This recording software gives you the right tool so you can start creating, recording and sharing your music easily. Xpand!2 is a powerful virtual instrument with a collection of over 2000 studio-grade sounds.Īside from the sounds onboard in the software you’re using, Xpand!2 expands your options. However, Alesis V49 is released with Xpand!2, a premier program of the German-based company Air Music Technology. Not much is being said about the sound department of the keyboard controllers because it varies with the software and computer application being used. Besides, these are also used to launch clips and samples. As I mentioned, I like the size, but, sometimes disappointed by their inconsistent responsiveness. Still, the eight pads are both velocity and pressure-sensitive. But, if you don’t have plans to stick around the keyboard controller longer, this is just perfect. The flat-edge design doesn’t have the conventional “spring-up” at the lower end of the keyboard. Looking closer and playing the keys longer make it uncomfortable for my hands. With the V49 Editor, you can adjust the velocity sensitivity of the keys. The keys are velocity-sensitive synth-action, full-sized keys, which are thick and accommodate fat fingers. I started with the 49-note keyboard since it’s the highlight of this controller. That’s how I did it, after all, this is a cheap keyboard controller. Just keep your head down to your V49 and start hitting the keys or tapping the drum pads. Don’t think of the complicated controls and assigned functionalities like the Nektar Impact LX88+. Playing the keyboard controller is simple and straightforward. The V49 Editor helps you change the key mappings and adjust its sensitivity for better integration with your software. It works well with Ableton Live or the V49 Editor, which is available both for Mac and Windows PC. Since the connectivity is straightforward, DAW integration is also easy. It’s primarily designed to be connected to a computer and for music production. If you’re expecting to play it like a real piano, this one doesn’t have built-in speakers, nor does it have a headphone jack. At the same time, it’s also used to send/receive MIDI data. The former lets you connect ¼-inch TS sustain pedal, while the latter connects to your computer and gives ample power to V49. Not much connectivity, you only get a sustain port and a USB port. However, I understand that the focus of this device is the keyboard. While it saves much of the space, it limits the utility of the pads and buttons. The entire control panel is on the left, so it’s more accessible with your left hand. However, you’ll get reliable and responsive buttons, wheels and knobs. You don’t get sophisticated faders, rotary encoders or tactile buttons. You’ll know it’s up with the blue LED light that illuminates on the buttons, pads, knobs and the wheels. Plugging in the USB cable to your computer automatically turns the instrument on. You can’t find the On/Off switch/button on V49. Although sometimes they don’t have the responsiveness you’ll need, but, workable. For me, the size is perfect for finger drumming. The eight backlit pads are both velocity and pressure-sensitive. These knobs are primarily used for utilitarian purposes, which can also be repurposed to send MIDI CC messages like the buttons. You’ll also have four assignable 270º knobs that let you increase/decrease volume, change panning, etc. These buttons also let you send MIDI CC messages to your DAW software, with a proper setting. Then, you have the Octave Up and Down buttons, which allow you to shift the keyboard range up and down, respectively.Ībove the octave buttons are four assignable buttons, which default function is toggle (latching) buttons. Like most keyboard controllers, you’ll have the pitch-bend and modulation wheels to send MIDI Pitch bend information and continuous controller data, respectively. The keys are securely in place as well, so, you can hit them a bit harder (not too hard), and nothing comes loose. Yes, most controller keyboards are made of plastic, given that it’s designed to be used anywhere, Alesis V49 is made of high-density plastic. Aside from its portability, it also doesn’t take up too much space in your desk or your gig bag. It’s narrower than its competitors and it’s also lightweight as it weighs only under 10lbs. Some people find it portable with its 37.6-inch length and 9.6-inch width. It’s a simple instrument with no fancy adornments onboard. It’s a compact long controller with all the controls to the left and the 49-note synth-action keyboard to the right. Alesis V49 is a good-looking keyboard controller with blue backlit pads/buttons.
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