Alesis QX49 - USB/MIDI Extended Keyboard Controller
- Price: $129.00
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
- B&H # ALQX49
- Mfr# QX49
Product Highlights
- 49 Keys
- Velocity Sensitive
- Pitch and Modulation Wheels
- 8 Faders
- 8 Rotary Controls
- 4 Drum Pads
- USB Bus Powered
- Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition
- Mac OS X
- Windows XP/Vista/7
The QX49 from Alesis is a 49-note, velocity-sensitive, MIDI keyboard controller with USB and traditional MIDI ports that allows for connect to almost all MIDI equipment including software and sound modules. Pitch and modulation wheels, faders, rotary knobs and drum pads add expression, range, and dynamics to any performance.
The keyboard is class compliant and simple to use. It connects to either a Mac or PC via a single USB cable, which supplies both power and data connection. No need to install any drivers. A LCD display provides status information. The unit includes Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition software, allowing the user to perform, record, and sequence music right out of the box.
The QX49 allows the performer to punch out a drumbeat on great-feeling pads, open up a filter with smooth knobs, or adjust volume and playback of sequencing software with long faders and snappy buttons. It is also a good choice for controlling hardware MIDI devices. Its compact size and portability make it ideal for existing live set ups. It can be used as an additional keyboard controller simply to send Program Changes messages to change programs, patches, and more.
The keyboard features two traditional MIDI jacks - one for sending MIDI data directly from the keyboard and the other for routing MIDI data from a connected computer. When not using a computer, the controller can also be powered using an optional power adaptor to perform and control MIDI hardware. A footswitch input is also included on the back panel.
- 49-key keyboard controller for use with virtually all Mac and PC music software and MIDI devices
- Velocity sensitive keys for expressive, musical performance
- Pitch and Modulation wheels for capturing musical expression
- 8 faders perfect for adjusting volume or synth parameters
- 4 drum pads for triggering samples, loops and sequencing drums
- 8 knobs ideal for adjusting pan position or any other parameter
- 6 assignable buttons for triggering software controls
- USB-MIDI and traditional MIDI out for use with Mac and PC, as well as MIDI hardware
- Sustain pedal input for complete performance (pedal sold separately)
- Includes Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition for recording, sequencing and performing
- Bus powered via USB
| Keyboard | 49 keys, velocity sensitive |
| Connectors |
2 x 5-pin DIN MIDI 1 x USB 1 x 1/4" phone Control Pedal |
| Controllers |
1 x Modulation Wheel 1 x Pitch Wheel 6 x Assignable Buttons 8 x Faders 8 x Rotary Controls 4 x Drum Pads |
| Power Requirements |
USB bus 9VDC 500mA power adapter, pin positive, 5.5mm outer diameter (not included) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | Not yet specified by manufacturer |
| Weight | Not yet specified by manufacturer |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 7 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
80%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Reviewer Profile:
- Experienced (3)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 7 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-7
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Highly programmable
- Lightweight
- Portable
Cons
- Flimsy
- Lacks precision
- Not Consistent
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
Comments about Alesis QX49 - USB/MIDI Extended Keyboard Controller:
FIRST THINGS FIRST! Go to Alesis website, DOWNLOAD LATEST FIRMWARE! Its very easy to install.
Heard a lot if complaints of velocity problems, I had them too. The new firmware fixed my issue though.
My first impression of this keyboard was skeptical at best. The keys and knobs and faders all felt a bit "fluffy". The entire unit was a little light IMO.
After about two hours watching videos, reading instructions, and searching for tips. I finally was on my way to to that first record button... Ok, so the transport panel isn't recognized in FL Studio 10. (Saddened me) hear is where the complaining begins.
Knobs, faders, and pads oh my!
The faders; hope close is enough, cause if you need an exact number or percentage (say 75%) can't be done without precise movement. There just isn't enough distance to make them accurate.
Knobs; these are much more accurate, though the quality of these knobs are flimsy. They stand a little high of the board and they don't feel like there going to last long if used a bit.
Pads; I haven't been able to use these. FL Studio thinks something entirely different with these pads. So there completely useless. I haven't tried everything. What I have tried has not worked. Waisting half my day programming the pads to other channels, changing the number registry... etc.... FL thinks it is a different keyboard, so its send the pads to C5 C# A5 A#, Which is stupid, and still no luck. Useless for now. But they feel great, have to hit them kind of hard, though the curve can be changed.
Final thoughts.
Keyboard is lightweight, knobs-faders-pads are finicky. Durability is very low. Lol, but the quality is actually very good. The price attached is too good to pass up. Beginners only though, this its not a professional keyboard. If you need a workhorse, then this keyboard its like a sled-dog (just one dog). Sooooo cheap though. Like, one you would give away after you buy a Korg or akai $300+ controllers.
Pros
- Excellent Sound
Cons
- Hard To Use
Best Uses
- Home Studio
Comments about Alesis QX49 - USB/MIDI Extended Keyboard Controller:
The company shipped the product right away. It looks and works great. My only concern is, the directions booklet says nothing about how to set any of the nobs, or how to work the program. It has been difficult locating information on how to work everything.
Pros
- Has assignable MIDI out
- Inexpensive
- Professional Features
Cons
- Cryptic display
- Feels cheap
- Mushy keys
- Not Consistent
Best Uses
Comments about Alesis QX49 - USB/MIDI Extended Keyboard Controller:
Potentially a great unit if not for Alesis' bad quality control. The key bed felt a little mushy right out of the box. After an hour of use, the 2nd octave A# and G# keys started sticking after release. It's going back for an exchange. maybe it was a bad unit but I expected better QC from Alesis. If the second unit is problematic as well, I'll try another manufacturer.
The Quickstart guide is poorly written as well and it seems no actual manual exists for the unit. The display is large and easy to read but the zone indicator is ALWAYS flashing. I find that distracting. Button labels are a little confusing.
Pros
- Maybe price
Cons
- Difficult to Use
- Limited Sound Selection
- Poor Instructions
Best Uses
- Still don't know
Comments about Alesis QX49 - USB/MIDI Extended Keyboard Controller:
It might be better if there is additional "Slow (Detailed) Start Guide" besides "Quick Start Guide". Documentation is made for somebody who already knows everything about MIDI and MIDI controllers. Not for beginners as I am. There is no any description about any of terms used in guide. If you are novice to MIDI/Controller there is no way you will be able even to make any sound out of it. At least they should include a few samples for making sound. I beleive everything else should be OK for the price but still evaluating and reading/learning about available functions/features. I've tried to contact Alesis support and got general advice how to make initial sound when connected to Ableton from somebody who is supporting everything:
Technical Support & Return Authorizations
Numark | Alesis | Akai Pro | ION Audio | MixMeister | ▲LTO Pro.
M-AUDIO does a little better but not so much. It looks to me Alesis doesn't expect somebody with a little or no experience to be their customer.
B&H is great, excellent, best.
Pros
- Easy to Use
Cons
- Poor Action
Best Uses
- Electronic Music
Comments about Alesis QX49 - USB/MIDI Extended Keyboard Controller:
Really good keyboard for the price. Play button is a dual release so doesn't work as a play button.
My E flat key is broken, it sticks sometimes. I don't have time to head in and get it looked at :( But I would recommend this over the M-Audio.
I owned an M-Audio and this one has better keys, knobs and pads.
Pros
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Alesis QX49 - USB/MIDI Extended Keyboard Controller:
well built for the budget, feels nice in the fingers.
I had a problem installing the Live Lite Alesis Edition provided software. hope i could get support from alesis soon
USB powered!
Pros
- Easy To Collaborate Across Programs
- Easy to Customize
- Easy to Navigate
Cons
Best Uses
- Educational Purposes
- Multimedia
Comments about Alesis QX49 - USB/MIDI Extended Keyboard Controller:
I use the QX49 with Reason 6. It has a great variety of knobs, sliders, and the drum pad, which is perfect for a begginer.
- Primary use:
- Personal
- Computer Platform:
- PC
Displaying reviews 1-7
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