Skip to main content
MusicRadar MusicRadar The No.1 website for musicians
UK EditionUK US EditionUS AU EditionAustralia SG EditionSingapore
Sign in
  • View Profile
  • Sign out
  • Black Friday
  • Artist news
  • Music Gear Reviews
  • Synths
  • Guitars
  • Controllers
  • Drums
  • Keyboards & Pianos
  • Guitar Amps
  • Software & Apps
  • More
    • Recording
    • DJ Gear
    • Acoustic Guitars
    • Bass Guitars
    • Tech
    • Tutorials
    • Reviews
    • Buying Guides
    • About us
Don't miss these
A Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface on a blue background
Audio Interfaces I’ve tested 12 audio interfaces this year and 5 of my favorites are already on sale for Black Friday with some hefty discounts – find out which is best for your workflow
Two guitars and a pedal on a blue and white background
Guitars Thomann just carved some serious cash off Harley Benton guitars, pedals and accessories for Black Friday - here's 4 of my favourite deals for you
An Asus Aspire 5 laptop
Computers Best budget laptops for music production 2025: Affordable laptops for making music
Santa Claus playing piano in front of a Christmas tree
Keyboards & Pianos Best Christmas gifts for piano players 2025: the ultimate festive gift guide for pianists, covering all budgets
An Arturia MiniFuse 1 audio interface on a desk
Audio Interfaces Best budget audio interfaces 2025: Cheap USB interfaces for home recording, streaming, podcasting, and more
A Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 on a desk with various audio interfaces in the background
Audio Interfaces Best audio interface 2025: For home recording, podcasting, and streaming - tested by experts
A pair of KRK Systems Kreate 5 studio monitors in a studio
Studio Monitors Best budget studio monitors 2025: Make your mixes sing with these wallet-friendly home studio speakers
Pair of Audio-Technica in-ear monitors sat on a case
Studio Monitors Best in-ear monitors 2025: IEMs for stage and studio
Sennheiser in ear monitors on a lit up dj controller
Studio Monitors Best budget in-ear monitors 2025: My pick of cheap in-ears for every type of musician
A PRS McCarty 594 on a hard case
Electric Guitars Best electric guitars 2025: Our pick of guitars to suit all budgets
Roland TD-02K and TD-02KV V-Drums electronic drum sets
Drum Kits Best electronic drum set for kids 2025: child-friendly electronic drum kits
A Fractal Audio VP4 Virtual Pedalboard multi-effects pedal on a concrete floor
Guitar Pedals Best multi-effects pedals 2025: Our pick of the best all-in-one guitar FX modellers
Yamaha CSP-255 review
Keyboards & Pianos Best digital pianos for beginners 2025: 8 beginner-friendly pianos handpicked by a professional piano and music gear reviewer
Quentin testing a Yamaha piano
Keyboards & Pianos Best digital pianos 2025: I'm a professional piano and music gear reviewer, and these are my top picks
Kids hands on a beginner keyboard
Keyboards & Pianos Best keyboards for beginners 2025: Get started with our expert pick of beginner keyboards for all ages
More
  • Black Friday plugin deals
  • Pete Townshend on smashing - and fixing - his guitars
  • AI slop hits #1
  • The pain that birthed Don't Speak
  • Europe vs AI
  • 95k+ free music samples
  1. Tech
  2. Midi Controllers

Alesis releases new V and VI keyboard controllers

News
By Will Groves ( Future Music, Computer Music ) published 6 November 2014

All the models in both ranges also feature trigger pads

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

Alesis VI25

Alesis VI25

Alesis has released its V and VI keyboard controllers, all of which also feature trigger pads. Announced at NAMM 2014, these are available as of now.

The V series keyboards offer velocity-sensitive keys with 8 drum/trigger pads, while the VI range adds semi-weighted keys with aftertouch and 16 multi-colour illuminated pads.

Each of the V and VI series keyboards also ships with Ableton Live Lite, Xpand!2 from Air Music Tech and an accompanying software editor.

You can find out more about each of the new keyboards in our gallery, starting with the Alesis VI25 (pictured above).

Alesis V and VI press release

The performance-oriented V Series offers expressive hands-on control for the software musician. The step-up VI Series provides increased control for the keyboard performer. Both series include a Software Preset/Parameter utility that makes setup a snap.

The new Alesis V Series (V61, V49, V25) combine velocity-sensitive keys with eightdrum/trigger pads, allowing virtual instruments to be played with dynamic expression. Cool blue LEDs illuminate the pads—as well as the four assignable knobs and buttons—for positive visibility. Assignments may be made quickly via the MIDI Learn feature. Octave shift keys provide access to the entire note range. A single USB cable provides both a power and data connection to nearly any computer.

The VI Series (VI61, VI49, VI25) add semi-weighted keys and aftertouch. The pad count hasbeen increased to 16, with multi-color illumination. This layout provides intensivecommand over the clip trigger workflow of top DAW and compositional software. The internal clock offers drum roll, tempo, and sync capabilities. An optional power supply and a standard MIDI output allow for stand-alone use.

Alesis V Series Highlights:

  • Full size, flat-front keys (25, 49, or 61)
  • Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels
  • 8 Pads with blue LED illumination
  • 4 Assignable knobs and buttons
  • Sustain pedal input
  • USB MIDI

Alesis VI Series Highlights:

  • Full size, flat-front keys (25, 49, or 61)
  • Semi-weighted keys with Aftertouch
  • Pitch Bend & Modulation Wheels
  • 16 Pads with Multi-color LED illumination
  • VI25: 8 knobs, 24 buttons
  • VI49: 12 knobs, 36 buttons
  • VI61: 16 knobs, 48 buttons
  • Transport and Present up/down buttons:
  • Sustain pedal input
  • USD MIDI, MIDI Out

Alesis VI25 Specs

  • 25 full-sized, square-front, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
  • 16 multi-color RGB backlit pads respond to both velocity and pressure
  • Designed for hands-on control of your DAW as well as plug-ins and instruments
  • 8 assignable knobs; 24 assignable buttons
  • Pitch & Mod wheels deliver expressive, creative control
  • Seamless visual feedback; LCD screen and illuminated buttons/knobs
  • Single USB cable provides both power and MIDI data
  • Includes Ableton™ Live Lite Alesis Edition & MIDI editor software
Page 1 of 6
Page 1 of 6
Alesis VI49

Alesis VI49

  • 49 full-sized, square-front, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
  • 16 multi-color RGB backlit pads respond to both velocity and pressure
  • Designed for hands-on control of your DAW as well as plug-ins and instruments
  • 12 assignable knobs, 36 assignable buttons
  • Pitch & Mod wheels deliver expressive, creative control
  • Seamless visual feedback; LCD screen and illuminated buttons/knobs
  • Single USB cable provides both power and MIDI data
  • Includes Ableton™ Live Lite Alesis Edition & MIDI editor software
Page 2 of 6
Page 2 of 6
Alesis VI61

Alesis VI61

  • 61 full-sized, square-front, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
  • 16 multi-color RGB backlit pads respond to both velocity and pressure
  • Designed for hands-on control of your DAW as well as plug-ins and instruments
  • 16 assignable knobs, 48 assignable buttons
  • Pitch & Mod wheels deliver expressive, creative control
  • Seamless visual feedback; LCD screen and illuminated buttons/knobs
  • Single USB cable provides both power and MIDI data
  • Includes Ableton™ Live Lite Alesis Edition & MIDI editor software
Page 3 of 6
Page 3 of 6
Alesis V25

Alesis V25

  • 25 full-sized, square-front keys
  • 8 LED backlit pads respond to both velocity and pressure
  • Perfect for controlling plug-ins and virtual instruments
  • 4 assignable knobs; 4 assignable buttons
  • Pitch & Mod wheels deliver expressive, creative control
  • Seamless visual feedback via illuminated buttons/knobs
  • Single USB cable provides both power and MIDI data
  • Includes Ableton™ Live Lite Alesis Edition & MIDI editor software
Page 4 of 6
Page 4 of 6
Alesis V49

Alesis V49

  • 49 full-sized, square-front keys
  • 8 LED backlit pads respond to both velocity and pressure
  • Perfect for controlling plug-ins and virtual instruments
  • 4 assignable knobs; 4 assignable buttons
  • Pitch & Mod wheels deliver expressive, creative control
  • Seamless visual feedback via illuminated buttons/knobs
  • Single USB cable provides both power and MIDI data
  • Includes Ableton™ Live Lite Alesis Edition & MIDI editor software
Page 5 of 6
Page 5 of 6
Alesis V61

Alesis V61

  • 61 full-sized, square-front keys
  • 8 LED backlit pads respond to both velocity and pressure
  • Perfect for controlling plug-ins and virtual instruments
  • 4 assignable knobs; 4 assignable buttons
  • Pitch & Mod wheels deliver expressive, creative control
  • Seamless visual feedback via illuminated buttons/knobs
  • Single USB cable provides both power and MIDI data
  • Includes Ableton™ Live Lite Alesis Edition & MIDI editor software
Page 6 of 6
Page 6 of 6
Will Groves
Will Groves
Social Links Navigation
Editor-in-chief

I'm lucky enough to be MusicRadar's Editor-in-chief while being, by some considerable distance, the least proficient musician on the editorial team. An undeniably ropey but occasionally enthusiastic drummer, I've worked on the world's greatest music making website in one capacity or another since its launch in 2007. I hope you enjoy the site - we do.

All-access artist interviews, in-depth gear reviews, essential production tutorials and much more. image
All-access artist interviews, in-depth gear reviews, essential production tutorials and much more.
Get the latest issue now!
More Info
Deals not to miss
A Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface on a blue background
I’ve tested 12 audio interfaces this year and 5 of my favorites are already on sale for Black Friday with some hefty discounts – find out which is best for your workflow
 
 
Two guitars and a pedal on a blue and white background
Thomann just carved some serious cash off Harley Benton guitars, pedals and accessories for Black Friday - here's 4 of my favourite deals for you
 
 
A Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 on a desk with various audio interfaces in the background
Best audio interface 2025: For home recording, podcasting, and streaming - tested by experts
 
 
A pair of KRK Systems Kreate 5 studio monitors in a studio
Best budget studio monitors 2025: Make your mixes sing with these wallet-friendly home studio speakers
 
 
Pair of Audio-Technica in-ear monitors sat on a case
Best in-ear monitors 2025: IEMs for stage and studio
 
 
Sennheiser in ear monitors on a lit up dj controller
Best budget in-ear monitors 2025: My pick of cheap in-ears for every type of musician
 
 
Latest in Midi Controllers
Popumusic PartyStudio
Popumusic’s PartyStudio is “the world’s first wireless MIDI synthesizer speaker”
 
 
TempoPad C16
Meet Synido’s TempoPad C16, the minty fresh MIDI pad controller that’s functional, flexible and a whole lot of fun
 
 
akai mpk
Akai unveils MPK Mini IV with pitch and mod wheels, new keybed and full-size MIDI output
 
 
Novation Launch Control XL 3
“New look, features and MIDI out – this is a big update we truly rate”: Novation Launch Control XL 3 review
 
 
Arturia MicroLab Mk3
“A quality, backpack-friendly controller that's under £50”: Arturia MicroLab Mk3 review
 
 
nektar
"The MIDI keyboard that goes beyond MIDI": Nektar introduces Mk3 versions of its Impact LX range of MIDI controller keyboards
 
 
Latest in News
Queen perform in concert with Freddie Mercury wearing black leotard at the Forum on December 22, 1977 in Inglewood, California
“I’m very taken with the idea that we can be the original Queen again” Brian May says he's looking at a possible hologram show
 
 
A Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface on a blue background
I’ve tested 12 audio interfaces this year and 5 of my favorites are already on sale for Black Friday with some hefty discounts – find out which is best for your workflow
 
 
MIAMI, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 09: Billie Eilish performs onstage during "Hit Me Hard And Soft: The Tour" at Kaseya Center on October 09, 2025 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for Live Nation)
Billie Eilish wraps her Hit Me Hard and Soft tour… then immediately confirms the release date for her 3D film
 
 
Jimmy Cliff at Island Records' Studio One in London
“His music lifted people through hard times, inspired generations”: Jamaica, and the world mourns Jimmy Cliff
 
 
FabFilter screen grab
FabFilter's killer Black Friday sale just launched, including hefty discounts on the essential production tools I reach for with every mix
 
 
Richard Christopher Wakeman CBE, English keyboardist and composer best known as a member of the progressive rock band Ye
"I still seem to be very capable of hitting the odd wrong note”: Rick Wakeman shares positive health update
 
 

MusicRadar is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site.

Add as a preferred source on Google
  • About Us
  • Contact Future's experts
  • Terms and conditions
  • Privacy policy
  • Cookies policy
  • Advertise with us
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Careers

© Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

Please login or signup to comment

Please wait...