M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV) USB MIDI Keyboard Controller User Manual

1. Introduction

The M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV) is a versatile 25-key USB MIDI keyboard controller designed for music production in digital environments. It combines essential features for beat making, melodic creation, and seamless Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) integration, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced producers.

Figure 1: M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV) MIDI Keyboard Controller.

Video 1: An overview of the M-Audio Oxygen MKV Series, highlighting its key features and capabilities.

2. Setup Guide

2.1 Package Contents

• M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV) Keyboard Controller
• USB MIDI Cable
• Software Suite Download Card

2.2 Connecting Your Controller

Connect the Oxygen 25 (MKV) to your computer using the supplied USB MIDI cable. The device is USB-powered and features plug-and-play compatibility with most major DAWs and virtual instrument plugins, requiring no external power adapter.

Figure 2: The M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV) connected to a laptop, demonstrating its USB-powered operation.

3. Operating the Oxygen 25 (MKV)

3.1 Keys and Pads

The Oxygen 25 (MKV) features 25 velocity-sensitive full-size piano-style keys for expressive melodic input. It also includes 2 banks of 8 backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat for beat production, clip launching, and sound triggering.

Figure 3: A detailed view of the velocity-sensitive keys and backlit drum pads.

Figure 4: The 8 backlit drum pads, ideal for beat production and sample triggering.

3.2 Assignable Controls

The controller is equipped with 8 assignable knobs and 1 assignable fader for tactile MIDI control over virtual synthesizer parameters, effect plugins, and DAW controls. These controls allow for a customized and enhanced workflow, providing hands-on command of your production.

Figure 5: The assignable knobs and fader for precise control over your music software.

3.3 Smart Chord & Smart Scale Modes

The Smart Chord mode allows you to play full chords and complex chord structures with a single key press. Smart Scale mode ensures that all played notes are within your selected scale, preventing wrong notes and facilitating musical exploration.

Figure 6: The dedicated buttons for activating Smart Chord and Smart Scale modes.

Video 2: A demonstration of the Smart Scale Mode on the Oxygen MKV Series.

Video 3: A demonstration of the Smart Chord Mode on the Oxygen MKV Series.

3.4 Arpeggiator

The built-in arpeggiator automatically plays a sequence of notes from a held chord. It offers various controls including type, octave range, gate, and swing to create dynamic melodic patterns, adding rhythmic complexity to your compositions.

Figure 7: Close-up of the arpeggiator controls, including tempo and sync options.

Video 4: A demonstration of the Arpeggiator Mode on the Oxygen MKV Series.

3.5 DAW Control

The Oxygen 25 (MKV) offers effortless auto-mapping for DAW controls and plugin parameters. It is compatible with mainstream DAWs such as MPC Beats, Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, Studio One, Pro Tools, and more, providing a fluid workflow for music production.

Figure 8: The Oxygen 25 (MKV) seamlessly integrated with a Digital Audio Workstation.

3.6 Pitch & Modulation Wheels and Sustain Pedal Input

Ergonomically designed pitch and modulation wheels provide expressive control over your sounds, allowing for dynamic bends and vibrato. A 1/4" sustain pedal input allows for extended note sustain, enhancing your performance and adding realism to piano sounds.

Figure 9: The pitch and modulation wheels, along with the sustain pedal input for enhanced playability.

4. Included Software Production Package

The Oxygen 25 (MKV) comes with a comprehensive software package to get you started with music production immediately:

• Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs): MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite
• Virtual Instruments: Hybrid 3 (multi-oscillator synthesizer), Mini Grand (acoustic piano) from AIR Music Tech
• MPC Expansion Packs: 5 Akai Professional MPC Expansion packs for diverse sound libraries.
• Educational Software: 60 free interactive MIDI keyboard lessons from Melodics and a 3-month subscription to Skoove.

Figure 10: A visual representation of the extensive software bundle included with the Oxygen 25 (MKV).

5. Technical Specifications

6. Maintenance and Care

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV), follow these general maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the surface of the controller. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the controller in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity.
• Handling: Avoid dropping the unit or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not place heavy objects on top of the keyboard.
• Connectivity: Always handle USB cables and other connections carefully to prevent damage to ports.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter any issues with your Oxygen 25 (MKV), consider the following common solutions:

• No Power/Connection: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the controller and your computer. Try a different USB port or cable.
• No Sound/MIDI Output: Verify that the controller is correctly recognized by your DAW. Check MIDI input settings within your software. Ensure the correct virtual instrument or track is armed for recording/playback.
• Pads/Keys Not Responding: Check the velocity sensitivity settings on the controller and within your DAW. Ensure no modes (like Smart Chord/Scale) are inadvertently affecting normal note output if unintended.
• Software Issues: Refer to the documentation for your specific DAW and included software. Ensure all drivers and software are up to date.

8. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official M-Audio website or the included user manual.

You can also download the full User Guide (PDF) here.

Visit the official M-Audio Store on Amazon: M-Audio Store