Sure, it doesn’t have 8 knobs, 8 pads, and 8 faders like I want, but it gets the job done in a pinch.

While the Keystation 49 is quite simplistic with only 49 keys (4 octaves), it doesn’t fall short of the necessary features I typically look for in a MIDI controller. I rated the keyboard a 4 out of 5 due to its cheap feel and some slight compatibility issues I experienced (most of which were easily resolved) while using the keyboard with FL Studio 12. If you’re a musician on the go, the portability also makes great for traveling. My favorite feature of the M-Audio Keystation MIDI keyboards is the fact that they are incredibly light weight and can be moved without much hassle. They usually ring up for about $100, but I got mine on sale at Guitar Center for only $50, so I couldn’t pass up the 50% off deal. The M-Audio Keystation 49 is the ultimate bang for your buck when it comes to bargain MIDI keyboard controllers. M-Audio Keystation 49ES Full review: M-Audio Keystation 49ES MIDI keyboard

Keystation 49es manual