M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 88-key MIDI Keyboard Controller

89
GEARANK

89 out of 100. Incorporating 275+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$249
M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3

Gearank Recommendation

The Keystation 88 MK3 earned a place on our recommended list for 88 Key MIDI Controller Keyboards in June 2021 where it remained until September 2022 when it had been out-ranked by other keyboards.

Overview

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 is a streamlined MIDI Controller with 88 semi-weighted, full size keys and controls for volume, transport and octave.

It also features a 5-Pin MIDI out and jacks for sustain and expression pedals. The Volume fader can be assigned to a custom MIDI parameter.

Bundled with the Keystation 88 MK3 are ProTools First, Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats along with a suite of virtual instruments.

The Keystation 88 MK3 gets high marks for its simplicity and ease of integration. For folks who want a straightforward full-size MIDI Controller with none of features you won't use, the Keystation 88 is for you.

Specifications

  • Keys:8 8 Semi-weighted, Full-sized
  • Zones: No.
  • Pads: No.
  • Controls: Volume fader, transport and directional buttons, Octave up and down buttons
  • Automap: No.
  • Power: 9V DC 500mA power supply (sold separately) / USB bus powered
  • Connectivity: 5-Pin MIDI out and USB MIDI., 1 x 1/4" TS (sustain), 1 x 1/4" TRS (expression)
  • Dimensions: 54.24" (L) x 8.52" (W) x 2.88" (H).
  • Weight: 13.75 lbs.
  • Bundled Software: Pro Tools First M-Audio Edition, Ableton Live Lite, MPC Beats
  • Compatibility: macOS 10.13 or later, 64-bit/Windows 10 or later, 64-bit
Although this was previously on our recommended list, there are more highly rated options available in our guide to The Best 88 Key MIDI Controller Keyboards.

Demo

Here's a demo and review of the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3: