All user reviews for the M-Audio Axiom Pro 61

Having a master keyboard that licked me and so at work I have to run to shop to start within minutes with a new keyboard.
I was left on a 49 but no bowl in a CATEGORY intermediary in terms of quality there remained only the Oxygen61. It is with this keyboard under the arm I went back to finish my record.
Simple installation (Pro Tools + Logic), connect the USB plug and dsigner as priphrique in ProTools and rolls.

USE

No heavy touch, if you want a touch piano, go your way.
Vlocit classic, nothing more nor less, +/- 3 octaves, some assignable faders (quite prcis over a controller, as the Mackie MCU Pro, for example), so any utility for me.
Transport panel which can be convenient when you have no controller and finally a pitch bend wheel that there is more classic.


NOTICE GLOBAL

I use it now for 2 years, I made myself, it dpann me and ensures good now for compos studio. I recommend it if tight budget or first steps in the home studio or so if one is ultra press due to failure of another keyboard (like me).
I tried dozens of other keyboards before this one, I had the worst good and for a price equivalent.
It is tough enough, but the piano touch may miss some times ...

In short, a very good report qualitprix I recommend this purchase for a home studio, the characteristic will become insufficient for a shoot or for intensive use studio use.

I bought this keyboard there two years, nine for use with Ableton Live with which it fits perfectly.

It offers an interesting range of kinds of controllers (slider, buttons, pads, encoders, ...) and has a keyboard aftertouch.
It controls 4 parts simultaneously, convenient (I would the above).

We can do almost everything by spending a little time in the program.
It works without problems with a 64 bit machine (W7 for me).

I think he has a nice look that does not play. It also makes a significant weight which gives it a very rugged look.

UTILIZATION

I used it a lot at first to control Ableton Live but now I use it almost more than noon to control other machines (Virus TI, Integra-7, BK-7m, ...) and some VST.
I preferred to disable HyperControl who took hold of the controllers to be able to program my way.

This is a formidable keyboard to control 4 parts on expander layer, split in ... in any configuration that is desired. Can play in enabling or disabling parts, and act upon each of them independently (volume, effects level, cutoff, resonance, Supernatural controllers, ...). By playing multiple sounds in parts on its machines, it is possible to get great sounds can modulate wish.

The aftertouch is very effective.

I love this keyboard for these opportunities to act on machines / vst. It is ideal for interactivity it offers.

But all is not perfect. The touch keyboard is ok but nothing special. It is not really soft and not really weighted. This is something between the two, but that is not very comfortable to play acoustic piano, EP, organ, ... on the other hand to play synth sounds, brass, strings, pads, it is the case that can act with aftertouch.

It does not allow a very fast game (unless it comes from me, it's possible). I find it easier with a piano or other keyboard softer (but unfortunately do not have aftertouch).
I do not like the two wheels separated for pitch bend.

The pads are too hard, almost unusable except to trigger sounds / sequences; nothing to do with those of Akai mpc or mpd.

It is not as bug free. I've managed to plant more than once, even if it is very rare.

OVERALL OPINION

I use it for 2 years. I got used to it and it would be very difficult to do without to control my other machines / VST.

The keyboard itself is not perfect but is very suitable for playing certain types of sounds with aftertouch.
I use to complement a digital piano keyboard that gives me a better comfort for other sounds (but does not offer pitch bend and aftertouch).

I have not found a single keyboard perfect master. I wish I could find the equivalent of my old Yamaha SS8 with the controllers of the Axiom Pro.

I do not regret my purchase so far. It is solid, practical, comprehensive and gives me a great interaction with machines and VST.

What motivated my choice is primarily the overall quality of the keyboard next to its price relatively content. Then, integrating the various software used (in my case, it's ProTools and plug-ins, Reason occasionally too, and sometimes Logic Pro) without making head or twisted configuration. All this is made possible thanks to the protocol house HyperControl ... The connection is classic: USB, midi in and out, expression pedal jacks and sustain. Side there is a plethora controllers, mod wheel, pitch bender, faders, rotary encoders, buttons, transport controls and pads, not to mention the excellent keyboard notes 61 semi-weighted keys. All this is of course programmable, if ever HyperControl dedicated profile does not suit you.

UTILIZATION

Much to say right now, I'm only an occasional keyboard player for bosser of arrangement and record parts using software instruments (synths, pianos, organs, etc ...), all that to say that for I touch this keyboard is well above my expectations. But no doubt he could displease a good pianist grumpy ... However, the use of all other controllers mentioned above works well, although I'm not very keen on the side "control surface" of the thing, because I had a long history of "drawing "all my automation with the mouse and the screen, which I find much faster. But it remains that the transport keys are handy, the encoders also makes me quite certain service plug-ins, and the ability to assign keyboard shortcuts to keys is just gorgeous!
The manual is clear, simple configuration and general use clear. Again, thank you for HyperControl make things much easier! Integration with Mac OSX is 100% plug n play, plug and it works now! I still had to make updates to the firmware, because I encountered a slight problem when installing a new version of ProTools (the 9HD if I remember correctly). Otherwise no problem blocking or crash, it's solid.

OVERALL OPINION

Almost 3 years in my studio, and impossible to find fault. Before making that choice, I also squinted on equivalents at Studiologic and CME keyboards, but the price argument, the presence of HyperControl, and native integration with Protools tipped the balance in favor of Axiom Pro.
I'm trying to find a fault, I do not see ... Given the overall quality, features, and its capabilities, I do not think I am right in saying that this keyboard is a very good deal compared to its price. I clearly do it again this choice.

The M Audio Axiom Pro 61 usb is a decent midi controller but not as good as some of the others on the market. It does not send a Midi Note Off (CC64=000) to sustained notes when switching Midi channels via the "Zones" feature...a very risky proposition for performance use. A "panic" key combination was put in place to cover this obvious error instead of creating a toggle function that filtered the message for those desiring that effect.

UTILIZATION

No omni mode either. M-Audio, now Avid, requires you pay for support on this product and after a 4 call process ultimately provided no solution. Hyper control worked very well but in the end requires that you choose between your DAW and other software like Reason- otherwise its detects and controls both at the same time generally causing undesired effects. Midi maps cannot be edited with hyper control "engaged". Thus for some controls to work with your DAW, and others with rewired software,(faders vs knobs) you cannot use the hyper control bus thus defeating the benefit of the software layer and the extra $160 vs. the 2nd gen Axiom. Returning product and also shipping back the not included power supply I had to purchase directly from Avid for non-bus powered use.


OVERALL OPINION

But on the positive side, its a portable controller. Great key feel with not a lot of springy bounce back, smooth and consistent knobs with also a great feel, and mapping to Logic was automatic and smooth and the control work great. USB communication with my Mac Power book means no latency and controlling the various soft synths that I have with the knobs and buttons and sliders on the controller has been transparent and effortless. Great size and weight for lugging around also. If your on the fence with this purchase I say go with a midi controller from Akai.

The M-Audio Axiom Pro 61 is an in depth MIDI controller, an enhanced version of the standard Axiom 61. As the name suggests, the keyboard has 61 keys and also features eight trigger pads, assignable parameters knobs, and assignable sliders. It has pitch and modulations wheels, a numerical pad, transport buttons, and an LCD screen. Yup, it pretty much has all the controls you could want and then some. It then of course has MIDI connections and 1/4" output for sustain.

UTILIZATION

Using all the features on the M-Audio Axiom Pro 61 will definitely take some time as you will need to assign everything to your DAW. Still, once it's all set up the way you like it, it shouldn't be hard to operate everything as it's merely going to be a controller for what you have inside the box. It's built well and definitely sturdier than the standard version of the Axiom 61.

OVERALL OPINION

The M-Audio Axiom Pro 61 is a great overall MIDI controller, considering both it's a vast array of features and controls and it's very reasonable price. It really does seem like M-Audio is the king when it comes to MIDI controllers of all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. They've really got something for everyone and in everyone's price range. While the Axiom Pro 61 is definitely one of their more complete controllers, it still doesn't cost a boat load of cash. It has the perfect amount of keys in my opinion, as you can play full two hand parts as well as simpler lead lines with one hand. I also enjoy the feel of the keyboard as although it's not completely weighted, it's the perfect in between as it feels real without being too heavy. If you are looking for a complete MIDI controller at a reasonable price, the M-Audio Axiom Pro 61 (and the standard Axiom 61) are a must see.

My choice was motivated for the simple reason, I have a MacPro 8 HEARTS + DIGI 003 RACK FACTORY ProTools 9 +, Avid products, so to stay in a homogenous, my choice is driven by logic on a product M-Audio, the same company (AVID).

For caractéritiques techniques, visit M-Audio.

UTILIZATION

Very good keyboard, good touch, easy to use.

The manual sufficient, given the simplicity, not really need.

Configuration, selection, etc., no worries, as already reported very simple.

OVERALL OPINION

I have since June 2010.

I have not tried other models, the Axiom has been my first choice.

Initially, the Novation I liked, but I took the logical Axiom.

One note though, the defects on the top (plastic), but not at all inconvenient.

Good quality / price ratio.

Without hesitation, I will make that choice again.

- Hyper Control
- 61 keys
- Key transport
- Faders and knobs AutoAssign
- TD "true touch" semi heavy

UTILIZATION

It served as master keyboard in my home studio.

Didn't need the manual just to understand the PDF HyperControl just assigning faders & knobs.

Relatively simple configuration, good hit.

OVERALL OPINION

I have long hesitated between the novation remote MKII and this one.

On the original firmware I met a big problem crash and slow Nuendo.
Nuendo is blocked net and taking over the extinction of the keyboard.
After update firmware more worries. (The update was done automatically when I reformatted my machine and I connected the axiom pro)

Only recently I switched on Windows 7 64bit and surprise -> HyperControl no longer compatible with Reason or Cubase / Nuendo.

I'm looking forward an update for 64-bit, overall I am satisfied with the purchase, again a shame that M audio is not up to its updates!

I already owned one before and one Edirol Korg K49 Pcr80, but that was them in another price range.

• What characteristics have motivated your choice?

Hit it semi-heavy, as pianist for 10 years this was my first selection criterion,
The 61-keys
-Technology 'HyperControl' that is to say self assignment settings on each instrument,
- Aftertouch,
Compatible with Reason
-The different settings: knobs, faders and pads,


• What connections (MIDI pedals ...)? ...

The output midi in / out, release pedal and power / USB connection.

UTILIZATION

• The touch keyboard is it fun? Should your use?

Yes the touch is very correct, though very slightly plastic. There is a slight effect "stuck" on the keyboard when you press a button that goes away and come back after 10 minutes, said that after a while you do it makes it more consideration. As pianist for 10 years, I especially suited for my use, that is to say about Reason music production mainly.

The aftertouch is sound and the sensation of touching fader and volume pot is correct.
The pads are also very reactive.


• The general configuration is simple?

I have not touched the settings too intrinsic to the keyboard since the technology is there to prevent HyperControl this. The default settings on each instrument (reason 4) suits me and is very easy to change the assignment.

• The selection of MIDI channels, patches is easy?

Again, the configuration is done automatically. So I can not speak on that score, because I myself have never used.

• The manual is clear and sufficient? ...

The English manual is downloaded from the site. I did not read too much.

OVERALL OPINION

• How long do you use?

For two weeks, that's why my opinion is perhaps not the most relevant.

• What thing do you like most/least about it?



The pros: the semi-weighted keys
The 61 keys
HyperControl
The solid aftertouch
Login / USB power
Compatibility Reason
Quality plastic and general quality

The -: Price a little high
Software incomprehensible enigma
Pad power delivered (if not using USB)
Not at all compatible with Windows 7
There is no paper manual, it's better to have a physical rather than read on the pc.


• Did you try many other models before getting this one?

Precisely not. But I had the opportunity to test here and there with other keyboards in stores.

• How do you rate the quality / price?

It is a very good keyboard, but 390 euros is a bit expensive.

• With experience, this choice would you do? ...

Despite heavy use, both to play than to write, I only have two weeks of experience and I probably do it again this election.

Characteristics that motivated me: the number of keys, the diversity of MIDI controls HyperControl, weight content of the object, the design also ... touch but I will come back

I would have liked even more so assignable controllers than done! Otherwise no complaints about the connections, all done though a bit plastoc for under 400 €, making it expensive but the quality of the assembly is to go. According to the color ... I think everyone starts to make pseudo white apple ... but there certainly is nice for the axiom that was a little trooper headphone in Starwars. Matter of taste! In any case, it stands out.

UTILIZATION

Aaahhh touch! bin and actually no, no news from this side. I worked two years on a classical axiom 61 and I have to tell the difference between the two is not clear is mouuuuuuuuuuuu! Good attention, soft but pleasant nonetheless. There are slightly more material under the fingers. Above all, the aftertouch is damn good and will not disappoint those who know the brand. So rather good point to touch even though the pianists will find it inadequate: not looking for a touch on a piano keyboard noon unless we put (very) expensive.

The slides are hard, even too hard. The knobs are endless and are of the same ilk as the classic axiom. Regarding the pads .... I'm very disappointed ... I do not use it much but what little I use them, there is no improvement over the axiom 61. It is not very accurate attack, do not go on the fly, you really make a gesture to clean them off.
I had a problem of nuisance tripping due to vibration pads on Axiom 61: I have not been able to test if the concern persists.

The config is well under Vista 64 I had to download the correct drivers on the site of M-Audio. No hardware or software problem, everything works nickel!

HyperControl: the feet total! No need to be next to the computer everything is controlled from the keyboard, do-re-me at. More clarity in the management hands would have been a better but after 2 or 3 hours of hack you quickly understand.

Manual keyboard and HyperControl English, downloadable from the site in French.

OVERALL OPINION

I've had two weeks, I have not really been able to exploit it as I wanted but I am amazed!
Value for money = too expensive! With a presentation less plastic, things would have been different.

I do not try to buy another before, but I think I will ever be the same choice anyway

June 10, 2010 EDIT: After some rehearsal, and concert, let me add a few details and even change their minds (there's that stupid ...) for some thing.
Slides too hard: ben finally, they are really not bad. It makes a lot more accurate even if it buggers to operate quickly. It is a blow to take.
Quality pads: no top, I would not change there cons but I think they are better bill anyway. Trigger more problems due to vibration diverse (eg drums)
Aspect: it throws a serious onstage White troopers "