Greetings Top Tech crew, today we’re talking the M Audio Oxygen 49, a powerful and versatile MIDI controller that has become increasingly popular among music producers and performers. With its 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, eight assignable knobs, nine assignable faders, and eight velocity-sensitive pads, the Oxygen 49 offers a wide range of creative possibilities for musicians of all levels. Don’t miss out on our favorite MIDI controllers in Top 7 Picks for Best MIDI Controller.
One of the key features of the M Audio Oxygen 49 is its seamless integration with popular DAWs such as Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic, and Cubase. Using DirectLink technology, the controller’s knobs, faders, and transport controls automatically map to key parameters in your favorite DAW, allowing you to focus on your music without the need for manual mapping. Make the right choice and read How To Choose The #1 Best MIDI Controller: A Comprehensive Guide.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the M Audio Oxygen 49 is a powerful and intuitive tool that can help take your music to the next level. With its versatile features and seamless integration with your favorite DAW, the Oxygen 49 offers a world of creative possibilities for musicians of all genres and skill levels.
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Table of Contents
Overview Of The M Audio Oxygen 49
The M Audio Oxygen 49 is a USB MIDI keyboard controller that is designed to meet the needs of both amateur and professional musicians. It is a versatile and intuitive device that offers a range of features that are essential for creating and producing music.
The keyboard features 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys that are designed to provide a natural and expressive playing experience. It also comes equipped with eight assignable knobs, nine assignable faders, and eight velocity-sensitive pads that can be used for controlling effect plugins, virtual instruments, and mixing.
One of the standout features of the M Audio Oxygen 49 is the Note Repeat function, which is a staple mark in beat production. This feature allows you to create rhythmic patterns and loops with ease, making it an ideal tool for electronic music producers.
Another feature that sets the M Audio Oxygen 49 apart from other MIDI controllers is its compatibility with the Virtual Instrument Player (VIP) software. This software allows you to access and control all of your VSTi plugins from a single interface, making it easier to manage your virtual instruments and effects.
Overall, the M Audio Oxygen 49 is a reliable and versatile MIDI keyboard controller that offers a range of features that are essential for creating and producing music. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, this device is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality MIDI controller that is easy to use and packed with features.
Key Features
Keyboard
The M Audio Oxygen 49 is a powerful MIDI keyboard controller that features 49 velocity-sensitive keys for playing chords, bass lines, and melodies.
The keys are full-sized and semi-weighted, providing a realistic playing experience that is both comfortable and responsive.
The keyboard also features full velocity control, allowing for expressive playing and dynamic performances.
Pads
The Oxygen 49 also includes eight velocity-sensitive pads that can be used for triggering samples, finger drumming, or other MIDI events.
The pads are backlit and provide visual feedback, making it easy to see which pads are being triggered.
The pads are also assignable, allowing for customization of MIDI assignments.
Faders and Knobs
The M Audio Oxygen 49 features nine assignable faders and eight assignable knobs, providing precise control over effect plugins and virtual instruments.
The faders and knobs are also backlit, making it easy to see which controls are being adjusted. The faders and knobs are fully assignable, allowing for customization of MIDI assignments.
Software Integration
The Oxygen 49 is designed to integrate seamlessly with a variety of software applications, including popular DAWs like Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Logic Pro X.
The keyboard also comes with a suite of software, including Ableton Live Lite and SONiVOX Twist, providing users with everything they need to get started right out of the box.
In summary, the M Audio Oxygen 49 is a powerful MIDI keyboard controller that features a range of key features, including full-sized semi-weighted keys, velocity-sensitive pads, assignable faders and knobs, and seamless software integration. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional musician, the Oxygen 49 is a versatile and reliable tool that can help you take your music to the next level.
Setup and Installation
Setting up the M Audio Oxygen 49 is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to get started:
- Connect the Oxygen 49 to your computer using the included USB cable.
- Turn on the Oxygen 49 by pressing the power button on the back of the keyboard.
- Install the necessary drivers and software by visiting the M-Audio website and downloading the latest version of the Oxygen 49 software. Once downloaded, follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.
- Launch your preferred Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and select the M Audio Oxygen 49 as your MIDI input device in the DAW’s preferences or settings.
Once you got the above steps complete, you should be able to start playing and recording music with your Oxygen 49. We recommend checking the user manual for additional setup information specific to your DAW.
It is important to keep your Oxygen 49 drivers and software up to date to ensure optimal performance. Visit the M-Audio website regularly to check for any updates or improvements to the software.
Overall, the setup and installation process for the M Audio Oxygen 49 is simple and should only take a few minutes to complete. By following the above steps, you should be able to start creating music with your Oxygen 49 in no time.
Pros and Cons
When it comes to the M Audio Oxygen 49, there are several pros and cons that we have observed. In this section, we will discuss them in detail.
Pros
- Versatile: The M Audio Oxygen 49 is a versatile MIDI controller that can be used with a wide range of software and hardware. It comes with DirectLink technology that automatically maps its controls to popular DAWs such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and Pro Tools.
- Intuitive: The Oxygen 49 is designed to be intuitive and easy to use. Its layout is straightforward, and the controls are well-placed and labeled. The keys are semi-weighted and velocity-sensitive, providing a realistic playing experience.
- Affordable: Despite its many features, the Oxygen 49 is still affordable. It is priced competitively with other MIDI controllers in its class, making it an excellent value for those on a budget.
Cons
- Build quality: While the M Audio Oxygen 49 is well-designed, its build quality could be better. The chassis is made of plastic, which feels somewhat flimsy. Some users have reported issues with the keys and buttons breaking after extended use.
- Limited control: While the Oxygen 49 has a decent amount of control, it may not be enough for more advanced users. It only has eight assignable knobs, nine assignable faders, and eight velocity-sensitive pads. Some users may find this limiting, especially if they need more control over their software.
- No aftertouch: The Oxygen 49 does not have aftertouch, which is a feature found on many other MIDI controllers. Aftertouch allows for additional expression and control, and its absence may be a dealbreaker for some users.
Overall, the M Audio Oxygen 49 is a versatile and affordable MIDI controller that is well-suited for beginners and intermediate users. While it has some limitations, it offers a good balance of features and value.
Comparison with Similar Products
When it comes to MIDI keyboard controllers, M-Audio Oxygen 49 is one of the most popular options on the market. However, there are several other similar products that you might want to consider before making a purchase. In this section, we will compare M-Audio Oxygen 49 with some of its most notable competitors.
M-Audio Oxygen Pro
M Audio Oxygen Pro is the latest version of the Oxygen series, and it is very similar to the Oxygen in terms of design and features. The main difference is that the Oxygen Pro has a more premium feel and a few additional features, such as aftertouch and a built-in arpeggiator. However, these extra features come at a higher price point, so if you are on a budget, the Oxygen might be a better choice.
M Audio Keystation 49 MK3
M Audio Keystation 49 MK3 is another popular MIDI keyboard controller that is often compared to the Oxygen 49. The Keystation 49 MK3 has a simpler design and fewer features than the Oxygen 49, but it is also more affordable. If you are a beginner or just need a basic MIDI keyboard controller, the Keystation 49 MK3 might be a good choice.
Novation Launchkey 49
Novation Launchkey 49 is a MIDI keyboard controller that is often mentioned in the same breath as the Oxygen 49.
The Launchkey 49 has a similar feature set to the Oxygen 49, but it also has a few unique features, such as RGB pads and a built-in arpeggiator.
However, the Launchkey 49 is slightly more expensive than the Oxygen 49, so it might not be the best choice if you are on a tight budget.
In conclusion, the M Audio Oxygen 49 is a great MIDI keyboard controller that offers a lot of value for its price. However, there are several other similar products that you might want to consider before making a purchase. Depending on your needs and budget, one of these alternatives might be a better choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the M Audio Oxygen 49 compatible with MIDI?
Yes, the M-Audio Oxygen 49 is compatible with MIDI. It can be used to control virtual instruments and DAWs via MIDI. The MIDI functionality of the M-Audio Oxygen 49 allows for greater control and flexibility when creating and producing music.
Can the M Audio Oxygen 49 be used without a computer?
No, the M-Audio Oxygen 49 cannot be used without a computer. It requires a USB connection to a computer in order to function. However, once connected, it can be used to control virtual instruments and DAWs without the need for any additional hardware.
What is included with the M Audio Oxygen 49?
The M-Audio Oxygen 49 comes with a USB cable, a software CD, and a user manual. The software CD includes a copy of Ableton Live Lite, SONiVOX Twist, and AIR Music Tech Xpand!2. These programs can be used to create and produce music with the M-Audio Oxygen 49.
Does the M Audio Oxygen 49 have aftertouch?
Yes, the M-Audio Oxygen 49 has aftertouch. Aftertouch is a feature that allows the user to apply additional pressure to a key after it has been pressed down. This can be used to add expression and nuance to a performance. The aftertouch feature on the M-Audio Oxygen 49 is a valuable tool for creating dynamic and expressive music.
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Final Word
After thoroughly reviewing the M Audio Oxygen 49, we can confidently say that it is a solid MIDI controller that offers a great balance between functionality and affordability.
One of the standout features of the Oxygen 49 is its versatility. With 49 velocity-sensitive keys, 8 assignable knobs, 8 velocity-sensitive pads, and 9 assignable faders, this MIDI controller can handle a wide range of musical tasks, from playing chords and melodies to mixing tracks and controlling effect plugins.
In terms of the build quality lest’s keep it real, the Oxygen 49 feels sturdy and well-made, with a lightweight yet durable plastic case that is suitable for both studio and live performance use. The layout of the controls is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it a breeze to use even for beginners for sure.
While the Oxygen 49 may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive MIDI controllers, it offers a great value for its price range. For musicians who are looking for a reliable and versatile MIDI controller that won’t break the bank, the M-Audio Oxygen 49 is definitely worth considering.
All in all y’all, we recommend the M Audio Oxygen 49 to any musician like us who needs a reliable and versatile MIDI controller that won’t break the bank. With its solid build quality, intuitive layout, and versatile features, this MIDI controller is a great choice for both beginners and experienced musicians alike.
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