Alesis
Alesis Q88 MKII 88-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
★★★★★
Express Your Musical Creativity with Enhanced ControlThe Alesis Q88 MKII is a versatile USB MIDI keyboard controller designed for music production, virtual synthesizer control, and beat creation. With 88 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, assignable controls, and included software, this controll...
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Overview
Express Your Musical Creativity with Enhanced Control
The Alesis Q88 MKII is a versatile USB MIDI keyboard controller designed for music production, virtual synthesizer control, and beat creation. With 88 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, assignable controls, and included software, this controller provides everything you need to unleash your musical potential in the studio or on the go.
- Keys: 88 Full-Size, Velocity-Sensitive, Semi-Weighted
- Connectivity: USB
- Controls: Octave/Transpose Buttons, Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels, Assignable Volume Knob, Transport Controls
- Compatibility: Universal MIDI Compatibility
- Software: Akai Professional MPC Beats and Expansion Packs, Melodics Lessons
Key Features
Music Production and Beat Maker Essential – USB powered MIDI controller with 88 full size MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys for studio production, virtual synthesizer control and beat production
Complete Control - Octave / Transpose buttons to access the full piano range; Pitch bend and modulation wheels; Assignable volume knob and transport controls for tactile DAW and virtual synth control
Universal Compatibility - Complete compatibility with any music production app that accepts a MIDI controller including Ableton Live, Cubase, Logic, MPC Beats and more
Make Music Anywhere - Works with iOS devices for use with apps including Garageband, via the Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (sold separately)
Professional Software Suite Included - Akai Professional MPC Beats including seven expansion packs: Producer Kits, LoFi Producer Collection, Trap Soul & LoFi Beats, Soulful Drums, Deep House, F9 Instruments Library, Urban Roulette, and 60 free MIDI controller lessons from Melodics
Specifications
Keys
88 full size velocity-sensitive keys
Power
USB powered
Controls
Octave / Transpose buttons, Pitch bend and modulation wheels, Assignable volume knob, Transport controls
Software Included
Akai Professional MPC Beats, seven expansion packs, 60 Melodics lessons
Compatibility
Any music production app that accepts a MIDI controller, iOS devices (with adapter)
Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- Equipped with 88 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, providing a comprehensive range for musical expression and production.
- Includes Octave and Transpose buttons, offering quick access to the full piano range without physical repositioning.
- Features pitch bend and modulation wheels, along with an assignable volume knob and transport controls, for tactile and expressive control over DAWs and virtual synths.
- Boasts universal compatibility with any music production application that accepts a MIDI controller, including popular options like Ableton Live and Logic.
- Offers iOS device compatibility for mobile music creation with apps like Garageband, requiring only an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter.
- Comes with a professional software suite, including Akai Professional MPC Beats and numerous expansion packs, providing immediate creative tools.
- Includes 60 free MIDI controller lessons from Melodics, offering valuable learning resources for new and experienced users.
👎 Cons
- Requires the separate purchase of an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter for iOS device compatibility, which is not included.
- The velocity-sensitive keys, while expressive, may not replicate the exact feel of a weighted piano for traditional pianists.
- Being USB-powered means it relies on a computer or external USB power source, potentially limiting standalone use.
- While offering universal compatibility, specific advanced features may require individual mapping in certain DAWs.
- The included software suite requires installation and setup, which can be a process for new users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Alesis Q88 MKII MIDI keyboard suitable for music production?
Yes, the Alesis Q88 MKII is a USB-powered MIDI controller equipped with 88 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, making it essential for studio production, virtual synthesizer control, and beat production.
What controls are available on the keyboard for manipulating sounds?
It offers complete control with Octave/Transpose buttons to access the full piano range, along with pitch bend and modulation wheels, an assignable volume knob, and transport controls for tactile DAW and virtual synth control.
Is this MIDI controller compatible with popular music production software?
This controller offers universal compatibility with any music production application that accepts a MIDI controller, including software like Ableton Live, Cubase, Logic, and MPC Beats.
Can this keyboard be used with iOS devices for mobile music creation?
Yes, the Alesis Q88 MKII works with iOS devices, enabling its use with apps like Garageband, though an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter is sold separately.
Does the Alesis Q88 MKII come with any included software?
A professional software suite is included, featuring Akai Professional MPC Beats with seven expansion packs like Producer Kits and Deep House, plus 60 free MIDI controller lessons from Melodics.
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