OVERVIEW
Alesis enters the controller market with the Photon series. The striking feature of this series is the slick Alesis design, functionality, and extra features that have been carried over from the rest of their respected product line. The Photon X25 is the deluxe edition of the series, with both midi-controller and audio interface capabilities, a great user feel, and maxed-out features. This is an incredibly strong entry to the controller/interface market.

FEATURES
In addition to its sleek look and illuminated controls, the Photon X25 is a very functional controller. The 25 velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keys have excellent action and feel, very solid. The 10 chunky, rubber-covered knobs, as well as being super-sensitive and endless, also have a great feel. As I am testing this model out, I instantly want to get "all Daft Punk" on it; it seems like too much fun to use. In addition, the Photon X25 features Alesis' proprietary Axyz Controller Dome. Just assign an effect or instrument to the dome, and control the parameters by moving your hand above the dome (360 degrees and up and down). With 10 knobs, ten buttons, and three active layers, the Photon X25 gives you immediate access to over sixty, fully-assignable controls. In addition, the Photon X25 features a deluxe LCD screen (vs. LED display found on most competitors), that gives you detailed readouts and faster access to the 20 editable, storable configurations (we told you that this was maxed-out). And finally tweak your sounds even further with the two full-sized pitch and modulation wheels (also with that great-feeling rubber coating).

As an audio interface, the Photon X25 is no slouch either. It features fully balanced 1/4" stereo inputs and outputs, delivering studio-quality 24bit 44.1/48kHz audio. It connects to your computer via USB (quite possibly the only non-maxed out feature here), and can be powered via USB bus power, 4x C-batteries, or an optional power adaptor. The Photon X25 is both PC and OSX ready.

OUR OPINION
For the hip-hop producer, the Photon X25 might be overkill. You probably won't need all the controls here. But for an electronic producer, the Photon X25 offers ultimate flexibility for home production and using such multi-functional production programs such as Reason. In addition, for use in live settings, you can have all your settings ready and available at the turn of a knob. But aside from all the features, the strongest aspect here is definitely the design and functionality. All lit up, the Photon X25 looks impressive, and all the controls feel great. And lastly, the price is a steal at around $50 less than products with similar specs (and much less extra-features). Recommended.

- USB controller, audio interface, MIDI in and out
- 25 velocity sensitive, semi-weighted keys
- 24-bit, 44.1/48 kHz audio with balanced 1/4" stereo ins and outs
- Axyz controller dome for 3d control of effects, and virtual instruments
- (10) 360 degree, endless knobs, full-sized pitch and modulation wheels
- immediate access to 60 fully-assignable controls
- LCD display screen
- inputs for sustain and expression pedals
- front panel inserts for Reason and Abelton Live and more
- 18" x 9.5" x 3.5", weighs 4 lbs

reviewed by the mgmnt