You never knew you wanted it, and maybe you still don’t, but Alesis are launching a sequel to their wireless keytar MIDI controller.

The Vortex Wireless 2 is the new MIDI Controller that you can rock out with, thanks to it’s keytar design. Announced at NAMM their new controller introduces an enhanced and optimised control layout and a sleek new look that’s sure to dazzle on stage as it does in the studio.

The Vortex Wireless 2 adds a sleek, black gloss finish to it’s durable new housing. It features 37 velocity-sensitive keys with after-touch to shred around the stage on. But it’s a MIDI controller so that’s not all; you also have 8 back-lit drum pads to tap along with and 8 back-lit faders to control your levels with. But it doesn’t stop there.

On the neck you have a MIDI-assignable touch strip and accelerometer which introduces a massive range of possibilities for playing, especially live. Somewhat less exciting but entirely as useful are the octave range buttons and sustain activation buttons. The beauty of the Vortex Wireless 2 controller is having these select controls on the neck so they can be easily applied and affected in your playing.

The controller is wireless and powered by a USB dongle rather than Bluetooth to guarantee a high quality and fast connection. It’s completely integrate-able with plugins, DAWs, and virtual instruments – at least the most popular and common ones. It also comes with a bunch of premium plugins, and instruments to make the most of the Vortex Wireless 2.

The Vortex 2 is set to be released early this year with a price tag of $299. Find out more from Alesis’ website: www.alesis.com/products/view2/vortex-wireless-2