression pedal jacks, which, again, can be reassigned as needed. Add to that a dedicated set of transport controls and directional buttons (so you don’t need to use a mouse) and you’ve got a complete system that’s perfect for streamlined setups.
Premium software package
The Keystation 88 MK3 gives you more than a great keyboard controller; it comes with a premium software package that includes not one, not two, but three of today’s most popular DAWs: Pro Tools | First M-Audio Edition, Ableton Live Lite, and MPC Beats. Then, you get professional virtual instruments from top developer AIR Music Tech. From the ultra-modern sounds of Xpand!2 to the classic EP sounds of Velvet, the punchy vintage drums of Boom, the epic tonewheels of DB-33, and the shimmering pianos of Mini Grand; the Keystation 88 MK3 virtual instrument suite will supercharge you creativity, right out of the box. You also get killer MPC expansion packs: MPC Beats Producer Kits, F9 Instruments Beats Edition, plus Laniakea Sounds, MSX Audio, and ADSR. On top of all that, a 3-month subscription to Skoove and 40 free online lessons from Melodics are included upon registration, so you can develop your musical chops to take full advantage of all those beautiful ebonies and ivories in front of you.