Alesis V49 MKIIFrom real comments

Verdict distilled from 8 mentions across 7 aspects in comments under product review videos.

Positive sentiment13%
PROS 12%
CONS 88%

Rank based on 8 mentions across 7 aspects

View the verdict as

Buy this if...

  • You don't have prior attachment to the MK1's compact pad layout
  • You're not concerned about single-bank limits on pads and knobs
  • You want a controller similar to InMusic's Oxygen-series design language

What users love

Skip this if...

  • You relied on the MK1's compact, space-efficient piano-like layout
  • You need dual banks for pads and knobs
  • You've had reliability issues with keys failing after months of use

What users complain about

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Based on user comments

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You are here
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Alesis V49 MKII
Familiar controller layout for some usersSpace-inefficient redesignEmpty online manual/support pageKey reliability issues
Alesis V49 MKII
Familiar controller layout for some users
Space-inefficient redesign
Empty online manual/support page
Key reliability issues

Who wins on what

Ranked by what users actually praise

Overall Impression

The redesign is the most controversial aspect of the MKII. Multiple commenters express disappointment that Alesis changed the layout from the MK1, calling it less space-optimized and less compact. One user specifically missed the piano-like, minimal-empty-space design of the original, while another said the new version has 'soooo much unused space' and questioned how it qualifies as a proper MK2 upgrade.

Longtime users are unhappy with the relocated pad position. A V61 owner explains that pad placement was the main reason they originally chose the Alesis line, but the MKII's abolition of that layout puts it on par with competitors like M-Audio and Nektar, which they now view as having an edge due to their faders. They anticipate needing to buy pads separately in the future.

Build quality and reliability draw mixed concern. One commenter wonders if build quality matches the MK1 or resembles InMusic's Oxygen series, suggesting uncertainty about durability given the corporate lineage. A more serious complaint reports that keys began failing after just three to four months, producing inconsistent volume when played harder, leading that user to actively discourage others from buying it.

Outdated / Not-accurate data?