In the realm of digital audio products, the Alesis recital has carved a niche for itself, consistently delivering innovative solutions that cater to a wide array of musical needs.
With the introduction of the Alesis Recital, the company has made a bold foray into the digital piano market, specifically targeting the entry-level segment.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the Alesis Recital, examining its features, strengths, and areas of improvement.
Alesis Recital: Key Features and Specifications
Contents
- Alesis Recital: Key Features and Specifications
- Semi-Weighted Keys
- Alesis Recital: Sound Quality and Variety
- Alesis Recital: Effects and Polyphony
- Alesis Recital: Speaker System
- Alesis Recital: Extra Features
- Alesis Recital: Connectivity
- Alesis Recital: Accessories
- Skoove Premium (3 months included)
- Melodics (30-day free trial)
- Alesis Recital: FAQ
- What Sounds Does the Alesis Recital Offer?
- What Is the Price Range of the Alesis Recital?
- Conclusion
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Keys | Semi-weighted |
| Sounds | Piano, Electric Piano, Organ, Synth, Bass |
| Effects | Reverb, Chorus |
| Polyphony | 128-note |
| Speakers | Dual 10W |
| Connectivity | Sustain Pedal jack, Stereo outputs, TRS headphone output, USB to Host port |
| Accessories | Not included |
| Price Range | Sub-$300 |
| Models | Alesis Recital 88 Key, Alesis Recital 61-key |
| Weight | 15.7 lbs (88-key), 14.3 lbs (61-key) |
Semi-Weighted Keys
The Alesis Recital features semi-weighted keys, a design choice that makes it an affordable option for beginners. However, it’s worth noting that the build quality and control scheme have been subjects of criticism.
The keys, while functional, may not provide the tactile response that seasoned pianists might expect.
This is a crucial factor to consider for those who are transitioning from traditional pianos to digital ones, as the feel of the keys can significantly impact the playing experience.
Alesis Recital: Sound Quality and Variety
One of the standout features of the Alesis Recital is its sound quality. The digital piano offers a range of clean sounds, including piano, electric piano, organ, synth, and bass.
The sound is even comparable on this budget model to the more expensive Yamaha P45, as you can hear in the video above. The sound of the Alesis Recital is therefore impressive considering its price-point, and one of its standout features.
Yamaha P45: Still the Ultimate Beginner Piano in 2023?
Alesis Recital: Effects and Polyphony
| 3 Reverb Algorithms |
| 2 Delay Algorithms |
| 5 Choruses |
| Pedal Resonance |
The Alesis Recital is equipped with Reverb and Chorus effects, enhancing the overall sound output and providing users with more creative control.
Furthermore, the keyboard boasts a 128-note polyphony, which is quite impressive for a digital piano in this price range.
The 128-note polyphony allows for complex and layered sound production, making it possible for users to play intricate compositions without note drop-off.
Alesis Recital: Speaker System
The dual 10W speakers on the Alesis Recital deliver commendable sound quality. However, distortion may occur at high volumes, which could potentially detract from the overall listening experience.
This is an important consideration for those who plan to use the digital piano for performances or in larger spaces, as the sound quality at high volumes can significantly impact the overall performance.
However, a good pair of headphones is always a good idea for piano practice, and the speakers in the Alesis Recital are decent considering the excellent price of this instrument.
The Best Headphones for Practicing Piano in 2023
Alesis Recital: Extra Features
Layer and Split modes are included and are useful features to have on any digital piano.Â
Layer mode allows you to trigger two sounds simultaneously. This is engaged by pressing two voice buttons at the same time. Sounds will be separated by an octave.
Split mode splits the keyboard into two halves. The split point is set by holding down the Split mode button and pressing the key you want to be the split point.
A Lesson mode is included and splits the keyboard into two halves of equal octave ranges.
This is designed for a teacher to sit alongside their student and facilitates easy demonstrations and teaching. It’s a nice feature to have if you intend to have piano lessons with your new instrument (which many beginners will of course).
- TRANSPOSITION. You can either move up or down a full octave in 1 semitone increments to adapt to unfamiliar key signatures.
- METRONOME. A standard metronome is also included to facilitate practice. The metronome volume, tempo, and time signature can be adjusted.
- TOUCH SENSITIVITY. 3 different intensities are included, and an OFF option is also provided for fixed velocity.
Alesis Recital: Connectivity
| Connectivity Option | Alesis Recital |
|---|---|
| Sustain Pedal Input | Yes |
| Headphone Output | Yes |
| Stereo RCA Outputs | Yes |
| USB-MIDI Output | Yes |
The Alesis Recital offers a variety of connectivity options, including a Sustain Pedal jack, stereo outputs, TRS headphone output, and a USB to Host port.
However, it does not feature Bluetooth connectivity or an auxiliary stereo minijack, which limits its compatibility with certain devices.
Alesis Recital: Accessories
It’s important to note that additional accessories such as a sustain pedal, stand, and headphones are not included with the Alesis Recital and must be purchased separately.
The flexibility to choose your own accessories also means that you can select items that best suit your personal preferences and needs, such as budget headphones or professional models that double as headphones for music production/entertainment.
Skoove Premium (3 months included)
Skoove is the easiest way to learn piano— featuring in-depth online piano courses that adapt to you and give you feedback.
Develop your repertoire on your own time, at your own pace with a curated catalog filled with everything from current chart hits to classical music.
Need a little help? Skoove’s experienced team of musicians is on hand with one-on-one support to answer any of your questions.
Exclusive lessons are added every month to keep expanding your repertoire with new music and up your piano game with new music theory tips and tricks.
Melodics (30-day free trial)
The Alesis Recital comes with a Melodics 30-day free trial. Melodics is the most enjoyable way to learn and play your Alesis keyboard, and makes practice easy and fun.
Available for macOS, Windows, and iPad, Melodics is free to download – register your Alesis keyboard to unlock an exclusive 30-day FREE trial of the Melodics Premium plan that includes access to songs from your favorite artists
Alesis Recital: FAQ
What Type of Keys Does the Alesis Recital Have?
The Alesis Recital features semi-weighted keys. This type of key is lighter than the fully weighted keys found on more expensive digital pianos and acoustic pianos. They provide some resistance when pressed, but not as much as fully weighted keys.
What Sounds Does the Alesis Recital Offer?
The Alesis Recital offers a variety of sounds, including piano, electric piano, organ, synth, and bass. However, it does not include a string ensemble sound.
What Are the Connectivity Options on the Alesis Recital?
The Alesis Recital includes a Sustain Pedal jack, stereo outputs, TRS headphone output, and a USB to Host port. However, it does not have Bluetooth connectivity or an auxiliary stereo minijack.
Are Any Accessories Included With the Alesis Recital?
No, additional accessories such as a sustain pedal, stand, and headphones are not included with the Alesis Recital and must be purchased separately.
What Is the Price Range of the Alesis Recital?
The Alesis Recital is targeted at the entry-level market and is typically priced in the sub-$300 range.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Alesis Recital presents a mixed bag of features. While it boasts commendable sound quality and a range of effects, the semi-weighted keys and limited sound selection may leave some users wanting more.
For those seeking a digital piano in the sub-$300 range, it’s worth considering the Alesis Recital, but also exploring other options that may offer a more comprehensive package.
