M-Audio Hammer 88 Midi Controller Review with Demos

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey everyone, make sure to check out the latest project I scored with KZbin film making star Armando Ferreira and Moai films for Nikon USA right here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGLZgYqgepKEftU&t If you are interested in watching a video on how I created all of the music in just 2 1/2 days then go ahead and let me know in the comment section.

[@7pipsahead]

Do the keys feel weighted keys like does it really feel like a piano

[@SamDiazProducer]

@@7pipsahead Yes and no. It has a nice weighted feel but it's not graded like a true grand piano nor is it as smoothe as a natural grand piano. That being said, it's closer to it than most that I have tried and it really makes your fingers work hard.

[@felipebishop9145]

I know Im kinda off topic but do anyone know a good site to stream newly released movies online?

[@madduxtroy8619]

@Felipe Bishop ehh I'd suggest flixportal. just search on google after it :P -maddux

[@felipebishop9145]

@Maddux Troy Thank you, I went there and it seems like they got a lot of movies there :) Appreciate it !!

[@factfulness-perleth7764]

This is rare. A real musician is presenting an instrument. Im so tired of most videos where salesmen or midi-samplers are talking and talking, about a music product, without knowing anything about music.

[@michelleparsons9881]

just ordered it last week, can't wait to start my piano playing journey

[@jingleskhanaudioproductions]

cool demo! it looks like it feels good to play the weighted keys

[@SamDiazProducer]

Thank you!

[@tezzytmusic9031]

Playing the Indiana Jones theme was my favorite part of the video! 😎

[@SamDiazProducer]

Thanks man! Love that trumpet part lol

[@KE010101]

Great overview and I agree with your evaluation Sam.

[@SamDiazProducer]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed!

[@TroyPicasso]

Nice man! Very high quality review.

[@lesleycarter8233]

Great video. So true about semi-weighted and weighted keys. Less expression and articulation in my playing with semi-weighted, it’s just not the same. Thanks for the info about sluggish response when playing repeated notes quickly. This has made me decide against buying. Maybe something a little more expensive would tick this box. Many Thanks from the U.K..

[@SamDiazProducer]

Yeah I prefer faster keys because most of the gigs I get hired for require me play fast with little to no programming since the deadlines are beyond insane. It's very inspiring to play though!!

[@shemmusic3279]

Thanks for the video. I was thinking about buying this controller, but there is not many reviews and videos on KZbin. I am planning on building my own studio, as I am just beginning with the music journey. My channel is mainly on rap beats, but I enjoy making film music more, but I don't have the appropriate tools yet to create my own film music. The only place I can do that is my school. Anyway thanks for the video and keep it up :)

[@SamDiazProducer]

Shem Music no problem at all dude! Sounds awesome and actually my good friend and music partner Tatenda also writes both rap and film music and I think thats a great combo with a lot of similarities musically. Imo this controller is awesome for piano playing but i do find it very difficult for about everything else so I would probably go for a synth action or semi-weighted controller if you like playing your parts in without too much editing because the keys are quite heavy on this. Its even heavier than my wife’s roland RD300-SX which can be seen a bit on the left at the beginning of the video, and that one was already pretty heavy to me so it’s something to keep in mind. Anyways, hope that was helpful and thanks for the compliments.

[@chinesemusic8019]

very good review and talented playing.

[@sachaDS0]

Fantastic playing (and review!) :)

[@thecrasian6426]

You're beautiful man. Your playing is amazing.

[@SamDiazProducer]

Thank you so much!!

[@dovrubin9517]

Nice review. Encouraged me to buy one of these babies!

[@SamDiazProducer]

David Rubin Glad to hear, such a great price on these tbh. Thank you!

[@TheTruth70777]

Like the keybed, I'm waiting for a version that has some faders to layer different sounds

[@SamDiazProducer]

Yeah I agree, and I personally like to control all of my cc data with faders and if I can have it integrated with the hammer 88, it would be perfect!

[@TheTruth70777]

@@SamDiazProducer exactly mate, hopefully they'll launch it someday. Nice review btw. Stay safe. Cheers.

[@hockley91]

Great review! Thanks for posting!

[@jasonsioco5667]

I was considering this. The orchestral sounds are good, but I felt that it has a flatbread acoustic piano sound. So I will looking for something else.

[@SamDiazProducer]

This is a midi controller, no internal sounds. Everything you hear are spitfire sample libraries.

[@tenconfianza]

Great review, very professional, by the way awesome pieces of original music, bet you’ll have tons of placements. Good music!

[@nataliediaz5870]

Great review :) Love it

[@SamDiazProducer]

Thank you!

[@warrenography]

Thanks for that, succinct and a pleasure to listen to!

[@SamDiazProducer]

warrenography thank you!

[@notrub225]

What desk is that? Awesome you can hide the controller under your desk.

[@waynevii4961]

Can I ask what desk you have? Thank you!

[@SamDiazProducer]

Wayne VII It’s a simple desk called “Connect 5”.. cost me about $80. What makes a big difference is the stagg piano stand which goes down to about 22” and can support alot of weight which is what I have under my desk supporting the hammer 88. Hope that helps!

[@waynevii4961]

Samuel Diaz Thank you! 🙌🏻

[@williamocosby]

May I ask which Stagg piano stand you have Samuel? I really like your set up.

[@SamDiazProducer]

William Cosby Ty! It’s this one www.staggmusic.com/en/products/view/MXSA1

[@ternitamas]

@@SamDiazProducer sorry, but how do you draw it in and out? did you add little wheels to it?

[@pmanbu]

Great review, gracias!

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey everyone!! Since the question about what desk I'm using seems to be the most popular one, I'm gonna make a quick video this coming week explaining what desk I use and the different components. Also, as a working film composer and director/editor I will be making some short film scoring tutorials along with video footage of projects I've actually worked on. If you are interested in such things, make sure to subscribe to my channel ;)

[@lawoftheuniverse8089]

Good Job Sam... Thank You..!!!

[@SamDiazProducer]

Thank you!

[@almur88]

gosh you're beautiful! I admire Hans Zimmer and Junkie XL but you are way more pleasant to look at. Hope you are as great at film composing as they are, cuz I'm definitely subscribing)))

[@tonylancer7367]

So, two years later how is the M-Audio Hammer 88 fairing?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Im using a roland digital piano now because it has more features I wanted but the hammer 88 was still great up until the moment I sold it. The prices on them have gone up though :/

[@athanasiosdovas1419]

worth m-audio Hammer 88 midi controller? Has the keys as a piano or closer to the piano ?

[@SamDiazProducer]

I answer your question in this video ;) kzbin.info/www/bejne/hmWcd558ppySkKM

[@hokhok1355]

Does this piano have a hz tunner for playing bellow or above 440hz?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Not sure honestly. I usually do that stuff in my DAW.

[@johnchristophergilera9927]

hi sam, I'm planning to buy this controller but I want to know, how many patch can be layered on this? also how to set assigned knobs for that say for example if I'm gonna use it in live. thanks...

[@Coolarj10]

Great video, thanks!

[@HannaCho]

I have a Scarlett 2i2 audio interface and am trying to connect this keyboard not directly to Mac. Can you tell me how to connect it to an audio interface? Do I need an extra cable? I only have USB cable but there's no usb input for the audio interface. Thanks!

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hanna Cho Hi there, the only way to get your scenario to work would be with the 4i4 which has midi inputs and outputs. You would then have to buy a midi to usb cable to connect straight from your interface to your computer. You can find those pretty easily on amazon. Hope that helps.

[@HannaCho]

@@SamDiazProducer Thank you so much! It really helps. If I directly connect this keyboard to my computer, and use a mic for voice with an audio interface, I can only hear one track only in daw(garage band). Is there any way I can hear both keyboard and voice at the same time when I play? Thank you so much for your help!!

[@SamDiazProducer]

​@@HannaCho Hi Hanna, unfortunately I don't use garageband so I am pretty limited there but I pull this off in Studio One (my main daw) by activating the monitor record or just activating the record button on both the midi and audio channels I am using. It also might be a settings issue in your I/O but it's very hard to troubleshoot since I don't know your system or how you are set up. I have recorded a singer's voice through an interface while programming midi on a keyboard connected straight to the computer via usb so it's definitely possible. Google garageband track monitoring options and I hope that helps somehow.

[@HannaCho]

@@SamDiazProducer I will try to adjust the monitor setting. Thanks a lot!!!

[@HannaCho]

Sam, I did what you suggested and I was able to listen to both sounds at the same time. Thanks so much! I have one more question. Is it possible to record this 88 hammer keyboard and vocal at the same time?

[@mattstaples]

Sam. It’s been a good while since you posted this review, are you still using this keyboard and have you any follow up comments after a few months of using it in earnest?

[@GER_1]

Great video! Thanks for sharing! It is graded weight?? Have a nice day!!

[@SamDiazProducer]

Thank you! Unfortunately it is not graded. It’s even across the board which might be weird at first but I got use to it after playing it for a little while. Definitely different from my old Numa 88 which had graded keys.

[@GER_1]

@@SamDiazProducer Thank you!!!

[@Lalairu]

Hello Sam! Do you know any 61 midi controller with weighted keys? I know Studiologic does a 76 and 88 controllers... but I've only found semi weighted key controllers in 61 versions. I want to learn how to play piano, I guess 61 keys are enough for jazz and modern approach I hope. Thank you and sorry if I made mistakes, English isn't my mother language.

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey Lalairu!! Yes the Studiologic sl73 is really close. But if you want 61 I think the only one I know of is the RD64 from Roland. Granted it's not a midi controller but you do get fantastic weighted keys in a small package. I love Roland keys in general. Hope that helps!! :D

[@SamDiazProducer]

Btw I don't want to confuse you when I said it's not a midi controller, I meant that its not only a midi controller but a digital grand with internal sounds as well as midi capabilities!

[@Lalairu]

@@SamDiazProducer awesome, thank you for the fast response. I will get the Roland if I see that is the best option. Take care! :))

[@edelrhoads7751]

Awesome video, man!! I’ve been looking to buy a midi controller with a real piano feel. It is between the m-audio hammer 88 and the Yamaha p-45 as I heard it can be used as a midi controller too and it has graded action. How would you compare those in terms of imitating an acoustic piano? I think the action on the m-audio is not graded and I’ve also heard the Yamaha has problems with velocity when used as a midi controller, that’s why I wonder which one would be better. Thanks in advance!

[@SamDiazProducer]

I play often on a yamaha grand and I personally think this compares favorably. Exactly like it? No way, I don't think anything feels close to a grand piano in the midi world except maybe the Studiologic Numa Nero but even then it's just a whole different experience. That being said, the hammer 88 is super inspiring and you would have to try it yourself and see how it feels under your fingers. Hope that helps!!

[@davidandronicomusic]

Thanks for doing this review. I’ve been thinking about getting this and this confirmed it would be a good purchase for me. What desk do you have btw? I like how snug the keyboard fits in. Thanks!

[@SamDiazProducer]

David Andronico Thank you! It’s a Tvilum Connect 5’ desk from amazon with a stagg mxs piano stand underneath.

[@jadenphan8106]

Hey man, love your reviews. Are you aware of the new Hammer 88 pro? I heard its the exact same keybed but Hammer 88 Pro is graded and has aftertouch. I am a beginner so I don't understand much. Do you have any thoughts on whether the 88 Pro is a good buy? Overall, I am having a hard time choosing between a Midi weighted 88 keys (e.g. Hammer Pro, Komplete Kontrol S88) or a digital piano (Korg D1, Kawai 110 ES). I understand that the digital piano routes would be best for the action, but not very good for daw control (I may have to buy another dedicated midi controllers). Still, I am not sure which route I should take, I enjoy both playing piano and producing. If you have any advice, I'd appreciate it very much!

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey Jaden, unfortunately I’m not sponsored by M-Audio nor are my videos so I haven’t tried that controller and I’m not ready to purchase it yet. But if or when I do, I will definitely do a review and give my thoughts on it. I have composed successfully on both controllers and digital pianos but I also don’t need much control, just a mod wheel honestly. I personally do most things with automation drawing and my mouse like for example just last month I did the music score for 2 major car brand commercials only using my 49 midi controller with a laptop and headphones, so honestly it’s whatever works for you and your workflow. Thanks for watching!

[@blairmmackinnon5808]

Thanks for the demo! Do you have a link for the desk you use with the M-Audio Hammer? It seems like a match made in heaven.

[@SamDiazProducer]

They don't make this desk anymore unfortunately, but you can basically buy a regular black desk that's atleast 63" in length with enough height and put a rolling keyboard stand under it! This is waaayyyy cheaper than buying a dedicated keyboard desk imo and it works great!

[@yahushaking4367]

which software are you using?I like the piano sounds.

[@SamDiazProducer]

Cinematic Grand from Cinematic Samples

[@andrewkeys]

This midi keyboard is love at first sight at least for me 🙌🏼 my question is how quiet can you play on it with a piano library? Can you play pianissimo or even pianissimo with (Spitfire Hans Zimmer Piano) or other piano libraries?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Yes you can, very dynamic imo

[@jinselee]

how can i buy your table on online?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Check my latest post, will be making a video on that in the next few days.

[@ibpiano5520]

Hi Sam! Loved the review! Couldn't help but notice both the audio interface and the digital recorder on your desk, which leads me to wonder: did you record the Hammer's audio for this video via MIDI? Or via one of those?

[@SamDiazProducer]

I recorded it with the digital recorder, which I really regret, but I did it so 1 can hear how loud the keys are relative to the sound coming from the speakers

[@ibpiano5520]

@@SamDiazProducer thanks! Appreciate the response

[@syzygy2464]

fantastic demo man, thanks for the work

[@SamDiazProducer]

Thank you 🙏

[@llMurcielagoll]

I started my piano Journey on the KeyStation 88 and it is great. Of course because I am using to play the piano. I realized I would indeed be better off with a weighted keys option and the Hammer 88 does just that and I will be looking into buying it soon. Off topic: Im using the Ableton Live 9 Lite that comes with my Keystation 88. However I am looking for the perfect Grand Piano sounds, the Ableton's one sounds Good but I feel something is missing. I have tried Sonivox's Eighty Eight Plug-in as well but still not quite there yet(perhaps I didnt set it up correctly?), any recommendations for a better grand piano sounds out there? Great review!

[@SamDiazProducer]

DarthCigar - هوشييين hey Darth, It really depends on your needs but some of my favorites are the Imperfect Samples Fazioli and Walnut Grand, Native Instruments The Gentleman and The Giant, And i absolutely love Olafur Arnolds felt piano. Those are just for grand piano sounds. Hope that helps!!

[@llMurcielagoll]

@@SamDiazProducer Thanks for sharing! I will try out Olafur Arnold's Felt Piano since it is your favorite of the bunch. Yeah Grand Piano is what I am looking for indeed.

[@foliummusic1603]

What desk is that?

[@CorradoLoffredi]

What is the difference between this Hammer Action keyboard and the Keystation 88 keyboard? Can the modwheel also control other MIDI CCs such as CC11?

[@SamDiazProducer]

The keybed is vastly different! The Hammer 88 has weighted keys that feel way closer to a real piano while the keystation 88 has semi-weighted keys that are closer to that of a synth keyboard. And yes I believe with the customization software it brings you can reassign the mod and even the pitch wheels to control different Midi CCs.

[@CorradoLoffredi]

@@SamDiazProducer OK thanks. Another question. Grand pianos have a resistance in the middle of the key stroke (in Italian it is called "double escapement). Is it also present in this keyboard?

[@SamDiazProducer]

@@CorradoLoffredi Hi Corrado, I don't believe so. This piano isn't graded hammer either which exhibits heavier touch on the low notes of the instrument and lighter touch on the higher notes. It's pretty even all around but again at this price point I probably wouldn't expect a lot. Keep in mind that this keyboard was $349 when I bought it ($300 with a coupon lol) and I thought it was a great deal at the time 2 years ago but right now it's $499 so there are definitely other competitors in that price range that can probably offer more keybed options. Hope that helps!

[@CorradoLoffredi]

@@SamDiazProducer other for example? :-)

[@zackjames2381]

so to compare this with the keystation 88, which would you go for? Take into consideration composing various genres as you do.

[@SamDiazProducer]

Keystation 88 probably, although I'm looking at the new Nektar GPX88 which is also semi-weighted and has a few more features. Might grab that one when it becomes available and do a review. The great thing about semi-weighted is that you can program percussion parts fairly easily and quickly. Same with Brass and String Parts. It's really all about workflow but if you are monster piano player on weighted keys and can pull off really fast and intricate parts without the need to go back and edit, then this one feels great.

[@zackjames2381]

@@SamDiazProducer cheers for the informative response.. I'll go with the keystation 88. I was just worried about it being too springy and plastic feeling for expressive piano playing

[@jogerr]

Hello Sam, if you were to buy a midi controller today, what will be your choice ? will you stay on the Hammer 88 you have just reviewed or as the offer changed you would buy another model . Can you help me on that ?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hi there, really depends but for weighted I would go for the Hammer 88, semi weighted I still like the Keystation 88 and for 49-61 I really like M-Audio ones or the Nektar ones as well. I don't spend much money on controllers because I like my gear to be very simple but I've heard great things about the Dopefer series and the Komplete s88 mkII as well. Digital piano wise, I love Roland and Yamaha. Hope that helps!

[@samuelarmengol5015]

Tocas genial, podrías mandar detalles del mueble con bandeja extraible? Gracias

[@SamDiazProducer]

Muchas gracias, muy chevere tu primer nombre tambien ;) aqui en este video explico todo eso en detalle : kzbin.info/www/bejne/hmWcd558ppySkKM Saludos!

[@Loli12333]

Hello! I got this keyboard yesterday as a gift. I plugged in the usb cable and i turned on the power but for some reason there's no sound coming out when I press the buttons. Do I need the this programme for letting the keyboard making sounds ? Could you please help me out.

[@cnoriga]

Check if a driver is needed in the M-Audio download area if still not working tryAsio4All Drivers. otherwise navigate in sound settings in your computer to see if you have the right Audio device selected.

[@SamDiazProducer]

^ What he said. You might have to watch a setup video on whatever DAW you are using.

[@hugo54758]

Yeah Studio One all the way!

[@SamDiazProducer]

Ulo Magyar Yessir! Having been through literally all the daws out there, for me it’s still the fastest one to work in.

[@panobilo]

Hello Sam, nice review. Do you have a spotify channel with your compositions?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey there, currently working on it but you can find some of my music on here www.samueldiaz.net or here soundcloud.com/user955037/tracks

[@pierluigidinardodimaio3708]

hi, can you tell me where to buy the retractable drawer where you place the keyboard under the desk? do you have to buy special desks or make one made to measure? advice ?

[@miguelrodfher]

Can you please share where I can find a desk like that?

[@amandopiano4291]

HOLA, queria preguntarte como sientes la pulsacion del teclado master. es parecido a semi contrapesada, contrapesada o contrapesada action hammer?. ( son 3 tipos diferentes)Estoy valorando la posibilidad de una compra como tercer teclado maestro. tengo FATAR SL 1100 ( la tecla mas lograda , pesada e intensa), FATAR SL880 tecla mas ligera, esta entre semi y contrapesada ...a medio camino, pero lo tengo para cuando tengo que tirar de repuesto. me puedes pasar un mensaje privado si quieres. Un abrazo y saludos desde Canarias.

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hola Amando! A mi personalmente me gusta mas las teclas del SL880 porque es mucho mas facil para tocar patches de Bajo, Bateria, Violines etc. El Hammer 88 tiene las teclas muy pesada y yo creo perfecto para pianistas. Yo tuve un Studiologic Numa por un tiempo y es muy parecido as ese teclado.

[@AndreHansen96]

I have other midi devices for quick attack things like beats etc. I am looking for a very simple midi keyboard where weight and number of keys is my biggest requirements. It has to feel like playing on acoustic piano as well as having 88 keys. With this in mind, would you recommend this keyboard??

[@SamDiazProducer]

Yes I would!! It's great and it's very simple to use! The keys are insanely expressive too.

[@AndreHansen96]

@@SamDiazProducer thank u! This demo has been very useful to me. I think it's probably the best competitor at this price point and I am strongly considering it!

[@tobechionuoha6106]

Great review! I'm actually thinking purchasing that midi controller. If you don't mind me asking, where did you get your desk from? Did it come with the pull out tray for the hammer 88?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Tobechi Onuoha Hi Tobechi, I answer this question in depth in one of the comments someone already made. Basically a regular desk with a stagg piano stand. Thank you.

[@petersonp.6410]

Someone can tell me the name of that table?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Tvilum Connect 5' Desk. I don't think they make it anymore thought.

[@patrickmasters8546]

But not a "graded" hammer action...same weight for all keys, correct? Not a big deal for me but maybe for others. I haven't seen any mention of that anywhere else.

[@SamDiazProducer]

Very true, it's not graded. I had that on a Studiologic Numa 88 that I use to play and it was never a big deal for me either but thank you for mentioning that for those who might be wondering, it's a great point :D

[@PeterWalkerHP16c]

The M-Audio Oxygen 88 is gha if you can find one.

[@Mobiluks]

Peter Walker I found one and I'm very happy with it! Made comparison between various 'hammer-action- keyboards'. The action is a little-bit softer than my real piano but very nice and sort of "natural" feeling. And silent in comparison to many others.

[@melchizedekjocson7254]

Good Day sir, can i get an opinion of you of whats the best for me to start? just want to buy a keyboard that good to record and i can use it too outside? Thanks in Advance

[@SamDiazProducer]

This is a great option!!

[@katarinasofficial]

Can you please say the dimensions of that table?

[@SamDiazProducer]

60 inches width, 30 depth and 30 height. Hope it helps!

[@llllllllllllllIIlIllIIllIIIIll]

Thanks

[@MichaelBerrios07]

I've been unable to make the volume controller to work.

[@SamDiazProducer]

You might have to assign it to CC7 in the software editor itself.

[@MichaelBerrios07]

@@SamDiazProducer thanks. No luck still. I put the Fader on CC7 Volume Channel and sent it, File > Sent it gets updated but nothing happens. It's weird documentation too.

[@jj53368]

I love "Ode to Dreams"-where can i listen to it?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Thank you!! I composed that track specifically for this video but I'm producing an EP of my music which will include it. Will let you know soon!!

[@a0um]

For someone that is starting from zero, wants to play a variety of virtual instruments, and will never play an acoustic piano, does it still make sense to buy a weighted keyboard?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Really depends on your priorities as a musician. If piano isn't your main instrument then I'd say go for a synth action or semi-weighted controller. Trust me, it will be much faster and easier to program parts in the long run. I personally just went back to semi-weighted keys for that reason because I'm primarily a drummer and percussionist.

[@JaCeeMusic]

thanks man!

[@yusefandrews6620]

Does the keyboard have options to edited velocity settings? I heard some where that the velocity curve on this controls isn't all that great.

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey Yusef. you can only edit the preset velocity settings via the sotfware editor. It brings like 5-6 presets but tbh the other presets are not that great so I just stick to the original settings. The biggest downside to this controller velocity wise is that you have to press the keys extremely hard to reach maximum velocity. I mean there are other set velocity settings to remedy that but they are extremely limited in their range. Hope that helps.

[@yusefandrews6620]

Thanks Samuel, this helps a lot

[@aun044660287]

You are connected with the audio interface or usb plug and play. I'm interested in this piano. If you connect via USB, there is a delay? Thx .

[@SamDiazProducer]

Mr.closeeyes It’s usb powered and plug and play. Delay all depends on your buffer settings in your DAW, the lower the buffer the lower the latency. I had mine at around 128 for this video. Hope that helps.

[@anatol1204]

I would like to ask something very important that you don t mention in the video.The keys have the same tweight as you go versus the piano at the edge where they meet the piano???At the cheap ones the become harder to push..yhis is very important fot the right technic

[@SamDiazProducer]

You mean graded weighted right? This is not graded, meaning it's not heavier at the lower range of the keyboard than the higher end (the higher octaves) so it's actually the same consistent weight across all keys. I forgot to mention it but I have had both and tbh I don't even notice the different that much with this keyboard. Bu that's just my personal opinion. Hope that helps ;)

[@anatol1204]

@@SamDiazProducer no no sorry for my inglish i mean something else..When you press the key and you start from the one edge of the key that is near you and you continue pressing versus the other edge of the same key that is near the piano ( where the key entries in the piano ) you feel the same weight on the finger ? you put the same amount of pressure or it becomes harder to press?This is very important thing in a keybord..Im talking for the same key.. black or white..) not the others! If one key does this thing ,means that all the others do it the same it s called pivot..When i say the others i mean both black and white keys..because for exaple in the new casio stage pianos the whites are harder to push than the white ones and this is false..

[@SamDiazProducer]

@@anatol1204 Aftertouch?

[@anatol1204]

@@SamDiazProducer no!😄

[@SamDiazProducer]

@@anatol1204 oh ok I think I know what you mean now, the top of the keys does take more pressure to get a higher velocity response than the bottom of the keys. It's not completely consistent across the entire key.

[@1Mrsensitive]

Sounds good...what make is your desk?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Connect 5' Desk!

[@ts3867]

Hi! Can you tell if this board transfers the midi message of KEY RELEASE VELOCITY ?

[@SamDiazProducer]

I dont think so. I can do this within my daw though.

[@shin93gyungseek]

I want to know your desk size

[@SamDiazProducer]

5 feet width, 30 inches deep, and 30 inches height

[@GasifyMusic]

Hi Samuel! Thanks for the review. May I ask which piano patch you are using? I am thinking to buy the midi controller you are using, but still thinking which piano patch to use. Thanks!

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hi there Good Piano thank you so much! I'm using the Cinematic Studio Piano. Great for orchestral context. www.cinematicstudioseries.com/piano.html

[@WalnutDave]

im trying to start out :) i was wondering whats a free or cheap daw,vst,plugins for music and film scoring

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey David, there are many great free ones. There is one from Pro tools, Studio one, Ableton lite, Garage band which is, imo, a very stripped down version of Logic but it's great, free and has it's own instruments. If you are on Windows, Bandlab just re- released Cakewalk which is a full DAW with all the bells and whistles plus it brings a bunch of awesome software instruments all for free. You can check it out on their website. I composed this all in Cakewalk a while back: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zl69imynh9t7jrM The studio one is pretty great as well and more user friendly specially if you are just starting out. Those are all options and i suggest if you are just getting into film scoring to transcribe as many composers as you can and specially the ones you like the most as ultimately that will define your sound. Mike verta, probably my biggest composing mentor, has great videos on starting out in composing and performing midi. I've been thinking about doing online classes myself but only if there is enough demand for it. Let me know if you have any other questions at all. You can also private message me. Thanks and hope that helps.

[@LukasVokrinek]

This was a great review! I was wondering then, given the weight of these keys, do you have any idea what would be an alternative with weighted keys but not as heavy to fully press? I was looking at the Roland FP10 which is likely really good, but ideally I'd love something with a pitch + mod and at least one fader. Thanks! Real shame about the weight of the keys (I own the semi-weighted Axiom and it has stiff keys too so I was a bit suspicious)

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey Lukas! Thank you, it's tough to say because there are so many options out there and controllers that I haven't tried. The other day I did play around with a Casio psx1000 and really liked the feel of that one, weighted but smoother to play and it has a sort of ivory feel to the keys. I also own a Roland RD300 which has a very nice keys, not as heavy as the hammer 88 and it can also be pretty smooth (you can see me playing it in my other video on this channel). Im a huge fan of Roland in general. If you are coming from a semi-weighted synth like the axiom, then the hammer 88 is definitely gonna take some getting used to because I still use my keystation 88 and the difference is night and day from this one. My favorite action can be found on the keybed of a Yamaha KX88, which i own but some of the keys on it dont work since its like 30 years old but wow, its super inspiring to play and effortless to play all types of instruments on it. Perfect balance between a weighted and semi-weighted imo. Hope that helps somehow lol

[@B1ankeys]

@@SamDiazProducer can you recommend anything for a lighter action with good feel to still able to play piano expressively but also synth, organ, drums...stuff like that. i tried a numa compact2 but it felt horrible and the sounds werent very good...sticking to VST

[@SaidsanLive]

bro where did you find this black table ? 1

[@SamDiazProducer]

Tvilum Connect 5' Desk. I don't think they make it anymore thought.

[@forzanaples1984]

wow! congratulation...can the keyboard be hidden under the desk? if so?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Yes, you will just have to purchase a keyboard stand with wheels www.amazon.com/Plixio-Heavy-Style-Keyboard-Piano/dp/B079YWMH91/ref=asc_df_B079YWMH91/?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid={creative}&hvpos={adposition}&hvnetw=o&hvrand={random}&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl={devicemodel}&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4583932699665759&psc=1 Make sure your desk is high enough though. Cheers!!

[@barbodboloukat8229]

Veeeeerrrrrryyyyyyyy gggggooooooodddd Very excellent , High quality material Very nice 😎 😎 😎

[@SamDiazProducer]

Barbod Boloukat Thank you so much!

[@dooberknob3947]

Would you recommend this to someone wanting to learn how to play piano? (assuming an acoustic piano is not an option).

[@SamDiazProducer]

Yes! I would personally recommend it for that ! Also, after a while of playing and practicing on this you will notice you will be faster and your fingers will have more strength when you play on other pianos, controllers etc. Plus it's highly expressive which is super handy when learning piano parts accurately.

[@Peexuus]

Samuel Diaz do you mean with highly expressive that the dynamic range is good? In terms of velocity.

[@mmhcreates]

@@Peexuus seems likely

[@centuryt91]

can you tell me its Dimensions in cm ? i like to put it under my desk like yours buy i need its Dimensions thank you

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey Mohammed, check out my response above. This question seems to be very popular and I linked to both the products I own that make this possible. It should have specs on the website. Thank you!

[@centuryt91]

i did before and searched web sites for its dem but i want to fit it inside not an inch out

[@ejmusicofficial]

Do you still have his keyboard? Also, is it reliable and of good quality?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hi Emilio, I don't have it anymore. I use a Roland digital piano at the moment and currently in the market for a new 88 midi controller. The Hammer 88 was great when I had it and definitely great quality, it's actually built like a tank. The only reason I sold it was because I need something with more cc controls such as faders etc. but the hammer is definitely amazing for what it is and the feel is great.

[@ejmusicofficial]

@@SamDiazProducer I understand! I am thinking of buying a Studiologic Numa Compact 2x. Have you heard of it? It has drawbars! Do you know of a good quality midi keyboard with 61 keys that has sliders and knobs?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Emilio Jennette I’ve never tried it but I am guessing it has semi weighted keys? If so, I am a big fan of those since it makes it easier for me to lay down orchestral parts. I use to own a studio logic Numa 88 a while back, which I regret selling, and the quality on that was amazing. I haven’t tied many 61 key controllers but the new maudio oxygen 61 looks pretty sweet, would love to give it a try.

[@obafix]

An information please: what is the name of this desk? It have a specifical slider for the midi controller ? Thank you

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hi there, it's called Connect 5' desk. It's basically a 5 foot desk in black which is 32" off the floor. It cost me around $90. I don't know if they make them anymore but it shouldn't be hard to find something similar to it. Hope that helps.

[@obafix]

@@SamDiazProducer Thank you! ✌️😁

[@fajarwisga6555]

After some while using that midi controller, how would you tell about its velocity sensitivity ? Any degradation or maintained the first impression? I am thinking about buying one

[@SamDiazProducer]

Velocity sensitivity is great, I really like it. Just know that if you want the highest velocity playing, while still maintaining a relatively express setting for those soft passages, that you are gonna have to play very hard. If you are working in a DAW , then this easily editable after the fact. Hope that helps!!

[@OfficiallyTuda]

Bro...what software are you using for the symphonic sounds? Whew! 👏

[@SamDiazProducer]

Musical Sampling in this video! Great stuff!!

[@albertbsas]

Good morning ! I have a similar one since 2 years ago but I do not get all the performance it allows. The manual seems little bit complicated to me. Question: how do you raise / lower the halftones across the whole keyboard and restore values to normal? Thank you very much for your valuable contribution

[@SamDiazProducer]

It's all in the software!!

[@WilliamJae]

Are the sounds(demos) installed in the keyboard or are all these demos from other softwares or something? Could someone clarify this for me?

[@ReductioAdAbsurdum]

What is that desk? Seems perfect for the keyboard.

[@SamDiazProducer]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hmWcd558ppySkKM

[@msnrc]

How do you connect it to the computer? Using MIDI or USB? Do connect it to the audio interface or directly to the computer?

[@Persun_McPersonson]

This is a MIDI controller, which means it's just a peripheral to control MIDI data and as such doesn't come with built-in sounds. You can connect it directly to the computer via USB MIDI, or using a USB-to-MIDI-DIN interface if you wanna go oldschool. It's also USB powered, so you don't need an AC/DC adapter. You could also directly use a 5-pin DIN cable to connect to and control an instrument that does have its own sounds, such as a hardware synthesizer, though in that case you'd need a AC adapter to power the keyboard. It comes with some software codes, so even though it has no in-built sounds, it does give you some really good virtual instruments; it also gives you a DAW (digital audio workstation) to use them in-Ableton Live Lite- in case you want to record your performance or an entire song, as well as some other sofware.

[@msnrc]

@@Persun_McPersonson Thank you very much for the detailed explanation!

[@Persun_McPersonson]

@@msnrc You're very welcome! I have updated it to explain things better aswell. I'm glad I could help you decide if this keyboard is for you!

[@billybingbang]

I’m new to this, is there any reason to connect this to an external audio interface instead of directly in to the computer?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Simon Hedlund Hi Simon, there are many reasons for this such as better monitoring, better sound quality depending on the interface, inputs for mics and instruments, headphone drivers for certain headphones etc. You can do research on this and see if it fits your needs. Btw if you are interested in film scoring tips or mock ups check out the other videos on my channel. Hope that helps, thanks for watching!

[@dryvur]

Hey Sam, which audio interface would you recommend? I was under the impression that going from midi controller into an audio interface was like midi going into another midi and then to the pc. I thought there was no advantage to that. Does going through an interface create more latency?

[@nobodyhome3753]

You should try out Imperfect Samples pianos sometime.

[@SamDiazProducer]

I actually own both the Fazioli and the Steinway Walnut from Imperfect Samples. Love them beyond words and use them all the time for more intimate cues that I do. I used "Cinematic Studio Piano" on this because it was the first thing I had on my piano list in my template.

[@aungsiminhtet]

Thanks for the great review. May I know which software are you using to play piano and other sounds?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Cinematic Piano from Cinematic Sounds and Musical Sampling for the Orchestral Instruments.

[@SamDiazProducer]

All played through Presonus Studio One

[@aungsiminhtet]

Thanks for the answer 🙏🙏

[@disneytok]

What are the other controllers you have on your desk to pair with the M-Audio Hammer 88?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hi there, the other controller I have here is a nanokontrol to automate modwheel, expression, breathe etc. CC data! Its cheap and gets the job done!

[@thomasschatton3481]

Hi Sam, nice review! 👍 You say that playing the Hammer 88 feels like playing a real piano. But unlike a real piano the keyboard does not have a scaled action (meaning the lower keys are heavier to play than the keys in the higher octaves), or does it?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hi there Thomas, I just posted a new video today where I answer questions and at the 3:00 minute mark you can find my answer to this question. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hmWcd558ppySkKM

[@thomasschatton3481]

@@SamDiazProducer Oh, thank you! Great!

[@JaisinghSundar01]

Hi just wanted to know which software you use for trumpet and horn

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hi there, I’m using Musical Sampling’s Adventure Brass Trumpets and Spitfire Symphony Brass 6 Horns performance legato patch.

[@aakashsamuelpradeep1074]

hey is there anyway i can TRANSPOSE while using the hammer 88??

[@SamDiazProducer]

Yeap!! It's all highly customizable except for the velocity responses which are based only on a few presets.

[@emanuelubierna8361]

Hi wich DAW you use with this keyboard??

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hi there, I’m using Studio One in the video and still use it at the moment.

[@emanuelubierna8361]

@@SamDiazProducer Thank you!!

[@SamDiazProducer]

Hey everyone!! If you are into orchestral or film scoring music, check out my latest video where I showcase Orchestral Tools Berlin Inspire in action. I show you how i take a short music piece from beginning to end utilizing very simple techniques and only a few instruments. Enjoy!!

[@josephlafuentegmail]

Are there other midi controllers with weighted action and less keys? like maybe 61?

[@josephlafuentegmail]

@@samueldiaz9983 Thanks man!

[@aureocalles942]

HOW DO YOU GET YOUR LATENCY TO SOUND SO GOOD ????

[@SamDiazProducer]

It’s at 512mb believe it or not

[@SamDiazProducer]

I’ve learned to compensate

[@paulvelez6256]

Type of desk is that bruh?

[@SamDiazProducer]

Paul Velez Hey Paul! That’s an old desk called connect 5’ desk with a piano stand that has casters on it. Now a days I’m using an ikea height adjustable desk with the same stand and it’s a great alternative to spending a ton of money on desks with pullout keyboard trays. Hope that helps.