Alesis give us the Vs again

From a company that once gave us quirky drum machines shaped like telephones – because, as rumour had it, they were designed in old surplus telephone boxes – classic effects boxes and at least one synth that was a lot better than it sold, Alesis have quietly become the producers of stuff that we all need, all available at a decent price.

The company’s original range of V keyboards, for example, delivered a decent level of playability and control for what seemed like silly money. It’s now been upgraded to a quite predictable MkII status and with three sizes of 24, 49 and 61 keys.

All three models share identical features including a lightweight design, four assignable knobs for instrument and DAW control, eight velocity-sensitive, LED-backlit pads, an arpeggiator with six modes and an MPC Beats software bundle. They are available now with some very attractive prices: V25 MKII is £79.99, V49 MKII is £99.99 and V61 MKII is £129.99. Shame they’re not shaped like telephone boxes though.

alesis.com