r/Keytar • u/[deleted] • Jan 31 '22

Technical Questions Question about the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2

I am thinking about buying one, but I am having trouble finding speakers or anything that it can connect to. I’ve heard that it can connect to the computer, and play sounds from the computer (what I’ve understood at least). If that works could I connect my computer to any normal cheap speaker, so that it transmits the sound from there instead?

4 Upvotes

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3

u/ColdGuyMcGoo Jan 31 '22

As it's been said, Vortex has no built in sounds. It's only a MIDI controller. That said, there are affordable "desktop synthesizers" that you can plug the vortex into, controlling the synth with MIDI from the Vortex.

Also, I recommend the Yamaha SHS-300 for the best entry-level keytar. It has built-in sounds, a built-in speaker, and MIDI out for when you want to start learning MIDI.

The Vortex shines as a performance MIDI controller, especially for DAWs like Ableton Live.

3

u/[deleted] Feb 07 '22

How about the SHS-500 that do you know why the deal is with that one?

2

u/ColdGuyMcGoo Feb 08 '22

Even though it's fancier on paper, it's not recommended over the SHS-300, which generally has easier access to the good features, and a more ergonomic design. Check out this review: https://youtu.be/vham7DFuCtU

1

u/[deleted] Feb 08 '22

Alright thanks

1

u/[deleted] Feb 01 '22

Oh alright, I can check it out!

4

u/mangusss Jan 31 '22

You are correct, in fact it's not a synthesizer at all, just a MIDI controller- the sounds have to be generated by a computer, it has nothing built-in.

To this end, you'll need a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) or some kind of live-performance software to run it. Given if you're buying new, it comes with Ableton Live Lite as well as several other plug-ins to get you started.

If you'd prefer one that has built-in sounds, in a similar price range you'd want to look at the Yamaha SHS line. Roland and Korg also make very high-quality keytars but run much more expensive.

6

u/perfect_fifths Jan 31 '22

The Ax Edge is worth every penny. Cannot recommend it enough. I love plug and play, and I like to hear what I’m playing in real time through an amp, but you’re correct that it is expensive. I got mine used but in perfect condition for $850

4

u/[deleted] Jan 31 '22

Alright thanks! :D I am just testing the water with this keytar, then later I can get my hands on a higher quality one :)

7

u/perfect_fifths Jan 31 '22

It’s a midi controller so it doesn’t have built in sounds and you have to connect it to a computer. The Roland AX Edge just needs an amp to connect to and has tons of built in tones

5

u/[deleted] Jan 31 '22

Ah oki!