M-Audio has introduced its new hammer-action USB/MIDI controller.
The Hammer 88 features a fullsize 88-key keyboard, delivering an absolutely genuine grand piano feel along with the capability to use virtual instruments and sound modules.
Recognising a crucial, unfulfilled need in the market for a truly top-level controller that delivers the playing experience of fully-weighted hammer-action keys, the ability to customise your sound with a full range of controls and unmatched value, the M-Audio Hammer 88 combines these attributes in a way no previous instrument ever has.
Hammer 88 boasts a core range of controls, including a unity-locking pitch wheel and a separate modulation wheel to add portamento and glissando effects. With the dedicated Master Volume Fader, players can control the intensity of their performance or MIDI map to any compatible parameter in a DAW or virtual instrument collection for expanded, hands-on control. With the assignable Up and Down buttons, players can select different programs, effects, MMC messages, jump between octaves and more.
Hammer 88 comes complete with a full suite of premium AIR and SONiVOX software and it includes a 3-month subscription to Skoove interactive online piano lessons. In addition, Hammer 88 is USB-powered, class-compliant and supports USB-MIDI connectivity for rapid, hassle-free setup that lets players focus on what’s important—their performance.
“The new Hammer 88 combines real grand piano feel with weighted hammer-action keys and the versatility of custom controls in a way that no previous instrument has,” said Sandira Blas, Product Marketing Manager for M-Audio. “Players are going to love the keyboard’s action and they’re going to love the custom controls and included software. This is an amazingly complete package.”
Hammer 88 features
- 88 fully-weighted, hammer-action keys.
- USB-MIDI connection for playing virtual instruments and controlling recording software.
- 5-Pin MIDI output to trigger external MIDI devices.
- Pitch bend, modulation, volume and ± controls for expressive performances.
- Inputs for Sustain, Expression and Soft pedals.
- USB-powered, no power supply required.
- No drivers required, supports plug-and-play connectivity to your Mac or PC.
- iOS compatibility using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately).
- Includes Ableton Live Lite, a powerful music performance and creation software.
- Includes AIR “Mini Grand” Acoustic Grand Piano, AIR “Velvet” Vintage Electric Piano Instrument, AIR “DB-33” Tonewheel Organ Simulator and SONiVOX “Eighty Eight Ensemble” Authentic Piano Instrument.
- Includes 3-months of Skoove interactive online piano lessons.
- Multiple keyboard zones for layering, splits and 4-note chords with a single key press.
- Clean, professional editing with included Hammer 88 Controller Editor.
- Power adapter (optional) for stand-alone use.
- Music rest.
The M-Audio Hammer 88 will be available in Summer 2017, shipping with an MSRP of £379.99 GBP.
More information: M-Audio / Hammer 88
