The M-Audio Oxygen 49 is a basic MIDI controller that is USB based. It's a plug-in and play device, only requiring you to install a driver where necessary on a PC computer. There is a newer version of the Oxygen 49, but this review is for the original version. Obviously, it's got 49 keys to go along with a nice array of assignable MIDI parameters in the form of both knobs and faders. This is more or less than same controller as the Oxygen 61, as I believe just the number of keys is different. The controller has both pitch and modulation wheels as well. It's also bus powered so you can power it up just by plugging it into a USB port on your computer, although I believe you can also power it via a nine volt supply if you're not plugging it into a computer. Lastly, in the back it has a MIDI jack and a 1/4" connection for a sustain pedal.

UTILIZATION

It's difficult at all to get used to using the M-Audio Oxygen 49. The feel of the keyboard itself isn't great but it's suitable for laying down parts as long as you're not looking for the feel of a true piano. The nine sliders and eight knobs are all assignable to just about whatever you want, and it also has transport buttons which is always nice to have. It's got everything you need but at the same time it's not convoluted and it's very easy to use. I don't know that a manual is necessary at all here...

OVERALL OPINION

The M-Audio Oxygen 49 is pretty much the perfect MIDI controller for those on a budget. It's not too fancy and isn't at all the best of what's available out there, but it will certainly get the job done most of the time and actually has a lot to offer, especially for the price. I don't own this at home since I have the M-Audio Keystation Pro 88, but I've used a few of these before in different studios and they are definitely adequate. The price is the best part about the M-Audio Oxygen 49 as it's affordable for everyone and it's definitely a solid controller.