M-Audio Oxygen Pro 25, 49 & 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller

m-audio Oxygen Pro 25, 49 & 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller Manual

Introduction

The m-audio Oxygen Pro 25, 49 & 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller is designed for music producers, performers, composers, beat makers, and home-studio users who need hands-on control over virtual instruments and digital audio workstations. Available with 25, 49, or 61 velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys, the series provides a choice of compact portability or expanded playing range.

Each model combines a keyboard, performance controls, RGB beat pads, an OLED display, assignable knobs, transport controls, pitch and modulation wheels, and a sustain-pedal input. Aftertouch and assignable keyboard zones allow expressive playing, while Smart Chord and Smart Scale modes help users build harmonies and avoid unwanted notes. The integrated arpeggiator adds rhythmic movement, and Note Repeat supports drum programming and repeated-pattern performance.

The controller connects to a computer through USB and can also send MIDI to compatible external equipment through its five-pin MIDI output. It is bus-powered, so a separate power adapter is generally unnecessary when connected to a suitable USB port. DAW presets support common software environments, including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, MPC Beats, Studio One, Reason, Cubase, Logic, Bitwig, GarageBand, Reaper, and FL Studio.

Choose the 25-key version for mobile production and limited desk space, the 49-key version for balanced studio control, or the 61-key version for piano-style range and performance work.

Specifications and Key Features

• Available models: 25, 49, and 61 keys.
• Keyboard: Velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch and assignable zones.
• Performance controls: Pitch-bend and modulation wheels, transport controls, OLED display, and an assignable encoder.
• Pads: 16 RGB-backlit, velocity-sensitive, assignable pads with Note Repeat.
• Controls: Eight assignable knobs; the 49- and 61-key models also include nine assignable faders.
• Creative functions: Smart Chord, Smart Scale, and an arpeggiator with adjustable musical parameters such as type, octave, gate, and swing.
• Connections: USB for MIDI communication and power, five-pin MIDI output, and 6.35 mm sustain-pedal input.
• Power: USB bus-powered; no internal battery is required.
• Approximate dimensions: 25-key, 490.2 × 264.1 × 83.3 mm; 49-key, 800.1 × 264.2 × 83.8 mm; 61-key, 965.2 × 264.2 × 83.8 mm.
• Approximate weight: 25-key, 2.46 kg; 49-key, 4.2 kg; 61-key, 4.8 kg.

How to Set Up the M-Audio Oxygen Pro MIDI Keyboard Controller

1. Place the controller on a stable, level surface with sufficient room for the keyboard, wheels, pads, and connected cables.
2. Connect the included USB cable to the controller and a reliable USB port on the computer. The Oxygen Pro series is class-compliant and normally works without a separate driver.
3. Install or open the preferred digital audio workstation, then select the Oxygen Pro as the MIDI input and control surface where available.
4. Choose the matching DAW preset. Hold the DAW control, or use the Preset/DAW control on the 25-key model when applicable, then select the required software profile with the encoder.
5. Create an instrument track, load a virtual instrument, and confirm that pressing a key produces MIDI activity and sound.
6. Connect a sustain pedal before playing if required. For external MIDI hardware, connect the five-pin MIDI output to the receiving device and route audio separately.
7. Use the OLED display and menus to customize pads, knobs, faders, keyboard zones, MIDI channels, Smart Scale, Smart Chord, and arpeggiator settings.

If the controller is not detected, reconnect it directly rather than through an unpowered hub, try another USB port, restart the DAW, and verify that MIDI input is enabled. Keep liquids away from the controller, avoid excessive force on keys and controls, and disconnect cables before moving the unit.

Troubleshooting

Controller has no power

Confirm that the USB cable is firmly connected at both ends. Try a different computer port and avoid low-power hubs. If using external MIDI hardware without a computer, power the controller through a suitable USB wall adapter.

No sound from the keyboard

The Oxygen Pro sends MIDI rather than generating instrument audio. Check that an instrument track is armed, the correct MIDI input is selected, monitoring is enabled, and the virtual instrument or external sound module is producing audio.

DAW controls do not respond

Select the correct DAW preset and control-surface configuration. Confirm that the application has MIDI input and output permissions, then restart the software after changing the controller profile.

Keys, pads, or knobs behave incorrectly

Check the active preset, MIDI channel, keyboard zone, and controller assignment. Load a standard preset to determine whether the issue is caused by custom programming. Update firmware only with the correct model-specific file and follow M-Audio’s instructions.

Pedal polarity is reversed

Disconnect the sustain pedal, release it, and reconnect it after powering the controller. If the problem continues, test a compatible pedal with the appropriate polarity.

No universal Oxygen Pro error-code list is specified for every operating condition. For unresolved hardware or firmware problems, keep the model name, serial information, operating system, DAW version, and a description of the symptoms available when contacting M-Audio support. Review official downloads, user documentation, firmware notices, and warranty terms before attempting service or opening the controller.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

• Expressive keyboard: Velocity, semi-weighted action, aftertouch, and assignable zones provide more control than a basic entry-level MIDI keyboard.
• Strong production workflow: RGB pads, Note Repeat, an arpeggiator, Smart Chord, Smart Scale, and DAW controls support both composition and live performance.
• Flexible connectivity: USB power and MIDI communication suit computer-based studios, while the five-pin MIDI output supports compatible external instruments.
• Choice of sizes: The 25-key model fits portable setups, while the 49- and 61-key versions offer greater playing range.
• Hands-on editing: Assignable knobs, faders on the larger models, an OLED display, and dedicated controls reduce reliance on a mouse.

Limitations

• Desk space: The 49- and 61-key models require a wide, sturdy workspace and are less convenient for mobile use.
• No built-in sounds: Users need a computer, virtual instrument, or external MIDI sound module to hear musical output.
• Configuration learning curve: Advanced mappings, zones, DAW presets, and MIDI routing require more setup than a simple plug-and-play controller.
• Feature differences: The 25-key model is more compact, while the larger versions provide the expanded fader layout and greater keyboard range.

The m-audio Oxygen Pro 25, 49 & 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller suits producers who want deep DAW integration and expressive performance controls in one device. Users seeking built-in speakers, standalone sounds, weighted piano action, or an especially compact controller may need a different product category.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the M-Audio Oxygen Pro USB-powered?

Yes. The Oxygen Pro series is designed for USB bus power and MIDI communication.

Can the Oxygen Pro control external MIDI equipment?

Yes. Connect the five-pin MIDI output to compatible external equipment and provide USB power to the controller.

Which model should a beginner choose?

The 25-key model is practical for limited space and portable production. The 49-key model is a versatile middle option, while the 61-key model is better for players who need a wider range.

Does it work with a DAW?

Yes. DAW presets and MIDI controls support major music applications, but exact setup steps depend on the software and operating system.