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M-Audio Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller — main product image
M-Audio Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
M-Audio Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
M-Audio Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
M-Audio Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
M-Audio Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
M-Audio Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
M-Audio

M-Audio Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

★★★★★4.4 (488 reviews)

M-Audio's 88-key hammer-action MIDI controller delivers authentic piano feel with USB-powered simplicity and a full software suite.

$549.00*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 04, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The M-Audio Hammer 88 is an 88-key USB MIDI controller built around fully-weighted, hammer-action, velocity-sensitive keys that aim to replicate the feel of an acoustic grand piano. Each key responds to the subtlety of your touch, making it suitable for pianists who demand expressive dynamics when performing or recording with virtual instruments. Conveniently located pitch bend and modulation wheels, along with volume and octave controls, provide essential real-time performance adjustments without reaching for your mouse.

Connectivity is streamlined through a single USB cable that handles both MIDI data and power, so there is no need for a separate power adapter or wall outlet near your setup. Three dedicated 1/4" pedal inputs — for sustain, expression, and soft pedals — expand your expressive range when the appropriate pedals are connected. The controller ships with a substantial software package including MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Eighty Eight Ensemble, and several AIR Music Tech virtual instruments, giving new users everything they need to start playing and producing immediately. A three-month Skoove subscription is also included for those looking to develop their piano skills through guided online lessons.

Key Features

Perfect Feel, Ultimate Response - 88 fully-weighted, hammer-action velocity-sensitive keys deliver natural piano feel, faithfully replicating every subtle nuance of your performance

Plug-n-Play - Driverless class compliant and USB powered specification provides seamless USB-MIDI connection for playing virtual instruments, controlling recording software and more

Express Yourself - Conveniently located pitch bend, modulation, volume and octave controls for immersive, expressive performances

All The Right Connections - Expanded control options for Inputs for Sustain, Expression and Soft pedals included

Free Online Lessons - Includes FREE 3-month subscription to Skoove; The easiest way to learn piano with interactive piano lessons for beginners and advanced players

Pro Software Suite Included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Eighty Eight Ensemble, AIR Music Tech’s Velvet, Mini Grand, DB33, and Touch Loops

Specifications

Brand
M-Audio
Model
Hammer 88
Keys
88 Fully-Weighted, Hammer-Action, Velocity-Sensitive
Connectivity
USB-MIDI
Power
USB Powered
Controls
Pitch Bend, Modulation, Volume, Octave
Pedal Inputs
Sustain, Expression, Soft (1/4")
Driver
Class Compliant (Driverless)
Included Software
MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Eighty Eight Ensemble, Velvet, Mini Grand, DB33, Touch Loops
Included Subscription
3-Month Skoove Online Piano Lessons

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Fully-weighted hammer-action keys realistically replicate acoustic piano touch and response
  • USB-powered design eliminates the need for an external power adapter
  • Generous bundled software suite provides production-ready virtual instruments and a DAW
  • Dedicated inputs for sustain, expression, and soft pedals allow expressive performance control
  • Class compliant plug-and-play operation requires no driver installation

👎 Cons

  • No built-in sounds or speakers — requires a computer and software to produce audio
  • Pedals for the sustain, expression, and soft inputs are sold separately
  • Large 88-key footprint demands significant desk or stand space
  • Limited onboard controls beyond pitch bend, modulation, volume, and octave buttons
  • No aftertouch capability for additional expressive nuance

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is a MIDI controller that triggers virtual instruments on your computer. It includes bundled software such as MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, and several virtual instruments to get you started.
No, the Hammer 88 is USB powered, so it draws power directly from your computer through the same USB cable used for MIDI data.
The controller has dedicated 1/4" inputs for sustain, expression, and soft pedals, but the pedals themselves are not included and must be purchased separately.
No, the Hammer 88 is class compliant and works plug-and-play over USB-MIDI with no driver installation needed.
It includes MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Eighty Eight Ensemble, AIR Music Tech's Velvet, Mini Grand, DB33, Touch Loops content, and a 3-month Skoove subscription for online piano lessons.

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