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Average Price: $125

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$200

$501+

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Description

The Alesis QX61 is a powerhouse in the world of MIDI keyboard controllers, offering an exceptional blend of functionality and portability. Designed with the modern musician in mind, its 61 synth-action keys provide a responsive and dynamic playing experience, perfect for both studio sessions and live performances. The QX61 is equipped with a suite of controls that put you in the driver's seat of your creative process. With eight sliders, eight knobs, and four backlit drum pads, you can tweak and fine-tune your sound with precision. The additional pitch and modulation wheels, alongside transport buttons, ensure seamless control over your digital audio workstation (DAW) and virtual instruments, minimizing the need for a mouse.

Connectivity is a breeze with the QX61. It features both USB-MIDI and traditional MIDI ports, allowing for versatile integration with your existing setup, whether you're on a Mac, PC, or using MIDI hardware. It even includes a sustain pedal input for added expression. To top it off, the QX61 comes bundled with Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition software, enabling you to dive into recording, sequencing, and performing right out of the box.

Key Features:

  • 61 synth-action keys with velocity sensitivity
  • Eight sliders, eight knobs, and four backlit drum pads
  • USB-MIDI and traditional MIDI connectivity
  • Includes Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition
  • Pitch and modulation wheels, transport buttons, and sustain pedal input
  • Works with iPad via Apple USB Adapter (sold separately)
  • Bus-powered via USB, no additional power supply needed

Product specs

Brand Alesis
Model QX61
Finish Black
Year 2000s
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 61 Keys

FAQs

Does the Alesis QX61 MIDI controller have velocity-sensitive keys?

Yes, the Alesis QX61 features velocity-sensitive keys, allowing for dynamic playing and expression similar to an acoustic piano.

Can the Alesis QX61 be used with popular DAWs like Ableton Live or Logic Pro?

The Alesis QX61 is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Logic Pro, via USB MIDI connection, making it versatile for studio and live performances.

What kind of connectivity options does the Alesis QX61 offer?

The Alesis QX61 provides both USB MIDI and traditional MIDI output, allowing for flexible integration with a variety of music production setups.

Is the Alesis QX61 suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its 61 full-size keys and lightweight design, the Alesis QX61 is well-suited for live performances, offering portability and extensive control options.

Does the Alesis QX61 have assignable controls for MIDI mapping?

The Alesis QX61 includes assignable knobs, sliders, and buttons, enabling custom MIDI mapping to suit your specific workflow and control needs.

AlesisVideo

AlesisVideo

Getting Started with Alesis QX Series MIDI/USB Keyboard Controllers

Video thumbnail for Getting Started with Alesis QX Series MIDI/USB Keyboard Controllers by AlesisVideo

Getting Started with Alesis QX Series MIDI/USB Keyboard Controllers

AlesisVideo

AlesisVideo

Video thumbnail for Alesis QX61 Keyboard Controller by HarmonyCentral

Alesis QX61 Keyboard Controller

HarmonyCentral

HarmonyCentral

Video thumbnail for How to play live a song on Alesis QX61 MIDI keyboard and Ableton by Tomasz B (TommyDj)

How to play live a song on Alesis QX61 MIDI keyboard and Ableton

Tomasz B (TommyDj)

Tomasz B (TommyDj)

Video thumbnail for Sweetwater at Winter NAMM 2012 - Alesis QX61 Overview by Sweetwater

Sweetwater at Winter NAMM 2012 - Alesis QX61 Overview

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Alesis QX61 : un clavier maître sur-équipé ! ( La Boite Noire ) by La Boite Noire du Musicien

Alesis QX61 : un clavier maître sur-équipé ! ( La Boite Noire )

La Boite Noire du Musicien

La Boite Noire du Musicien

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Alesis QX61.

Build quality

  • Owners report Alesis MIDI keyboards, including the QX61, tend to suffer from switch and spring wear, reflecting a build quality similar to budget computer keyboards.

    Source
  • Alesis electronic products, including drum kits and keyboards, are frequently described as cheaply made and prone to physical breakage.

    Source
  • It's observed that the QX61's electronics are particularly susceptible to overvoltage damage, with minimal protection against such events.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users compare the Alesis QX61 to the mAudio Oxygen 49, noting the latter's more ergonomic design with pitch and mod wheels placed on top.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Alesis QX61 is often discounted to around $100, leading to skepticism about its long-term reliability compared to slightly more expensive models.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users express dissatisfaction with Alesis customer support, noting issues with responsiveness and quality of service.

    Source
  • Users report cumbersome settings and an LCD display that lacks essential information like which channels are transmitting data, complicating the user experience.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners have noted issues with jitter and timing when playing, suggesting potential hardware faults rather than software latency issues.

    Source
  • Re-soldering cracked capacitors on the main board has been reported to improve playability and reduce previous jitter issues.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A suggestion was made to consider using custom electronics like an Arduino to bypass faulty components and revive the keyboard's functionality.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
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1 star
cloudnine

It's alright for an entry level midi-keyboard

Pretty basic but it does what it is supposed to.

Genre Usage

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