M-Audio

Overview

M-Audio (formerly Midiman) is a business unit of inMusic Brands that designs and markets audio and MIDI interfaces, keyboards and MIDI controllers, synthesizers, loudspeakers, studio monitors, digital DJ systems, microphones, and music software. The company targets musicians, producers, and audio professionals across all skill levels, offering accessible and affordable tools for music creation and performance. M-Audio maintains independent offices in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, France, and Japan, positioning itself as a provider of reliable equipment for creative professionals.

History

M-Audio was founded in 1988 as Midiman and achieved rapid growth, becoming the fastest-growing music company in the US in 2001 and 2002 with 128% and 68% growth respectively. The company rebranded entirely as M-Audio in 2004, the name they had used for their audio division since 1999. M-Audio expanded into studio monitors with the Studiophile SP5B, digital DJ systems with Torq, and handheld recorders with the MicroTrack series. In 2012, M-Audio became part of inMusic Brands, a parent company that also owns Akai Professional, Alesis, Denon DJ, Numark, and other music technology brands.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

M-Audio outsources manufacturing while maintaining design and quality control operations. The company operates distribution and support facilities across multiple countries including the US, Canada, UK, Germany, France, and Japan, enabling regional support and logistics management.

Notable Products

• Oxygen Series - MIDI keyboard controllers designed for music production and performance
• Keystation Series - Affordable MIDI keyboards for beginners and intermediate musicians
• M-Track Series - USB audio interfaces for home recording and music production
• BX Series Studio Monitors - Nearfield studio monitors for mixing and mastering applications
• Hammer Series - Weighted MIDI keyboards with hammer-action keys for piano-like feel
• Torq - Digital DJ software and hardware system for DJ performance

Reputation

M-Audio is recognized as a reliable provider of affordable, user-friendly music production equipment accessible to musicians of all levels. The brand is respected for offering quality audio interfaces and MIDI controllers that deliver professional results at consumer-friendly prices. Some users note that while M-Audio products are dependable and well-supported, they are positioned as accessible rather than premium, with some professional users preferring higher-end alternatives for specialized applications.