Category: Vortex
-
Alesis Vortex: Modify the Ribbon Controller behavior
Some Keytar players use both hands on the keyboard part to play more complex notes arrangements. When I need to do that, I use a regular keyboard. As explained in a previous post, “I have seen keytar players “cross-under” the support strap to use their left hand on the (small) keyboard part. I have tried…
-
Alesis Vortex: Testing remote Patch switch
The Alesis Vortex, using firmware 1.20, can now receive and act upon Program Change requests. This means that you can select a Vortex Patch remotely. I tested the new feature using my M-Audio Oxygen keyboard, but this will work with any Midi input that can send Program Change Request (PC). I am also using a…
-
Alesis Vortex: Direct Patch programming using SysEx
In the previous post, I did a quick review of the new Vyzex Vortex software program. I also put in some details about the new features in firmware 1.20. I also updated the detailed user guide that I wrote a while ago to reflect the changes in the firmware, (even some undocumented ones). The main…
-
Alesis Vortex: Firmware update 1.20 and Vyzex Patch Edit program available
Well, Alesis is listening to it’s users. They have just published a new firmware version for the Vortex. Version 1.20: Allows compatibility with the Vyzex Vortex patch editor software Allows the pitch-bend wheel to be reversed Allows any pad to be set to “Panic Mode” (pad will send an “all-notes off” message) Allows a default…
-
MP-2 + MRe: Hacking the Alesis Vortex and using a Wireless Midi Transmitter
A two-project merge! The Alesis Vortex needed a bit more… controls! So I decided to add a few sensors that would give me greater flexibility when playing. The Vortex is already quite capable, but my left hand was not “used” enough. Sure, there is a touch strip and a pitch-bend wheel at my finger tips.…
-
MRe-2: A demo
I have decided to try the MRe-2 in a real setting. So I hooked up my keyboard and recorded a demo. It was done using Ableton Live 9. The trick was to setup 2 midi loops (using clips). The first one is used to loop the riff that plays after the intro. I had to…
-
Alesis Vortex: A better Manual: Functional Description and Midi Programming Guide
This Alesis Vortex User Guide is available as a PDF file. UPDATE 2013/11/7: Alesis posted a new firmware (1.20) and the Vyzex Patch Editing software on their site. I posted about the changes here. The new Firmware/Software combination kind of makes this page less relevant. I tested the manual programming of the new Firmware (1.20) changes.…
-
Alesis Vortex – First Review: What’s inside? (Tear Down)
I received an Alesis Vortex today: Of course, I will do a user review. I also did a functional review. But first, a tear-down! (As usual, a click on the picture will enlarge it) I will try to be precise when describing the placement of parts: the Vortex is seen in this picture as a…