The M-Audio Axiom MIDI keyboards are perhaps one of the most successful due in part to its longevity, attributes, flexibility and clarity of application. This is especially valid of the newer generation which includes a better placement of the relevant knobs, sliders and LCD screen - so you’re better suited see the information. The case have been strengthened and given a more ergonomic slant - making it simpler to play.

Considered one of their models which have been created for the home audio enthusiasts is the Axiom 49. Like the number signifies it has 49 velocity-sensitive semi-weighted-action keys with assignable after touch. Since it is semi-weighted, you get a light weight when you hit the keys down and it doesn’t bounce back as rapidly as synth keys.

With the velocity sensitivity the harder you press the louder the sound you get. You also are able to designate after touch to your heart’s content. Since it’s a MIDI keyboard controller it doesn’t have its own audio system - it doesn’t make a sound when you press a key - so you must to have it connected up to a system with a sound card (usually your computer).

You have a wide range of capabilities under your fingertips - literally. You get 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 faders, 9 assignable buttons with LED lights for DAW feedback, 6 dedicated transport controls with LED lights for DAW feedback, 6 edit buttons, mute and solo buttons, as well as assignable pitch bend and modulation wheels.

This MIDI keyboard also has a separate instrument mode press button that lets you quickly switch over to a virtual instrument from the controller mixer. But maybe this unit’s best attribute is the DirectLink Mode. This system easily allows your keyboard to re-assign its physical controls while you work.

This means that it automatically maps the keyboard’s knobs, sliders and buttons to your Digital Audio Workstation controls. The knobs become pan controls, the transport buttons become your DAW’s transport, and the sliders become your DAW’s mix faders. The encoder knobs & fader buttons become virtual instrument parameters such as cut off, resonance, and envelope settings. But that doesn’t signify you have no control. The truth is the system permits you to run both your personalized assigned buttons with DirectLink and just switch back and forth when you feel like it. And you don’t need to have a PhD to make it all work - plug and play is one of its fortes.

Other functions that are included with every Axiom includes factory preset map controls to common software such as Xpand2, Hybrid, Oddity and ImpOSCar to mention a few. It has 4 keybed velocity curves with 3 fixed velocity configurations, 20 non-volatile memory locations as well as 2 assignable pedal inputs. The Axiom 49 MIDI keyboard is operated through the USB nevertheless, you can have the optional power source. It features a integrated MIDI interface with the standard 5-pin MIDI in and out connectors. Simply put the M-Audio Axiom 49 is perhaps one of the best deals when it comes to MIDI keyboard controllers available in the market today.