Back to navigation


A Controller Keyboard for the Pianist





This article was


Written By





Our Product Research Team





Get to know them!





Are you a pianist who uses virtual instruments and sound modules? We should talk. If you've been looking for a value-packed, no-compromise keyboard controller with realistic piano feel, check out the M-Audio Hammer 88. Sporting 88 velocity-sensitive, fully-weighted hammer-action keys that faithfully convey all the subtle nuance in your playing, the Hammer 88 provides the unmistakable response of a traditional grand piano. Weighing just 38.5 pounds, the Hammer 88 is an ideal controller for live gigs. Its top deck is clutter-free and piano-like, but it's equipped with the essentials for expressive performances: pitch and mod wheels, a data fader, and sustain, expression, and soft pedal jacks. It supports multiple zones for layering, splits, and lets you play 4-note chords with a single key press! It's also USB-powered, so no power supply is required. Factor in the included premium software suite and gentle price tag, and the M-Audio Hammer 88 is a no-brainer.





Related Videos: Hammer 88 88-key Keyboard Controller





NOW PLAYING:


Product Overview





How to Shop for a MIDI Controller Online


Everything you need for expressive performances





The Hammer 88 is lean and mean, yet it has the essentials for expressive performances. Pitch and mod wheels, a master fader, and two assignable buttons are ergonomically positioned on deck. The mod wheel and fader are mappable to any MIDI parameter, for easy sound sculpting on the fly. Use the up and down buttons to select programs, FX, MMC messages, to jump octaves, and more. M-Audio designed the Hammer for serious keyboardists, so naturally, they included a complement of pedal inputs that let you articulate your performances like a pro.





Full integration with your studio and gig rig





If, like many Sweetwater musicians, you use hardware synths, sound modules, and drum machines in addition to virtual instruments, you'll appreciate the Hammer 88's 5-pin DIN MIDI output. Of course, there's a USB-MIDI port for connecting with your computer. Add the optional Apple Camera Connection Kit, and you have access to your favorite iOS music apps! And for the ultimate in convenience, the Hammer 88 is USB-powered and class-compliant, so there's no power supply to misplace! It's available separately, however, if you need one for stand-alone use.





M-Audio Hammer 88 Features:


88 fully-weighted, hammer-action keys


USB-MIDI connection for playing virtual instruments, controlling music software, and more


5-Pin MIDI DIN port for triggering external MIDI hardware


Pitch bend and modulation wheels, volume fader, and /- controls for expressive performances


Multiple keyboard zones for layering, splits, and playing 4-note chords with a single key press


Sustain, Expression, and Soft pedal jacks


USB-powered; power adapter available separately for stand-alone use


Class-compliant, no drivers required, plug-and-play connectivity with Mac/PC


iOS compatibility via Apple Camera Connection Kit (available separately)


Included Hammer 88 Controller Editor and premium software suite


Music rest included


Included Software Bundle:


Ableton Live Lite music performance and creation software


AIR Mini Grand acoustic piano


AIR Velvet vintage electronic piano


AIR dB-33 tonewheel organ simulator


SONiVOX Eighty Eight Ensemble piano instrument


3-month trial with Skoove ? interactive piano lessons from beginner to advanced