MIDI keyboard M-AUDIO Keystation 49 MK3 49 keys USB Black

The M-AUDIO Keystation 49 MK3 is a 49-key USB MIDI keyboard designed for music production and live performance. It offers a full-size, velocity-sensitive keybed with lightweight construction and USB bus power, making it suitable for mobile setups and home studios. The controller includes octave shift buttons, pitch-bend and modulation wheels, a volume slider, transport and directional controls, and a 1/4" sustain pedal input for expanded expressive control. Class-compliant USB-MIDI connectivity ensures compatibility with Windows, macOS and iOS (with Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter), and a USB cable is included.

Advantages

The Keystation 49 MK3 provides a natural playing feel on a compact platform, combining 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys with essential performance controls to reduce reliance on a mouse or trackpad. USB bus power and class-compliant operation simplify setup across operating systems while the dedicated transport and navigation controls streamline recording and sequencing workflows. The sustain pedal input and assignable octave range extend its expressive possibilities without adding bulk.

Suitable for

• Composing and sequencing in a home or project studio
• Live performance with soft synths and backing tracks
• Mobile production and on-the-go sketching of musical ideas
• Integrating with DAWs for recording, editing and controlling virtual instruments

Key specifications

• 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys
• USB bus-powered, class-compliant USB-MIDI connectivity
• Octave up/down buttons for extended range
• Pitch-bend and modulation wheels
• Volume slider and transport/directional controls
• 1/4" (6.3 mm) sustain pedal input (pedal sold separately)
• Compact, lightweight and durable chassis suitable for travel

How to use

Connect the Keystation 49 MK3 to your computer or compatible iOS device using the included USB cable (for iOS use the Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter). The controller is class-compliant, so most modern macOS and Windows systems will recognize it without additional drivers. Use the octave buttons to access higher or lower registers, play with pitch-bend and modulation wheels for expressive gestures, and control playback and recording using the transport and directional controls. Plug a sustain pedal into the 1/4" input to add authentic piano sustain when needed.

Recommendations

For stable operation, connect the keyboard directly to a powered USB port on your computer or to a powered USB hub. When using an iPad, verify compatibility with the Apple adapter and your DAW/audio app. Use a sustain pedal designed for keyboards for reliable contact and response, and secure the unit on a stable surface or stand to prevent movement during performance.