Alesis V49 | 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller (8 Pads / 4 Knobs / 4 Buttons)
The performance-oriented Alesis V49 offers expressive hands-on control for the software musician seeking an inexpensive, compact MIDI keyboard controller with expanded features.
The new V series combines velocity-sensitive keys with eight drum/trigger pads, allowing virtual instruments to be played with dynamic expression. Cool blue LEDs illuminate the pads—as well as the four assignable knobs and buttons—for positive visibility. Musicians can make assignments quickly via the MIDI Learn feature. Octave shift keys provide access to the entire note range. A single USB cable provides both a power and data connection to nearly any computer.
The V49 also comes with Software Preset/Parameter utility that makes setup a snap and includes free downloads for Ableton Live Lite 9 and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this unit need a power supply to work?
These controllers are USB hub-powered and do not take an external power supply.
Do I need to install drivers for this to work on my PC/MAC?
No, these controllers are class-compliant meaning that they are plug-and-play and do not require a specific driver download in order to function. The V series controllers will function on Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Windows 8 as well as all Mac operating systems that are 10.4.11 and above. Also, because they are class-compliant, they will continue to function as Windows and Apple come out with later updates and operating systems.
What are the programmable buttons for?
Use these buttons to send MIDI CC messages to your software. They can function as momentary or toggle (latching) buttons. You can also use the V Editor software to set each button to send program and change messages to your software. See the V Editor’s User Guide to learn how to do this.
Does this have pre-programmed sounds?
These controllers do not. They are midi controllers and are meant to trigger software in your computer that has sounds built into them such as Ableton, Logic ect…
What kind of sustain pedals does this use?
The V Series has a connection for a 1/4″” TS sustain pedal (Momentary non-latching footswitch). It would be helpful to have one that has a polarity switch on it in case you want to customize the way the pedal reacts when being pressed down or released.
Further Technical Support
Whether you are a customer or dealer, if you already own a ION product, or if you just have pre-sales questions, the experienced ION technical support team is available to help!
Visit the link below to connect with any of the following support options: online community support, phone support, email support.
http://www.alesis.com/contact
Technical Specifications
Keyboard: 49 keys; velocity-sensitive; full range of 127 MIDI notes with Octave Up/Down buttons or transposition Pads: 8 assignable pads; velocity-sensitive; blue-backlit Knobs: 4 assignable 270° knobs; blue-backlit Buttons 4 assignable buttons; blue-backlit 2 Octave Up/Down buttons; blue-backlit Inputs / Outputs (1) USB port (1) 1/4” TS footswitch input Power: via computer USB Dimensions(width x depth x height): 37.6” x 9.6” x 4.5” Weight: 9.5 lbs
Box Contents
V49 V Editor Software (download) Software Download Cards USB Cable User Guide Safety & Warranty Manual
Product Features
- Perfect building block for music producer needing to control plug-ins and virtual instruments
- 49 full-sized, square-front keys with adjustable sensitivity
- 8 LED-backlit drum trigger pads respond to both velocity and pressure
- 4 assignable knobs, 4 assignable buttons, and Pitch & Mod wheels
- USB-powered with sustain-pedal input
Use the Alesis V61 Editor and ignore other customers’ complaints Apparently everyone complaining about velocities can’t be bothered to Google the problem.http://www.noterepeat.com/products/alesis/keyboards/v-series/519-alesis-v-series-adjusting-the-velocity-curve-of-the-keys-using-the-v-series-editorGo there and follow the instructions. I recommend setting the velocity curve to #2. Updating the firmware (on Alesis’ site) is a good idea, as well. I used this keyboard at practice for the first time yesterday and I love it. The action…
for the price I say buy it. Really fun midi controller, looks great and works great I love it. Comes with ableton live 9 lite key and other software from alesis. the unit measure 21 inches long and 8 inches wide. (25 key model). Other reviews here say that the drum pads double hit sometimes and I did notice it does do that but its not something that would bother unless you plan on using the pads for fast drumming. Also I did not see the lag delay that other buys say it has so I think that a computer issue and not the…