AlesisVI49 Keyboard MIDI Controller

Alesis VI49

VI49 from Alesis is a powerful USB/MIDI Keyboard with a wealth of intuitive features. It provides an array of buttons, knobs, and pads that can be mobilized in accordance with one’s specific wants and needs. VI49 houses a 49-note velocity-sensitive keyboard with both aftertouch and octave up/down buttons, giving players everything required for stellar basslines, melodies, and even chords! Additionally, all of the unit’s 12 knobs and 36 buttons are fully assignable. This means players can configure the device to manipulate just about any parameter imaginable. If that’s not enough, VI49 also sports 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads and both pitch bend and modulation wheels for added expressivity.

Hardware aside, VI49 provides seamless connectivity via single USB connection, which also provides power to the unit. An adjacent LED screen facilitates precise visual feedback of only the most crucial parameters. Combined with VI49’s inherently compact design, it is easy to see why this is one of the most useful controllers currently on the market.

In terms of software, Alesis were generous enough to include both Ableton Live Lite and Xpand!2 from AIR Music Tech. The former is an audio and MIDI DAW that allows players to record, remix, edit, and more for the creation of advanced musical ideas. Conversely, Xpand!2 is essentially a virtual instrument featuring an array of sounds, including synthesizers and acoustic instruments. Together, players can hit the ground running right out of the box. Thanks, Alesis!

VI49 Features

• 49-note semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
• 16 RGB trigger pads with velocity sensitivity
• 36 assignable buttons
• Pitch bend and modulation wheels
• LED screen for precise visual feedback
• USB MIDI and MIDI Out
• USB-powered
• USB plug-and-play
• Works with Mac and PC
• Includes Ableton Live Lite
• Includes Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech