Premium keyboard and pad controllers created for superior software integration

Cumberland, R.I. (January 24, 2013) — M-Audio has added three new Axiom AIR models to the upper echelons of their popular Axiom USB/MIDI keyboard and pad controller lineup: the Axiom AIR 61, Axiom AIR 49, and Axiom AIR 25. Created in conjunction with AIR Music Technology, these keyboards were designed to deliver a high level of integration with a broad array of music software titles. These new models join the previously released and compact Axiom AIR Mini 32.

Unlike other keyboard controllers that include trial and demo versions of music software, M-Audio’s strong partnerships with AIR Music Technology and Avid® allow each Axiom AIR 61, 49 and 25 model to come complete with two exclusive and complementary music creation applications: Ignite by AIR and Pro Tools® Express from Avid.

By removing many of the hurdles associated with computer-based music-making, Ignite delivers the most streamlined means to quickly capture your best musical ideas. According to AIR Product Manager Samara Winterfeld, “Ignite was designed from the ground up to provide instant integration and controller mapping with Axiom AIR and every M-Audio keyboard. This is one less thing a musician has to worry about when inspiration strikes.”

From Ignite, musical ideas can be easily migrated to the included copy of Avid Pro Tools Express, providing customers with access to the production capabilities of the industry-leading DAW software. Avid Pro Tools Express includes the required iLok USB key—a $49.99 retail value.

The bold white and brushed metal design of the Axiom AIR series features many aesthetic and ergonomic enhancements not found in previous generations of controllers. These features include illuminated knob and pad controls, angled backlit display, longer-throw faders, and clearance under the body providing a path for cabling, keeping studio and workspace tidy.

Pitch bend and modulation wheels allow for spontaneous expression, while octave/transpose buttons allow the keyboard to cover the entire note range, in any key. In addition to measuring how hard you strike, the pads also respond to pressure for enhanced control. Both keys and pads feature a wide range of touch curves to match any playing style.

The pads, buttons, and rotary encoder knobs feature three banks of controller assignments; the current bank is indicated by tri-color illumination. All controller assignments can be freely made from the front panel and easily identified using the dedicated Identify button. The unique Pad Learn function makes it easy to assign instrument sounds to pads. Best yet, each Axiom AIR model features M-Audio’s HyperControl to automatically map the controllers to popular recording software and virtual instrument titles.

Although all three Axiom AIR models share some family traits, each one is designed with a specific user in mind:

Axiom AIR 25

Ideal for the modern beat-making musician, the Axiom AIR 25 offers a generous 16 pads and 25 synth-action keys—with aftertouch. Assignable controls include 8 rotary encoder knobs and 1 long-throw 70mm fader.

Axiom AIR 49

Balancing size and features to satisfy a broad range of players and composers, the Axiom AIR 49 features 12 pads and 49 synth-action keys—with aftertouch. Assignable controls include 8 rotary encoder knobs, 9 buttons, and 9 long-throw 70mm faders.

Axiom AIR 61

Providing the accomplished keyboardist with an inspiring playing experience, the Axiom Air 61 delivers 61 TruTouch, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch. Assignable controls include 8 rotary encoder knobs, 9 buttons, and 9 long-throw 70mm faders.

M-Audio will be exhibiting at Booth 6700 at the 2013 Winter NAMM show, January 24-27 in Anaheim, California.

Pro Tools Express© 2012, Avid Technology, Inc. Use of Pro Tools Express is subject to a related license agreement. Avid and Pro Tools are registered trademarks of Avid Technology, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

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About M-Audio

M-Audio is a leading provider of digital audio and MIDI solutions for electronic musicians and audio professionals. Since 1988, M-Audio has continually provided musicians with innovative and creative products: from acclaimed MIDI and audio interfaces to wildly popular keyboard controllers, M-Audio’s products have become studio and stage mainstays, giving musicians broad access to the latest in music creation and performance technology. M-Audio is a member of the premier family of brands known as inMusic.

About AIR Music Technology

Based in Germany, AIR Music Technology started as Wizoo Sound Design, one of the earliest pioneers in virtual instrument technology. The AIR team is responsible for the core of much of the effects offerings in Avid’s Pro Tools software and also developed a suite of award-winning virtual instruments specifically for Pro Tools. AIR Music Technology is a member of the premier family of brands known as inMusic. For more information, visit airmusictech.com or inmusicbrands.com.