Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $832

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Imagine unlocking a realm of sonic possibilities with the Alesis Fusion 8HD, a powerhouse synthesizer that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with intuitive design. This 88-note weighted keyboard is a dream for musicians who crave versatility and depth in their compositions. At its core, the Fusion 8HD boasts a remarkable processing engine capable of four distinct synthesis types: Sample Playback, Virtual Analog, FM, and Physical Modeling. Whether you’re crafting lush soundscapes or punchy beats, this synth delivers like no other.

Beyond its synthesis prowess, the Fusion 8HD features 8-channel 24-bit hard disk recording, allowing you to capture every nuance of your performance with pristine clarity. The integrated sequencing capabilities provide you with the flexibility to layer and edit your tracks, making it a perfect tool for both studio and live applications. Expandability is a breeze with upgradable RAM and CompactFlash memory, ensuring your library of sounds and samples grows alongside your creativity.

For those who appreciate hands-on control, the Fusion 8HD offers fully assignable buttons and 360-degree knobs, enhancing your ability to shape and mold sounds in real time. The onboard grand piano, based on the acclaimed "Holy Grail Piano," adds a touch of elegance to your compositions. With a large backlit LCD, navigating this feature-rich instrument is both intuitive and inspiring. The Alesis Fusion 8HD isn’t just a synthesizer; it’s a complete music production workstation built to elevate your artistic vision.

Key Features:

  • Four integrated synthesis types: Sample Playback, Virtual Analog, FM, and Physical Modeling
  • 8-channel 24-bit hard disk recording with built-in 40GB hard drive
  • 32-track MIDI sequencer with integrated multi-channel digital audio playback
  • High-definition 24-bit sampler with expandable memory from 64MB to 192MB
  • Fully assignable buttons and 360-degree knobs for hands-on control
  • Large 240x128 backlit LCD for easy navigation
  • Multi-channel input and output options, including analog and digital (S/PDIF and ADAT Lightpipe)
  • Onboard grand piano based on "Holy Grail Piano" by Q Up Arts

Product specs

Brand Alesis
Model Fusion 8HD 88-Key Workstation
Finish Silver
Year 2000s
Categories Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 88 Keys
Polyphony 180 Voices

FAQs

Is the Alesis Fusion 8HD suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Alesis Fusion 8HD is equipped with 88 weighted keys and extensive sound capabilities, making it a solid choice for live performances. Its robust build and versatile sound engine cater well to performing musicians.

What types of synthesis does the Alesis Fusion 8HD support?

The Alesis Fusion 8HD supports multiple synthesis types, including sample playback, virtual analog, FM synthesis, and physical modeling, offering a wide range of sound design possibilities.

How does the Alesis Fusion 8HD integrate with DAWs?

The Alesis Fusion 8HD features USB MIDI connectivity, allowing it to integrate smoothly with most DAWs for both MIDI input and output, making it versatile for studio use.

What is the polyphony capability of the Alesis Fusion 8HD?

The Alesis Fusion 8HD offers a generous polyphony of 180 voices, providing ample headroom for complex compositions and layered sounds without note dropouts.

Does the Alesis Fusion 8HD have onboard storage for sounds and samples?

Yes, the Alesis Fusion 8HD includes a built-in hard drive, enabling users to store a wide array of sounds and samples directly on the workstation for easy access during performances or recording sessions.

Can the Alesis Fusion 8HD be used as a standalone instrument without a computer?

Absolutely, the Alesis Fusion 8HD is a fully functional standalone workstation with onboard sequencing, sampling, and synthesis capabilities, making it ideal for both live and studio environments without needing a computer.

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

ALESIS FUSION 8HD DEMO NA CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

Video thumbnail for ALESIS FUSION 8HD DEMO NA CLASSIC KEYBOARDS by CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

ALESIS FUSION 8HD DEMO NA CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

Video thumbnail for ALESIS FUSION 8HD (FACTORY SOUNDS) bY TIAGO MALLEN - ANO : 2005 #alesis #tecladista #music #teclado by Tiago Mallen

ALESIS FUSION 8HD (FACTORY SOUNDS) bY TIAGO MALLEN - ANO : 2005 #alesis #tecladista #music #teclado

Tiago Mallen

Tiago Mallen

Video thumbnail for ALESIS FUSION 8HD (TIMBRES DE FÁBRICA) bY TIAGO MALLEN - ANO : 2005 #alesis REMAKER #tecladista by Tiago Mallen

ALESIS FUSION 8HD (TIMBRES DE FÁBRICA) bY TIAGO MALLEN - ANO : 2005 #alesis REMAKER #tecladista

Tiago Mallen

Tiago Mallen

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Alesis Fusion 8HD.

Value and pricing

  • The synth is considered valuable due to its scarcity of sound programs outside Germany, potentially increasing its resale value.

    Source
  • Owners consider the Fusion 8HD a more economical alternative to high-end models like the Korg Kronos, offering similar engine variety at a lower cost.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • There's interest in converting the Fusion 8HD into a desktop module, highlighting a demand for more compact, space-efficient setups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners consider exchanging two Fusion 8HDs for a fully-working 61-key version, suggesting a preference for portability and functionality in certain settings.

    Source
  • While some consider it for use as a controller keyboard, its sheer size and weight often lead users to choose more compact alternatives like the Akai Mini MK2.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Fusion 8HD offers multiple synth engines including Sample+Synthesis, VA, FM, and Physical Modeling, providing a versatile sound design platform.

    Source
  • The Fusion 8HD allows individual tracks to be looped separately, then the entire song can be looped, enhancing live performance flexibility.

    Source
  • The Alesis Fusion 8HD's virtual analog (VA) engine is highly regarded for its quality, offering a rich sound palette for various musical styles.

    Source
  • The Fusion's FM synthesis engine is praised for its depth, not just as an effect but as a standalone FM synth engine.

    Source
  • Audio inputs support direct line-in or DI box connections for instruments like guitars, adding recording versatility.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Fusion 8HD is popular for its capability to record 8 audio tracks directly to its 120GB hard drive, which is advantageous for complex live setups.

    Source
  • Owners note its large size and weight make it less practical for small setups, better suited for studio use rather than as a portable controller.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users report issues with scratchy volume pots and hard drive failures, even after replacing components like the display.

    Source
  • Backing up the internal hard drive is straightforward via USB, acting like a USB stick.

    Source

User experience

  • There's a sentiment among owners that it's better to sell while the hard drive is still functional, as issues could arise over time.

    Source
  • Keyboard feel is generally well-received, with owners appreciating the keybed for extended use.

    Source

Build quality

  • The power supply fan is notably noisy, which might affect studio recording environments.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Free Hollow Sun sound packs can be retrieved from the internet archive, expanding the Fusion's sound palette.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Alesis Fusion

soundonsound.com

The Alesis Fusion 8HD impresses with its four synthesis types and flexible architecture, offering a lot for its price range. Its user interface is well-designed and the potential for future improvements through OS updates and new sounds is promising. However, the lack of built-in mic/guitar inputs is a significant oversight for a workstation aimed at solo composers. Additionally, while the hard disk recorder is a unique feature, it feels poorly integrated, with limitations in signal routing and input options. The current sound presets don’t fully exploit the Fusion’s capabilities, leaving room for improvement.

Alesis Fusion 8HD review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Alesis Fusion 8HD is a powerhouse workstation offering a wealth of sound-generating options and a huge array of effects at an excellent price point. Its integration of various synthesis modes, including FM and Physical Modelling, provides versatile sound-making capabilities. However, its small onboard screen struggles with its vast functionality, and the soft edit keys can be confusing. Despite these drawbacks, its competitive price and extensive features make it a must-try for anyone in the market for a workstation.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Alesis Synthesizers

Alesis QS6

 

 
Danny Federici
1 artist using
ALESIS QS7.1

 

 
Danny Federici
1 artist using
Alesis QS6.2

 

 
Los Retros Tennyson
2 artists using
Sequential Prophet-6

$3,273.61 - $3,499.99

# 1

Rank

Kevin Parker Thom Yorke Mike Shinoda
168 artists using
Moog Grandmother

$999.00 - $1,084.00

# 4

Rank

Deadmau5 Dominic Fike Martin Garrix
52 artists using
Korg Minilogue

$411.00 - $699.99

# 12

Rank

Aphex Twin King Krule Misha Mansoor
132 artists using
Moog Subsequent 37

$1,467.63 - $1,899.00

# 14

Rank

Neil Halstead Skrillex Charlie Puth
68 artists using
Arturia MicroBrute

$298.35 - $652.00

# 15

Rank

John Dwyer Adrian Utley Jordan Rudess
64 artists using
Korg MicroKORG

$385.00 - $530.00

# 16

Rank

Kevin Parker Joe Duplantier Frank Iero
324 artists using
Korg MS-20 Mini

$491.93 - $899.99

# 19

Rank

Kevin Parker Mike Shinoda Deadmau5
93 artists using
Yamaha Reface DX

$279.00 - $449.99

# 20

Rank

Mac DeMarco Aphex Twin Taylor Swift
34 artists using
Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1

$277.00 - $1,763.18

# 21

Rank

Porter Robinson Nick Reinhart The Prodigy
53 artists using
Yamaha Reface CS

$79.99 - $495.44

# 22

Rank

Mac DeMarco Fred again.. Justin Vernon
48 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    eoslinz
    eoslinz

    Gear IQ 120