M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro Review (For Virtual Orchestration)

[@zelly8163]

Hi, six months ago after watching many reviews of the Arturia mk2 and the M-Audio hammer 88 pro - I kept coming back to your reviews of these two kybs. You convinced me so, I went out and got the Hammer Pro 88. Just writing to say a "big thank you!" I love it and play it every day.

[@DIDCHOI]

Aw, that's awesome! Glad you love it! The Arturia seems like a much better keyboard in terms of features, size and interface, but I've found the Hammer much more satisfying to play.

[@NasserSharaf]

This is one of the best reviews I've seen on this unit. Great Job!

[@DIDCHOI]

Thanks! Means a lot!

[@leighgoldstein3119]

The purpose of the red felt along the length of the keyboard is to dampen the sound when the keys pop back up after they are played. Wood on wood or plastic on plastic would be noisy and annoying. Good review.

[@DIDCHOI]

That makes a lot of sense! hahaha. Thanks!

[@leighgoldstein3119]

I used to be a piano technician.

[@DIDCHOI]

@@leighgoldstein3119 cool!

[@zimtstange3505]

Just wanted to say a big thank you as I'm currently deciding between the Arturia and the Hammer 88 Pro, so your videos are super helpful! Also, in case it helps anyone else, adding my 2 cents below, as I also owned the Native Instruments S88 for about a month. I had so many issues (loud clicking noises on 2 keys, mod-wheel sending jumpy signals even without touching it!) with that thing, I had to return it three times. Though I decided they should keep it the third time as I had enough of it and wanted my money back. When the local store here told me that others had similar issues with this model I knew that it was the right decision. That's why I'm now deciding between Arturia and M-Audio. Luckily, I recently had the chance to try out both in a big music store, and I agree 100% with what you said in your video: the Hammer 88 Pro feels more "clicky", but as you said it's not disturbing at all. The keybed feels nice and it's a little quieter than the Arturia, especially less bassy. I personally also like the lighter touch for percussion programming. The fact that it's cheaper and that the faders are on the left just add to it. So I think I'll go for the Hammer 88 Pro. That being said, the Arturia also had a very nice feel, the keybed is a tad too heavy for my taste, but still very very good. It also has a pretty nice design. What I loved most about it was its smaller size, it almost made me go for it as that's my only concern with the M-Audio. Btw, in the store, I also played on the NI S88 again, just for the lols, and it felt (and sounded) like crap. About half the keys had a loud clicking noise. In fairness, that might be due to it being an exhibit, but then again, no other keyboards in the store felt that bad. Besides, a keyboard with such a hefty price should handle people ...playing it. I once read that the NI S88 is supposed to have the same Fatar keybed as the Arturia (even though NI nowhere states the exact model). If that's really the case, NI probably fiddled with it in some way, or Arturia has some newer version of it. They definitely feel different. Again, (if you've read that far lol) thanks very much for your videos!

[@DIDCHOI]

Wow, thanks for the awesome comment! Good to hear an opinion on the NI S88. I haven't got a chance to try an 88 version, cause my local shops never seem to have it. But I also heard its the Fatar keyboard according to people that have opened it up, but also that it is different feeling. Don't know why they made it sooo heavy. Like for the longest time, digital keyboards weren't heavy enough, then they went on the opposite end of the spectrum! Still think the M-Audio is on the lighter side, but still in the acceptable grand piano feel spectrum, so it is my ultimate pick. Thanks!

[@iasyama1999]

great input man

[@kaarlo62]

@zimtsatange Your comment, real good stuff. I’ve been looking comparisons for the key feels a lot. Thank you!

[@zimtstange3505]

@@kaarlo62 Glad I could help!

[@corinasechelariu1307]

I can confirm the issue with the NI S88 MK2. I make music for almost 20 years, and after a year of use the S88 I develop some sensitivity(pain) in my fingers to the point I hate the process because the keys are way too heavy. I played few REAL pianos in my life and the fell is much lighter and easy to play than many Midi keyboard. It is such a misconception that real pianos are as heavy as the S88 MK2, Studiologic, Akai... Nothing more false. After almost 6 months of using M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro, I can say with all my heart that I started to love making music again. Zero issue, works like a charm, and when I play it is something else. Maybe not like a real piano ... maybe better, because Midi controllers are made to perform multiple instruments. I'm very happy with my M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro and I cannot recommend enough this keyboard over everything is on the market today.

[@devynnlashure]

I love your wit and demeanor. I'm also a composer, mainly of orchestral or contemporary music - though I also have a passion for EDM and IDM music, etc. I found this video very informative, very personal and very honest - as is hard to come by these days. This is the last of the 10 or 12 videos I've watched on the M-Audio Hammer 88 pro, and I believe I am done. As such I have added the M-Audio Hammer 88 pro to my Sweetwater shopping cart and plan to buy it tomorrow. Many thanks and praises unto thee. Keep the content coming. I've subscribed and lit up the bell.

[@DIDCHOI]

Wow, thank you Devynn! That means a lot to me! Glad you were able to make a decision with my content! Thanks for the sub too!

[@rickhood]

I agree, very useful video. So hard to choose though. I also do orchestral or contemporary and can't decide between a keyboard with "all the things" like the KeyLab MKII 88, and something much simpler like even a Yamaha P45 or 125, or something like this M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro or Studiologic SL88 Grand. I currently have a KeyLab 61 -- not wild about the synth like keys -- and I practice piano on an old Yamaha P80, which I love, and does have midi out.

[@javascript6948]

Cant figure out how to map cc info for instrument i cant find that chapter in the manual . Wonder if anyone can help?

[@modelcitizen1977]

Aftertouch is one of those things you never use until you really need it and then you’re glad you have it instead of having to edit 10 volume curves by hand.

[@DIDCHOI]

What sort of parameters do you use with it?

[@lattetown]

It's funny, the main orchestral sample libraries I have don't use aftertouch...at least not out of the box. I think of it more as a synth expression.

[@modelcitizen1977]

@@DIDCHOI Usually volume to get a horn or string swell or modulation

[@BuddyGrizzard]

Thanks for this and the Arturia 88 review. Still trying to decide.

[@DIDCHOI]

They’re both awesome. Really depends on the feel and how much you care about UI I think

[@evansandora2925]

Great video man! Really well done

[@KE010101]

That was a really good overall review, thanks!

[@DIDCHOI]

Thanks!

[@omniburn]

Great video. Your content quality is amazing!

[@DIDCHOI]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@jaybefaulky4902]

D.I.D. CHOI *your videos are EXCELLENT*

[@DIDCHOI]

Thanks!! What an EXCELLENT comment hahaha

[@GiovanniNicotera]

First of all that's such a great review for a controller I'm considering buying. I have a question though: since I was also looking for some other similar keyboards, I heard the Arturia Mk2 has some issues when it comes to the velocity response of some keys compared to other keys. I think they meant the response is uneven between black keys and white keys. This of course would affect the playing and would not feel natural at all. How does the Maudio keyboard feels like as to this aspect? Is it possible to get to play a good vst grand piano through this controller with a relatively good feel within the playing and not getting unwanted leaps in velocity ? Thank you!

[@NorseJedi]

Thank you for a great review. I've been meaning to buy an 88 key controller for a while now to replace my Akai MPK249 as I'm trying to learn to play the piano, and that's pretty difficult with just 49 keys. I had more or less decided to buy the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2, and then I recently discovered the Hammer 88 Pro and the Arturia Keylab 88 MKII, and both of them seem to suit my needs much better. Couldn't quite decide which of them to get though, but several of the points you brought up made a lot of sense to me as well, so I actually ended up putting in the order for the Hammer 88 Pro while watching this review. I'll know if I made the right choice in a few days :)

[@DIDCHOI]

Hahaha, now I feel slightly responsible...hahaha hope you like it! It's certainly my keyboard of choice!

[@NorseJedi]

You SHOULD feel a bit responsible, but that's a good thing :) So far I'm liking it a lot, but damn that thing is heavy. I'm gonna have to build a little bit more robust tray for it than I had originally planned ;) Only problem I have with it so far is an issue with the channel change and chord mode changes not working correctly. It's all offset to the left by 15 keys, so the key that should set channel 1 actually sets channel 16, and the keys for the Chord Mode changes are also offset in the same way. I've just contacted M-Audio support about it so hopefully they can either tell me how to fix it, or tell me to have the unit replaced by the store where I bought it, either is fine by me. First thing I did when I got it was upgrade to the latest firmware (2.1.1), but I imagine they'd already know about it and have a new version out if it was a bug there. But we'll see, as long as I get it fixed somehow I'm happy :)

[@jubilantyogurt]

@@NorseJedi So where you happy with the purchase?

[@lofi_Insomnia_]

This video helps me made the decision to buy Hammer 88 Pro instead of Arturia

[@DIDCHOI]

Dang, hope you enjoy it!

[@soeuninseoul]

LOL i didnt even know you did KZbin :') these shots are sick!!

[@DIDCHOI]

Hahaha, thanks! I really liked your editing style!

[@soeuninseoul]

@@DIDCHOI thanks!

[@ALARICFILMS]

Thanks for the great and usefull review, Choi! Means a lot..

[@DIDCHOI]

Thanks!!

[@Ri0GenMusic]

I just bought this today! I'm doing some pre-arrival research and this video is a great in-depth look which is just what I wanted. This would be my 2nd keyboard ever and I'm coming from a Yamaha PSR EW300, so I'm HYPED. That's a little disappointing that you can't get the pedal to work properly though, I hope that what I have will work. Incase it won't, what pedal would you suggest? (and what good reasonably priced computer stand as well?)

[@hmac66]

Hi and thanks for a great review. A just bought the Hammer 88 Pro and the M-audio EX-P Expression pedal. Any luck with your pedal/pedals? The EX-P has no effect whatsoever when plugged into the Expression jack, regardless of the polarity switch position. No help at all from m-audio. Wondering if there is an additional driver for the EX-P but can find no info. anywhere.

[@DIDCHOI]

I had that setup at home, before moving to NY, and I recall not having any problems with the Expression pedal. Maybe check the mapping software?

[@hmac66]

@@DIDCHOI Thanks so much for the prompt reply. Deep into the Hammer 88 manual, I found a reference to pedals, specifically a sustain pedal but it worked for the EX-P as well: The pedal has to be in the up position (heel down) for the keyboard to recognize it properly when you turn on the keyboard. Now looking for another controller that has decent support - looking at support reviews they're all really bad. Thanks to guys like you we can eventually come to a solution. kzbin.info

[@athinagorask]

Thank you so much for the great review and analysis. I actually bought the Arturia Keylab 88 mkii, and indeed the keys feel quite heavy compared to a grand piano. I am a classical pianist, and I was wondering whether you have tried the Studiologic SL88 Grand, as it supposedly has a very natural feel too and is in the same price range as the M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro.

[@DIDCHOI]

Hi, haven’t tried it, but I hear it’s the same keyboard as the Arturia, which led me to avoid it.

[@josephajayi1261]

Great review and very factual!

[@DIDCHOI]

Thanks man!

[@trevorspittle5478]

Thanks for a good review. I've got a SL Studio 88 which I love but I'm getting an Oxygen Pro 39 mainly for portability. Hope I can use the controls on the 39 to work the DAW for the 88. MA 39 cost less than a SL Mix Face. This could be fun!

[@DIDCHOI]

Hope you're enjoying it! I have the Mini version for portability and it's quite good. Can use a lot of the functionality too!

[@SuperLeonSax]

🎉 Congratulations you found 👏 a keeper.

[@carlosgalan6523]

Hi, D.I.D. CHOI A couple of weeks ago I bought an M-audio Hammer 88 Pro to use with Reaper (which, by the way, I still haven't managed to integrate with the Hammer 88 Pro, even though it supposedly comes from the factory with a preset already configured for Reaper) and I've read in some forum (I've also seen some videos on KZbin about it) that, intermittently, the device hangs notes, which makes it absolutely inoperative. It also happens to me, when I have tried to configure the transport keys of the keyboard to work with my DAW (Reaper). As you are an expert on this equipment, are you aware of this problem?, do you have a solution for it? Thank you very much.

[@DIDCHOI]

Yeah, I’m not an expert on controllers by any means and I don’t use reaper so I can’t help too much. Sometimes you have to add drivers and such to the DAW itself, have you followed those instructions?

[@xinaesthetic]

Somewhat disturbing reading this comment. What are your thoughts on it a couple of years down the line?

[@carlosgalan6523]

I switched from DAW and these problems disappeared.

[@bandofhuman]

This video came at the perfect time…it just so happened I was comparing the 88 pro with the keylab. I do both pop, rock and orchestral production and need DAW control. The layout of the maudio totally makes more sense to me-and hearing those thuddy noises and impression of overly “heavy” feel from the action on keylab gave me slight pause. I am leaning toward the maudio if for nothing else than the better layout of the controls. Btw- I agree with your ideal workstation setup. Excellent and detailed review of both products-Thank you ! Cheers

[@DIDCHOI]

I'm so glad it helped! The ergonomics of the M Audio does make a lot of sense!

[@giodew]

nice review, for 6:44 , you might consider having usb hub that has on/off switch

[@DIDCHOI]

Yeah, that could be a solution. It'd be nice to do an Alexa/Google setup that turns everything on/off in the right sequence too

[@heythere6983]

I did by a used m audio 88, the basic version of it, non weighted, no pads, etc. I got it to use synths and have a keyboard to use in production . However I am not a pianist or keyboardist. When it comes to weighted keys, does it affect the responsiveness of the synths and virtual instruments you use? I’ve wondered if weighted keyboard will be more responsive to the softness and hardness of my touch when using a virtual instrument, more so than an Unweighted keyboard. I was about to buy the native instruments one since it also came with kontakt. But I am curious about if certain keyboards simply perform better in that aspect. Or is it all simply about “feel” and has nothing to do with sound?

[@DIDCHOI]

Weighed will give you MUCH more control for softer dynamics. Non weighted tend to have you stuck at 127 very often. For synth playing, some might find it too heavy, especially for lots of gliss stuff on Hammonds. The NI stuff has some integrated knobs that people love. I map my own stuff and prefer faders so I went with the Maudio

[@heythere6983]

Thanks for that! Time for an upgrade for sure then. I really appreciate that help

[@5amJones69]

Basically depends on whether the synth your playing is velocity sensetive.

[@tonezou3918]

Hi, do you happen to know how does it compare to the Roland FP-30? My FP-30 has very heavy and sloppy (with slower recoil) keys? My hands get tired and it is hard to play very fast notes with smooth transactions, so I want to upgrade it to anything that feels more realistic.

[@DIDCHOI]

Roland is a hit or miss for many. The best feeling will be the Roland A88s or the Kawai high end midi controllers. But those are either expensive or don't have many features. The Hammer series hits the perfect balance in my opinion. It sacrifices some of the subtleties of a piano touch but nails the weight and includes great features.

[@carmelacatalinasolisalcara4725]

I would like to see how it works with MuseScore or Sibelius for orchestral scoring! Loved this video, btw.

[@DIDCHOI]

What kind of thing are you interested in in regards to the keyboard and notation? Most things are pretty much the same across all keyboards for note input I would say

[@carmelacatalinasolisalcara4725]

@@DIDCHOI For example if I want to make voicing for strings. Can I set individual instruments in the keyboard so when I play the chord it displays in the sheet music on it's own voice? Or how to configure it for working with scoring software. I use a lot of shortcuts but I'm interested in using a midi controller instead. Thanks btw

[@DIDCHOI]

@@carmelacatalinasolisalcara4725 Hmm not exactly sure what you mean. You mean playing for example 5 notes at a time and have the notation split it into 5 different stave? That wouldn't work live, but you could always use the explode functions. I suppose you could set hot keys onto keys on the keyboard but that would all be highly customized and up to the person's workflow, don't think there are any presets doing that.

[@kasoimusic]

@@carmelacatalinasolisalcara4725 Hola Carmela, hablo español pero para casos de que el autor del vídeo también entienda escribiré en inglés. (Above it says, Hi Carmela, i speak Spanish but for the autor of this video understands, i will response in english) As a long term Sibelius user, i wouldn't conceive how to work over independent voices in the way that you state, my workflow has always been use the keypad for choosing note length and then input notes and chords. If i needed to work over SATB formats, i would use a DAW for Midi recording, and then rip off the midi notes for each voicing, turn them into MIDI files and paste them into a independent Sibelius instrument then arrange the voicing. I don't know any workaround or plugin in Sibelius that does what you are aiming for, but it would be really useful, as a fact, it has to be built from Sibelius, no midi controller can be over the notation software in terms of drivers or such, as the video author says, MIDI input is a straightforward protocol for parameters. I used MuseScore a little but i would say that it doesn't have that feature neither. I hope this information can help you. Saludos !

[@carmelacatalinasolisalcara4725]

Thanks the both of you!

[@penatech]

Thanks for your videos...you go straight to the point. I'm just a beginner in using DAW, but has been playing piano for over 30 years and classically trained. I just recently bought the latest M1 MacBook Air with Logic Pro. I have been considering getting the Hammer 88 Pro or the Arturia Keylab 88 MKii. I have not decided yet. From M-Audio's website, the 88 Pro is not M1 compatible yet, so buy at your own risk, I guess. While the Keylab 88 MKii, is on the way with being M1 certified, but has a workaround using Rosetta for now. Any comments or recommendations? Or perhaps know if the hammer pro will work on an M1?

[@DIDCHOI]

Hi, a MIDI controller should be compatible with everything for general use. The only things that the M1 might not yet be fully compatible with yet is the software that comes with the controller. So you may have some faulty experiences with mapping stuff, saving presets, etc. But for simple stuff, there shouldn't be too much issue. Though I don't have the M1 (still waiting on the M1X stuff) so I can't confirm

[@penatech]

@@DIDCHOI Now a couple of months in, do you still say this was a good purchase? No issues so far, I hope. Again, thanks for your videos. Got me interested into trying out orchestral music arranging.

[@DIDCHOI]

I love it! Sometimes, the sustain pedal has issues, which is strange cause it’s an Maudio pedal. Flipping the polarity switch doesn’t always solve it, while sometimes it does. Not a huge issue for me now, but sometimes annoying. But this happened on the Arturia too for me, so I might have a defective Maudio pedal

[@penatech]

@@DIDCHOI In one of your posts, you mentioned you had the S90ES, which I also have (with FC3 pedal) aside from my CVP-407. But as I am new to DAW/Midi, I didn't even try to use the S90ES with the M1 Logic. Perhaps I should try that first.

[@DIDCHOI]

Yeah I love the S90ES. It was my main master controller for years. The drivers are all outdated so you can’t use any of the transport controls or assign CC controls. BUT it still works for basic MIDI. I used the USB B to USB A or C cable for a long time, but I think one of the OS updates killed that. So I reverted to five pin MIDI to USB and it worked like a charm. I only needed the mod wheel, sustain, and the keys themselves for my work so I didn’t need anything else. Though now I like to have expression and vibrato assigned to faders with CC1 as well

[@mungxn4751]

Thanks for your great reviews! I'm a fairly experienced music producer (pop/edm) and am interested in entering into orchestral production(e.g., movies/games with a lot of strings, and brasses). But I'd also like to learn playing piano properly. So far in my career I've just produced music with a tiny simple midi-controller and piano roll with mouse+kb. So, thinking about getting either any 61 semi-weighted or a Hammer 88 pro to get going with both production and learning. I'm leaning towards starting with a hammer pro 88 for all-round usage, but am a bit worried it will be too difficult for a non-classical pianist like me and that some instruments will be really difficult to play on it due to the key weight. Any recommendations?

[@DIDCHOI]

Hey, hope you found a good keyboard. Late response! But I don't think the Hammer is too heavy, I think it's just right, so would still recommend it!

[@nonbinarymetv]

Thank you for the great review. May I ask, now that some time has passed, how id the M-Audio holding up? Are you still very happy with it?

[@DIDCHOI]

Yeah, I still love it! Very handy. Love the layout. The keys feel great!

[@DavaakhuuG]

If Arturia s88 mkii fader located at left side it will be amazing… just my thought

[@DIDCHOI]

It really would be! With a slightly lighter keybed too

[@oscar_sheen]

Hi Choi, where is the M-Audio Hammer 88 place of manufacture? Thanks.

[@DIDCHOI]

Not sure, but I’d guess China. It’s a very reasonable price for what it is so it must be imported from a cheaper country

[@arnelborderon4728]

This is such WONDERFUL review!!! Made me subscribe to your channel!! You got some nice stuff!! Are you still using the M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro? Would you recommend it?

[@DIDCHOI]

Yes I am! I love it! Feels great. Was away from it for a few months with the Oxygen Pro 61 instead, but coming back to it, it feels amazing. Definitely recommend. Especially with the key sensitivity at “soft”

[@paullebon323]

I bought an Arturia MK2 88. It arrived with 5 broken black keys. I might get this instead. Or I might just get my money back as I already have a MK2 61 and a Kawai MP11SE.

[@Spidouz]

2:26 Yeah, that’s something I don’t understand at all, why Arturia keep placing the faders on the right and pads on the left… that’s just completely backward.

[@DIDCHOI]

Ikr!? Like who uses faders with their right hand?

[@PurpleRevolutionMusic]

they're French. everything is upside down there. they call aids sida and the nato otan.

[@framlucasse]

Hello, by any chance, do you know if it works well with Arturia Analog Lab ? Faders and knobs. Thanks.

[@DIDCHOI]

It won’t map immediately, but you can create a preset to do that!

[@MediaMusik777]

this keyboard is boss ...I got the 61 ....btw do you have a m1 mac ... I cannot get the editor to work...also in the daw it shows a editor midi device ?

[@DIDCHOI]

It's great! I have the M1Max, but I haven't tried the editor on it recently. That's something I should look into. All my settings are the same as before I got this computer

[@bertoygoryo]

thanks a lot for this detailed review. have you also considered Kurzweil KM88?

[@DIDCHOI]

I haven’t really looked into it actually

[@jadenphan8106]

Hi D.I.D. Choi, Did you ever consider buying a digital piano like (Korg D1, Kawai ES110) and use it as a midi keyboard? I know they are very limited (no pitch/mod, knobs, faders, aftertouch, etc), but they do have great keybeds. I guess, I am debating whether I should just get the M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro?

[@DIDCHOI]

Yeah, actually before getting into MIDI, I used to have a Yamaha Clavinova that felt amazing and I did some initial midi stuff with it, this was like 10 years ago haha. It’s cluncky and lacks functionality as you say but it feels amazing. I think in the current market, you have to compromise, but the Hammer 88 pro is the closest to having the best of both worlds

[@GentleTA]

@@DIDCHOI perfect! Thank you! I think I might pull the trigger on this soon. Lastly, I’ve seen someone report midi hanging issue with M-audio hammer 88 pro, and oxygen lines. Have you experienced such issues?

[@DIDCHOI]

@@GentleTA I personally haven’t so can’t say. Unless your playing live though midi hang is just an annoyance, and live, you’d have a panic button

[@france4me117]

How can you compare this with the Arturia Keylab 88 Mk II ... I see no problem with the Arturia and yes, I'm a pianist that plays Rachmaninov, Shostakovich, Debussy and many other including Jazz !!!! I totally understand that some musicians like lighter actions which are almost synth based keybed and say whilst the Arturia Keylab 88 Mk II it's actually brilliant for pianists.

[@mauriciomiranda220]

how did you get into becoming a film composer?

[@mbotemutheki1712]

Nice man ty

[@Jeremy-su3xy]

nice video. Is it okay to practice piano with semi-weighted keys?

[@DIDCHOI]

If you're serious about piano, I wouldn't recommend it. As a hobby, I suppose so.

[@niteshapte]

Hammer keys are just for feel or can it help to create different sound (not just volume) like a real piano when pressed softer or harder? My understanding is that it's your software that produces sound then what role hammer keys play except for the feel of real piano keys? As far as sound is considered, same sound can be produced from same software or sound plugin using semi-weighted or not at all weighted keys. Please correct me if I am wrong.

[@DIDCHOI]

Yup, ultimately, sound is determined by velocity (ie how hard the key is struck). The hammers just let you play more nuanced, and maybe access the 127 values with more control, where as a less weighted keyboard might have you hitting 127 too often.

[@pierrebroccoli.9396]

Good review. With instrument switching live, I would set up my instruments in Reaper on individual tracks with record arm when selected and then just use track selection configured buttons either drum pads or what floats your boat. Quick and easy. How is it going are you still using it? I want a 88 weighted midi controller with a relatively light action. Not impressed with the limitations NI are giving with the new S88 mk3. Yes, Steinway Grands have a nice light action - don't have to bash the crap out of them to get them to sing. 😁

[@DIDCHOI]

I'm still using it and loving it. One slight gripe is that sometimes it boots up with my preset and settings, sometimes it reverts to the "default" and I'm not sure how to save it so it boots to my settings. But that seems to just work for some times while others not. Feels and plays great though! (Definitely change the keyboard sensitivity to Low or Medium though)

[@musictheory4u153]

I'm not a fan of the clicky sound of the keys. Won't a mic catch that if recording a video with VoiceOver as I´m playing?

[@DIDCHOI]

Yes that will be picked up. But no keyboard exists that doesn’t make the thumping sounds. Even real pianos make the sound, it’s just masked by the actual strings resonating

[@studyandworkwithmephilippi5171]

How about the velocity range? I hope you can try.

[@DIDCHOI]

What do you mean? Of course it can do everything from 0-127. The way you scale it will be different of course. I think there was a velocity demo in the video, unless you mean something else?

[@ChaseMusic87]

I just watched one video 7 months ago about the issue on hanging notes? Hope it is fixed? I am targeting to buy one next month and this bothered me ☹️

[@DIDCHOI]

Hanging notes? Was it a issue from the keyboard itself and not the DAW? I don’t think I ran into this issue

[@ChaseMusic87]

@@DIDCHOI yeah the guy said the issue was with the keyboard. It has been replaced and came with the same issue so he returned it to Sweetwater which he said he got 100% full refund. I was so happy with your review and then suddenly I just saw that video and it makes me think. twice as i am looking for my first every midi keyboard, first ever weighted graded keys and Im afraid to be disappointed :(

[@DIDCHOI]

@@ChaseMusic87 interesting? Not sure how a midi controller could have hanging notes in itself on a physical/code level. I’ve just never come across something like that. Wonder if he tried different software to test it out rather than using the same setup each time

[@ChaseMusic87]

@@DIDCHOI I might question his setup as well. you are right. One last question , I know it doesn't come with a power adaptor, but does it require one somehow? or USB cable is really enough to power this keyboard? thanks in advance and hope to see more of your videos.

[@shivanakireddy5893]

Nice video

[@DIDCHOI]

Thanks! New Oxygen Pro 61 review out too!

[@photonspark]

Thanks for this. How much lag would this controller have vs a digital piano with internal sounds? (using a PC with i7 Cpu and 32MB Ram)

[@DIDCHOI]

Depends on your computer/DAW/Audio interface settings. With a 64 buffer and a good interface, could be as low as 3-6ms which is imperceptible. Even 20ms would feel fine. And of course; real pianos actually have around 80ms of latency for the hammer to hit the string (which is not the same as digital latency but something to keep in mind)

[@mauriciomiranda220]

what kind of music have you done and for what movies?

[@DIDCHOI]

Still a student doing student films and smaller projects. Hopefully will take on bigger projects in the near future

[@Sasuke99767]

Great review. Really helpful.I have to buy it👍

[@DIDCHOI]

Thanks! Hope you enjoy it

[@agafonovtimur]

Hello, D.I.D. CHOI . Thank you for your review. I have a yamaha p 45 and learn to play piano. If you pllayed on yamaha: does this keyboard feels the same(weight of keys), better or worse? If not: Is it good to learn piano with vst like east west pianos? Is it velocity sensetive? Is it still good after half a year?

[@DIDCHOI]

Hey, thanks for the comment. I learned piano on a Yamaha Clavinova, which has really excellent touch. My S90ES has a decent touch (its the balanced action I believe), but the Hammer 88 is better. The overall weight does feel similar to the S90ES, but the hammer feel is more realistic and its "slightly" heavier. If I was learning piano seriously, like learning Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, Debussy, then I'd search for something more serious, like a Clavinova series piano from yamaha, a HP series from Roland, or an actually upright piano if the noise is acceptable. VSTs also have a little more lag than a built in piano sound, so if you end up being accustomed to that lag, you might have trouble playing in recitals and such. I think the Hammer 88 is better than a p45, but for piano learning, I'd go with something with even better touch if possible.

[@agafonovtimur]

@@DIDCHOI Thanks for reply. Do you know : is clavinova( 735 or 635) good as midi keyboard? Wanna try myself as a composer. Does it have a good velocity curve for vst instruments? Is hammer 88 pro better for vst cause its a midi keyboard(dont count that it has no mod wheel and other knobs, only keyboard quality)?

[@DIDCHOI]

@@agafonovtimur The yamaha Clavinovas have amazing keys across the line. This has their grand action with wooden keys, it'll be better than a hammer 88 in feel. As long as you're okay with not having controllers, it'll be fine. Might be too heavy for some synth/organ-style playing or fast repetitions in brass and such. But there are always work arounds

[@annode]

Apparently no one cares about keyboard split zones. For 88 key controllers, how many zones and how they are handled is way important for me. "The keybed (the piano keys) on your Hammer 88 Pro can be divided into 1-4 “zones.” When zones are active each zone can send its controls’ MIDI messages over its own MIDI channel. You can assign the parameters for the keybed/zones in Preset Edit mode only. Tip: This feature is great for dividing your keyboard between different virtual instruments or synthesizers. For example, you can create two zones, each using a different MIDI channel, and play and control two virtual instruments simultaneously-one with each half of the keys. Note: Any other controls whose Channel settings are set to this zone will send their messages using this channel as well. " (from user manual)

[@Jack_Sparrow_1]

@D.I.D. CHOI They all say that the Kawai VPC1 is the midi keyboard with the best piano feel.

[@DIDCHOI]

Haven't tried it, but would be very interested to

[@EugeneOleynik86]

What are you shooting with?

[@DIDCHOI]

I use the Canon EOS RP. 35mm, 50mm lenses usually. Sometimes a 16 for vlogs

[@mixanyarstudio3071]

what that faders gonna do with a vst instrument???

[@DIDCHOI]

Anything from automating dynamics, vibrato, LFOs, and any other settings

[@zachricemusic]

To reverse the FC3 footswitch polarity, press the pedal down while you turn on the keyboard.

[@DIDCHOI]

It's a good trick to know for sure, but it hasn't worked in this case unfortunately.

[@zachricemusic]

@@DIDCHOI Oh that's too bad then :(

[@zachricemusic]

@@DIDCHOI The M-Audio SP 2 has a polarity switch on the bottom. That could be a viable alternative.

[@DIDCHOI]

@@zachricemusic yeah. The Maudio pedal obviously works perfectly with the hammer. The Yamaha pedal just didn’t seem to be very compatible. Maudio doesn’t have half pedalling but it works well

[@HammyHavoc]

Still enjoying this? Unhappy KKMK2 user currently.

[@DIDCHOI]

I love it!

[@samuelfrench80]

Do you (or anyone out there) use it with Logic Pro? What's your experience?

[@DIDCHOI]

I do use it with Logic, but I don’t really use the daw mode that often. Mostly programming midi CCs. But in my tests, it seemed to work well

[@brainbrain542]

Good video quality but why is the background music so hot? Why does there need to be a music bed in every video.

[@DIDCHOI]

Haha had a phase of loud music. Oh well

[@martin42382]

Can you use Komplete 12 or 13 using this Keyboard?

[@DIDCHOI]

I don’t use Komplete so I can’t confirm..but you can map stuff to the same values as a Komplete kontroller

[@Ewang2727]

@@DIDCHOI wait you don't use kontakt or komplete? What do you use side from spitfire

[@DIDCHOI]

@@Ewang2727 I use kontakt of course haha. I was referring to the immediate NKS mapping that Komplete Kontrol keyboards offer.

[@lattetown]

I'm curious did you try the Arturia Keylab 88 essential...because it has lighter semi-weighted keys unlike the Arturia KeyLab Mk2 88-key.

[@DIDCHOI]

I have not had the opportunity to try the 88 key essential. I do recall trying the 49 version at a store, but it's a little foggy. I'm sure it's an excellent piece of kit, but I personally don't like semi-weighted keys, cause I'm too much of a grand piano type of guy when possible. For me, it's either all in with hammer weighted keys, or just unweighted synth/organ style keys for portable rigs.

[@lattetown]

@@DIDCHOI I'm curious how weighted keys influence your composing for non-piano instruments. I have a weighted keyboard and a semi-weighted keyboard, and I find some passages for strings and winds don't match the action with weighted keys.

[@DIDCHOI]

Good question. Weighted keys allow you to play lower velocities with much more sensitivity, while unweighted will often have you hitting 127. That being said, unless you have triple sensor action, unweighted keys will have faster more repetition response which comes in handy for brass repetitions, drums, etc. Weighted just gives you more control overall though

[@lattetown]

@@DIDCHOI Of course it's personal preference, but I find hammer action gets in the way of rapid fingering in strings and winds. While writing a choral piece on the piano, I learned it doesn't work for me. The natural harmonics are wrong- in fact, I remember a part with Sopranos and Altos singing in 3rds sounded meh on the piano but was very expressive when the choir sang it. In fact, I find piano action-like weighted keys tend to make more separated, percussive, almost detaché performances. I've collected a number of midi controllers over the years and now find I choose a different one for strings than I do for brass. As far as the sensitivity, a high end, semi-weighted keybed with a configurable velocity curve really matters more to me than a Fatar grand keybed, which I find overly stiff.

[@DIDCHOI]

@@lattetown for sure. There’s a time and a place for weighted keys. For fast brass, it is definitely easier to do on the organ style keyboards, unless you have escapism action with triple sensors on a weighted bed which is expensive. I keep my Maudio keystation around for that sort of stuff

[@JeffreyZuhdyArtist]

Great review, nice sense of humour😉 Next time, it would be nice if you also play on the instrument to show how it feels to you and to complete the review. 👍🏻👍🏻💪🏼🙌🏼🙏🏻🙏🏻😀

[@GratDuForloradeArgumentet]

Good review, seems like a good buy

[@endacallaghan8679]

Hi. I was considering buying this keyboard myself. I was just curious if I would be able to load samples/ sounds onto the keyboards internal memory and then disconnect my computer and instead run the keyboard into a speaker. Would that work?

[@DIDCHOI]

Unfortunately not. There's no internal memory, neither is there audio outs. It, like all other dedicated midi controllers, is exclusively for controlling other sound sources (computer, synths, etc).

[@endacallaghan8679]

@@DIDCHOI are there any keyboards with that sort of midi controllability that has internal memory? Or anything you would recommend with an internal memory

[@DIDCHOI]

@@endacallaghan8679 Well, that gets you into the Digital/Stage piano category. All modern piano's will be able to control midi. Anything from the Yamaha MX88 to the Nord Stage will be able to do what you ask. But that gets significantly pricier

[@endacallaghan8679]

@@DIDCHOI Thanks so much, you were such a help. I was always wondering if you have any recommendations for a finger drumming device that has its own internal memory (meaning i can load samples and kits onto it but it doesnt always have to be connected to my computer) and also relatively cheap. Any ideas?

[@DIDCHOI]

@@endacallaghan8679 hmm I know the Alesia Sample Pad can do that, but that’s for drum sticks. Can’t say I know of any finger drumming units…but then again, I find drum pads are not sensitive enough for good finger drumming and prefer to use the actually keyboard personally

[@dirtyharry1881]

It's been 6-7 months. Durability? Have baaad experience with M-audio.

[@DIDCHOI]

Unfortunately I've spent 4 months away from it cause I couldn't bring it with me to school so I can't accurately comment on that.. That being said, my school has many regular Hammer 88s in the studios and they are all robust. My M-Audio Keystation 49 has been through rough beatings and still plays excellently too.

[@dirtyharry1881]

@@DIDCHOI Thanks!

[@TamirOrkobysPiano]

Half Pedaling Tutorial for this keyboard : kzbin.infoPMEOxWsuZFs

[@SrilaPrabhupadaJiKaServant]

Oxygen pro series is also 🙂

[@DIDCHOI]

Yup, made a video on the 61 which I'm using daily right now. Love it!

[@luckybarbecho3365]

Please do a Roland A88 mk2.

[@DIDCHOI]

I wish I could, but since I’m buying all this with my own money, it is difficult to try more than what I acquire in my journey. That being said; when I played one in story, it felt very nice. If feel is important, I’d recommend it. But it doesn’t have much for built in control, and the mod wheel is the weird joystick thing rather than a wheel

[@taikonauta7698]

I have the A88, not mk2, and I have to say I hate it, keys feel way too hard and I've even felt some streds in my hands. They are harder than a real piano and I wish I could sell it honestly. I was wondering why no one complains about it but I hope the Hammer Pro is lighter

[@HammyHavoc]

No aftertouch on it!

[@tuneunleashed]

Roland a88 mk2 is trash compared to this. They should had went with their PHA-50 THEN we it will be considered a good midi keyboard until then its horrid for the price.

[@demonhunter05]

every1 say how nice this hammer 88 but no1 show up how to get this dam voice out from there what connetings i need i have been only 1 cable with this piano what must be go in the pc so confused 😡

[@DIDCHOI]

Hi. That’s not specific to any keyboard. It’s standard which is why many won’t cover it. You want to plug the USB B into the back of the keyboard and the USB A into your laptop. If you have a modern laptop, use a C adapter or a B to C cable. You only need the one cable. Apart from the sustain pedal of course

[@demonhunter05]

Hi i am not have pedal and just dunno i got wrong cable or something can u send short video about this cable what i need to connect with pc and can i just connect with amplifier ? @@DIDCHOI

[@hodshonf]

nice review. i just ordered one today. got a 15% discount, so $679.15 plus tax. replacing a well constructed, but boring SL88 Studio.

[@DIDCHOI]

Wow that’s a great discount! Lucky!

[@hodshonf]

@@DIDCHOI great channel too - new subscriber! thank you for the work!

[@DIDCHOI]

Thanks man! Appreciate it!

[@hodshonf]

@@DIDCHOI i'll be digging through your channel for tips on managing orchestral libraries with the 88 Pro I've seen other videos where the velocity mapping of the 88 Pro is lacking - especially if a VI doesn't have an editable velocity feature. Have yo noticed any issues with the velocity of the 88 Pro?

[@DIDCHOI]

@@hodshonf Not exactly sure what you mean. Perhaps the velocity's curve isn't to your liking? I believe I have it on the low setting? Whatever they call the equivalent to "Hard." Cause I found the velocity was hitting 127 too easily by default. Changing the default curve made it a lot more natural for me. Only hit 127 if I'm really trying

[@bottomsupbass]

I bet ypu end up at native instruments based on your comments and workflow needs. I'm partial to arturia currently but have smaller komplete kontroller setup

[@DIDCHOI]

The NI stuff don't have faders so it doesn't work for me. I could use external ones, but I like have some built in too. Less USB Ports. Also the S88 has the Fatar Bed I believe which I found too heavy. The Maudio Hammer has been perfect for me!

[@eugenelaczynski1031]

Well I'm going to help you continue your search, I think the next keyboard you should try is the Doepher LMK4+, and get yourself a nice control surface.

[@DIDCHOI]

Hahaha, I'm happy with the Hammer 88. The Doepfer is out of my price range too hahaha. But the best seem to be using it. Spitfire folks, Hans Zimmer

[@stephanroemerdotnet]

@@DIDCHOI You would be disappointed, the keys are REALLY heavy. I was never a fan of the Doepfer... You went for the right controller.

[@davidnelson3602]

great video need help mapping my Arturia mark 2 88 faders and knobs looking forward to hearing from you

[@DIDCHOI]

What do you need? Make sure your software and drivers are up to date and compatible with your OS.

[@davidnelson3602]

@@DIDCHOI they are I am using Logic Pro x the latest and the Arturia is the latest version want to map the faders on the Arturia to the spitfire plugins and stuff like that currently the Arturia is in logic daw mode could use your help .. thanks so much

[@DIDCHOI]

That's the problem. To play instruments, you want to use the Arturia in Preset Mode (where you can map your faders within the Arturia to CC1, 11, 21, etc as you need). Daw mode is for mixing, so it will map to your mixer faders by default. It's a easy switch between the two for both purposes, which is what makes the Arturia great.

[@davidcamarda8723]

So, you bought a weighted keyboard, and returned it because it is weighted. I bought this keyboard, and am keeping it because it is weighted.

[@DIDCHOI]

Hahaha not exactly. I returned it because I didn’t like the weight of the weighted keyboard as I found it unnatural compared to a grand piano or even an upright piano. Much prefer the weight of the hammer 88 pro’s weighted keyboard

[@netterstyl]

- 40 lbs.? -No way. How many gigging musicians will want to lug around this behemoth with its (heavy) fully-weighted 88-key keybed? Answer: Exactly none. Better: (If you could find it, which you generally can't): 73-key semi-weighted keybed controller. 99% of the time, 73 keys are going to be perfectly adequate for any style of music (esp. rock/pop), including zone-splitting the keyboard. The ticket: 73 _quality_ semi-weighted keys. And I stress "quality" - for example, my ancient Korg 01/W semi-weighted keybed beats the feel of most of the keybeds put out by manufacturers today. - 88 keys for a stationary home studio controller? -No way. (But that's the route you have to go to get fully-weighted keys, and in many instances, decent semi-weighted keys.) How many home studio players/producers will want to split 88 keys into zones? Answer: Exactly none. That's what DAW's are for. The ticket: Again, 73 _weighted_ keys (or semi-weighted, depending on your preference), where space concerns are often of importance. - 88 weighted keys, for traveling concert pianists to practice on in motel rooms? There's got to be a huge market for that, lol. - These keyboards/controllers are apparently designed by people who are long on engineering, and short on practicality/common sense. 73 keys!! - whether weighted or semi-weighted, with middle C placed sensibly as to provide for adequate octave-basses (61 keys won't achieve that without octave shifting) and adequate trebles above middle-range chords (61 keys will generally achieve that, at the sacrifice of the basses - not good). This is not hard, folks - or at least it shouldn't be.

[@jubilantyogurt]

So stats your concrete suggestion?

[@musicbycandlelightmbc3225]

There is a current heads up issue with this controller whereby random notes (not the key itself) has a tendency to 'stick.' At Sweetwater, 2 out of 70 sold had this identical issue. It is a new updated keyboard from their previous version and there may very well be production 'bugs' that need to be dealt with. Some questions have been addressed to M-Audio but they say they have had zero reply regarding this issue. Also, I HATE the pads to the right. Like whyyyy? Ugh, anyway, must have been a leftist (left handed and not a political leftist) that designed it that way. No wonder it has issues...lol. This model has Aftertouch but not in their previous model.

[@devynnlashure]

As I am planning to buy this, I've done much research and find that although there may be a risk of buying a defective board, I'm willing to roll the dice. I buy only from Sweetwater. And if the risk is 2.86%, I'll go for it. Given Sweetwater's automatic 2 year warranty on everything, there's not much to lose.

[@DIDCHOI]

Huh, I am unaware of the issue, so I guess my keyboard got lucky. I like pads out of the way, cause I'll only ever use them on their own (without the keyboard) or for one touch things. Faders definitely on the left for me, since my left hand is constantly riding them. I also have not had the best customer support experience with M-Audio, so I'm lucky to not have any issues for now...

[@hodshonf]

most complaints i've seen about the note issue were using the MIDI ports, NOT USB. i prefer sliders - left, pads - right; i'm right-handed. i get mine tomorrow.

[@musicbycandlelightmbc3225]

@@hodshonf USB is to power the keyboard instead of using a power adapter. MIDI is to call up sounds from another keyboard or sound modules and DAW parameters. I like pads left, sliders center, dials/buttons right and I am also right handed.

[@DIDCHOI]

For controlling DAW, USB will work better. Controlling external synths, midi is the only choice

[@neelenpatten2959]

Be careful….M audio does not update their drivers like we expect them to do and your devices go out of date very fast with them….that’s why I don’t buy M-audio anymore….

[@iziotenth]

Never buy this crap it doesn’t work with new operating systems of mac

[@DIDCHOI]

It does work with no problem for me. What are your issues?