1. Introduction
The Korg microKEY Air 49 is a compact, bus-powered 49-key USB/Bluetooth MIDI keyboard controller designed for musicians and producers on the go. It features a responsive keyboard, pitch and modulation wheels, and a damper pedal input, offering versatile control for various music production environments. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your microKEY Air 49.
Image 1.1: Front view of the Korg microKEY Air 49-Key MIDI Controller.
Image 1.2: Korg microKEY Air series highlighting Bluetooth MIDI connectivity.
2. Setup
2.1 Powering the Device
The microKEY Air 49 can be powered via USB or by two AAA batteries (included). For USB power, connect the controller to your computer using a standard USB cable. For battery operation, ensure two AAA batteries are correctly inserted into the battery compartment.
2.2 Connecting to a Computer (USB)
Connect the microKEY Air 49 to your computer using a USB cable. The device is class-compliant, meaning no special drivers are required for most operating systems (PC/Mac). Your computer should automatically recognize the controller.
2.3 Connecting via Bluetooth MIDI
The microKEY Air 49 supports Bluetooth MIDI for wireless connectivity. Follow these steps to connect:
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your computer (PC/Mac) or mobile device (Smartphone/Tablet).
- Turn on the microKEY Air 49. The Bluetooth indicator light will blink.
- On your device, open your MIDI application or system Bluetooth settings.
- Select "microKEY Air" from the list of available Bluetooth MIDI devices to establish a connection. The indicator light on the microKEY Air will turn solid when connected.
Image 2.1: Example of Bluetooth MIDI device connection on a macOS system.
Image 2.2: Example of Bluetooth MIDI device connection on an iOS device.
Image 2.3: Side view of the microKEY Air, showing the USB port and assignable switch input.
3. Operating the microKEY Air 49
3.1 Basic MIDI Control
The microKEY Air 49 functions as a standard MIDI controller. Pressing keys sends MIDI note-on/off messages. The velocity of your key press determines the intensity of the note. Use the pitch bend wheel to smoothly vary the pitch of notes and the modulation wheel to control various parameters within your software instruments, such as vibrato or filter cutoff.
Image 3.1: Close-up view of the microKEY Air's velocity-sensitive keys.
3.2 Octave Shift
To access a wider range of notes, use the Octave Up/Down buttons located on the left side of the controller. Each press shifts the keyboard's octave range up or down. The current octave setting is indicated by the illuminated LEDs.
3.3 Damper Pedal Input
Connect a standard sustain pedal (sold separately) to the assignable switch input. This allows you to add sustain to your notes, mimicking a piano's damper pedal. The functionality of this input can often be customized within your MIDI software.
3.4 Software Integration
The microKEY Air 49 is compatible with various music software, including Ableton Live. For optimal performance, refer to your software's documentation for MIDI controller setup and mapping instructions. Korg also provides bundled software and drivers on their official website.
Image 3.2: The microKEY Air 49 in use with a laptop for music production.
Image 3.3: The microKEY Air 49 connected wirelessly to a tablet device.
4. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the surface of the controller. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth with mild soap can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the microKEY Air 49 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If storing for extended periods, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.
- Battery Replacement: When the battery indicator light begins to dim or the device behaves erratically, replace the two AAA batteries. Ensure correct polarity.
5. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device not powering on. | No USB power or dead batteries. | Check USB connection or replace AAA batteries. |
| No sound from software. | MIDI input not selected in software; software instrument not loaded/armed. | Verify microKEY Air is selected as MIDI input in your DAW/software. Ensure a sound is loaded and the track is armed for recording/playback. |
| Bluetooth connection issues. | Bluetooth disabled; interference; device out of range. | Ensure Bluetooth is on. Move closer to the device. Try restarting both the microKEY Air and your computer/mobile device. |
| Keys not responding or stuck notes. | Software glitch; physical debris under keys. | Restart your music software and the microKEY Air. Gently clean around the keys. |
6. Specifications
- Keys: 49 Natural Touch mini-keys
- Controllers: Pitch Bend Wheel, Modulation Wheel, Octave Shift Buttons
- Connections: USB Type B (for USB MIDI and power), Assignable Switch (Damper Pedal)
- Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth Low Energy (Apple Bluetooth LE MIDI compliant)
- Power: USB bus power or 2 x AAA batteries (Alkaline or Ni-MH)
- Battery Life: Approximately 30 hours (with alkaline batteries)
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 31.49 x 7.32 x 3.14 inches (79.9 x 18.6 x 7.9 cm)
- Weight: 3.08 pounds (1.4 kg)
- Included Items: USB cable, KORG Software Bundle code, User Manual, Warranty Card, Safety Information Sheet
- Compatible Devices: PC/Mac, Smartphone, Tablet
- Supported Software: Ableton Live (and other MIDI-compatible DAWs)
Image 6.1: The microKEY Air series, available in various key counts.
7. Warranty Information
Your Korg microKEY Air 49-Key MIDI Controller comes with a limited manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the included Warranty Card for specific terms, conditions, and duration of coverage. Retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims. Protection plans are also available for extended coverage.
- Standard Warranty: Refer to included Warranty Card.
- Optional Protection Plans: 3-Year Protection Plan, 4-Year Protection Plan, Complete Protect (monthly plan).
8. Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to download the latest drivers and software, please visit the official KORG website:
You can also visit the KORG Store on Amazon for product information and related accessories:
