Description
Design and Build Quality
Having tested the Alesis Harmony 61 Pro, it’s clear the design is both sleek and functional. The 61 full-size keys offer a professional feel, and the adjustable touch response gives you control over how sensitive you want the keys to be. I personally enjoy the pitch-bend wheel and the X/Y touchpad, which add an element of playful experimentation to any session. The black, white, and grey color scheme ensures it blends seamlessly into any space, whether it’s a home studio or living room. At just 16.57 pounds, it’s impressively portable, yet sturdy enough that it doesn’t feel flimsy during use.
What really caught my attention was the backlit LCD screen, which makes navigation super intuitive. It displays notation, chord dictionaries, and other essential features, which is a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple settings. While the build quality feels robust, I did notice the plastic body could be prone to scratches if not handled carefully. That said, the overall design is thoughtfully executed, especially for the price point.
Key Benefits
The standout feature of this keyboard is its 580 premium sounds, which range from piano tones to orchestral instruments and synthesizers. I spent hours layering sounds in Dual Mode, creating rich, atmospheric compositions. Splitting two sounds across the keyboard in Split Mode is equally satisfying, especially when experimenting with different instrument combinations.
Another highlight is the on-board FX, including 10 reverb, 8 chorus, and 2 slicer effects. These effects add incredible depth to your sound, and I found myself using the slicer effects to create edgy, modern textures. The inclusion of 180 auto-accompaniment patterns lets you effortlessly flesh out songs, and the built-in metronome adjustable from 5-280 BPM is a fantastic tool for improving timing.
- 580 unique sounds for creative flexibility.
- Dual and Split Modes for layering and experimenting with tones.
- On-board FX that enhance the overall sound quality.
- Built-in 30W stereo speakers, delivering clear and powerful audio.
Limitations
Despite its many strengths, the Harmony 61 Pro isn’t without its flaws. The X/Y performance touchpad, while innovative, can feel slightly gimmicky after extended use. I found it more useful for live performances rather than everyday practice. Additionally, the built-in speakers, while loud and clear, lack the nuanced depth you’d get with higher-end models or external monitors.
The recording functionality also deserves a mention here. While it’s great to have the option to record directly as a .WAV file, the process of saving to an SD card feels a bit dated. A direct USB recording feature would have been more convenient. Lastly, the keyboard doesn’t come with batteries included, which can be inconvenient for those planning to use it in portable settings straight out of the box.
- X/Y touchpad may feel redundant for non-performers.
- Speakers lack depth compared to external audio systems.
- Recording to an SD card feels outdated in 2023.
- No batteries included, requiring an extra purchase.
Learning Tools and Software Integration
What really sets this keyboard apart is the emphasis on learning and software integration. The 177 built-in demo songs are perfect for practicing, and I found the step-lesson mode incredibly helpful for breaking down complex pieces. The inclusion of 60 interactive piano lessons from Melodics and 3 months of Skoove lessons is a game-changer, especially for beginners. The lessons cater to a wide range of skill levels, blending classical pieces with modern chart hits.
Moreover, the USB-MIDI connection opens up a world of possibilities. I paired it with my laptop and experimented with various MIDI software, which turned this keyboard into a full-fledged production tool. Whether you’re learning or producing, the Harmony 61 Pro has got you covered.
Competing Products
When comparing to other popular models like the Yamaha PSR-E373 or Casio CT-X700, the Harmony 61 Pro holds its ground quite well. The 580 sounds far outnumber the options available on the Yamaha, which offers around 622 sounds. However, Yamaha still edges ahead in terms of speaker quality and overall durability.
Casio’s CT-X700, on the other hand, boasts superior auto-accompaniment features but lacks the X/Y touchpad and some of the advanced FX options. The Alesis model strikes a balance between affordability and versatility, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing creative features over premium build quality.
Where this product excels is its learning tools and sound variety, which outperform both competitors. However, if you’re seeking a more professional-grade sound system or advanced recording capabilities, you might lean towards pricier alternatives.
Value for Money
Considering the extensive features packed into the Harmony 61 Pro, it offers great value for money. The inclusion of 580 sounds, various modes, and learning tools makes it suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and even semi-professionals. While it’s not on par with high-end keyboards in terms of sound depth or build quality, it excels as an all-rounder.
Its ability to function as both a learning tool and a production instrument adds to its appeal, especially at this price range. The lack of batteries and slightly dated recording process are minor trade-offs when compared to the overall package. If you’re looking for a keyboard that delivers versatility without breaking the bank, this one checks most of the boxes.