If you could use a new little USB / MIDI keyboard controller, check out the Alesis Q49. Now shipping, the compact, 49-key Q49 works with virtually all music software and MIDI hardware devices and features USB-MIDI and traditional MIDI jacks for easy connection to Macs, PCs, and MIDI hardware.

The Q49 provides keyboard players and music makers with the usual controls, such as pitch and modulation wheels, backlit octave up and down buttons, and an assignable volume / data slider, along with the ability to send program changes from the keys. Its Velocity-sensitive keys allow you to deliver an expressive, musical performance, even for a compact controller. An optional sustain pedal (sold separately) is available for the Q49.

Since the controller is USB bus-powered, it's not necessary to carry around and use a power adaptor with the Q49, unless you really want to. To further help you make music the plug-and-play way, the Q49 comes with a free copy of Ableton Live Lite, Alesis Edition software for recording, sequencing, and performing right out of the box. The unit also comes with a USB cable and QuickStart Guide.

At-a-glance features for the Q49:

• 49-Key keyboard controller for use with most music software and MIDI devices
• Velocity-sensitive keys for expressive, musical performance
• USB MIDI and traditional MIDI for use with Mac and PC, as well as MIDI hardware
• Pitch and Modulation wheels for capturing musical expression
• Backlit Octave Up and Down buttons
• Assignable volume / data-entry slider enables you to control your most-used parameter
• Sustain pedal input for complete performance (pedal sold separately)
• Comes with Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition for recording, sequencing, and performing
• Bus powered via USB, so you won't need a power cable
• Included Accessories: QuickStart Guide, USB cable
• Dimensions: 32" (W) x 7.5" (D) x 2.5" (H)

The Alesis Q49 is now available for $199 (MSRP) or the estimated street price of $99. To learn more about the new USB / MIDI keyboard controller, visit alesis.com.