Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.5 (18)
$449.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (5)
$449.00
Amazon
4.3 (542)
$449.00 New
$355.01 Used (Like New)
Musician's Friend
4.0 (2)
$449.00
Thomann
4.4 (73)
$249.00
Gear4Music
ยฃ221.00

Average Price: $420

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

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Standard

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Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your inner rock star with the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller. This sleek, gloss-black keytar is designed for performers who crave the freedom of wireless connectivity without compromising on control. With its ergonomic design, the Vortex Wireless 2 fits comfortably as you move across the stage, enabling you to express your creativity in new and dynamic ways.

Equipped with 37 velocity-sensitive keys and aftertouch, this keytar offers a responsive playing experience. The eight RGB back-lit velocity-sensitive drum pads allow you to craft beats or launch clips with ease. On the neck, you'll find a MIDI-assignable touch strip and an embedded accelerometer that adds a new layer of expression to your performance. The thumb-controlled volume slider and reversible pitch-bend wheel offer additional control, making it easy to modulate your sound in real-time.

Connectivity is seamless with both USB and traditional MIDI jacks, as well as the included USB dongle for wireless connection to any Mac or PC. The Vortex Wireless 2 is also bundled with premium virtual instruments and Ableton Live Lite, providing everything you need to get started right out of the box.

Whether you're looking to cut the cords in the studio or command the stage with flair, the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 is your ticket to a new realm of musical performance.

Key Features:

  • 37 velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch
  • 8 RGB back-lit velocity-sensitive drum pads
  • 8 back-lit faders for volume and parameter control
  • MIDI-assignable touch strip and accelerometer on the neck
  • USB and 5-Pin DIN MIDI connectivity
  • Wireless USB dongle for Mac/PC
  • Includes virtual instruments: Hybrid 3, Loom 2, Vacuum Pro, Xpand!2, TimewARP 2600
  • Ableton Live Lite software included
  • Battery-powered for ultimate portability (4 AA batteries included)

Owner's manual

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer User Manual

Product specs

Available since March 2018
Aftertouch Yes
Split Zones 2
Layer function Yes
Pitch Bend / Modulation Yes
Rotary Encoder 0
Fader 8
Pads 8
Display Yes
MIDI Interface 1x Out
Sustain Pedal Connection No
USB-port Yes
Mains Operation No
Battery Operation Yes
Bus-Powered Yes
Dimensions 894 x 254 x 74
Weight in kg 2,9 kg
Special Features Accelerometer, Drumcomputer

FAQs

How does the accelerometer in the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 enhance performance?

The accelerometer in the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 allows you to control MIDI parameters by tilting the keytar, adding dynamic expression to your performance through movement.

Is the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 compatible with all DAWs?

Yes, the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 is compatible with most major DAWs, allowing seamless integration for MIDI control and performance.

Does the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 require external power?

The Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 can operate on batteries, making it highly portable for performances without needing external power.

How many pads does the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 feature, and are they velocity-sensitive?

The Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 features 8 velocity-sensitive pads, allowing for expressive drumming and triggering of samples.

Can the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 be used as a wired controller?

Yes, the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 can be connected via USB, allowing for both wireless and wired operation depending on your preference.

Elijah Blue

Elijah Blue

ALESIS VORTEX WIRELESS 2 KEYTAR!!

Video thumbnail for ALESIS VORTEX WIRELESS 2 KEYTAR!! by Elijah Blue

ALESIS VORTEX WIRELESS 2 KEYTAR!!

Elijah Blue

Elijah Blue

Video thumbnail for Introducing the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 by AlesisVideo

Introducing the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2

AlesisVideo

AlesisVideo

Video thumbnail for ALESIS VORTEX WIRELESS 2 KEYTAR | Review + 5 Awesome Features! by Ted and Kel

ALESIS VORTEX WIRELESS 2 KEYTAR | Review + 5 Awesome Features!

Ted and Kel

Ted and Kel

Video thumbnail for Alesis - Vortex Wireless 2 Keytar - NAMM 2018 by Andertons Synths, Keys and Tech

Alesis - Vortex Wireless 2 Keytar - NAMM 2018

Andertons Synths, Keys and Tech

Andertons Synths, Keys and Tech

Video thumbnail for Is the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 the Best *Cheap* Keytar?! [Not Sponsored] by Odyssey Productions Music

Is the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 the Best *Cheap* Keytar?! [Not Sponsored]

Odyssey Productions Music

Odyssey Productions Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique, unmatched in the market for live performance excitement

  • Wireless functionality enhances stage presence and mobility

  • Direct control over vintage synths with USB MIDI-DIN converter

  • Versatile control options with faders, pads, and keys

  • Accelerometer allows expressive performances by tilting

  • Improved keyboard assembly and playability over the original

  • Programmable pad LED colors for visual feedback

  • Lightweight and compact design for easy transport

  • Works out of the box for immediate use

  • Adequate build quality and feel

CONS

  • Consumes batteries quickly

  • Strap length too short for some users

  • Requires setup and potentially a computer for optimal use

  • Some units have unreliable wireless connectivity, causing hang notes

  • Pitch wheel may not return to neutral, affecting tuning

  • Software installation can be time-consuming and frustrating

  • Not recommended for beginners due to complexity

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer.

Build quality

  • Keys can become unresponsive over time, leading to stuck MIDI inputs; some users attempted to support carbon sensors without success.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The blue LED at the top of the neck is very bright and can be distracting on stage; covering it with tape or a diffuser is recommended.

    Source
  • Wireless MIDI functionality is praised for stability over distances greater than typical stage setups, though some experience issues after extended use.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Vortex, when paired with iPad apps like SynthOne and Korg iM1, offers flexibility and a wide range of sounds, despite lacking onboard sound generation.

    Source
  • The Vortex is praised for its portability and battery life, ideal for mobile performances and busking with additional speakers.

    Source

User experience

  • Wireless functionality is praised, but a short cable from tablet to amp limits mobility; patch change function may not work reliably during live performances.

    Source
  • The drum pads require significant force to activate at default velocity sensitivity, which may affect live performance usability.

    Source
  • Multiple owners report pitch bend wheel failure after extended use, indicating a potential weak point for frequent performers.

    Source
  • Owners prefer the Vortex's longer battery life, requiring only four standard AA batteries compared to the Ax-Edge's eight.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Users report immediate recognition and functionality with iPads via a USB-C adaptor, enhancing the wireless experience with various apps.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the Korg RK-100, the Vortex lacks onboard sounds but is appreciated for its lightweight design and flexibility with MIDI applications.

    Source
  • Compared to the Roland Ax-Edge, the Vortex's smaller size allows it to fit in a generic 61-key case, offering ease of transport.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jim_erwin

A Compelling Upgrade to the Original Vortex Wireless

What's better about the Vortex 2 compared to the original? The improved keyboard assembly is much more playable. There is now a switch for enabling and disabling the accelerometer on the fly on the neck so you don't have to change the configuration in software. The overall build quality is better. The wireless latency has improved. The pads are actually useful (and the colors can be programmed on the LEDs). All in all, a significant upgrade.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kygo uses Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer

Kygo

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the music video for Kygo's song "Dancing Feet" featuring DNCE, at the 1:33 mark, Kygo is seen using the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer. This is evidenced in the official video released on Kygo's official YouTube channel, KygoOfficialVEVO.

See how Christian Lorenz uses Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer

Christian Lorenz

Keyboardist

Rammstein

...
Verified via Photo

Flake plays a gold ornate Alesis keytar in the "Zick Zack" video

See how Oliver Tree uses Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer

Oliver Tree

Singer, Guitarist

Good Luck Have Fun

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 17:45 mark in this YouTube video, Oliver Tree is seen using the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer.

See how John Avila uses Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer

John Avila

Bassist, Music Producer

Oingo Boingo

...
Verified via YouTube

Avila, who generally played bass guitar in Oingo Boingo's heyday, often preferred a bass voiced keytar for Dead Man's party. He originally used a Roland Axis in the 80's, but upgraded to this pretty red Alesis Vortex for this reunion performance. It's exceedingly rare to find clips of anyone online using Keytar as a bass instrument which makes Avila's choice extra special.

See how Alex Lilly uses Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer

Alex Lilly

Singer, Keyboardist

Loser

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo shared on Instagram by Alex Lilly, she is clearly seen using the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer. The image was posted with the caption: "Two sirens serenading an unconvinced sailor / Thank you @Beck!! What a beeyoootiful night #hollywoodbowl #beck #colorstour."

Album Usage

The Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 USB/MIDI Keytar Controller with Accelerometer 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.

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