M-AUDIO Oxygen 61 (MKV) USB MIDI Keyboard Controller User Manual

1. Introduction

Welcome to the user manual for your M-AUDIO Oxygen 61 (MKV) USB MIDI Keyboard Controller. This powerful and versatile controller is designed to enhance your music production workflow, offering intuitive control over virtual instruments, effects, and Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and advanced features of your Oxygen 61 (MKV) to help you unlock its full potential.

Figure 1: M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

2. Key Features

The M-AUDIO Oxygen 61 (MKV) is equipped with a range of features designed for modern music production:

• 61 Velocity-Sensitive Full-Size Keys: Provides a natural and expressive playing experience.
• 8 Backlit Velocity-Sensitive Drum Pads: Ideal for beat production, clip launching, and sample triggering with Note Repeat functionality.
• 8 Assignable Knobs and 9 Assignable Faders: Offers tactile control over virtual synth parameters, effect plugins, and DAW mixer controls.
• Smart Chord and Smart Scale Modes: Simplifies playing complex harmonies and melodies by automatically generating chords or ensuring notes stay within a selected scale.
• Built-in Arpeggiator: Creates dynamic melodic patterns from held chords.
• Ergonomically Designed Pitch and Modulation Wheels: For expressive control over your sounds.
• USB-MIDI Connectivity and USB Power: Ensures plug-and-play compatibility with major DAWs and virtual instruments.
• Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration: Seamlessly browse and control Native Instruments presets and sound libraries.
• Complete Software Production Package: Includes MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3, Mini Grand, and MPC Expansion Packs.

3. Setup

3.1 What's in the Box

Before you begin, ensure all components are present:

• M-AUDIO Oxygen 61 (MKV) Keyboard Controller
• USB MIDI Cable
• Software Suite Download Card

3.2 Connecting the Controller

1. Connect the Oxygen 61 (MKV) to your computer using the supplied USB cable. The unit is USB-powered, so no external power adapter is required.
2. Install any necessary drivers or software as prompted by your operating system or as instructed on the included software download card. Visit the M-Audio website for the latest drivers and software updates.
3. Launch your preferred Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). The Oxygen 61 (MKV) features effortless auto-mapping for most mainstream DAWs, including MPC Beats, Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Studio One, Reaper, FL Studio, Bitwig, Garageband, and Cubase.
4. Configure your DAW's preferences to recognize the Oxygen 61 (MKV) as a MIDI input device. Refer to your DAW's user manual for specific instructions on setting up MIDI controllers.

Figure 2: Connecting the Oxygen 61 (MKV) to a computer

4. Operating the Oxygen 61 (MKV)

4.1 Smart Chord Mode

Smart Chord mode allows you to play full chords with a single key press. The type of chord played is determined by the current settings (Key, Voicing, Type).

• Activation: Hold down the SHIFT button and press either the BANK LEFT or BANK RIGHT buttons. The Chord LED will illuminate when active.
• Deactivation: Press both BANK LEFT and BANK RIGHT buttons simultaneously.
• Settings: While Smart Chord is active, hold SHIFT and press the corresponding keys on the keyboard to adjust Key (root note), Voicing (e.g., 1-3-5, 1-3-5-7), and Type (Major, Minor, Custom).

Figure 3: Smart Chord and other controls

4.2 Arpeggiator Mode

The Arpeggiator automatically plays a sequence of notes from a held chord.

• Activation: Hold down the SHIFT button and press the ARP button. The Arp LED will illuminate.
• Controls: While the Arpeggiator is active, hold SHIFT and use the corresponding keys to adjust:
• Type: Up, Down, Inclusive, Exclusive, Order, Random, Chord.
• Gate: Adjusts the length of each arpeggiated note (5% to 100%).
• Swing: Adds a swing feel to the arpeggio (50% to 75%).
• Octave: Sets the number of octaves the arpeggio spans (0 to 2).
• Time Division: Sets the rhythmic value of the arpeggiated notes (e.g., 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32).

4.3 Smart Scale Mode

Smart Scale mode ensures that any note you play will be within the selected scale, preventing you from playing "wrong" notes.

• Activation: Hold down the SHIFT button and press the SCALE button. The Scale LED will illuminate.
• Settings: While Smart Scale is active, hold SHIFT and press the corresponding keys to adjust the root note and type of scale (e.g., Major, Minor, Dorian, Phrygian, etc.).

4.4 DAW Integration and Controls

The Oxygen 61 (MKV) is designed for seamless integration with your DAW, providing hands-on control over various parameters.

• Auto-Mapping: Once connected and configured, controls such as Transport, Faders, Pan, Record Arm, Solo, Mute, and Select are automatically mapped to all mainstream DAWs.
• Assignable Knobs and Faders: The 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable faders can be customized to control any parameter within your DAW or virtual instruments.
• Transport Buttons: Dedicated transport buttons (Play, Stop, Record, Loop) provide convenient control over your DAW's playback and recording functions.

Figure 4: Oxygen 61 (MKV) with DAW integration

5. Specifications

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your M-AUDIO Oxygen 61 (MKV), follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the surface of the controller. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes, as these can damage the finish.
• Storage: Store the controller in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity. If storing for an extended period, consider using a dust cover.
• Handling: Always handle the controller with care. Avoid dropping it or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not place heavy objects on top of the unit.
• Connections: Periodically check all cable connections to ensure they are secure and free from damage.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Oxygen 61 (MKV), refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Controller Not Recognized by Computer:
• Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the controller and your computer.
• Try a different USB port on your computer.
• Restart your computer and the controller.
• Verify that the latest drivers are installed from the M-Audio website.
• No Sound Output:
• Check your DAW's audio output settings and ensure your speakers or headphones are properly connected and functioning.
• Verify that the correct virtual instrument or sound is loaded and active in your DAW.
• Ensure the volume faders on the Oxygen 61 (MKV) and within your DAW are not set to minimum.
• Controls (Knobs, Faders, Pads) Not Responding:
• Confirm that the Oxygen 61 (MKV) is correctly configured as a MIDI input device in your DAW.
• Check if the controls are mapped correctly within your DAW. Some DAWs may require manual mapping for certain functions.
• Ensure no conflicting MIDI devices are connected.
• Intermittent Connectivity:
• Avoid connecting the controller through unpowered USB hubs. Connect directly to your computer's USB port.
• Try a different USB cable.

For further assistance, please visit the M-Audio support website or consult the full user manual PDF.

8. Warranty and Support

M-Audio products are built to the highest standards, and your Oxygen 61 (MKV) is covered by a limited warranty. For detailed warranty information, product registration, and technical support, please visit the official M-Audio website.

You can also download the complete user manual in PDF format for more in-depth information:

Download Full User Manual (PDF)

For additional resources and product information, visit the M-Audio Store on Amazon.