In the ever-evolving world of music production, having a MIDI controller that combines versatility, ease of use, and powerful features is essential for any serious creator. The M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 is a game-changing controller that does just that—designed to meet the demands of both producers and performers, this 49-key keyboard is packed with everything you need to bring your music to life. Whether you’re in the studio crafting complex compositions or on stage delivering a live set, the Oxygen Pro 49 is ready to help you take your music to the next level.
A Responsive Keybed: Feel the Music
The M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 boasts a 49-key, velocity-sensitive keybed that offers the perfect balance between comfort and control. The keys are designed to capture every subtle nuance of your performance, from delicate piano lines to energetic synth riffs. Unlike basic synth-action keys, the Oxygen Pro 49 features semi-weighted keys, giving you a more dynamic and expressive feel, which is ideal for everything from intricate melodies to powerful basslines.
But it doesn’t stop there—the Oxygen Pro 49 also includes aftertouch sensitivity, which allows you to add expressive modulation by pressing deeper on the keys. This feature is especially useful for performing live or recording expressive lead parts where nuanced control can elevate your sound and make it feel more organic.
All-in-One Control: Faders, Knobs, and Pads
One of the standout features of the Oxygen Pro 49 is its comprehensive array of hands-on controls, making it a perfect all-in-one tool for both production and performance. The controller comes equipped with:
– 8 assignable knobs: Great for tweaking synth parameters, adjusting effects, or controlling any DAW functions in real time.
– 9 assignable faders: Ideal for controlling volume, panning, and other mix parameters in your DAW.
– 16 RGB velocity-sensitive drum pads: These ultra-responsive pads are perfect for triggering drum sounds, samples, or launching clips in your DAW. With full velocity sensitivity, they give you the tactile control needed for both performance and production tasks.
The Oxygen Pro 49’s pads and knobs are fully customizable, allowing you to assign them to virtually any function, making it an incredibly flexible controller tailored to your unique workflow.
Deep Integration with DAWs and Software
The M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 is not just a controller—it’s a powerhouse for streamlining your creative process. Out of the box, it integrates seamlessly with major DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, and Pro Tools. Its auto-mapping functionality means you can quickly assign knobs, faders, and pads to control your DAW without needing to spend time on setup. Simply plug it in, and you’re ready to start controlling your projects in real-time.
For music producers who love working with virtual instruments, the Oxygen Pro 49 comes bundled with M-Audio’s software suite, including Pro Tools | First, Ableton Live Lite, and the AIR Music Tech plugins. These tools provide you with a wide range of professional sounds, effects, and instruments to enhance your productions immediately, without any extra purchases.
Smart Features for Enhanced Workflow
One of the most innovative features of the Oxygen Pro 49 is the inclusion of smart chord mode and arpeggiator functions. The smart chord mode allows you to play entire chords with just one finger, making it easier for musicians to quickly generate harmonic progressions or experiment with new ideas. The arpeggiator function offers a variety of rhythmic patterns and sync options to automatically create arpeggiated phrases, adding complexity and texture to your compositions with minimal effort.
Additionally, the Oxygen Pro 49 offers MIDI I/O for connecting to external hardware, ensuring you can easily control not just software but also your standalone synths or other MIDI gear. This makes the controller a fantastic centerpiece for both digital and analog setups.
Built for Portability and Flexibility
Weighing in at just 5.3 kg (11.6 lbs), the Oxygen Pro 49 strikes a perfect balance between portability and stability. It’s light enough to transport easily, yet sturdy enough for heavy use in the studio or on stage. The USB-powered design means you can set up and start creating with just your laptop, while the MIDI I/O ports allow for versatile connections to external gear. Whether you’re working from home, recording on the go, or performing live, the Oxygen Pro 49 has the connectivity and flexibility you need to make music anytime, anywhere.
The Verdict: Your Creative Partner
The M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 is more than just a MIDI controller—it’s a complete solution for modern music creators. With its responsive semi-weighted keybed, customizable controls, and seamless DAW integration, it offers everything you need to produce, perform, and take control of your music. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this controller can elevate your creative process, offering hands-on control, flexibility, and real-time manipulation of your music. If you’re looking for a MIDI controller that can grow with your music and expand your possibilities, the Oxygen Pro 49 is a game-changer that deserves a spot in your studio or live setup.
