This winter NAMM show, Alesis showed off their latest innovation in the keyboard-controller world, the Vortex. It’s reported to be the world’s first “keytar-style” USB controller. At first glance, the Vortex appears to be a fun option for live keyboardists who want to step out of the box. In addition to 37 velocity-sensitive keys, the Vortex features a touch strip, eight drum pads, an accelerometer, and several other cool functions.
Alesis Vortex Features:
- 37-key USB “keytar-style” keyboard controller
- Compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS (via the Camera Connection Kit)
- Assignable accelerometer for tilt control and 8 x drum/trigger pads
- Touch strip, volume slider, pitch wheel for on-the-fly modulation
- Bus powered (battery compartment for use with unpowered USB connections)


