All user reviews for the M-Audio Oxygen 8

I actually got this as part of a college program and used it everyday. I know it's plastic, but this thing is durable. The Oxygen 8 V2 is perfect for somebody that wants to make MIDI music on the go. Bring it to your favourite jam space just incase, it will fit easily on almost any desktop, use it to control your DAW or even hook it up to a synth and play on.

Specs:
-25 velocity sensitive keys
-Pitch bend and modulation wheel
-8 MIDI control knobs
-6 MIDI transport buttons
-5 MIDI function buttons
-Octave up/down or transpose up/down button
-3 digit LED screen
-USB
-MIDI output
-Optional DC power jack
-Sustain pedal jack
-On/off switch
-Kensington lock hole
-Ableton Live Lite 4 included


UTILIZATION

The set up for general use was very simple. On my mac I didn't have to install any drivers and I was able to use keys, pitch bend and the octave problem with no problems. Getting it to work with your DAW is another issue. Now I'll be honest, I didn't know much about MIDI keyboard/controllers when I first tried to get it to work. And I may have gotten frustrated and learned to live without the knob control feature. I found that I really didn't use synths in a way that required me to have the midi control so it was no problem to not have. Lets also note that the MIDI knobs are not infinity (you they have a limit to how far they can be turned either way. This means that when you try to adjust one of your on screen settings using the knob, it will automatically snap to where the physical knob is. This is a pain when you can't remember what exact setting you had had on before. When you adjust on screen it will change the value, however once you touch the physical knob again it will snap to wherever the knob is pointed.

I don't remember much about the manual. And unfortunately it's currently unavailable on the m-audio website. It is very similar to other competing MIDI keyboards so if you are familiar with those you won't have a problem. If you are still unsure there are plenty of videos on youtube to help you out!

The buttons are moderately easy to use. There are enough buttons to preform certain functions (sometimes you get units with lots of dual use buttons and things can become a pain when you have to a lot of adjustments). The layout of the keyboard is well thought out. The double stacked midi knobs definitely save some space compared to having them all in one row.

OVERALL OPINION

What I liked the most was the compact design. Granted, things have gotten smaller since the release. But at the time this was a lot more compact than others. I'll confess that I have accidentally dropped it once or twice, but the unit was fine with no noticeable marks. Unless it was a fluke this thing is not going to fall apart on you.

I can't really comment on MSRP because mine was included in a college program. However I've seen used ones online for around $80 and refurbished price of $85. At those prices the M-Audio Oxygen 8 V2 is an excellent choice.

The 25 keys were sensitive to pick up a fine touch and will not buckle if you hammer them. The key response was alright, without weighted keys what can we expect right? It would be nice if the keys were slightly lower to the surface it is sitting on.

This was my first model and was my only choice. I later moved onto a Novation Nocturne 49 but still keep my Oxygen 8 V2 in my work studio. It's one of those pieces of gear that I couldn't bring myself to sell. And it's good that I didn't sell because I end up using it all the time.

Pros:
-Light
-Durable
-LED Display
-Pitch bend and modulation wheels

Cons:
-Keys aren't solid
-Knobs aren't infinity
-No beat pads
-The colour shows marks easily (something darker would be better)
-No DC adapter included

Used it in college as midi input for Ableton Live or Logic Pro. I used it exclusively with audio software that processes MIDI input.

They had a few of these in my college that I had used.

This keyboard uses USB to connect to a PC or Mac, Midi works properly, no latency. It has a lot of different soft knobs that can be configured to different midi functions which can be very useful when inputting into your recording program. It is very lightweight and easily portable to wherever you might need to take it.

I wasn't able to figure out how to configure all the different nobs to the MIDI controls in the software i was using. But I only had usage of this in a college multimedia computer lab. I wasn't crazy about the feel of the keys, but that is just a personal preference. They worked properly though.

Well constructed. Built to last. Feel confident buying one used. Keys don't get sticky or have any other issues.

Try one out if you like the feel of it, get it. Its great for MIDI input to computers. Should work without drivers in Mac and some Pcs.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

I bought my M-Audio Oxygen 8 from MidiWarehouse.com. I paid 137.00 for the unit- a great deal for all its capabilities

All the controls sync well with my software, Reason 2.5. I am most pleased by its portability- I have taken it on gigs in place of keyboards and used the computer to generate the synth- along with piano from an acoustic grand. It is easy to write into Reason 2.5, use it for temporary play, or generate the most awesome effects on synth sounds. I also like that it does not need an alternate power source- only the USB port.

I don't have many complaints, but the size of the board does limit its operating to 1 and 1/2 octaves. There is a button to depress for octave change. It is convienent, but sometimes I prefer having a little more space on the board.

The construction is top notch and it looks sleek and high-tech. The "Oxygen Tank" that I purchased with mine holds the module tightly and securely.

This is the perfect device for use with Reason 2.5 or any other music station software. Its simplicity makes it a breeze to control and create the music one desires. Its size is great for portability and the USB power enables you to work anywhere.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

I BOUGHT IT AT A LOCAL STORE. I OWN A AUDIOPHILE USB AND IT IS AWESOME.

I LIKE EVERTHING THE KEYS ARE SENSITIVE EASY TO PRESS (NOT HARD TO PRESS DOWN LIKE THE OTHER WIMP HOW PUT THROUGH A REVIEW) LOTS OF PERAMETERS TO CHANGE FOR THE KNOBS. SOME PEOPLE ON THE NET SAY IT IS TO HARD TO CHANGE THE SITTINGS, IF IT IS HARD TO CHANGE THE SETTINGS HOW WERE THEY ABLE TO WRITE THE REVIEW, U HAD TO BE COMPLETELY BRAIN DEAD TO SAY IT IS HARD TO CHANGE THE SETTINGS

I DONT LIKE THE FACT I DID NOT BUY IT EARLIER

STRONG, RELIABLE, LIGHT AND EASY TO CARY AROUND WITH A LAP TOP

THIS IS A MUST BUY IF U ARE LOOKING FOR A MIDI KEYBOARD CONTROLLER

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

I got it because one of the musicians in a band that i am very fond of (Cursive) used it and it seem simple enough, so i got one. It was about $130 fro guitar center.

Honestly, since i can't use the thing i have found nothing that i like about it. Other than the fact that the nobs have a nice rubbery grib to them.

Ok, this thing is a big large piece of poo poo. Seriously, the keys are very hard to push, and the softwear dosen't work. The softwear that comes with it is out dated and they know that, so you have to go online and download the new version wich is free by the way. Then you do that and think that you have finally got it alright and then it tells you that you don't have a driver you need. Again. It's pathectic, read other reviews on the net. It happens to everyone.

Well, it seem to be built pretty solid and and thick, like the people's heads who made it.

Bottom line is, if it worked it'd be good for the money, but since it dosen't and isn't simple and is nothing like advertised, DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THIS THING!!! I would give it a -10 on a scale from 1-5.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

Small keyboard, easy to transport, so IDAL USB for a laptop ... implmentation as twelve o'clock
not need external power supply (not included) if using usb ...

UTILIZATION

Instalation eclair, Quick was two hours I have and I realized all these functions ... (and I spent a good hour to eat me!)
BUT even more laborious programing that no form of memory for assigning DIFFERENT knobs of control change ... so if I change synthsoftware or hardware, I'll have to change all the programming buttons ... can be used with a fast but will appear in an arduous environment ...

OVERALL OPINION

In short I think I will use my studio for mobile (portable + oxygen), but for use sdentaire, prefer a good old keyboard with larger why not the usb controller knob 16 and the evolution of memory programming ... okay I have not tried it on and wait to be that it is impossible to memorize all of the control changes numro major pots of my diff ent virtual synth ...

Small 25-key USB MIDI keyboard with 8 knobs and Pitchwheel ModWheel +.

UTILIZATION

Robust! Buttons and knobs are especially strong. Useful for nags filters and co.
Ultra portable handy to have a mobile config.
Good touch is not exceptional but still decent for the price.
The only real default is not possible to save the assignments noon. Damage but now the functions "learn midi" available everywhere (Live4, Reaktor, FM7, etc ...) can be more or less without it.

OVERALL OPINION

I bought 3 months ago in order to make his vacation.
Since I only use it (I also have a PCR50 - DCON beginning for that matter).

Bon bah are the characteristics could not be more classic, but ample
There's midi in and out, power supply, USB, and a jack for a sustain pedal ...
has noted the possibility of power or by sector, by battery or via USB ...
so with that, you get to do not sound anywhere ...

UTILIZATION

Touch is my faith not disgusting (I'm not good pianist, away from)
Despite the fact that everything is plastic, it's still strong enough, and it's not for lack of not having to test the robustness.
channel selection is done quickly.
with respect to the manual, I have not opened, and I have not yet needed

OVERALL OPINION

I use it for 4 months now, and what I like is its small size
after, that I blame him, it would be the number of keys, but hey, you need to know if you want something portable shit!
I have not tried others, lack of presence of stores proximity ...
report quality price is right, given the overall quality of all the knobs and more particularly SKID ...
With experience, I would do this choice without hesitation ...

A few sliders would be nice. Then again, that would make it more expensive. What is nice is it only has three buttons. Operating it is almost a no-brainer.

Price paid

150 Euro

UTILIZATION

Easy as pancake!!!

It's a sturdy very portable item, but I wouldn't use it out and about without a good case around it.

OVERALL OPINION

It has no onboard sound, but the way it controls your sounds is great. Just be shure u use a low-latency setup (soundcard). Some cards produce up to almost half a second of delay.... Now I've switched and it works like a charm.

It's a beauty for me. And when I've grown out of it, I can still make use of it as an extra controller.

Originally posted on FutureProducers.com
Posted by: Unknown (January 2-, 2003)

It's very small and very good for transportation. Just put it in your bag with your laptop. Ok, then we've got a pitch and bend modulators, a little screen, two octaves, octave switchers and, of course, 8 rotating and _assinable_ knobs. Moreover - this baby can be powered via USB, that means you can make your loops in a subway, in a car, in a park - everywhere! For example Midiman's Ozone hasn't got this handy feature, so if you're after mobility - go for the Oxygen now!

Price paid

139$

UTILIZATION

Very easy to use. Plug it and play. Though I still recomend you to read the manual. The problem here is to chose the right software. I've tried my Oxygen only with Propellerheads' Reason 2.5 - great results. I don't spend much time figuring out my melodies and drawing them with mouse anymore. I just push the REC button and play whatever I want. After this, if I'm not pretty much happy with the result, I can move the bars with mouse untill I'm satisfied. This is like working on another level.

The quality of this product is very high. Nothing to complain about. The keys are almost perfect, they even understand loudness and velocity.

OVERALL OPINION

It is so awesome, I'm totally loving it. I'm sure I won't get rid of this keyboard even after buying something more serious. If you're looking for a GOOD audio controller for your home/mobile studio than Oxygen 8 is exactly what you need!

Originally posted on FutureProducers.com
Posted by: modernstyle ( 1-, 2004)

For me it's got too many features. All I needed is a way to sequence live play into my tracks which this thing does perfectly. But it's got 8 assignable control knobs for things like pitch, velocity, pan and so on that I rarely use becuase I prefer editing in software. If you're an oldschool hardware cat, then you'll like the option. It's powered by either USB or AC so that's great if you're on a laptop. The less wires the better.

Price paid

170.00 CAD

UTILIZATION

EASY. Plug in the USB connector, install the software and you're ready to go.

It's good, but I wouldn't drop it or anything like that... it's a very light unit so be careful. Other than that I know for a fact its pretty durable. It's survived a few hits from my mini basketball (when I need to relax from tracking something, I play min hoops in my "studio&quot It would be nicer if it was heavier.. or more solid.

OVERALL OPINION

It's good. But I'd rather get the Midiman Ozone for the built in mic pre's or the Keystation 49e for it's straightforward simplicity. But if all you need to do is key-in some live events in your songs or you're just getting started it's a good controller. I can't really complain.

Originally posted on FutureProducers.com
Posted by: cocopuffz ( 6-, 2004)

Well It has some nobs and pitch and balances that are pretty useful especially for the sample based producer. Which are quite good basically.

Price paid

$139

UTILIZATION

Its real easy to use if you get use to it basically. You just have to adjust.

Well to me its well built and durable so Basically I like the quality of this keyboard. Plus I dropped it a few times and it didnt break at all which is quite good cause I don't have any warenty on this.

OVERALL OPINION

Its Pretty good basically works for most sequencers that are out already. You should definatly buy it.

I love. I use it all the time so basically its like the number one thing on my list so far basically so If you are just starting out producing you should really get this keyboard its really helpful to the newcomer.

Originally posted on FutureProducers.com
Posted by: Earthquake ( 7-, 2005)

This unit gives you a taste of basically everything you need to create music. It has 8 programmable knobs with an on-screen display of the current setting, so you can pinpoint the values on the spot without guessing. It only has 25 keys, but it's easy to flip through octaves. Also, being that the keys are velocity-sensitive makes a huge difference; it takes out most of the "midi-sound". The pitch bender and modulation wheels are a nice plus also. I give the features a 9 simply because it's not for the true piano player, theres just not enough keys. But for someone who wants to step away from step sequencing their melodies and get into the basics of piano, this is the unit of chice.

Price paid

$120

UTILIZATION

This one would depend on what you actually have it plugged into... I'm running it with FL Studio and it's extremely easy to assign the knobs and stuff. So ease of use in my situation is a 10.

It has held up for quite some time, and nothing has given me problems yet. My only complaint is that it looks like a child's toy. It's much more capable than it looks...

OVERALL OPINION

This unit has brought me completely away from step-sequencing, and that's a major improvement to me. I think the next step for me will be moving up to a larger keyboard with the same features. So if you're a producer and you feel like you're in a rut with the same old thing, Pick up one of these things, it's the ultimate door to improving your music.

Originally posted on FutureProducers.com
Posted by: SacDeadbeatS ( 8-, 2005)

This compact wee unit is cool as its got the lot! A whole bunch of solid rotary controls pitch + mod wheels, good midi controler with full size keys. Missing Mmm a few faders?

Price paid

£75

UTILIZATION

A monkey could use this! the thing is great the rotaries are even jumbo so finding them on a dark stage is never gonna be a problem!!!!!!!

Steady as a rock! i even dropped it down some stairs, did it break? ha it laughed at me!! Though it has a wee crack in it

OVERALL OPINION

Great, amazing!!! it fits in the lap top bag for $$££ sake (With The LapTop) how cool is that on the train on a monday morning?

Originally posted on FutureProducers.com
Posted by: FlyMuzic (January 0-, 2005)

I like that you can program the knobs in reason. For the price its worth it.

Price paid: $80.00USD

UTILIZATION

Its USB powered, just plug it in the usb port, install the drivers, configure to reason, good to go

I brought my used, it just has a few blemishes but thats it, its very light, you can put it in your book bag with your laptop.

OVERALL OPINION

I love that I can bring it anywhere. I just throw it in my bag go to a friends house, and im ready to play. I wish I would've got the ozone though, its a better buy.

Originally posted on FutureProducers.com
Posted by: dbrand02121 ( 2-, 2006)

The M-Audio Oxygen 8 is a 2 octave MIDI controller with a volume lever, pitch and modulation wheels, octave up and down buttons and programmable knobs for control of plug-ins and virtual instruments. It has both MIDI inputs and outputs as well as a USB input which powers it if you don't have the power supply (which I don't).

UTILIZATION

The feel of the keyboard seems normal to me. The keys are easy to press down and the action is very friendly. Overall set up was pretty easy for the keyboard, but it really depends what software you are running it with. I use it with Reason 3.0 and have had a few problems setting it up with that. On my PC, unless you install the keyboard right when you are installing Reason, you must go back and reinstall Reason so that the keyboard is programed with it correctly. The patch selection is simple enough, as I just toggle on my computer. I had no manual with it because I bought it used, but I can definitely see it coming in handy.

OVERALL OPINION

I've had the Oxygen 8 for about 3 or 4 years and while its nice to have a small portable keyboard for playing lead lines, its tough to really play full keys with this. I do love how easy it is to use and the feel of it, but I wouldn't mind upgrading to a fuller sized keyboard. I used to have an M-Audio Keystation 49e and I wish I still had it. Although it didn't have all of the programmable options that the Oxygen 8 does, I prefer having the full size keyboard, but of course it all depends what you are using it for. I do wish it was a bit cheaper, which is the reason I had to buy it used. While this is a good controller for what it is, I think somewhere down the line I will look into something with more keys.