Alesis has announced the new V Series and VI Series of full-size keyboard/pad controllers. The performance-oriented V Series offers expressive hands-on control for the software musician. The step-up VI Series provides increased control for the keyboard performer. Both series include a Software Preset/Parameter utility that makes setup a snap.

The new Alesis V Series (V61, V49, V25) combine 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. Assignments may be made 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 VI Series (VI61, VI49, VI25) add semi-weighted keys and aftertouch. The pad count has been increased to 16, with multi-color illumination. This layout provides intensive command over the clip trigger workflow of top DAW and compositional software. The internal clock offers drum roll, tempo, and sync capabilities. An optional power supply and a standard MIDI output allow for stand-alone use.

Alesis V Series Highlights:

• Full size, flat-front keys (25, 49, or 61)
• Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels
• 8 Pads with blue LED illumination
• 4 Assignable knobs and buttons
• Sustain pedal input
• USB MIDI

Alesis VI Series Highlights:

• Full size, flat-front keys (25, 49, or 61)
• Semi-weighted keys with Aftertouch
• Pitch Bend & Modulation Wheels
• 16 Pads with Multi-color LED illumination
• VI25: 8 knobs, 24 buttons
• VI49: 12 knobs, 36 buttons
• VI61: 16 knobs, 48 buttons
• Transport and Present up/down buttons
• Sustain pedal input
• USD MIDI, MIDI Out
• Internal Clock for sync, tempo, rolls, etc.

Alesis Product Manager Nate Lane, told us, "Our goal with the new V and VI series keyboards was to focus on live performance and studio workflow in an intuitive yet advanced way. The keys, pads, knobs, and buttons have an excellent, player-worthy, high-quality feel, and we developed an accompanying software editor to allow users to take a deep dive into defining preset and parameter configurations if they choose to do so."

Pricing and Availability:

The V and VI Series will have the following respective estimated street prices, V25 ($79.99 USD), V49 ($99.99 USD), V61 ($149.99 USD), VI25 ($169.99 USD), VI49 ($199.99 USD), and VI61 ($249.99 USD).

More information:

• Alesis

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