Today, we want to dive deep into the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) – the ultimate 61-key USB MIDI keyboard controller with some seriously cool features. We’re excited to share our thoughts on this recording studio equipment essential that promises to enhance your music production experience. With its velocity-sensitive full-size piano style keys, this MIDI controller offers a natural response that really brings out the best in virtual sampler and synthesizer plugins. Plus, it comes with 2 banks of 8 backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat, giving you the beat-making tools you need to create awesome tracks. Whether you’re into beat production, clip launching, or soundboard triggering, these beat pads have got you covered.
One of the things that sets this MIDI keyboard controller apart is its ability to let you get hands-on with your music studio equipment. With its 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable faders, you have tactile MIDI control over virtual synth parameters, effect plugins, DAW controls, and more. It’s like having a full-fledged control station at your fingertips! And let’s not forget about the incredible software package that comes with it. With MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, 2 virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech, and 5 Akai Professional MPC Expansion packs, you’ll have all the tools you need to bring your musical ideas to life. So, grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s take a closer look at the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) – the MIDI keyboard controller that’s about to revolutionize your music production game.
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Buyers Guide
When looking to purchase a MIDI keyboard controller, there are certain factors to consider in order to ensure you make the right choice. Here are some key points to keep in mind when buying the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV):
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Keyboard Size and Feel: The Oxygen 61 features 61 full-size velocity-sensitive piano-style keys, providing a natural and responsive playing experience. Consider the size of the keyboard and the feel of the keys to ensure it suits your playing style and preferences.
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Additional Controls: The M-Audio Oxygen 61 offers a range of additional controls, including backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads, assignable knobs, and faders. These controls allow for hands-on manipulation of parameters in software, plugins, and DAWs. Consider the number and type of controls you require for your music production needs.
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Software Suite: The Oxygen 61 comes with a complete software production package, including MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, and virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech. Evaluate the included software to ensure it aligns with your production goals and preferences.
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Compatibility: Check the compatibility of the MIDI keyboard controller with your computer, software, and operating system. The Oxygen 61 is designed to work seamlessly with Mac and Windows systems, and comes with a USB MIDI cable for easy connectivity.
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Ease of Use: Consider the ease of use and user-friendly features of the MIDI keyboard controller. The Oxygen 61 offers auto-mapping for DAW controls and plugin parameters, Smart Chord and Scale modes, as well as an arpeggiator. These features make it easier to navigate and control your music production software.
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Build Quality and Durability: Assess the build quality and durability of the MIDI keyboard controller. The Oxygen 61 features a robust construction that can withstand daily use in a studio or on the road.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) that best fits your needs and preferences.
How M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) Works
The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) MIDI keyboard controller offers a range of features and functionalities aimed at enhancing your music production workflow. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features and how they work:
Beat Pads
The Oxygen 61 features two banks of eight backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads. These pads are perfect for beat production, clip launching, soundboard triggering, and more. You can assign different sounds or samples to each pad, allowing you to create dynamic and expressive beats. The velocity sensitivity of the pads ensures that the volume and intensity of each hit correspond to the force with which you strike them. The Note Repeat function allows you to quickly repeat a pattern or sequence by holding down the pad, adding rhythmic flair to your beats.
Smart Chord & Scale Modes
The Smart Chord and Scale modes of the Oxygen 61 are excellent tools for musicians and producers who want to explore different melodies and chord progressions. In Smart Chord mode, you can play full chords with a single key press, even if you have limited knowledge of music theory. Simply select the desired chord type and play the corresponding root note, and the keyboard will automatically trigger the appropriate chord. The Smart Scale mode ensures that your playing remains in key by limiting the available notes to those within a specific scale. This can be particularly useful when improvising or composing music.
Arpeggiator
The Oxygen 61 features an arpeggiator, which is a powerful tool for creating rhythmic patterns and sequences. By holding down a chord or a note cluster, the arpeggiator will automatically play the individual notes in a repetitive pattern. You can control the rate, direction, and octave range of the arpeggiator to create various arpeggio patterns. This feature is perfect for adding complexity and movement to your compositions or for sparking inspiration during the creative process.
Software Integration
The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) seamlessly integrates with popular music production software and plugins. With auto-mapping, the keyboard automatically assigns the knobs, faders, and other controls to corresponding parameters in your software, allowing for effortless control and manipulation. This feature eliminates the need for manual MIDI mapping, saving valuable time and streamlining your workflow. Additionally, the included software suite, including MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite, provides a comprehensive set of tools for music production, composition, and performance.
By utilizing these features, the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) enhances your creativity and enables you to fully express your musical ideas.
(NAME) Uses
The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) can be utilized in various ways to enhance your music production workflow. Here are some examples of how you can make the most of this versatile MIDI keyboard controller:
Live Performance
The Oxygen 61 is an excellent tool for live performances. With its full-size keys, velocity sensitivity, and assignable controls, you can easily play and control virtual instruments, plugin parameters, and effects in real-time. The beat pads are perfect for triggering samples or playing drum patterns, adding a dynamic element to your live performances. Additionally, the Smart Chord and Scale modes can help you stay in key and explore complex chord progressions, even if you are performing on your own.
Music Production
The Oxygen 61 is a powerful companion for music production. Whether you are composing, arranging, or producing music, this MIDI keyboard controller offers a range of features to enhance your workflow. The assignable knobs and faders allow for tactile control and manipulation of virtual synth parameters, effect plugins, and DAW controls. The arpeggiator and Smart Chord features can act as sources of inspiration, helping you come up with unique melodies, chord progressions, and rhythmic patterns. The included software suite provides an extensive collection of tools and sounds to fuel your creative process.
Sound Design
If you are into sound design and creating unique sonic textures, the Oxygen 61 can be a valuable tool. The velocity-sensitive keys and assignable controls allow for precise manipulation of parameters in virtual instruments and synthesizers. By experimenting with different modulation settings, effects, and automation, you can create customized sounds and textures that are unique to your productions. The beat pads can also be used to trigger and manipulate samples, adding additional depth and complexity to your sound designs.
Education and Learning
For beginners or individuals interested in learning music production, the Oxygen 61 is an ideal MIDI keyboard controller. Its user-friendly features, such as the auto-mapping of controls and the Smart Chord mode, make it more accessible for those with limited knowledge of music theory or software navigation. The included software suite, featuring MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite, provides a platform for learning and practicing music production techniques. The Oxygen 61 allows you to progress from a beginner to an intermediate level while developing your own musical style.
Collaboration and Remote Recording
The Oxygen 61’s ease of use and compatibility make it a great tool for remote collaboration and recording sessions. With its USB connectivity, you can easily connect it to your computer and collaborate with musicians or producers from different locations. The assignable controls and integration with popular software ensure seamless communication and control over virtual instruments and effects. The MIDI capabilities of the Oxygen 61 allow for precise triggering and recording of your performances, ensuring accurate and high-quality remote recordings.
These are just a few examples of the many ways you can utilize the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) to enhance your music production journey. Its versatility, ease of use, and robust features make it a valuable tool for musicians, producers, and music enthusiasts alike.
Product Specifications
Product Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | 61 velocity-sensitive full-size piano-style keys |
| Drum Pads | 2 banks of 8 backlit velocity-sensitive pads with Note Repeat |
| Assignable Knobs | 8 |
| Assignable Faders | 9 |
| Auto-Mapping | Effortless mapping for DAW controls and plugin parameters |
| Smart Chord Mode | Enables playing full chords with a single key press |
| Smart Scale Mode | Limits available notes to those within a specific scale |
| Arpeggiator | Allows automatic playing of notes in repetitive patterns |
| Pitch and Mod Wheels | Yes |
| Sustain Pedal Input | Yes |
| Software Suite | MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3, Mini Grand |
| Included Accessories | USB MIDI cable |
| Compatibility | Mac and Windows |
Please note that the specifications are subject to change. It is always advisable to refer to the manufacturer’s website or official documentation for the latest and most accurate information.
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Who is M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) for
The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) is designed to cater to a wide range of musicians, producers, and music enthusiasts. Here are some examples of people who can benefit from using this MIDI keyboard controller:
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Musicians: Whether you are a professional musician or an aspiring artist, the Oxygen 61 can enhance your playing and performance experience. The full-size piano-style keys and velocity sensitivity offer an authentic playing feel, making it suitable for pianists, keyboardists, and instrumentalists looking to integrate virtual instruments and software into their music.
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Producers: The Oxygen 61 provides a comprehensive set of tools for music production. The assignable knobs and faders allow precise control over virtual synth parameters, effect plugins, and DAW controls. The beat pads, arpeggiator, and Smart Chord modes add depth and versatility to your productions. Producers of various genres, including electronic, pop, hip-hop, and more, can benefit from the features and functionalities offered by this MIDI keyboard controller.
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Sound Designers: If you are interested in creating unique and innovative sounds, the Oxygen 61 can serve as a powerful tool for sound design. The assignable controls and velocity-sensitive keys enable precise control and manipulation of parameters in virtual instruments and synthesizers. The beat pads can also be used for triggering and manipulating samples, adding a dynamic and expressive element to your sound designs.
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Students and Educators: The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) is an excellent learning tool for students and educators in the field of music production. The user-friendly features, such as auto-mapping and Smart Chord mode, make it accessible to beginners and those with limited experience. The included software suite provides a platform for learning and practicing various music production techniques, making it an ideal choice for educational institutions and music schools.
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Remote Collaboration: With its USB connectivity and integration with popular software, the Oxygen 61 is a great tool for remote collaboration and recording sessions. Musicians and producers can easily connect the MIDI keyboard controller to their computers and collaborate with others from different locations. The assignable controls and integration with software allow for seamless communication and control over virtual instruments and effects, ensuring accurate and high-quality remote recordings.
The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) caters to a diverse range of users, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals in the music production world.
Why Is M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) Better
The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) MIDI keyboard controller sets itself apart from the competition with its powerful features, user-friendly design, and comprehensive software package. Here are some reasons why the Oxygen 61 stands out:
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Full-Size Velocity-Sensitive Keys: The 61 full-size keys on the Oxygen 61 deliver a natural response and playing feel, making it suitable for professional musicians and keyboardists. The velocity sensitivity allows for expressive playing and accurate capture of dynamics in your performances.
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Assignable Knobs and Faders: The Oxygen 61 provides 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable faders, allowing for tactile control and manipulation of virtual synth parameters, effect plugins, and DAW controls. This level of hands-on control enhances your creativity and workflow, saving you time and streamlining your production process.
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Backlit Velocity-Sensitive Drum Pads: The 16 backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads on the Oxygen 61 are perfect for beat production, clip launching, and soundboard triggering. The Note Repeat function adds rhythmic variation to your beats, enabling you to create dynamic and expressive drum patterns.
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Smart Chord and Scale Modes: The Smart Chord and Scale modes of the Oxygen 61 make it easier for musicians with limited music theory knowledge to create complex chords and stay in key. The Smart Chord mode enables playing full chords with a single key press, while the Smart Scale mode delimits the available notes to those within a specific scale, keeping your playing harmonically in check.
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Arpeggiator: The Oxygen 61 features an arpeggiator that automatically plays notes in repetitive patterns when holding down a chord or note cluster. This feature adds movement and complexity to your compositions, allowing you to experiment and create unique arpeggio patterns effortlessly.
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Software Suite and Compatibility: The included software suite completes the package by providing a comprehensive set of tools for music production. MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite offer powerful platforms for composition and performance, while the virtual instruments and expansion packs from AIR Music Tech and Akai Professional bring a wide range of sounds and textures to your productions. The Oxygen 61 is compatible with both Mac and Windows systems, ensuring seamless integration with popular music production software and plugins.
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Build Quality and Durability: M-Audio is known for its commitment to quality and durability, and the Oxygen 61 (MKV) is no exception. The robust construction of the keyboard ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use, making it suitable for both studio and live settings.
The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) offers a wealth of features and functionalities that enhance your music production workflow. Its combination of professional-grade components, user-friendly design, and comprehensive software package make it a standout choice in the market.
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Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 61 full-size velocity-sensitive keys for a natural playing experience
- Backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads for beat production and sound triggering
- Assignable knobs and faders for tactile control over virtual synth parameters and DAW controls
- Smart Chord and Scale modes for easy exploration of chords and harmony
- Arpeggiator for creating repetitive patterns and sequences
- Comprehensive software suite included for music production and composition
- Robust construction for durability in studio and live settings
- USB MIDI cable included for easy connectivity
Cons:
- Limited onboard display or visual feedback for certain functions
- Advanced features may require some learning and experimentation for full utilization
- May be overwhelming for beginners who are new to MIDI controllers and music production
FAQ’s
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Is the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) compatible with my computer? Yes, the Oxygen 61 (MKV) is compatible with both Mac and Windows systems. It utilizes a USB connection for easy connectivity to your computer.
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Can I use the Oxygen 61 (MKV) with my favorite music production software? Yes, the Oxygen 61 (MKV) is designed to integrate seamlessly with popular music production software and plugins. It offers auto-mapping of controls and parameters, ensuring easy control and manipulation.
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Can I use the Oxygen 61 (MKV) as a standalone keyboard? The Oxygen 61 (MKV) is designed to be used in conjunction with a computer or music production software. While it does not have built-in sounds, it allows for controlling virtual instruments and software synthesizers.
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Is the Oxygen 61 (MKV) suitable for beginners? Yes, the Oxygen 61 (MKV) is suitable for beginners who are new to MIDI keyboards and music production. The user-friendly features, such as auto-mapping and Smart Scale and Chord modes, make it accessible to those with limited experience.
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Does the Oxygen 61 (MKV) require any additional software or drivers? The Oxygen 61 (MKV) comes with a complete software production package, including MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite. It also includes drivers and firmware updates that can be obtained from the M-Audio website.
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What Customers Are Saying About M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV)
Here are some testimonials from customers who have had the opportunity to use the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV):
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I absolutely love the Oxygen 61 (MKV)! The keys feel great and I appreciate the added velocity sensitivity. The drum pads are a fantastic addition, allowing me to quickly trigger samples and create beats. The Smart Chord and Scale modes have been a game-changer for someone like me who doesn’t have much music theory knowledge. Overall, I’m extremely satisfied with this MIDI keyboard controller.
- John, Music Producer
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As a professional musician, the Oxygen 61 (MKV) has become an essential part of my live performances. The full-size keys and robust construction give it a premium feel, and the assignable knobs and faders allow for precise control over my virtual instruments and effects. The included software suite is a great addition, providing me with a wide range of tools to enhance my compositions. Highly recommended!
- Sarah, Pianist and Composer
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I recently started learning music production, and the Oxygen 61 (MKV) has been a fantastic tool for me. The user-friendly features, such as auto-mapping and Smart Chord mode, make it easy for me to navigate my software and create melodies without much prior experience. The build quality is impressive, and I’m excited to continue honing my skills with this MIDI keyboard controller.
- Mike, Beginner Music Producer
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The Oxygen 61 (MKV) is perfect for my remote collaboration sessions. It easily connects to my computer, and the assignable controls integrate seamlessly with my software and plugins. The beat pads are great for triggering and manipulating samples, adding an extra layer of creativity to my recordings. I highly recommend this MIDI keyboard controller to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile tool.
- Lisa, Singer-Songwriter
Based on the feedback from customers, it is clear that the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) is highly regarded for its performance, versatility, and ease of use in various music production scenarios.
Overall Value
The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) offers exceptional value for both beginners and professionals in the music production world. With its full-size velocity-sensitive keys, assignable controls, beat pads, and comprehensive software suite, this MIDI keyboard controller provides a wealth of features and functionalities to enhance your creative process.
The inclusion of Smart Chord and Scale modes, along with the arpeggiator, adds a creative spark and assists in overcoming music theory limitations. The robust construction ensures durability, making it suitable for both studio and live performances.
Furthermore, the compatibility with popular music production software and plugins, combined with the seamless integration through auto-mapping, makes the Oxygen 61 (MKV) a reliable and efficient tool for controlling virtual instruments, synthesizers, and effects.
The value is further enhanced by the complete software production package included with the Oxygen 61 (MKV), offering a range of music production tools and sounds to suit various genres and styles.
Taking into account its price, features, software package, and build quality, the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) delivers exceptional value that is hard to find in other MIDI keyboard controllers.
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Tips and Tricks for Best Results
To get the most out of your M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) MIDI keyboard controller, here are some tips and tricks to consider:
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Experiment With Mapping: Take advantage of the auto-mapping feature to assign the knobs and faders to different parameters in your software and plugins. Experiment with different mappings to find the most intuitive setup for your workflow.
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Use the Beat Pads Creatively: The beat pads are not limited to beat production alone. Get creative and assign different samples, effects, or even entire sections of songs to the pads. This allows for dynamic performances and live remixing possibilities.
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Explore Smart Chord and Scale Modes: If you have limited music theory knowledge, don’t be afraid to explore the Smart Chord and Scale modes. They can open up a whole new world of possibilities for chord progressions and melodies.
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Utilize the Arpeggiator: The arpeggiator is a powerful tool for creating rhythmic patterns and sequences. Experiment with different rate settings, octaves, and directions to add movement and complexity to your compositions.
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Customize Your MIDI Controller: Many software programs allow for MIDI customization. Take the time to explore and adjust MIDI settings to suit your preferences and workflow. This can significantly enhance your productivity and creativity.
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Familiarize Yourself With the Included Software: The software suite, including MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite, offers a wealth of tools for music production and composition. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the included software, as it can greatly expand your options and possibilities.
With these tips and tricks, you can maximize your experience with the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) and unlock its full potential.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) MIDI keyboard controller is a comprehensive and versatile tool for musicians, producers, and music enthusiasts. Its full-size velocity-sensitive keys, assignable controls, beat pads, and inclusion of Smart Chord, Scale modes, and arpeggiator make it a powerful asset in any music production setup.
The Oxygen 61 (MKV) offers exceptional value by combining professional-grade features, user-friendly design, and a comprehensive software package. Its robust construction ensures durability, while the seamless integration with music production software and plugins streamlines your workflow.
Whether you are a beginner starting your music production journey or a professional musician looking to enhance your performances, the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) is a reliable and capable MIDI keyboard controller that delivers outstanding performance and creativity.
Product Summary:
The M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) is a versatile MIDI keyboard controller that combines professional-grade features with user-friendly design. With its full-size velocity-sensitive keys, assignable controls, and backlit beat pads, this MIDI keyboard controller is suitable for a wide range of music production applications, including live performances, music composition, sound design, and education.
The Oxygen 61 (MKV) offers Smart Chord and Scale modes, along with an arpeggiator, to assist musicians and producers in exploring complex chords, harmonies, and rhythmic patterns. Its compatibility with popular music production software and plugins, combined with its comprehensive software suite, ensures seamless integration and access to a wide range of sounds and tools.
The durable build quality and thoughtfully designed features make the Oxygen 61 (MKV) an ideal choice for both beginners and professionals. Its value is further enhanced by its affordability, making it an accessible option for anyone interested in music production.
Final Recommendation:
We highly recommend the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) MIDI keyboard controller for musicians, producers, and music enthusiasts looking to enhance their music production workflow. Its combination of professional-grade features, user-friendly design, and comprehensive software package make it a valuable asset in any music production setup.
Whether you are a beginner starting your music production journey or an experienced professional looking to expand your creative possibilities, the Oxygen 61 (MKV) offers exceptional value, performance, and versatility. Its durable construction ensures longevity, making it a reliable tool for both studio and live performances.
Invest in the M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) and elevate your music production to the next level.
