Alesis VI49 Keyboard with 49keys

Alesis VI49 Keyboard

The Alesis VI49 is an advanced USB/Studio keyboard MIDI controller that lets you take command of your music software with a series of pads, knobs, and buttons. With 49 velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys with aftertouch and Octave Up/Down buttons, you can expand the keyboard to the full melodic range and play bass lines, chords, and melodies. VI25 also features 12 assignable knobs and 36 assignable buttons for manipulating effect plugins and virtual instruments: open and close filters, adjust volume levels, activate effects, tweak parameters, and more. 16 velocity-sensitive RGB trigger pads allow you to launch clips or finger drum with exceptional response and colorful visual feedback. Plus, pitch and modulation wheels expand the expressive capabilities of your performing.

VI49 was designed to seamlessly and effortlessly integrate with your music software. A single USB connection to your Mac or PC provides both power and MIDI Controllers functionality, allowing you to plug right into your computer and start making music. With the 5-pin MIDI Out, you can also use VI49 to control external MIDI modules, synthesizers, and more. A LED screen and illuminated knobs, buttons, and pads provide real-time visual feedback and are laid out for an intuitive workflow. Plus, VI49’s compact design makes it easy to take this advanced MIDI controller on the road or implement it into any sized studio.

Features:

• 49 full-sized, square-front, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
• 16 velocity-sensitive trigger pads with illuminated RGB feedback for beat production and clip launching
• 36 assignable buttons and 12 assignable knobs interface with your music software
• Pitch and modulation wheels deliver expressive, creative control
• Seamless visual feedback via LED screen and illuminated buttons and knobs
• USB MIDI and 5-pin MIDI Out offer flexible MIDI connectivity
• USB-powered and plug-and-play support for Mac and PC
• Production software included: Ableton Live Lite and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech (downloads)

The design of the Alesis VI49 is sleek and professional, with a matte black finish and blue LED backlighting that gives it a modern and stylish look. The build quality is solid, with a durable plastic chassis that feels robust enough to withstand the rigors of both studio and live performance environments.

The keys themselves are semi-weighted and velocity-sensitive, offering a good balance between the feel of an acoustic piano and the lighter touch of a synth. This makes it suitable for a wide range of playing styles, from expressive piano performances to rapid synth lines.

The layout of the controls is intuitive, with a series of 16 RGB-backlit pads, 12 assignable knobs, and 36 assignable buttons. This array of controls is designed to give you extensive hands-on control over your software instruments and DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations), making the Alesis VI49 a powerful tool for music production.

The Alesis VI49 connects to your computer via USB, which also provides power to the device. It features a standard MIDI out port, allowing it to be used with other MIDI-enabled hardware. The controller is class-compliant, meaning it works with Mac and Windows systems without the need for additional drivers.

The VI49 is compatible with virtually all major DAWs, including Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, and more. The included Alesis VI Editor software provides a user-friendly interface for customizing the controller’s parameters, making it easy to tailor the VI49 to your specific workflow and preferences.

The semi-weighted keys of the Alesis VI49 offer a satisfying balance between the heft of an acoustic piano and the agility of a synth action. The keys are responsive and provide a good level of tactile feedback, making it possible to play with a wide dynamic range. Aftertouch adds another layer of expressiveness, allowing for subtle variations in sound by pressing down harder on the keys after the initial strike.

The keybed’s performance is well-suited for both melodic and harmonic playing, accommodating everything from intricate piano pieces to complex chord progressions. The semi-weighted action might not be ideal for classical pianists seeking a fully weighted keybed, but it is more than adequate for most contemporary music styles.

The 16 velocity-sensitive RGB-backlit pads are one of the standout features of the VI49. These pads are perfect for finger drumming, launching clips, or triggering samples. The RGB backlighting is not only visually appealing but also functional, providing clear visual feedback for pad status and mode.

The 12 assignable knobs and 36 buttons offer a high degree of control over your software instruments and effects. They can be mapped to various parameters in your DAW, such as volume, pan, filter cutoff, and more. This makes the VI49 a powerful tool for live performance and studio production alike.

The transport controls (play, stop, record, etc.) are conveniently located and work seamlessly with most DAWs, allowing for hands-on control of your recording and playback workflow without needing to switch back to your computer.

• Excellent Keybed: Semi-weighted keys with aftertouch provide a responsive and expressive playing experience.
• Versatile Pads and Controls: 16 RGB-backlit pads, 12 assignable knobs, and 36 assignable buttons offer extensive control over your software and hardware.
• Robust Build Quality: Durable design that can withstand the rigors of both studio and live performance.
• Comprehensive Software Bundle: Includes Ableton Live Lite, Xpand!2, and Alesis VI Editor for immediate music production capabilities.
• Customizability: Alesis VI Editor software allows for deep customization of the controller’s settings.
• Wide Compatibility: Works seamlessly with most major DAWs and MIDI hardware.

The Alesis VI49 comes with a substantial software bundle that adds significant value to the package. Included are:

• Ableton Live Lite: A streamlined version of the popular DAW, perfect for getting started with music production.
• Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech: A versatile virtual instrument that provides a wide range of sounds, from acoustic instruments to electronic tones.
• Alesis VI Editor: For customizing the controller’s settings and creating your own presets.

This software bundle provides a solid foundation for music production right out of the box, allowing users to start creating music immediately without needing to invest in additional software.

The Alesis VI49 is part of the VI series, which also includes the VI25 and VI61. The number in each model’s name corresponds to the number of keys, with the VI49 boasting 49 full-sized keys. This makes it an excellent middle-ground option for those who need more range than a 25-key controller but don’t have the space or budget for a 61-key model.