Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $231
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$200
$501+
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Alesis VI49 USB MIDI Pad Keyboard Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unlock your creative potential with the Alesis VI49 USB MIDI Pad Keyboard Controller, a versatile tool designed for musicians and producers who crave precision and control. This sleek and powerful controller boasts 49 full-sized, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, offering a tactile playing experience that rivals traditional keyboards. Whether in your home studio or on stage, the VI49 delivers dynamic expression and unmatched functionality.
Crafted for seamless integration with your digital audio workstation (DAW), the VI49 features 16 RGB backlit, velocity-sensitive pads perfect for triggering samples, loops, and beats. The 12 assignable knobs and 36 buttons provide hands-on control over your favorite virtual instruments and plug-in parameters, allowing you to shape your sound with ease. The dedicated transport controls streamline your workflow, making recording and editing a breeze.
Connectivity is key, and the VI49 excels with its USB bus-powered design and 5-pin MIDI output, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of gear. Plus, the inclusion of Ableton Live Lite and MIDI editor software provides a complete package to kickstart your music production journey.
Designed for musicians who demand versatility without sacrificing performance, the Alesis VI49 is your gateway to a world of musical exploration and creativity.
Key Features:
- 49 full-sized, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
- 16 RGB backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads
- 12 assignable knobs and 36 assignable buttons
- Dedicated transport controls
- Pitch and modulation wheels for expressive control
- USB bus-powered and 5-pin MIDI output
- Includes Ableton Live Lite and MIDI editor software
Product specs
| Brand | Alesis |
| Model | VI49 USB MIDI Keyboard / Pad Controller |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Semi-Weighted |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Output, USB MIDI |
| Number of Keys | 49 Keys |
| Number of Pads | 16 Pads |
FAQs
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Is the Alesis VI49 compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic Pro?
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Yes, the Alesis VI49 is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and others. It comes with MIDI mapping capabilities, allowing seamless integration and control over your software instruments and effects.
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What kind of keys does the Alesis VI49 feature?
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The Alesis VI49 features 49 full-size, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, providing a responsive and expressive playing experience suitable for both studio and live performances.
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How many pads are included on the Alesis VI49, and are they velocity-sensitive?
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The Alesis VI49 includes 16 velocity-sensitive pads, which are ideal for triggering samples, loops, and beats with dynamic control.
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What connectivity options does the Alesis VI49 offer?
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The Alesis VI49 offers USB MIDI connectivity for easy integration with your computer and a MIDI output for connecting to external MIDI hardware.
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Does the Alesis VI49 require an external power supply?
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No, the Alesis VI49 is USB-powered, which means it draws power directly from your computer, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
Videos
John Mike
Don’t Know If I Like This…| Alesis V49 Midi Controller Review! |
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional value, comparable to higher-priced models
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Weighted keys provide a realistic playing experience
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Velocity-sensitive pads enhance beat-making
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Knobs can be routed to numerous DAW parameters
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Plug-and-play compatibility with most systems
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Durable design, with MIDI connectivity as a reliable backup
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Can be used effectively live and in studio settings
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Ideal for a home studio setup
CONS
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Pads not as responsive as some competitors
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Lacks faders, limiting mixing control
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Software compatibility issues with latest MacOS versions
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Frustrating customer support experience
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Alesis VI49 USB MIDI Pad Keyboard Controller.
Features and functionality
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The VI49 offers semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, a full 4x4 drum pad, 32 assignable buttons, and 12 assignable rotary encoders, appealing to those seeking advanced control.
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The Alesis VI49's 12 rotary encoder knobs and 36 buttons offer basic control, lacking the versatility of the M-Audio Code's additional faders and X/Y pad.
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Comparisons
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The Novation Impulse 49 is recommended as an alternative with semi-weighted keys and additional pads, though it may be overpriced in some regions.
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VI49 keys are noted to resemble real piano keys more closely than MPK249, making them preferable for melody writing and those with piano training.
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The M-Audio Code's ability to split the keyboard into four parts for separate instruments/VSTs adds flexibility not found in the VI49.
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User experience
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Owners report that the VI49's velocity curve can initially be problematic, but it's easily adjustable through downloadable MIDI program software.
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Owners suggest trying both controllers in-store to assess key and pad quality, which can guide purchasing decisions and reduce buyer's remorse.
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Users appreciate the springy keys of Alesis controllers, highlighting their suitability for fast synth lines.
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Value and pricing
Use cases and applications
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Users emphasize the importance of DAW compatibility, highlighting that some controllers integrate more seamlessly, impacting setup time and workflow efficiency.
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Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 3 Reviews and 13 Ratings
107
Love it, weapon of choice for 5 years now
It's my go-to for 5 years now, only problem I ever had is that the usb connected broke one day when it fell but the midi connection took over from then on, highly recommend it
Artist usage
Add artist
In this YouTube video Marc Rebillet can be seen using the Alesis VI49 USB MIDI Pad Keyboard Controller.
In the live performance video "Long Way Down," Robert DeLong is seen using the Alesis VI49 USB MIDI Pad Keyboard Controller, marking a transition from his previous M-Audio Axiom 25 keyboard.
In the attached image in an Instagram ad (as well as on H.E.R.'s Instagram among other places), she is seen using the Alesis VI49.
In his YouTube video "Adivina ¿Qué Hay En La Caja? UNBOXING GIGANTE," Rolando Mora discusses using the Alesis VI49 USB MIDI Pad Keyboard Controller for his music projects.
Kyle O'Quin can be seen using the Alesis VI49 USB MIDI Pad Keyboard Controller in a YouTube video at the 3:11 mark, as noted on Woodbrass.com.
Album Usage
The Alesis VI49 USB MIDI Pad 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 VI49 USB MIDI Pad Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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