M-Audio Axiom 49 - USB MIDI Controller (Version 2)
The Axiom 49 from M-Audio is a compact, 49-key controller for use with your music software and MIDI gear. In addition to being a comprehensive "data entry" controller, the keyboard features piano-style, semi-weighted keys for a musically satisfying playing experience.
Large dynamic trigger pads make it easy to program beats and trigger one-shot samples, while encoder knobs and buttons deliver complete real-time control over your software. DirectLink mode provides easy access to common DAW functions, including transport, mixer, track pan, and virtual instrument parameters, with no complicated setup required.
Each controller can be mapped to just about any MIDI message available, along with independent channel addressing for each, allowing endless possibilities for control. And with the new Instrument mode, a single button press instantly maps the faders, buttons, and encoders to any virtual instrument inside your DirectLink-compatible host.
The keyboard also features a sleek, angled top panel for easy viewing in any environment, providing all the right information and controls at your fingertips, whether you're on stage or in the studio. The backlit LCD screen provides informative feedback from DAW hosts, including on-screen display of parameters, settings, and track/VI names. The Axiom 49 is extremely compact and lightweight and is powered directly from your computer's USB bus.
- 49-key, velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted-action keyboard with assignable aftertouch
- DirectLink mode automatically maps controls to common DAW and virtual instrument parameters
- Dedicated Instrument mode button lets you instantly switch between controlling mixer and virtual instrument parameters
- 4 zone buttons for stacking and splitting sounds on up to 4 MIDI channels
- 8 assignable trigger pads
- 8 assignable rotary encoder knobs
- 9 assignable, low-profile 40mm faders
- 9 assignable buttons with LED lights for DAW feedback
- 6 dedicated transport controls
- 6 edit buttons
- Dedicated track up/down, bank, mute and solo buttons
- Dedicated patch +/- buttons
- Assignable pitch bend and modulation wheels
- Combination octave/transpose up/down rocker switch
-
Factory presets map controls to popular music software:
- Xpand!2
- Hybrid
- Velvet
- Strike
- Oddity
- ImpOSCar
- Minimonsta:Melohman
- 20 non-volatile memory locations
- Memory dump via SysEx
- 4 keybed velocity curves and 3 fixed velocity settings
- 4 pad velocity curves, 3 fixed settings, and unique "step" velocity curves
- 2 assignable pedal inputs
- Class-compliant with Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, and Mac OS X
- Powered via USB or optional power supply
- Built-in USB MIDI interface including standard MIDI In and Out jacks
- All controllers fully programmable to MIDI controller number and channel
- Controller Mute function mutes controller output to avoid parameter jumps
- Snapshot function transmits all current controller settings
- On/off rocker switch
| Keyboard Zones | 49 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys with assignable aftertouch |
| Presets | 20 (shared with user memory) |
| User Memory | 20 |
| Controllers |
1 x Pitch wheel (assignable) 1 x Modulation wheel (assignable) 8 x Drum Trigger pads 8 x Rotary encoders 9 x Faders (assignable) 1 x Octave/Transpose buttons (rocker) 6 x Transport controls 9 x Buttons with LED lights (assignable) 12 x Function buttons (assignable) |
| Output |
1 x MIDI 1 x USB (shared with input) |
| Inputs |
1 x MIDI 1 x USB (shared with output) 1 x 1/4" TS phone Sustain Pedal 1 x 1/4" TRS phone Expression Pedal |
| Display | Large backlit LCD |
| Power Requirements | USB or via optional power adapter |
| Dimensions | 31.4 x 11.7 x 2.9" (797 x 296 x 73mm) |
| Weight | 10.6 lbs (4.8 kg) |
| System Compatibility |
Mac: Intel Core Duo OS X 10.5.8 or 10.6.1 1GB RAM PC: |
| Specialties | "Controller Mute" function mutes controller output to avoid parameter jumps |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 4 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
75%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 4 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-4
Pros
- Huh
Cons
- Ridiculous Documentation
Best Uses
- Live is OK
- Studio probably better
Comments about M-Audio Axiom 49 - USB MIDI Controller (Version 2):
I use this controller for LIVE performance, which means I have to CONTROL external modules. You would think an explanation of programing the units 9 buttons would be FRONT AND CENTER in the documentation. Its not. Its not even IN the manual. I was lucky to find the 17 step process under an online FAQ: "Setting Pads & Buttons to send combinded Program & Bank Change messages".
Is this not Keyboard Controller Course 101?!! Tell that to the morons at AVID.
I dont mind a 17 step process because theoretically you only have to do it ONCE. Well, docs about saving the presets were also in a relatively obscure location.
The POINT: Good luck, chuck. Hopefully you KNOW someone who has figured out how to program it.
Only PRO: This is a solid well-built piece of hardware, with great weighted keys, which is the only reason I can recommend it.
- Primary use:
- Personal
- Computer Platform:
- PC
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about M-Audio Axiom 49 - USB MIDI Controller (Version 2):
I love this keyboard. Plugged it into my Macbook Pro and Logic Pro 9 immediately recognized it. No need to download drivers, etc.
The semi-weighted full size keys feel great. This is very nice 49 key controller for a home recording set-up.
Highly recommended.
- Primary use:
- Personal
- Computer Platform:
- Mac
Pros
- Responsive / Good Action
- Touch Sensitive Keys
Cons
Best Uses
- MIDI
Comments about M-Audio Axiom 49 - USB MIDI Controller (Version 2):
I'm using this keyboard to control Logic and works exactly as expected. The new Direct Link works great. Keyboard feels much better than the older version and everything feels solid. No complaints yet.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Studio
Comments about M-Audio Axiom 49 - USB MIDI Controller (Version 2):
I do not use this device for live performances. Nor have I aggressively utilized the programmable controls. The USB MIDI implementation works flawlessly. Once configured, the playback has nearly no latency (about 10ms). The percussive pad is a nice addition.
For an experienced musician, the keys will feel a bit sticky, and they should probably be looking at a higher-end device. However, for studio sessions, and MIDI editing, the Axiom 49 is a great tool to have.
Displaying reviews 1-4
Batteries & Power
- Price: $24.95
Digital Cables
- Price: $4.39
Stands & Support
- Price: $19.99
Benches
- Price: $24.99
Cases & Protection
- Price: $14.95
Pedals
- Price: $19.29
What's in the Box
- USB Cable
- Installer CD-ROM
- Ableton Live Lite Authorization Card
- One (1) Year Warranty
Why Shop at B&H
Make your online shopping trip personal with our online Live Chat representatives. You can easily reach an in-house expert while browsing our site for your shopping needs. We have the most highly-trained staff in the industry who are pros in their fields, and their professional expertise will help you get the most from your purchase.
Place your domestic order with us for shipment via any UPS, FedEx Economy, or FedEx Priority shipping methods by 4 PM ET Monday through Thursday or 11 AM ET Friday and your order will be shipped that day. Visit our Shipping Delivery Times page for further details. Delivery times are subject to payment verification.
We appreciate your purchase from us, and we understand that sometimes the products you buy don’t turn out to be the right choice for you. We guarantee your peace of mind with our 30-day return policy. With no standard restocking fee and few restrictions, you’ll enjoy a return process as easy as shopping with us. Please visit our Return Policy page for further details.
We’ve made iPhone and Android mobile apps available for your service and shopping convenience. Use filtered search to find and purchase almost any item we sell and ship worldwide. Download product manuals and guides for many popular items. See high-resolution product images in close-up detail. Manage wishlists and view order history. Visit our Mobile Apps page to download.
See sample Newsletter
Help
Company Information
B&H Resources
