M-Audio

Keystation 88ES

SKU: # 212760   |   Model: # KEYSTATION 88ES   |    Product Reviews3 Reviews  Write a Review

Keystation 88ES
 This product is no longer available.
M-Audio Keystation 88es is an 88-key, semi-weighted action USB MIDI controller with velocity sensing that's perfect for performance, computer-centric recording, and education. Space-age design and rugged construction deliver incredible feel and stability in a package that is light enough for pros to carry under one arm, yet elegant enough for home environments. The Keystation 88es is compatible with all standard music software on both Macintosh and PC, and class-compliancy with Windows XP and Mac OS X ensures the simplicity of plug-and-play. Drivers are also included for Windows 98SE/Me/2000. The built-in USB-to-MIDI interface and USB bus-powered operation eliminates the need for additional gear or cables. Assignable data up/down buttons Built-in USB MIDI interface MIDI out jack routes MIDI signals from keyboard or computer to external devices Powered via USB connection or 9VDC power adapter (sold separately) Is Mac OS X and Windows XP class compliant for plug-and-play Includes Reason Adapted Express software studio.

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Reviews


18.118.120.109
claudebot
Keys are way too stiff 0 of 0 customers found this review helpful
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Closest Store   London North, Ontario
I like the look and size of the keys but keys are way too stiff.
Posted by Ali on Apr 12, 2020
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For the money, it's quite good value 1 of 1 customers found this review helpful
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Closest Store   Halifax, Nova Scotia
I am a guitar player, not a trained pianist. However, I have been playing keyboards for ten years to play VSTi's. I did a lot of research on this and other 88 key controllers before I bought this. I've had it for a few months now. In general, I cannot agree with the harsher criticisms this board gets on the various forums. I have no more problem getting the lower velocities to sound with this than I do with a rather upscale workstation I own, which is to say there is no real problem. And there is no great difference in the velocity response between the black and the white keys. The black keys maybe a little on the stiff side for some, but they loosen with usage I am told. I have found that with software pianos of lesser quality, it is tricky to play fast softer passages, but this is the fault of the software, not the keys. If you want to see this keyboard in action, check out Torley on You Tube, and then ask yourself if this keyboard isn't expressive enough. I do not like the "semi-weighted" description that this and other keyboards like this one get, as there is nothing "weighted" about the action, it is simply more "resistant". I would prefer a non-weighted board, but there is no unweighted 88 controller being made. Insert sad face icon here. Key feel is very subjective, try before you buy if you can. But unless you have been playing a weighted board all your life and can't live without one, this board is very good, and I don't see the need to spend $400 or more just for weighted keys. Spending that money on piano lessons would probably help me more...
Posted by Brent on Nov 1, 2012
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M-audio 88 Key 1 of 1 customers found this review helpful
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Closest Store   Ottawa, Ontario
This is an 'inexpensive' controller' and has nice features. However, I honestly believe this keyboard should be illegal. The action is so difficult that prolonged playing would just wreck your wrist. Honestly - it's a hazard to your health. Sadly , it has nice features for price but, I would absolutely stay away from this thing. I also have the 49 note . If the 88 had the 49 action it would be a nice machine. alas...... btw.... It looks on the web like the 61 note has the action of the 88, not the 49.
Posted by Tim@Kingston on Apr 27, 2009
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