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Description
If you’re a musician who craves simplicity without sacrificing quality, the Alesis Q25 Keyboard Controller is your new best friend. Designed with a minimalist approach, this 25-key MIDI controller strips back the unnecessary, leaving you with just the essentials for seamless music creation. Whether you’re setting up in your home studio or taking your tunes on the road, the compact and portable Q25 fits easily into your lifestyle.
Equipped with pitch and modulation wheels, the Q25 offers expressive control over your sound. The volume/data entry slider and backlit Octave Up/Down buttons provide additional flexibility, ensuring you can navigate your compositions with ease. Its USB bus-powered functionality means you simply plug and play, eliminating the need for external power supplies. Plus, with traditional MIDI out, you have the versatility to control both software and external hardware.
Perfect for both beginners and seasoned pros, the Q25 comes bundled with Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition, allowing you to dive into recording, performing, and sequencing right out of the box. Whether you’re composing on your computer or integrating into a live setup, this controller is an adaptable tool for any musician.
Key Features:
- 25-note velocity-sensitive keyboard
- USB bus-powered for easy connectivity
- Pitch and modulation wheels for expressive control
- MIDI out port for hardware integration
- Sustain pedal input (pedal sold separately)
- Backlit Octave Up/Down buttons for quick navigation
- Assignable volume/data-entry slider
- Includes Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition software
Product specs
| Brand | Alesis |
| Model | Q25 25-Key USB MIDI Controller Keyboard |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Keyboard MIDI Controllers |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Output, USB MIDI |
| Number of Keys | 25 Keys |
FAQs
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What are the main connectivity options for the Alesis Q25 Keyboard Controller?
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The Alesis Q25 offers USB MIDI connectivity for easy integration with computers and MIDI output for connecting to other MIDI-capable hardware.
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Is the Alesis Q25 compatible with major DAWs like Ableton Live or Logic Pro?
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Yes, the Alesis Q25 is compatible with major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Logic Pro, allowing seamless control over your music production software.
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Does the Alesis Q25 Keyboard Controller have velocity-sensitive keys?
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Yes, the Alesis Q25 features velocity-sensitive keys, providing dynamic expression based on how hard or soft you play.
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Can the Alesis Q25 be powered via USB?
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Yes, the Alesis Q25 can be powered directly through a USB connection, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
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What type of keys does the Alesis Q25 have?
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The Alesis Q25 is equipped with synth-action keys, offering a smooth and responsive playing experience suitable for various musical styles.
Videos
HomeTracks
Alesis Q25 USB MIDI Keyboard Unboxing & Review
Reviews
PROS
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Full-size keys enhance playability
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USB bus power compatibility adds convenience
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Can operate with older USB2 phone charger for flexibility
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Decent wheels for smooth modulation and pitch control
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Reliable performance for basic MIDI controls
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Sturdy build quality, feels like it can withstand use
CONS
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Keys feel stiff and hard to press
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Requires solid surface for optimal play, not lap-friendly
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Feels somewhat chintzy despite light portability
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Action is only adequate, not exceptional
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Alesis Q25 Keyboard Controller.
Build quality
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The keys on the Alesis Q25 are noted to feel similar to a regular keyboard/synth, which is a standout at its price point.
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Features and functionality
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The Alesis Q25 offers full-size keys and a very minimalistic setup, making it suitable for those seeking basic functionality.
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User experience
Comparisons
Setup and maintenance
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Users suggest checking the USB connection's soldering if experiencing connection issues, as it may be the root of recognition problems.
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Testing the Alesis Q25 on a different machine is recommended to isolate if the issue is with the controller or the computer.
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Ensuring the Alesis Q25 appears under "Sound, video and game controllers" in the device manager can indicate proper installation.
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Software and compatibility
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The "USB device not recognized" error is frequently reported, potentially pointing to a common compatibility issue with certain computers.
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It has been noted that the Alesis Q25 can work on 64-bit Windows 7 using the "Generic USB Audio" driver provided by Microsoft.
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Some users face issues with the Alesis Q25 not appearing in device lists, suggesting a potential driver or recognition problem.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 6 Reviews and 25 Ratings
40997
bets portable controller
full size key backpack controller.... USBm can use bus power, DIN midi.... needs dedicated pwoer supply for DIN only use OR DOES IT?! it can run off an older usb2 phone charger and it thinks its getting bus power. Yup. Pretty cool. Decent wheels and easy to use. Action is adequate. Feels a bit chintzy but its portable and light!
236
Built like a tank
Feels like it's built like a tank, but the keys are rather stiff and hard to press. You'd have to play in on a desk or some other solid surface. Can't really play it on my lap like I play my Korg microKEY.
187
Simple and it does the job very well.
Reliable, great synth-key action, USB and 5 Pin MIDI. What more do you want?
A simple MIDI controller, does what it needs to do and nothing less.
A simple MIDI controller, does what it needs to do and nothing less.
Artist usage
Add artist
During the May 20th performance of "Ful Stop" in Amsterdam, Thom Yorke was observed using an Alesis Q25 Keyboard Controller, as evidenced by an image from the event.
Brought in to supplement the touring set up in 2006 and was used until 2014. It was also used on the early Splinter demo’s and some of the songs on Dead Son Rising.
In the Current Joys merchandise page photo, Nick Rattigan is seen with an Alesis Q25 Keyboard Controller. While recent Instagram posts suggest he now uses a larger keyboard, this image confirms his past use of the Alesis Q25.
http://KEXP.ORG presents Simian Mobile Disco performing live in the KEXP studio. Recorded September 26, 2014.
In this photo alan shows off his setup for working on music on the road. He uses a alesis keyboard to do some writing and recording
Album Usage
The Alesis Q25 Keyboard Controller has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Alesis Q25 Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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