Brands Guides About
Alesis Q49 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller — main product image
Alesis

Alesis Q49 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

★★★★★4.3 (1865 reviews)

Expressive Control for Your Music CreationThe Alesis Q49 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller offers a streamlined and responsive experience for musicians and producers. This compact controller features velocity-sensitive keys, pitch and modulation wheels, and assignable controls, providing compre...

View on Amazon for pricing
Affiliate Disclosure: Studio Supplies may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. This helps support our editorial team.

Notice a mistake? Let Us Know

Overview

Expressive Control for Your Music Creation

The Alesis Q49 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller offers a streamlined and responsive experience for musicians and producers. This compact controller features velocity-sensitive keys, pitch and modulation wheels, and assignable controls, providing comprehensive MIDI control over your favorite music software and hardware. Includes Ableton Live Lite, Alesis Edition software.

  • Brand: Alesis
  • Model: Q49
  • Type: USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
  • Number of Keys: 49
  • Key Type: Velocity-Sensitive
  • Controls: Pitch and Modulation Wheels, Octave Up/Down Buttons, Assignable Data Slider
  • Connectivity: USB-MIDI, Traditional MIDI Jacks
  • Software Included: Ableton Live Lite, Alesis Edition
  • Additional Features: Sustain Pedal Input, Program Change Send

Specifications

Brand
Alesis
Model
Q49
Key Count
49
Key Type
Velocity-sensitive
Connectivity
USB MIDI
Power
USB-powered
Compatibility
Mac, PC, MIDI Hardware

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Features 49 velocity-sensitive keys, providing a playable range for composing, performing, and controlling virtual instruments.
  • Offers plug-and-play USB connectivity, simplifying setup and allowing immediate integration with Mac, PC, and MIDI hardware.
  • Provides essential MIDI controls, making it a versatile tool for both studio production and live performance setups.
  • Compact design makes it suitable for desktop use in home studios or for musicians on the go.
  • Ideal for beginners and experienced users looking for a straightforward and functional MIDI controller without unnecessary complexities.

👎 Cons

  • Lacks advanced features such as faders, drum pads, or extensive assignable knobs, which might be a limitation for complex productions.
  • The 49-key layout, while portable, may be restrictive for pianists or those needing a full 88-key range for expressive performances.
  • Being a MIDI controller, it does not produce sound on its own and requires connection to a computer or MIDI-enabled sound module.
  • The velocity-sensitive keys are not weighted or semi-weighted, which might not provide the authentic feel desired by piano players.
  • Does not include bundled software, requiring users to acquire their own digital audio workstation (DAW) or virtual instruments.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Alesis Q49 has 49 velocity-sensitive keys, providing a two-octave range for musical expression and control.
No, the Alesis Q49 is a MIDI keyboard controller, meaning it sends MIDI data to control software instruments or external MIDI hardware, but it does not produce sound on its own.
The Alesis Q49 offers USB MIDI connectivity, allowing for plug-and-play connection to your computer (Mac or PC) or other MIDI-enabled hardware.
Yes, its straightforward design and essential MIDI controls make it an accessible option for both beginners and experienced musicians seeking a functional MIDI controller.
No, the Alesis Q49 is USB-powered, drawing its power directly from the computer or device it's connected to via the USB cable.

Related Products