Alesis Recital Pro Review: A Little Prodigy or Just a Piano for Dummies?

So, you’re thinking about diving into the world of digital pianos, huh? You and I both know that the market is flooded with options, and it’s like navigating a labyrinth to find one that fits your needs and your wallet.

Hey, I’ve been there. You’ve got professional-grade ones that would make Mozart roll over in his grave, wondering why he didn’t have such tech. And then you’ve got budget options that sound like you’re playing on tin cans. Yep, it’s a wild world out there.

Now, enter the Alesis Recital Pro. Let me give you the skinny on this bad boy, or should I say, this cute little musical munchkin.

Alesis Recital Pro - 88 Key Digital Piano Keyboard with Hammer Action Weighted Keys, 2x20W Speakers, 12 Voices, Record and Lesson Mode, FX and Display

What’s Cooking?

First off, we’re talking digital piano with 88 fully weighted hammer-action keys. Yep, this isn’t a kid’s toy; it’s an adult toy—uh, for adult musicians, of course. If you’ve never played a piano before, weighted keys are a game-changer, trust me.

They give you a feel kinda like a grand piano. Not a full-on Steinway, mind you, but hey, for the price? You get what you pay for.

Listen to This

Now, the speakers. Dual 10W woofers and dual 20W tweeters. These speakers don’t just speak; they roar—or at least hold a nice conversation with you. Clean sound, pretty powerful, and sure as heck better than the speakers on my old hand-me-down Casio.

The Extras

You’ve got USB MIDI for all you tech wizards out there. Wanna connect to a computer? You can. There’s also a lesson mode, so if you can’t tell a C from a G (guilty as charged), it’ll help you out.

But… Yes, There’s a “But”

Now, it ain’t all sunshine and rainbows, folks. Some people have found issues with this entry-level beauty. Maybe a key sticks or the sound goes all robot apocalypse on you. It’s not perfect. But c’mon, you’re not dropping a grand or more on this thing, so manage your expectations a smidge, okay?

So, Should You Buy It?

Here’s my two cents. If you’re just starting out or you’re a casual player like me who just wants to jam “Bohemian Rhapsody” on a Sunday morning, go for it. But if you’re planning on headlining Carnegie Hall, maybe skip this one and rob a bank or something to buy a grand piano.

So, to buy or not to buy the Alesis Recital Pro? Well, if you want a budget-friendly entry-level digital piano that’s not too shabby in the features department, then go for it. But if you’re a piano purist on a pilgrimage for the perfect pitch, this might not be your final destination. Either way, happy playing, my friends!

alesis recital pro keyboard

10 Things You Can Do with the Alesis Recital Pro: Explore & Create

As a musician, you’re always on the lookout for a new instrument that can help you unleash your creativity and explore new possibilities. The Alesis Recital Pro is a versatile digital piano that offers a range of features and functions to enhance your musical journey.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pianist, the Alesis Recital Pro can help you achieve your musical goals.

With its weighted keys, touch sensitivity, and built-in lessons, the Alesis Recital Pro is a perfect instrument for practicing and improving your piano skills.

But that’s not all it can do. In this article, we’ll explore 10 things you can do with the Alesis Recital Pro, from recording your own songs and performing live at small gigs to creating MIDI music and collaborating with other musicians.

So, whether you’re a songwriter, performer, or music educator, the Alesis Recital Pro has something to offer. Let’s dive in and discover the possibilities.

Master Piano Skills with the Alesis Recital Pro

The Alesis Recital Pro is an excellent instrument for practicing and improving your piano skills. Its 88-key weighted keyboard simulates the feel of an acoustic piano, allowing for a more authentic playing experience.

The keys are also velocity-sensitive, meaning that the sound produced varies depending on how hard or soft you strike them. This feature helps develop finger strength and dexterity, which is crucial for mastering the piano.

In addition to its realistic key action, the Alesis Recital Pro comes with built-in lesson modes. These modes are designed to help players of all skill levels learn and improve their piano skills.

You can choose from a variety of lessons that cover different techniques and styles, including classical, jazz, and pop. The lessons are interactive, providing feedback as you play and helping you identify areas for improvement.

Alesis Recital Pro

If you already have some experience playing the piano, the Alesis Recital Pro also has features that cater to more advanced players.

For example, you can activate the split mode, which divides the keyboard into two sections, allowing you to play different sounds simultaneously with each hand. This feature is useful for playing songs that require complicated chord progressions or for accompanying yourself while singing.

The Alesis Recital Pro also has a dual mode, which enables you to layer two different voices or sounds, creating a more complex and full-bodied sound. This feature is useful for enhancing performances and adding depth to your playing.

To further improve your skills, you can connect the Alesis Recital Pro to a computer or mobile device and access various apps and software.

Some of the most popular apps include Yousician, Simply Piano, and Piano Maestro, which offer interactive lessons, practice exercises, and feedback. By combining the Alesis Recital Pro with these tools, you can greatly accelerate your learning and improvement.

Practice Tips

If you want to get the most out of your Alesis Recital Pro and improve your piano skills, here are some practice tips that can help:

  • Practice regularly, even if just for a few minutes each day.
  • Set specific goals for each practice session.
  • Experiment with different playing styles and genres.
  • Record yourself playing and listen back for areas to improve.
  • Use the built-in lessons to learn new techniques and styles.

By following these tips and utilizing the Alesis Recital Pro’s features, you can take your piano skills to the next level and become a more confident and proficient player.

Record Your Own Songs with the Alesis Recital Pro

With the Alesis Recital Pro, you have the ability to record your own songs and ideas with ease. The instrument features a built-in recording function, allowing you to capture your performances directly on the device.

Additionally, the Alesis Recital Pro can connect to external devices, such as computers or smartphones, for more advanced recording options. By connecting the instrument to a digital audio workstation (DAW), you can edit and mix your recordings to create a polished final product.

The recording capabilities of the Alesis Recital Pro make it an excellent tool for songwriters and composers alike. Whether you’re capturing a melody that came to you on the go or working on a full-fledged production, the instrument’s recording features help you bring your musical ideas to life.

record your own songs on Alesis Recital Pro

“The Alesis Recital Pro’s recording capabilities make it an excellent tool for songwriters and composers alike.”

“Being able to record my own compositions on the Alesis Recital Pro has been a game-changer for my songwriting process. The built-in recording function is easy to use and the sound quality is excellent.”

Perform Live at Small Gigs with the Alesis Recital Pro

If you’re a gigging musician, the Alesis Recital Pro can be a valuable addition to your setup. With its portable design and built-in speakers, you can take this instrument with you to small gigs and intimate venues. You won’t have to worry about lugging around a heavy keyboard or renting equipment at the venue.

The Alesis Recital Pro has connectivity options for amplification, including a stereo output and a headphone output. You can easily connect the instrument to a mixer or a PA system for larger performances. And with its 128-note max polyphony, you won’t have to worry about dropped notes or lack of sustain.

Its versatile sound library includes multiple voices, such as pianos, electric pianos, and organs, allowing you to tailor your sound to the style of music you’re playing. You can also experiment with different voice combinations and layering options to create dynamic and engaging performances.

Plus, you can use the Alesis Recital Pro’s split mode and dual mode to layer or split voices across the keyboard, giving you even more options for creating unique sounds. And with its touch-sensitive keys, you can play with expression and nuance, just like a traditional piano.

Perform Live at Small Gigs with the Alesis Recital Pro

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No matter what genre of music you play, the Alesis Recital Pro can enhance your live performances and make them more engaging for your audience. So whether you’re a solo performer or part of a band, consider adding the Alesis Recital Pro to your setup.

Create MIDI Music with Computer Integration

The Alesis Recital Pro can do more than just play music; it can also be used as a MIDI controller to create music on a computer. With its USB connectivity, the instrument can easily connect to popular music production software, such as Ableton Live or FL Studio.

To use the Alesis Recital Pro as a MIDI controller, simply connect the instrument to your computer using a USB cable. Once connected, you can use the Recital Pro’s keys and buttons to trigger various sounds and effects within your music production software.

The Alesis Recital Pro’s MIDI capabilities also allow for more advanced recording and editing options. By connecting the instrument to a computer, you can easily edit and manipulate MIDI data to create complex musical arrangements.

Create MIDI Music with Computer Integration

Whether you’re a seasoned music producer or just starting out, the Alesis Recital Pro’s MIDI capabilities offer endless possibilities for creating, recording, and editing music.

Collaborate with Other Musicians Using the Alesis Recital Pro

The Alesis Recital Pro is not just a solo instrument. Its connectivity options make it an excellent tool for collaborating with other musicians. You can connect the instrument to other keyboards, synthesizers, or drum machines and play together in perfect sync onization.

Additionally, you can use the MIDI out port to control and sync external devices with the Alesis Recital Pro. This enables you to create layered, dynamic performances with multiple instruments and sounds.

If you want to record your collaborative sessions, the Alesis Recital Pro has got you covered. You can connect the instrument to a computer or other recording device via USB, stereo outputs, or headphone output.

This allows you to capture and save your performances, either for personal enjoyment or for sharing with others. The built-in recording feature is also available for recording your performances on the spot.

Playing music with others can be an excellent learning experience, both musically and socially. Collaborating with other musicians can help you develop your playing skills, get new ideas and perspectives, and gain confidence in your musical abilities.

With the Alesis Recital Pro, you can enjoy the benefits of playing music together with others without the hassle of complicated setup or the need for additional equipment.

collaborate_with_other_musicians_using_the_alesis_recital_pro

Experiment with Different Sound Effects on the Alesis Recital Pro

Take your music to the next level by exploring the Alesis Recital Pro’s sound effects capabilities. With built-in reverb, chorus, and modulation, you can experiment with different effects to create unique and personalized sounds. Combine these with the instrument’s other features for limitless musical possibilities.

Reverb is a popular effect used to create a sense of space and depth in music. It simulates the acoustics of a room, making your playing sound like it’s in a larger space. The Alesis Recital Pro has several reverb options to choose from, allowing you to adjust the intensity and length of the effect to your liking.

Chorus is another common effect used to create a thicker and fuller sound. It achieves this by duplicating the original sound and adding a slight delay and modulation to create a “chorus” of sounds. The Alesis Recital Pro offers a variety of chorus options that can be adjusted to your desired level.

Modulation is an effect that alters the sound’s pitch, volume, or timbre to create a unique tone. The Alesis Recital Pro has several modulation options, including tremolo, phaser, and rotary, which can add texture and depth to your playing.

Explore the different sound effects available on your Alesis Recital Pro to find your unique musical style. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different combinations to create something truly unique.

Alesis Recital Pro Sound Effects

Teach Music Lessons with the Alesis Recital Pro

The Alesis Recital Pro is not only a great instrument for individual practice and creative expression, but it can also be a valuable tool for music educators looking to teach piano lessons.

One of the key features that makes the Alesis Recital Pro ideal for teaching is the split mode, which allows the keyboard to be divided into two sections, each with its own voice. This means that both the teacher and student can play at the same time, making it easier to demonstrate techniques and provide immediate feedback.

Another helpful feature is the dual mode, which allows two sounds to be layered together, enabling students to practice playing with an orchestra or other accompaniment. This can help students develop their listening and timing skills, while also making practice sessions more engaging.

Finally, the Alesis Recital Pro’s lesson mode provides a collection of built-in songs and exercises that can be used to guide students t ough their practice sessions and track their progress over time.

This feature makes lesson planning and assessment a breeze for educators, and ensures that students are receiving a well-rounded and structured learning experience.

Whether you’re a music teacher looking for a versatile and user-friendly instrument to use in your lessons, or a student looking for an effective practice tool, the Alesis Recital Pro has everything you need to take your skills to the next level.

A person playing the Alesis Recital Pro keyboard

Enhance Performances with Layered Sounds on the Alesis Recital Pro

One of the standout features of the Alesis Recital Pro is its ability to layer different sounds and voices, allowing you to create dynamic and expressive performances. To add a layer, simply press the Layer button and select a different voice or sound.

You can layer up to two sounds at a time, providing a wide range of options for creating unique and memorable arrangements.

With this feature, you can add a bass line to your piano performance, create lush string accompaniments, or even add a drumbeat to your playing. The possibilities are endless, and the ability to layer sounds is a valuable tool for both live performances and recording sessions.

Experiment with different combinations of sounds to find the perfect blend for your performances. You can adjust the volume of each layer to create a balanced mix, and even split the keyboard so that different layers are assigned to different sections of the instrument.

Layering sounds on the Alesis Recital Pro is a fantastic way to enhance your musical creativity and bring your performances to the next level. So why not give it a try and see where your imagination takes you?

Alesis Recital Pro Layering Feature

Customize Settings for Individual Preferences on the Alesis Recital Pro

The Alesis Recital Pro offers a range of customizable settings that allow you to tailor the instrument to your individual preferences and playing style. Here are some of the ways you can customize the Alesis Recital Pro:

SettingDescription
Metronome SettingsThe Alesis Recital Pro allows you to adjust the tempo, time signature, and volume of the metronome to suit your needs. This is particularly useful for practicing and developing rhythm skills.
Touch Sensitivity AdjustmentsThe instrument’s touch sensitivity can be adjusted to suit your playing style. If you prefer a light touch, you can set it to a lower sensitivity, while those who play with more force can adjust it to a higher sensitivity.
Pedal AssignmentsThe Alesis Recital Pro allows you to assign different functions to the sustain, soft, and sostenuto pedals, depending on your personal preferences and playing needs.

By customizing these settings, you can ensure that the Alesis Recital Pro feels comfortable and intuitive to play, allowing you to focus on creating and performing your music with ease.

Additionally, the Alesis Recital Pro also offers split mode and dual mode, which allow you to play two different instrument sounds at the same time or split the keyboard into two sections for different sounds. These modes provide even more flexibility and personalization in your playing experience.

Make sure to explore these settings and experiment with different options to find what works best for you and your musical goals. The Alesis Recital Pro is designed to adapt to your unique needs and preferences, so don’t shy away from customizing it to unleash your full potential.

Alesis Recital Pro - Keyboard Piano

Connect to External Devices for More Options with the Alesis Recital Pro

The Alesis Recital Pro is a versatile instrument that offers many options for customization and creativity. One way to expand its capabilities even further is by connecting it to external devices. Here are some ways you can do that:

Connectivity OptionDescription
MIDI OutWith the MIDI Out port, you can connect the Alesis Recital Pro to other MIDI devices, such as synthesizers, drum machines, and sound modules. This allows you to control and incorporate a wider range of sounds and instruments into your performances or recordings.
Headphone OutputThe Alesis Recital Pro features a headphone output, which allows you to practice or perform silently without disturbing others. You can also use this output to connect to external speakers or amplifiers for a more powerful sound.
Stereo OutputsWith the stereo outputs, you can connect the Alesis Recital Pro to a mixer, audio interface, or PA system. This allows you to amplify and mix your sound for live performances or recordings.
USB ConnectionThe USB port on the Alesis Recital Pro allows you to connect the instrument directly to your computer or mobile device. This opens up even more possibilities for music production, recording, and collaborating with other musicians.

By using these external connectivity options, you can take your musical journey to the next level with the Alesis Recital Pro. Experiment and explore the expanded possibilities that these connections offer.

connect to external devices

Conclusion: Unleash Your Musical Potential with the Alesis Recital Pro

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, the Alesis Recital Pro offers endless possibilities for creativity and exploration.

From practicing piano skills to recording your own songs, performing live, creating MIDI music, collaborating with other musicians, experimenting with sound effects, teaching music lessons, enhancing performances, customizing settings, and connecting to external devices, this instrument has you covered.

With its impressive range of features and specifications, including weighted keys, touch sensitivity, built-in lessons, recording function, portability, built-in speakers, USB connectivity, and layering capabilities, the Alesis Recital Pro is a versatile choice for musicians of all levels.

By following our tips for getting the most out of your instrument and exploring the additional resources available, you can unleash your musical potential and take your skills to the next level. Get ready to explore and create with the Alesis Recital Pro!

Alesis Recital Pro

About Alesis Recital Pro: Features and Specifications

The Alesis Recital Pro is a versatile, full-featured digital piano that offers a wide range of possibilities for musicians of all levels. With its 88 full-sized, semi-weighted keys, touch sensitivity, and built-in speakers, it provides an authentic piano playing experience without the bulk and expense of an acoustic piano.

The Recital Pro is also loaded with features that make it easy to learn and play. It comes with 12 premium voices, including acoustic and electric pianos, organs, and strings, as well as split mode, which allows you to play two different instrument sounds at the same time.

It also has lesson mode, which divides the keyboard into two identical zones with the same pitch and voice, making it ideal for piano instruction.

In addition to its built-in features, the Recital Pro also provides a number of connectivity options. It has a USB-MIDI connectivity, allowing you to connect it to your computer and use it as a MIDI controller for music production software.

It also has stereo outputs, a headphone output, and a sustain pedal input for more advanced playing and recording options.

Key Features:Specifications:
  • 88 full-sized, semi-weighted keys
  • 12 premium voices
  • Built-in speakers
  • Touch sensitivity
  • Split mode
  • Dual mode
  • Lesson mode
  • Built-in metronome
  • Built-in reverb, chorus, and modulation effects
  • 128-note maximum polyphony
  • Adjustable touch sensitivity
  • 3 levels of adjustable reverb, chorus, and modulation effects
  • USB-MIDI connectivity
  • Stereo outputs
  • Headphone output
  • Sustain pedal input
  • Dimensions: 54.9” x 13.8” x 5.5”
  • Weight: 32.2 lbs.

Overall, the Alesis Recital Pro is an outstanding instrument that offers a wide range of features and capabilities for piano players and music enthusiasts alike. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, you will find that this instrument has everything you need to unleash your musical potential.

Alesis Recital Pro digital piano keyboard

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Alesis Recital Pro

Now that you know the many possibilities with the Alesis Recital Pro, it’s time to get the most out of your instrument. Here are some tips to help you on your musical journey:

  1. Practice regularly: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, consistent daily practice is essential for improving your skills and exploring new techniques.
  2. Explore different playing styles: The Alesis Recital Pro offers a range of voices, sounds, and effects, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things.
  3. Utilize the built-in lessons: Take advantage of the instrument’s lesson mode to improve your piano skills and learn new songs.
  4. Connect to external speakers: While the built-in speakers are convenient, connecting the Alesis Recital Pro to external speakers can provide a more immersive and powerful sound.
  5. Customize the settings: Adjust the metronome, touch sensitivity, and pedal assignments to suit your individual playing style and preferences.
  6. Collaborate with other musicians: Connect your Alesis Recital Pro to other instruments and devices to create sync onized performances or recording sessions.
  7. Experiment with sound effects: Add depth and personality to your performances by using the instrument’s various sound effects, such as reverb and modulation.
  8. Take advantage of MIDI capabilities: Use the Alesis Recital Pro as a MIDI controller to create music on your computer and explore new production techniques.
  9. Layer sounds for enhanced performances: Mix and match different voices and sounds to create dynamic and unique arrangements.
  10. Join the Alesis Recital Pro community: Connect with other users, share tips and tricks, and discover new ways to harness the power of your instrument.

By following these tips, you can unlock the full potential of your Alesis Recital Pro and take your musical journey to new heights.

Alesis Recital Pro

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Alesis Recital Pro

If you’re new to the Alesis Recital Pro, you may have some questions about its features and capabilities. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you get started:

Q: Can I use headphones with the Alesis Recital Pro?

A: Yes, the Alesis Recital Pro has a headphone output that allows you to practice quietly without disturbing others.

Q: Can I connect the Alesis Recital Pro to my computer?

A: Yes, the Alesis Recital Pro has a USB-MIDI port that allows you to connect it to your computer for recording or use it as a MIDI controller.

Q: How do I adjust the touch sensitivity of the keys?

A: You can adjust the touch sensitivity of the keys by holding down the metronome and transpose buttons and pressing the C6 key. Use the + and – buttons to increase or decrease the touch sensitivity.

Q: Does the Alesis Recital Pro come with a sustain pedal?

A: Yes, the Alesis Recital Pro comes with a sustain pedal that connects to the instrument’s 1/4″ sustain pedal input.

Q: Can I record and save my performances on the Alesis Recital Pro?

A: Yes, the Alesis Recital Pro has a built-in recorder that allows you to record and save your performances. You can also connect an external device to the instrument’s 1/4″ stereo outputs for more advanced recording options.

Q: Can I use the Alesis Recital Pro as a MIDI controller for other virtual instruments?

A: Yes, you can use the Alesis Recital Pro as a MIDI controller for other virtual instruments by connecting it to your computer via USB-MIDI.

Q: How do I update the firmware on the Alesis Recital Pro?

A: To update the firmware on the Alesis Recital Pro, visit the Alesis website and download the latest firmware update file. Follow the instructions in the firmware update guide to install the update.

Q: Can I use the Alesis Recital Pro with external speakers?

A: Yes, the Alesis Recital Pro has a 1/4″ stereo output that allows you to connect it to external speakers for amplified performances.

Q: Can I use the Alesis Recital Pro for live performances?

A: Yes, the Alesis Recital Pro is portable, has built-in speakers, and can be connected to external amplification devices, making it ideal for live performances at small gigs or intimate venues.

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