M-Audio has introduced the new Oxygen series, the first USB MIDI keyboard controller to feature DirectLink, a hassle-free control mode that instantly maps the Oxygen’s controls to a digital audio workstation (DAW), giving musicians intuitive hands-on control over a session right from the keyboard.

M-Audio Oxygen 49

Redesigned with a fresh look for stage and studio use and available in 25-, 49- and 61-key models, the Oxygen keyboards are ideal for laptop production, live performance and professional studio applications.

The Oxygen series controllers feature full-size velocity-sensitive keys along with a complement of sliders, knobs and buttons for tweaking and performing with software instruments. With DirectLink, these same controls instantly map to a DAW’s mixer, pan, and transport functions, providing real time control with a variety of DAWs including Pro Tools®, Cubase, Reason, Logic and Garageband.

“The new Oxygen controllers take M-Audio’s classic Oxygen line to the next level with DirectLink, making it easier than ever to record, mix and shape a musical performance straight-away without any complicated set up,” says Avid product Manager Tim Chandler. “DirectLink is simple, but effective – automatically linking up with useful controls in your music software. Ultimately, players and producers are able to be more creative and get musical results without the need for complex MIDI mapping or controller programming.”

Oxygen Series features

  • 25/49/61 velocity-sensitive keys.
  • 8 MIDI-assignable knobs.
  • 1/9 MIDI-assignable sliders.
  • 6 dedicated transport controls.
  • Dedicated track up/down buttons.
  • DirectLink mode automatically maps controls to common DAW parameters.
  • Factory presets map controllers to popular music software: Xpand!2, Hybrid, Velvet, Strike, Oddity, ImpOSCar, Minimonsta.
  • Unique Select buttons for on-the-fly step-through of presets, program changes and MIDI channels.
  • 4 velocity curves and 3 fixed velocity settings.
  • Sustain pedal input.
  • Class-compliant with Windows XP, Windows Vista and Mac OS X.
  • USB bus powered.

The Oxygen 25, 49, and 61 are currently shipping and carry a USMSRP of $149.95, $189.95, and $249.95 respectively.

More information: M-Audio / Oxygen