All Posts by Jaime Echagüe

Review MIDI keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2. Where to buy it?

I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 keyboard. Then you have a video or two, purchase links and useful comments from other users and then you have one of the most useful parts; comparison tables with similar keyboards so you can compare.

  • For all of your digital instruments
  • Fatar keyboard with aftertouch and 49 semi-weighted secrets
  • Ergonomic pitch and mod tires plus touch strip
  • Pre-configured mapping for several KOMPLETE instruments and hundreds of NKS-compatible (Native Kontrol Standard) instruments from leading third-party suppliers
  • Full VSTi help
  • Tag-based preset browsing: Find noises quickly and preview them instantly
  • Two high-resolution color displays for browsing, sound tweaking and more
  • Light Guide: RGB lights above each key signal drum cells, key switches, chords, tips and much more
  • Smart Play: Recognise keys and inversions with the Light Guide, play chord sequences and arpeggios using single keys or any key with white secrets only
  • Seamless integration with MASCHINE hardware/software
  • intuitive control of Logic professional X, Ableton Live and GarageBand
  • Two freely assignable inputs for base pedal (The most important pedal of a piano or keyboard is the sustain pedal and is used to keep the note playing even if you stop pressing the key.)s
  • midi (MIDI allows you to do such wonderful things as connect the keyboard to the computer, record a soundtrack and with certain programs pass with a click what you have played to musical notes in a score. MIDI tracks store information from musical notes) In/Out
  • Power supply via USB 2.0
  • Register your hardware to download the KOMPLETE KONTROL computer software and KOMPLETE SELECT for free (11 top-quality software instruments and results): Massive, Monark, The Gentleman, Drumlab, Reaktor Prism, Scarbee Mark I, Retro Machines, Vintage Organs, West Africa, Solid coach Comp, and Replica)
  • System requirements: Mac OS X 10.11 or macOS 10.12 (Intel Core 2 Duo), Windows 7 or later (Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon 64 X2), Internet connection and an images card supporting OpenGL 2.1 or maybe more needed (only for pc software download and activation), 4 GB RAM (6 GB recommended for large CONTACT instruments), USB 2.0 or more (cable included)

review native-instruments-komplete-kontrol-s49-mk2

This keyboard usually has a price around 479.00 €

Now that we’ve seen the features of this keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 watch these related videos to learn more.

Post you may be interested in

Some comments from people who come to the forum about this model:

Comment:

This controller ended up being precisely what I thought it will be, AMAZING! Very plug that is easy play perhaps not messing around controller by Native Instruments they really nailed it with this specific it comes with Komplete 10 which is more than enough to start making some noises. It works well with Logic, Ableton, and Pro Tools. Its durable which I love (It doesn’t feel inexpensive), the tips are responsive and tend to be sensitive therefore can provide you velocities which can be different records. The displays are a big assistance and give a nice feeling you are able to modify via the knobs while you need not look to your DAW for many editing and using the mixer cause. Transport buttons satisfying and beautiful to press. I am still obtaining the hang of it and certainly will have to revise my review in per year or two whenever I has taken the most juice from it 😉 Great purchase I’m really satisfied with it.

Comment:

Excellent midi controller. Really good feeling that is key. Bright displays that are clear. All perfect that is working macos, Native instruments Komplete and Logic pro. Even Arturia plugins are compartible too. Really pleased!!!

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 vs Studiologic SL88 Studio

The keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 is usually 91 € more expensive than Studiologic SL88 Studio.

And then a video of the keyboard

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2

Studiologic SL88 Studio

  • For all of your digital instruments
  • Fatar keyboard with aftertouch and 49 semi-weighted secrets
  • Ergonomic pitch and mod tires plus touch strip
  • Pre-configured mapping for several KOMPLETE instruments and hundreds of NKS-compatible (Native Kontrol Standard) instruments from leading third-party suppliers
  • Full VSTi help
  • Tag-based preset browsing: Find noises quickly and preview them instantly
  • Two high-resolution color displays for browsing, sound tweaking and more
  • Light Guide: RGB lights above each key signal drum cells, key switches, chords, tips and much more
  • Smart Play: Recognise keys and inversions with the Light Guide, play chord sequences and arpeggios using single keys or any key with white secrets only
  • Seamless integration with MASCHINE hardware/software
  • intuitive control of Logic professional X, Ableton Live and GarageBand
  • Two freely assignable inputs for base pedals
  • MIDI In/Out
  • Power supply via USB 2.0
  • Register your hardware to download the KOMPLETE KONTROL computer software and KOMPLETE SELECT for free (11 top-quality software instruments and results): Massive, Monark, The Gentleman, Drumlab, Reaktor Prism, Scarbee Mark I, Retro Machines, Vintage Organs, West Africa, Solid coach Comp, and Replica)
  • System requirements: Mac OS X 10.11 or macOS 10.12 (Intel Core 2 Duo), Windows 7 or later (Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon 64 X2), Internet connection and an images card supporting OpenGL 2.1 or maybe more needed (only for pc software download and activation), 4 GB RAM (6 GB recommended for large CONTACT instruments), USB 2.0 or more (cable included)
  • Weighted hammer action keyboard TP/100LR with Aftertouch
  • 6 Way joystick control
  • 3 Function buttons
  • 4 Programmable zones
  • 4 Programmable pedal connectors
  • 3 Joystick controllers
  • TFT color display (320 x 240 px)
  • Editable and programmable pc software (SL Editor)
  • Programmable Key-Balance function
  • 6 Editable velocity curves
  • Magnetic rail system for holding sheet music and laptop computer (holders not included)
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 1260 x 310 x 125 mm
  • body weight: 13.7 kg
  • Power adapter (9 V DC, 1 A) and PS 100 sustain pedal included

And then a video of the keyboardStudiologic SL88 Studio

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Studiologic SL88 Studio review

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 vs Roli Seaboard Rise 25

The keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2is usually 70 € cheaper than Roli Seaboard Rise 25.

And then a video of the keyboard

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2

Roli Seaboard Rise 25

  • For all of your digital instruments
  • Fatar keyboard with aftertouch and 49 semi-weighted secrets
  • Ergonomic pitch and mod tires plus touch strip
  • Pre-configured mapping for several KOMPLETE instruments and hundreds of NKS-compatible (Native Kontrol Standard) instruments from leading third-party suppliers
  • Full VSTi help
  • Tag-based preset browsing: Find noises quickly and preview them instantly
  • Two high-resolution color displays for browsing, sound tweaking and more
  • Light Guide: RGB lights above each key signal drum cells, key switches, chords, tips and much more
  • Smart Play: Recognise keys and inversions with the Light Guide, play chord sequences and arpeggios using single keys or any key with white secrets only
  • Seamless integration with MASCHINE hardware/software
  • intuitive control of Logic professional X, Ableton Live and GarageBand
  • Two freely assignable inputs for base pedals
  • MIDI In/Out
  • Power supply via USB 2.0
  • Register your hardware to download the KOMPLETE KONTROL computer software and KOMPLETE SELECT for free (11 top-quality software instruments and results): Massive, Monark, The Gentleman, Drumlab, Reaktor Prism, Scarbee Mark I, Retro Machines, Vintage Organs, West Africa, Solid coach Comp, and Replica)
  • System requirements: Mac OS X 10.11 or macOS 10.12 (Intel Core 2 Duo), Windows 7 or later (Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon 64 X2), Internet connection and an images card supporting OpenGL 2.1 or maybe more needed (only for pc software download and activation), 4 GB RAM (6 GB recommended for large CONTACT instruments), USB 2.0 or more (cable included)
  • New measurement of this Touch Interaction
  • Customizable sensitiveness for optimal experience
  • Touch and shape noise timbres in an astonishingly direct and intuitive way
  • Compatible with standard software and equipment synthesizers as well as using the included Equator computer software Bundle
  • Simulates authentic dynamic range of different instruments
  • Personalise patches using the touch delicate track-pad and 3 touch painful and sensitive faders
  • generate new sonic possibilities by mapping sound parameters to unique gestures
  • Touch and shape sound timbres in an astonishingly direct and intuitive way
  • Built-In MIDI connection over Bluetooth with around 8 hours of constant play
  • Includes pc software licenses for Equator Synth, Strobe2, Bitwig 8-Track, Tracktion Waveform and Seabaord Dashboard

Technical data:

  • 25 Keywaves
  • Pedal input: 6.3 mm Jack
  • USB B-Port (MIDI-Output and energy)
  • USB A-Port (for asking peripherals)
  • Mains power connector: 9 – 12 V DC
  • Integrated battery
  • Full midi compatibility over USB and Bluetooth
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 505 x 210 x 22.86 mm
  • Weight: 2.8 kg

System requirements:

  • OS x 108+ / Windows 7+ / iOS 7+
  • Intel core i5 2.5 GHz or faster suggested
  • 4 GB RAM (minimum, 8 GB suggested)
  • 2 GB available disk room for equator installation
  • USB 2.0 (or later) for USB compatibility

And then a video of the keyboardRoli Seaboard Rise 25

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Roli Seaboard Rise 25 review

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 vs Nektar Panorama P6

The keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 is usually 50 € more expensive than Nektar Panorama P6.

And then a video of the keyboard

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2

Nektar Panorama P6

  • For all of your digital instruments
  • Fatar keyboard with aftertouch and 49 semi-weighted secrets
  • Ergonomic pitch and mod tires plus touch strip
  • Pre-configured mapping for several KOMPLETE instruments and hundreds of NKS-compatible (Native Kontrol Standard) instruments from leading third-party suppliers
  • Full VSTi help
  • Tag-based preset browsing: Find noises quickly and preview them instantly
  • Two high-resolution color displays for browsing, sound tweaking and more
  • Light Guide: RGB lights above each key signal drum cells, key switches, chords, tips and much more
  • Smart Play: Recognise keys and inversions with the Light Guide, play chord sequences and arpeggios using single keys or any key with white secrets only
  • Seamless integration with MASCHINE hardware/software
  • intuitive control of Logic professional X, Ableton Live and GarageBand
  • Two freely assignable inputs for base pedals
  • MIDI In/Out
  • Power supply via USB 2.0
  • Register your hardware to download the KOMPLETE KONTROL computer software and KOMPLETE SELECT for free (11 top-quality software instruments and results): Massive, Monark, The Gentleman, Drumlab, Reaktor Prism, Scarbee Mark I, Retro Machines, Vintage Organs, West Africa, Solid coach Comp, and Replica)
  • System requirements: Mac OS X 10.11 or macOS 10.12 (Intel Core 2 Duo), Windows 7 or later (Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon 64 X2), Internet connection and an images card supporting OpenGL 2.1 or maybe more needed (only for pc software download and activation), 4 GB RAM (6 GB recommended for large CONTACT instruments), USB 2.0 or more (cable included)
  • Weighted keyboard with 61 keys
  • With velocity and aftertouch
  • Pitch bend and modulation wheel
  • High-resolution 3.5″ TFT display
  • 16 Rotating control knob
  • 9x 45 mm Fader
  • 1x 100mm ALPS Motorized faders
  • 10 Configurable LED switches
  • 28 Freely configurable switches
  • 12 Attack and pressure-sensitive pads
  • 4 LED Mode switch
  • Connectors for sustain and phrase pedal
  • USB slot (computer) + USB Micro B (power motorized faders)
  • Profound connection to all or any popular DAWs incl. Cubase, Nuendo, Factor, Studio One and Logic Pro X
  • Dimensions: 990 x 330 x 101 mm
  • body weight: 7.71 kg

And then a video of the keyboardNektar Panorama P6

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Nektar Panorama P6 review

Where to buy the keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2

Thomann

  • Free Shipping.
  • Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
  • 100% reliable payment.
  • Leader in trouble-free shipping.
  • Usually Best price.
  • Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalogue and information.

Amazon

  • Free Shipping and possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
  • Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
  • Sometimes better price.
  • He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

Also look at these models with a similar price and features:

Review MIDI keyboard Arturia Keystep Black Edition. Where to buy it?

I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of the Arturia Keystep Black Edition keyboard. Then you have a video or two, purchase links and useful comments from other users and then you have one of the most useful parts; comparison tables with similar keyboards so you can compare.

  • 32x Velocity-sensitive keys (Slimkey)
  • With aftertouch
  • Integrated polyphonic step sequencer
  • Up to 64 actions and 8 simultaneous notes per step
  • 8-Mode Arpeggiator
  • Chord Enjoy mode
  • Transport buttons
  • Pitch and modulation touch fader
  • Colour: Black
  • Power connector
  • Includes 3 CV / Gate cable
  • USB
  • midi (MIDI allows you to do such wonderful things as connect the keyboard to the computer, record a soundtrack and with certain programs pass with a click what you have played to musical notes in a score. MIDI tracks store information from musical notes) In / Out
  • CV / gate output
  • Sync input and production
  • Sustain pedal (The most important pedal of a piano or keyboard is the sustain pedal and is used to keep the note playing even if you stop pressing the key.) input

review arturia-keystep-black-edition
This keyboard usually has a price around 119.00 €

Now that we’ve seen the features of this keyboard Arturia Keystep Black Edition watch these related videos to learn more.

Post you may be interested in

Some comments from people who come to the forum about this model:

Comment:

here is the black colored form of Arturia Keystep.
Main motivation arises from SH-101 keyboard (exact same design from F to C) which I like and in individual play also makes more sense.
Sequencer is good – incl. Divider and slide and possibility to edit sequences in the the computer.
After editing one have to press SYNC and all data is being synchronized (comparable as to iPhone with iTunes).Biggest drawback is microUSB rather big USB typeB connector and lack of power on/off switch. Sometimes that weak USB that is micro connection destroyed due to that and device needs to be reconnected. As a solution – magnetic connections might help.

Comment:

I have actually a Novation Circuit but never really enjoyed placing notes in using the grid program. I desired a keyboard that is tiny will allow me to work on this and also allow me to alter MIDI channel effortlessly. This is where the Keystep comes in. It is simple to use and small sufficient become portable. You will find a host of extra features that I love and will utilize a whole lot. Arpeggiator and poly sequencers are excellent. The sync features and Gate and CV means I can interface it with my equipment that is old so ARP Axxe and SH-101 can perform more. I individually hate Mini tips and this almost stopped me buying the Keystep. So that they are not as small as mini tips so even though I do not like the size they truly are extremely playable because it ends up these are slim secrets. It works well with Circuit along with all my other things I suggest it to everyone with a synth setup as you will see something useful for you I’m certain. It is a shame there is not a visual feed back for the modulation slider as up you can’t tell so that you need to keep an eye on it in the event that you leave it. No complaints at all apart from the keys that are slim being to my style. If a size that is complete variation is released I will certainly buy it! Also being black colored matches my colour preferences with my other gear.

Arturia Keystep Black Edition vs Akai MPK mini Mk2

The keyboard Arturia Keystep Black Edition is usually 31 € more expensive than Akai MPK mini Mk2, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Arturia Keystep Black Edition

Akai MPK mini Mk2

  • 32x Velocity-sensitive keys (Slimkey)
  • With aftertouch
  • Integrated polyphonic step sequencer
  • Up to 64 actions and 8 simultaneous notes per step
  • 8-Mode Arpeggiator
  • Chord Enjoy mode
  • Transport buttons
  • Pitch and modulation touch fader
  • Colour: Black
  • Power connector
  • Includes 3 CV / Gate cable

Connections:

  • USB
  • MIDI In / Out
  • CV / gate output
  • Sync input and production
  • Sustain pedal input
  • 25 Synth-Action keys
  • 4-Way joystick for powerful pitch/modulation adjustment
  • 8 MPC pads with note repeat
  • Arpeggiator
  • 8 Assignable control pods for mixing, plugIn-control and much more
  • 6.3 mm jack input for sustain pedals
  • Power supply via USB, power adapter not required
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 317 x 181 x 44 mm
  • Weight: 748 g
  • Including software program (downloads): Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai professional MPC Essentials

And then a video of the keyboardAkai MPK mini Mk2

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai MPK mini Mk2 review

Arturia Keystep Black Edition vs Akai LPK 25

The keyboard Arturia Keystep Black Edition is usually 75 € more expensive than Akai LPK 25.

And then a video of the keyboard

Arturia Keystep Black Edition

Akai LPK 25

  • 32x Velocity-sensitive keys (Slimkey)
  • With aftertouch
  • Integrated polyphonic step sequencer
  • Up to 64 actions and 8 simultaneous notes per step
  • 8-Mode Arpeggiator
  • Chord Enjoy mode
  • Transport buttons
  • Pitch and modulation touch fader
  • Colour: Black
  • Power connector
  • Includes 3 CV / Gate cable

Connections:

  • USB
  • MIDI In / Out
  • CV / gate output
  • Sync input and production
  • Sustain pedal input
  • USB-MIDI Controller functions with almost any audio software
  • 25 Velocity sensitive mini keys
  • Arpeggiator
  • Sustain button
  • Octave down and up along with faucet tempo keys
  • Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation
  • completely fits in a new laptop bag or in a backpack
  • Four programmable memory banking institutions
  • computer software editor for Mac and PC included
  • Power supply via USB Bus – no importance of one more power supply
  • Dimensions: 9.65 x 34.04 x 2.79 cm
  • body weight: 0.635 kg

And then a video of the keyboardAkai LPK 25

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai LPK 25 review

Arturia Keystep Black Edition vs Swissonic EasyKey 49

The keyboard Arturia Keystep Black Edition is usually 50 € more expensive than Swissonic EasyKey 49.

And then a video of the keyboard

Arturia Keystep Black Edition

Swissonic EasyKey 49

  • 32x Velocity-sensitive keys (Slimkey)
  • With aftertouch
  • Integrated polyphonic step sequencer
  • Up to 64 actions and 8 simultaneous notes per step
  • 8-Mode Arpeggiator
  • Chord Enjoy mode
  • Transport buttons
  • Pitch and modulation touch fader
  • Colour: Black
  • Power connector
  • Includes 3 CV / Gate cable

Connections:

  • USB
  • MIDI In / Out
  • CV / gate output
  • Sync input and production
  • Sustain pedal input
  • 49 Full-size velocity sensitive secrets
  • Aluminium housing with side synthetic panels
  • Pitch flex- and modulation wheel
  • LED Display
  • 1 Fader for volume control
  • 1 Programmable rotary encoder
  • Octave key to transpose the pitch associated with the whole keyboard
  • 1 Pedal connector
  • 1 MIDI Out
  • Powered by USB
  • Compatible with Windows Vista, XP (SP1 and greater), Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 and Mac OS X
  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 825 x 210 x 68 mm
  • Weight: 4.77 kg
  • Incl. 1 m USB Cable and Thomann Studio Starter Kit LE (software packet with DAW software, computer software synthesizers, as well as impacts plugins)

And then a video of the keyboardSwissonic EasyKey 49

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Swissonic EasyKey 49 review

Arturia Keystep Black Edition vs Arturia Keystep

The keyboard Arturia Keystep Black Edition is usually 8 € more expensive than Arturia Keystep, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Arturia Keystep Black Edition

Arturia Keystep

  • 32x Velocity-sensitive keys (Slimkey)
  • With aftertouch
  • Integrated polyphonic step sequencer
  • Up to 64 actions and 8 simultaneous notes per step
  • 8-Mode Arpeggiator
  • Chord Enjoy mode
  • Transport buttons
  • Pitch and modulation touch fader
  • Colour: Black
  • Power connector
  • Includes 3 CV / Gate cable

Connections:

  • USB
  • MIDI In / Out
  • CV / gate output
  • Sync input and production
  • Sustain pedal input
  • 32x Velocity-sensitive keys (Slimkey)
  • With aftertouch
  • Integrated polyphonic step sequencer
  • Up to 64 actions and 8 simultaneous records per step
  • 8-Mode Arpeggiator
  • Chord Play mode
  • Transport buttons
  • Pitch and modulation touch fader
  • Colour: White
  • Power connector
  • USB
  • MIDI In / Out
  • CV / gate output
  • Sync input and output
  • Sustain pedal input

And then a video of the keyboardArturia Keystep

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Arturia Keystep review

Where to buy the keyboard Arturia Keystep Black Edition

Amazon

  • Free Shipping and possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
  • Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
  • Sometimes better price.
  • He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

Thomann

  • Free Shipping.
  • Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
  • 100% reliable payment.
  • Leader in trouble-free shipping.
  • Usually Best price.
  • Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalogue and information.

Also look at these models with a similar price and features:

Review MIDI keyboard Alesis V49. Where to buy it?

Alesis is a company founded in the United States in 1980 that designs and markets electronic musical instruments, digital audio processors, audio mixers, drum amplifiers, digital audio interface amplifiers, recording equipment, drum machines, professional audio, and electronic percussion products.

I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of this Alesis V49 keyboard. Then you have a video or two, purchase links and useful comments from other users and then you have one of the most useful parts; comparison tables with similar keyboards so you can compare.

  • 49 full-size keys
  • Square front keys
  • 8 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • 4 attributable knobs and 4 attributable buttons
  • Octave up and down buttons let you access the full keyboard range
  • Pitch and modulation wheels
  • Visual information through illuminated knobs and buttons
  • USB powered and midi USB connectivity for Mac and computer
  • Includes USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software (download), and xpand!2 by Air Music Tech software (download)
  • Dimensions: 955 x 244 x 114 mm

review alesis-v49
This MIDI keyboard usually costs around 95.00 euros and has a 4-octave keyboard, reaching 49 full-size sensitive keys, which will serve us to play compositions in this range of notes, and if we want to go to a higher or lower range we can make use of the up/down octave buttons.

Other controls are 8 backlit pads that also have sensitivity and will allow you to create percussion rhythms or make use of other samples in the DAW you are working on.

There are also pitch bend and modulation wheels, to change the pitch of a note in real-time, i.e. while it’s playing. In controls, we also have 4 knobs and 4 buttons assignable to some function inside the DAW to use or to control more precisely any parameter in a plugin.

Finally, we can mention that the Alesis V49 includes the software Ableton Live Lite (download) and the software xpand!2 by Air Music Tech (download) very appreciated mostly by beginners.

Now that we have seen the features of this Alesis V49 keyboard watch these related videos to learn more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbVl0SVgnQ8

Posts you may be interested in

Alesis V49 vs Alesis VI49

The Alesis V49 MIDI Keyboard is priced at 95 euros while the Alesis VI49 is priced at 185 euros. Since the Alesis Vl49 is a superior model we found a difference of 90 Euro, let’s see its face to face:

  • Both offer us 49 keys with sensitivity, but in the Alesis VI49, they are semi-heavy, having better quality when playing the keyboard.
  • Both offer speed-sensitive backlit pads (intensity in MIDI language), in the Alesis V49 they are 8, and in the Alesis VI49, they are 16.
  • We also have assignable knobs and buttons, in the case of the Alesis V49 it is 4 knobs and 4 buttons, and in the Alesis VI49, it is 36 buttons and 12 knobs.
  • Both offer pitch bend and modulation wheels that allow you to change the height of a note while playing.
  • Both share visual information through the illuminated knobs and buttons, while the Alesis Vl49 also features an LED display.
  • Both can be powered via USB (USB port) and the Alesis VI49 has a 5-pin MIDI output offering flexible MIDI connectivity.
  • Both include the Ableton Live Lite software license (download), Xpand! software, and the Alesis VI49 2 software (download).

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Alesis V49

Alesis VI49

  • 49 full-size keys
  • Square front keys
  • 8 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons
  • Octave up and down buttons allow you to access the full keyboard range
  • Pitch and modulation wheels
  • Visual information through illuminated knobs and buttons
  • USB-powered and USB MIDI connectivity for Mac and PC
  • Includes USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software (download), and xpand!2 by Air Music Tech software (download)
  • Dimensions: 955 x 244 x 114 mm
  • 49 semi-balanced keys with full-size aftertouch with square front
  • 16 speed-sensitive trigger pads with RGB backlighting for rhythm production and a clip release
  • Interface with 36 buttons and 12 assignable knobs with your music software
  • Pitch and modulation wheels provide precise and creative control
  • Seamless visual information via LED display and illuminated buttons + knobs
  • USB MIDI port and 5-pin MIDI output offer flexible MIDI connectivity
  • USB powered
  • Plug-and-Play support for Mac and PC
  • Includes USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software (download), Xpand! 2 software (download)

As we can see if there are significant changes in both models, and the price increase is worth it, both for the function of semi-weighted keys, as well as the increase in control devices more that offers us the Alesis VI49, so, if the budget gives you, go for it. For its price, the Alesis V49 is not a bad choice either.

And here’s a video of the Alesis VI49 keyboard:

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Alesis VI49 review.

Alesis V49 vs Alesis Q49 Keyboard Controller

The Alesis V49 MIDI Keyboard has a price of 95 Euro when the Alesis Q49 Keyboard Controller has a price of 75 Euro, but the difference is so small that this can vary. Having such a similar name, as well as its price we expect similar features, let’s move on to the face-to-face:

  • Both offer 49 keys with sensitivity, in the Alesis V49 they are square, while in the Alesis Q49 they are similar to a digital keyboard.
  • The Alesis V49 offers 8 back-lit velocity-sensitive pads (intensity in MIDI language).
  • There are also 4 assignable knobs and 4 buttons on the Alesis V49.
  • Both offer pitch bend and modulation wheels that allow you to change the height of a note while playing. And Up/Down Octave buttons.
  • The Alesis V49 shares visual information through the illuminated knobs and buttons.
  • The Alesis Q49 offers an assignable fader for program changes, very useful in production processes such as mixing.
  • Both can be powered via USB (USB port).
  • The Alesis V49 includes the Ableton Live Lite software licenses (download), Xpand software! 2 software (download), while the Alesis Q49 includes Ableton Live Lite and Alesis Edition.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Alesis V49

Alesis Q49 Keyboard Controller

  • 49 full-size keys
  • Square front keys
  • 8 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons
  • Octave up and down buttons allow you to access the full keyboard range
  • Pitch and modulation wheels
  • Visual information through illuminated knobs and buttons
  • USB-powered and USB MIDI connectivity for Mac and PC
  • Includes USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software (download), and xpand!2 by Air Music Tech software (download)
  • Dimensions: 955 x 244 x 114 mm
  • 49 sensitive keys
  • Compatible with virtually any MIDI software or MIDI device
  • USB/MIDI connections and traditional MIDI ports for Mac or PC and external MIDI hardware
  • Pitch and modulation wheels
  • Octave Up/Down buttons
  • Assignable fader for program changes
  • Includes Ableton Live Lite and Alesis Edition
  • Size: 81,5 x 18,5 x 6 cm

We have a couple of models of the brand Alesis very similar, both for their names, prices, and features, but for the small difference of 20 euros, you can appreciate their improvements. Controls like the 8 pads, 4 knobs, and 4 buttons both assignable if they are usually useful tools in a DAW, so the best option is the Alesis V49.

And here’s a video of the Alesis Q49 Keyboard Controller

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Alesis Q49 Keyboard Controller.

Alesis V49 vs Akai MPK mini MK2

The Alesis V49 MIDI Keyboard is priced at £95 while the Akai MPK mini MK2 is priced at £88, but the difference is so small that this may vary.

  • The Alesis offers 49 keys with sensitivity, while the Akai gives 25 mini keys with sensitivity.
  • The Alesis offers pitch bend and modulation wheels, up/down octave buttons, and 4 assignable knobs, and 4 assignable buttons. The Akai offers a thumbstick track for pitch bend and modulation control, 8 high-quality MPC (MIDI Production Center) pads with repeat function, 8 assignable knobs very useful in mix or plug-in parameter.
  • The Alesis has USB/MIDI connections and traditional MIDI ports for Mac or PC and external MIDI hardware. And the Akai has its USB port and a sustain pedal input jack.
  • The Alesis includes Ableton Live Lite and Alesis Edition, while the Akai includes licenses for Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble, and Akai Pro MPC Essentials.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Alesis V49

Akai MPK mini MK2 white

  • 49 full-size keys
  • Square front keys
  • 8 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons
  • Octave up and down buttons allow you to access the full keyboard range
  • Pitch and modulation wheels
  • Visual information through illuminated knobs and buttons
  • USB-powered and USB MIDI connectivity for Mac and PC
  • Includes USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software (download), and xpand!2 by Air Music Tech software (download)
  • Dimensions: 955 x 244 x 114 mm
  • 25 mini synthesizer action keys
  • New 4-way ‘thumbstick’ for dynamic tone/modulation control
  • 8 MPC pads with note repetition
  • Arpeggiator
  • 8 assignable control knobs for mixing, adjusting plugins, and more
  • The ultra-compact design allows you to create anywhere
  • Additional inputs: 1 x 6.3 mm jack for sustain pedal
  • Powered by USB
  • No power adapter required
  • Full size sustain pedal input jack
  • Includes complete production software package (downloads): Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble, and Akai Pro MPC Essentials
  • Dimensions: 317 x 181 x 44 mm
  • Weight: 748 g

In this interesting comparison, we find two different controllers, on the one hand, the Alesis V49 with 49 keys on its keyboard, 8 sensitive pads, 4 knobs, and 4 buttons both assignable. And on the other hand, the Akai MPK Mini MKII has 25 mini keys, 8 sensitive pads, and 8 assignable knobs. If you want a keyboard more than anything else to use its keyboard and you may not move it as much, but it is still very portable, your option will be the Alesis V49. And if you want a very portable keyboard or your space is very compact, and you do not need so many keys the Akai MPK Mini MKII will be your best choice, and it should be noted that it is very popular.

And here is a video of the Akai MPK mini MK2

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai MPK Mini MK2 review.

Alesis V49 vs Alesis V61

The Alesis V49 MIDI Keyboard has a price of 95 euros while the Alesis V61 has a price of 143 euros, reaching a difference of nearly 50 euros. That its only and most relevant difference is that the Alesis V49 has 49 keys and the Alesis V61 has 61 keys, many times pianists or keyboard players do not feel comfortable with 4 octaves, and for this Alesis has the V61 where they offer 1 octave more reaching a total of 61 keys.

Let’s put the characteristics of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Alesis V49

Alesis V61

  • 49 full-size keys
  • Square front keys
  • 8 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons
  • Octave up and down buttons allow you to access the full keyboard range
  • Pitch and modulation wheels
  • Visual information through illuminated knobs and buttons
  • USB-powered and USB MIDI connectivity for Mac and PC
  • Includes USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software (download), and xpand!2 by Air Music Tech software (download)
  • Dimensions: 955 x 244 x 114 mm
  • 61 full-size keys
  • Square front keys
  • 8 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons
  • Octave up and down buttons allow you to access the full keyboard range
  • Pitch and modulation wheels
  • Visual information through illuminated knobs and buttons
  • USB-powered and USB MIDI connectivity for Mac and PC
  • Includes USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software (download), and xpand!2 by Air Music Tech software (download)

And here’s a video of the Alesis V61 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Alesis V61 review.

Alesis V49 vs Nektar Impact LX49+

As a last comparison, we have the Alesis V49 MIDI Keyboard with a known price of 95 euro while the Nektar Impact LX49+ has a price of 134 euros, reaching a difference of nearly 40 euro. Let’s move on to the face-to-face:

  • The Alesis offers 49 keys with sensitivity, while the Nektar has 25 full-size keys that are equally sensitive to speed.
  • The Alesis offers pitch bend and modulation wheels, octave up/down buttons, and 4 assignable knobs, and 4 assignable buttons. The Nektar offers 8 Pads with 4 color lights, also has 8 assignable knobs and pitch bend and modulation wheels, and 1 assignable Fader (very helpful for mixing a track in any DAW), 6 transport buttons (stop, rec, forward, reverse, etc), and 9 assignable buttons.
  • Both have arpeggiator function, input jack for sustain pedal, USB port, and USB power.
  • The Alesis includes Ableton Live Lite and Alesis Edition when the Nektar includes the Bitwig 8-Track.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Alesis V49

Nektar Impact LX49+

 

  • 49 full-size keys
  • Square front keys
  • 8 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons
  • Octave up and down buttons allow you to access the full keyboard range
  • Pitch and modulation wheels
  • Visual information through illuminated knobs and buttons
  • USB-powered and USB MIDI connectivity for Mac and PC
  • Includes USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software (download), and xpand!2 by Air Music Tech software (download)
  • Dimensions: 955 x 244 x 114 mm
  • With 49 speed-sensitive keys
  • DAW integration including track volume and track selection, patch selection, and more
  • Suitable for all popular DAWs, including Logic, Cubase, Studio One, Reason, Bitwig, and more
  • 9 faders of 30mm
  • 8 rotary encoders
  • 9 assignable buttons
  • 6 transport buttons
  • Octave shift
  • Transposition switches
  • Pitch bend and modulation wheels
  • 4-speed curves plus 3 fixed speeds
  • 8 speed-sensitive pads with 4-color LED illumination providing 4 pad assignments and ‘learn’ pad function
  • Clip and scene switches for clip-based DAWs
  • Extended transport controls, including click, go to locator, and more
  • 5 memory locations for user-defined parameter settings
  • Native USB support for real Plug ‘n Play
  • USB bus-powered
  • Connectors: Input for TS Footswitch jack 1/4″, USB
  • WIN 7 or higher, MAC OSX 10.7 or higher
  • Includes Bitwig 8-Track software download
  • Dimensions: 788 x 254 x 76mm approx.

In this last comparison, we have two good MIDI controllers, the already analyzed Alesis V49, which is good for what it offers, but in terms of general functions for production, we can say that the winner is the Nektar Impact LX25+ since for its price (only 40 euros more) it offers features that are very useful when using a specific DAW: the fader functions (excellent for mixing), transport buttons to move around in the audio clips, and the Plug and Play is also highly valued since it allows a direct connection to the computer.

And here’s a video of the Nektar Impact LX49+ keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Nektar Impact LX49+ review.

Which is the best of these MIDI keyboards if I am a beginner on a low budget?

While the answer to this question lies mostly in what specific need you have, for example, if you want to have a keyboard with the widest possible note range, or if you want to have as many control functions as possible, or perhaps a mix between the two, that is without leaving behind the different connections and software licenses that most MIDI controllers offer, we will give an objective opinion according to our experience in music production and thus also with the price that the controllers demand, a kind of value for money.

If what you want is a MIDI controller that offers the most control functions for a fair price, the best option we have here is the Nektar Impact LX49+ which offers among other functions: pads, faders, encoders, buttons, all of them assignable, as well as functions such as transport buttons, and great compatibility with most DAWs on the market. It really is a great controller for a fair price.

Where to buy the Alesis V49 keyboard?

Amazon

  • Free Shipping and the possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
  • Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
  • Sometimes a better price.
  • He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

Thomann

  • Free Shipping.
  • Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
  • 100% reliable payment.
  • A leader in trouble-free shipping.
  • Usually the Best price.
  • Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalog and information.

Also, look at these models with a similar price and features: