M-Audio
Its product range spans from MIDI and audio interfaces to keyboard and controller products, as well as essential musical hardware including microphones, studio monitors, and other critical components of a modern recording setup. By offering tools that bridge the gap between musical ideas and digital production environments, M-Audio has become a trusted brand in both professional and project studios around the globe.
M-Audio’s story began in 1988, when the company was founded under the name Midiman. At a time when electronic music production was still evolving and personal computers were just starting to play a central role in music creation, Midiman focused on solving practical problems faced by musicians and engineers. The company specialized in designing both software and hardware solutions aimed at tackling the technical challenges of connecting MIDI devices, audio equipment, and computers into a cohesive, reliable system. This focus on interoperability and user-friendly integration helped artists more easily compose, arrange, and produce electronically based music, paving the way for smoother workflows and more creative freedom in the studio.
As technology advanced and demand for more sophisticated audio solutions grew, the company expanded its vision. In 2000, Midiman introduced the “M-Audio” name for a new line of audio products that signaled a broader and more ambitious direction. Under this updated branding, they continued to innovate in the fields of MIDI interfaces and audio hardware, experiencing steady and consistent growth in both categories. Their products appealed not only to seasoned professionals but also to emerging creators looking for affordable, powerful tools that could bring studio-quality production capabilities into home and project studios.
A major milestone came in 2002 with the launch of the first keyboard in the now-famous Oxygen series. These portable keyboard controllers quickly gained popularity for their combination of compact design, expressive playability, and deep integration with music software. The Oxygen line effectively established and helped define an important new category in the industry: the portable keyboard controller. By enabling musicians to control virtual instruments, trigger samples, and manipulate software parameters with a lightweight, easy-to-transport device, M-Audio helped shape modern digital music production workflows and made professional-level tools more accessible to a wider audience.