The Alesis Prestige Artist digital piano is a product that piqued the interest of many musicians, from beginners looking to invest in a quality instrument to more seasoned players seeking a solid, versatile, and budget-friendly digital piano. I’ve had the pleasure of spending extensive time with this model and exploring its full suite of features, strengths, and areas where it could improve. In this Alesis Prestige Artist review, I’ll go into details about the design, sound quality, keyboard feel, interface, features, and how it compares to other models in its class.
If you click the button above you will be redirected to Amazon.com. In case you then decide to buy anything, Amazon.com will pay me a commission. This doesn’t affect the honesty of this review in any way though.
Alesis Prestige Artist Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | 88 full-sized, graded hammer-action keys |
| Key Sensitivity | Adjustable (Soft, Medium, Hard) |
| Polyphony | 256-note polyphony |
| Sound Engine | Alesis proprietary sound engine |
| Total Voices | 16 voices, including pianos, strings, organs, synths |
| Main Piano Tones | Grand Piano, Bright Piano, Jazz Piano, Upright Piano |
| Speaker System | 2 x 25W speakers |
| Display | OLED display |
| Effects | Reverb, Chorus |
| Modes | Layer, Split |
| Metronome | Yes (adjustable tempo and time signature) |
| Recording | Built-in recording and playback |
| USB Connectivity | USB-MIDI for DAW connection and software integration |
| MIDI Connectivity | Standard MIDI output |
| Headphone Jacks | 2 x 1/4″ (6.35mm) stereo headphone jacks |
| AUX Input | 1 x 1/8″ (3.5mm) AUX input |
| AUX Output | 2 x 1/4″ (6.35mm) AUX outputs |
| Pedal Support | 1 x sustain pedal (included) |
| Dimensions | 52.4″ (W) x 11.5″ (D) x 5.5″ (H) |
| Weight | 28 lbs (12.7 kg) |
| Power Supply | 12V DC power adapter (included) |
| Included Accessories | Music rest, power adapter, sustain pedal |
| Software Bundle | Access to educational and DAW software |
First Impressions and Build Quality
Unboxing and Setup
Unboxing the Alesis Prestige Artist was an enjoyable experience that revealed attention to detail and a commitment to quality right from the start. The piano arrived in a well-organized, protective package, with all components carefully cushioned to prevent any damage during transit. Alongside the piano itself, the package included a power adapter, music stand, and a comprehensive manual. For beginner players or those new to digital pianos, this thoughtful packaging ensures that you won’t be left scratching your head over missing parts or unclear instructions.
The setup process was straightforward, which is essential for an instrument aimed at both beginners and advanced users alike. Assembling the stand (if purchased with it) took less than 20 minutes and only required a basic screwdriver, with no need for additional tools. For those who plan to frequently move their piano, this assembly ease is a plus, as the piano itself can be separated from its stand and set on a desk or table if needed.
Design and Aesthetics
The Alesis Prestige Artist has an understated, professional look that combines modern styling with functionality. Its matte black finish is not only attractive but also resistant to smudges and fingerprints—a huge advantage if you plan to practice regularly or move the piano around. The design balances a minimalist look with a few accents, like the soft corner contours and the subtle silver Alesis logo, adding a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the overall aesthetic.
The size of the Prestige Artist also deserves a mention. With dimensions that are compact enough to fit comfortably in a small apartment yet still spacious enough to avoid feeling cramped, it manages to strike a balance between portability and presence. Weighing approximately 28 pounds, the Prestige Artist is light enough for occasional moving but substantial enough to feel solid and well-anchored during play. This weight factor, combined with its compact form, makes it a good choice for those who may need to relocate it often or for musicians who perform in different locations.
Build Quality and Durability
The build quality of the Alesis Prestige Artist is surprisingly robust for its price range. While the body is primarily constructed from high-grade plastic, it does not feel flimsy or cheap. In fact, there is a certain sturdiness to the materials used, and the well-fitted casing does not squeak or shift when applying pressure. Even the keys, which sometimes feel loose or overly light on budget digital pianos, are well-secured and give a sense of durability.
The buttons and controls on the interface have a smooth, responsive feel, avoiding the “plastic click” sound that can cheapen the experience of playing some digital pianos. After repeated use, I noticed no signs of wear or damage, which gives me confidence that the Prestige Artist will hold up well over time. This level of durability in build quality reflects Alesis’ attention to detail and commitment to providing a product that lasts.
Sound Quality and Tones
Tone Sampling and Sound Engine
The sound engine of the Alesis Prestige Artist is undoubtedly one of its standout features, showcasing an impressive 256-note polyphony. This high polyphony count means that complex, multi-note passages won’t drop notes, ensuring seamless sound even in fast, layered performances. This is particularly advantageous for players interested in more elaborate pieces, where overlapping sustain can often max out lower polyphony models. The clarity and consistency of the sound are preserved thanks to this feature, enhancing the playability and realism of the instrument.
Alesis has invested effort into sampling high-quality grand piano sounds, and it shows. The sampled piano tones capture subtle nuances in attack and decay, producing a sound that is full-bodied and resonant, with a timbre that stays true to the acoustic experience. Each note has a sense of “weight” and tonal depth that resonates well, giving players a satisfying response and an immersive playing experience.
Piano and Instrument Tones
The Alesis Prestige Artist includes a range of tones beyond the primary grand piano sounds, making it versatile for multiple genres and playing styles. The piano options include a traditional acoustic, jazz piano, and brighter tones suitable for pop music, each adjusted to emphasize different characteristics like clarity or warmth. Each of these tones offers subtle yet noticeable variations that can suit various pieces and playing environments, from intimate solo sessions to group ensemble play.
Aside from piano tones, the Prestige Artist offers additional instruments such as electric pianos, strings, synthesizers, organs, and orchestral sounds. While the focus is understandably on the piano voices, these added instruments are quite realistic and hold up well, providing options for musicians who enjoy exploring different sound textures. The electric piano sounds have a vintage vibe that’s perfect for jazz and pop, while the organ tones add depth for gospel or classical styles. For players who want to experiment with layering tones or building complex soundscapes, these options open up a world of creative possibilities.
Speaker System
The built-in speaker system on the Prestige Artist features two 25W speakers, which are quite powerful for a digital piano in this price range. The speakers have been thoughtfully positioned to project sound clearly, and they do a commendable job of filling a small to medium-sized room with full, balanced sound. The bass response is one of the strongest aspects of the speaker system, adding warmth and resonance to lower notes that can often feel “thin” on other digital pianos.
When played at higher volumes, however, the speakers do show slight limitations. Some distortion creeps in at high volumes, especially in the mid-to-high frequencies. This won’t be an issue during moderate-volume practice sessions, but it’s something to be aware of if you plan on playing with the volume maxed out. For those who require absolute clarity, playing with headphones or connecting the Prestige Artist to external speakers or an amplifier is recommended.
When tested with quality headphones, the Prestige Artist’s sound quality truly shines. The stereo imaging is crisp, and the instrument samples sound vibrant and dynamic. This makes it a great choice for anyone who often plays with headphones, as you’ll experience a level of audio detail that might otherwise be lost through the built-in speakers.
Keyboard Action and Playability
Key Feel and Realism
A critical factor for any digital piano is how closely the key action mimics that of an acoustic piano, and the Prestige Artist does an impressive job in this regard. The 88 full-sized, graded hammer-action keys offer a weighted feel that closely replicates the heavier touch of lower keys and the lighter response of the higher registers. This graded hammer action is particularly beneficial for developing finger strength and accuracy in dynamics, making it an excellent tool for those training to transition to an acoustic piano.
The keys are not only weighted but also textured with a matte finish, which adds a layer of realism and grip, enhancing control over the keyboard during more intricate passages. The keybed feels solid, with no rattling or noise when pressing the keys. However, it is worth noting that the key action on the Prestige Artist is slightly lighter compared to higher-end digital pianos. Professional pianists used to the heavier response of grand pianos may notice this difference, although it should not detract from the overall experience for most players.
Velocity Sensitivity
The Prestige Artist’s adjustable touch sensitivity is a thoughtful addition that accommodates various playing styles and experience levels. With three sensitivity settings—soft, medium, and hard—players can tailor the key response to suit their preferences. For example, if you’re playing a delicate classical piece, the soft or medium setting allows for a gentler response. On the other hand, jazz or pop pieces that require more attack and dynamic variation benefit from the hard setting, which requires a firmer touch.
This level of control over touch sensitivity makes the Prestige Artist adaptable to both beginner and advanced players. For beginners, the softer setting is a welcome feature as it allows for easier key presses while they build finger strength and dexterity. More experienced players, meanwhile, can take advantage of the harder setting to achieve greater dynamic control.
Interface and Ease of Use
Control Panel and Display
Navigating the Alesis Prestige Artist is simple and intuitive, thanks to its well-organized control panel. The layout is clean and streamlined, with clearly labeled buttons for each function. A small OLED display provides quick feedback on the selected sound, volume level, and other settings, making adjustments fast and seamless. The display is bright and easy to read, even in dim lighting, which is a small but appreciated detail for nighttime practice or performance settings.
The button layout is designed with user experience in mind. Each major function—like sound selection, metronome, and tempo adjustment—has a dedicated button, which minimizes menu-digging. There’s also a numeric keypad for quickly inputting tempo or selecting specific tones. This simple yet effective control scheme makes it easy to switch between sounds or settings, even mid-performance.
Layering and Split Mode
The Prestige Artist includes both layering and split mode capabilities, allowing for more flexibility in sound configuration. Layering mode lets players combine two sounds, such as a grand piano and strings, to create a fuller and more complex sound. This feature is ideal for players who want to add depth to their compositions, and it’s especially effective for pieces that benefit from a rich, orchestral quality.
Split mode, on the other hand, allows the keyboard to be divided into two zones with separate sounds assigned to each. This is perfect for duet playing or for musicians who want to play a bass sound on the left side and a piano or synth sound on the right. Switching between layers or split sounds is smooth and quick, with no noticeable latency or lag, ensuring a seamless playing experience.
Additional Features
Recording and Playback
The Alesis Prestige Artist includes a built-in recording function, which is invaluable for players who want to review their practice sessions or save their compositions. While it is a basic recording feature, it allows for immediate playback of recordings, which is a practical tool for self-assessment and improvement. However, it’s worth noting that the piano does not have onboard memory for saving multiple recordings, so players will need an external device if they wish to store performances long-term.
Metronome and Tempo Adjustments
For students and practicing musicians, the metronome is an essential tool, and the Prestige Artist’s built-in metronome does not disappoint. It has adjustable tempo and time signature settings, allowing you to customize it to suit your needs. The metronome sound is clear and easy to follow, providing a steady pulse without overpowering the piano sound itself. Adjusting the tempo is quick and easy via the numeric keypad, allowing players to experiment with different speeds without interruption.
Connectivity Options
The Prestige Artist’s connectivity is surprisingly robust for its price point. It includes MIDI out ports, a USB connection, and two headphone jacks, making it versatile for various applications. The USB connection allows the piano to be connected to a computer for use with digital audio workstations (DAWs), which is ideal for musicians interested in recording or producing music. This connectivity also enables integration with software for virtual instrument libraries, expanding the piano’s capabilities beyond its onboard sounds.
Value for Money
When considering the price of the Alesis Prestige Artist, it’s clear that the company has aimed to provide a lot of value without stretching the budget too far. This digital piano falls in the mid-range category but delivers a package that feels like it belongs in a higher tier. Its realistic sound quality, advanced features like adjustable touch sensitivity, and robust build quality make it a fantastic option for both beginners and intermediate players. This is a piano that doesn’t feel like it’s been “cut down” to fit a price point but rather designed thoughtfully to bring core essentials to the forefront.
One of the key selling points of the Prestige Artist is its 256-note polyphony, which is generally found in higher-end models. This feature alone makes it stand out against other pianos in the same price bracket. Many mid-range digital pianos tend to cap their polyphony around 128 notes, which can result in noticeable note drops, especially in layered or sustain-heavy compositions. With the Prestige Artist, you’re less likely to run into these limitations, making it a worthwhile investment for players who want to explore more complex pieces or enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted play experience.
The connectivity options further contribute to the piano’s value. With MIDI, USB, and AUX connectivity, it can function as a MIDI controller for music production, connect seamlessly to recording software, and integrate with external sound systems. Many digital pianos at this price point lack such comprehensive connectivity, so Alesis has definitely gone the extra mile to ensure versatility here.
When compared to competitors like the Yamaha P-125 or the Casio PX-160, the Alesis Prestige Artist often matches or surpasses them in several areas, especially in sound variety, touch sensitivity options, and the quality of the sampling engine. It may lack some of the finer, high-end details found in premium models, like wooden keys or more extensive sound libraries, but it compensates well with a robust set of features, reliable performance, and high-quality sounds.
Overall, the Prestige Artist is one of the best values in its category. It’s an excellent choice for those on a budget who still want a quality playing experience that can grow with them as they advance in skill.
Comparison with Alternatives
Alesis Prestige Artist vs. Yamaha P-125
The Yamaha P-125 is a popular competitor in the same price range as the Alesis Prestige Artist, and both models offer unique strengths that appeal to different types of players. Starting with sound, Yamaha’s Pure CF Sound Engine in the P-125 produces a highly realistic grand piano tone sampled from the Yamaha CFIIIS concert grand. This sound is rich and detailed, with clear resonance and an impressive level of nuance. While the Alesis Prestige Artist has a robust sound engine with a grand piano tone that is similarly rich and resonant, it offers 256-note polyphony, double the Yamaha P-125’s 128. This makes the Prestige Artist ideal for players looking for uninterrupted note sustain during complex compositions or layered sounds.
When it comes to keyboard feel, the P-125 has Yamaha’s GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) action, which is on par with the Prestige Artist’s graded hammer action. Both offer a weighted, realistic feel, though Yamaha’s GHS may appeal slightly more to those accustomed to a traditional acoustic piano feel. The Prestige Artist, however, provides three adjustable touch sensitivity settings, allowing greater customization for a range of playing styles.
In terms of connectivity, both models are strong contenders. The P-125 offers USB and AUX connectivity, while the Prestige Artist matches this with the addition of robust MIDI compatibility, giving it an edge for musicians who use it as a MIDI controller. Overall, the Yamaha P-125 is great for those who prioritize sound realism, but the Alesis Prestige Artist stands out for its higher polyphony, customizable key touch, and versatile connectivity.
Alesis Prestige Artist vs. Casio Privia PX-160
The Casio Privia PX-160 is another well-regarded digital piano in the same price bracket as the Alesis Prestige Artist. The PX-160 is known for its AiR (Acoustic and intelligent Resonator) Sound Source, which provides a rich, resonant piano sound and subtle, realistic details, especially in the mid-range. The Alesis Prestige Artist’s sound engine, however, has a slight edge with its 256-note polyphony compared to the PX-160’s 128-note polyphony, providing smoother sound in complex pieces or layered modes.
In terms of keyboard action, the PX-160 features Casio’s Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II, which is highly responsive and accurate, with a realistic feel that’s appreciated by pianists who play more technically challenging pieces. While the Alesis Prestige Artist’s graded hammer action offers a similar level of realism, it is slightly lighter in comparison, which may appeal more to beginners or those who play more contemporary genres. However, the Prestige Artist’s keys are adjustable in touch sensitivity, giving users more flexibility based on their preferences.
The PX-160 and Prestige Artist both offer solid connectivity options, though the Prestige Artist has an advantage with more extensive MIDI and USB options for connecting to DAWs or external audio equipment. The Prestige Artist also has a slightly better speaker system (2 x 25W) compared to the PX-160, delivering a more robust sound in small to medium spaces. For players who prefer a lighter key action, versatile sound layering, and enhanced polyphony, the Alesis Prestige Artist provides an excellent alternative to the Casio PX-160.
Alesis Prestige Artist vs. Roland FP-30X
The Roland FP-30X is another close competitor to the Alesis Prestige Artist, offering an array of features that appeal to both beginners and advanced players. Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine in the FP-30X is a standout, producing a warm, resonant tone that’s highly regarded for its expressive qualities and realism, with added depth that allows for nuanced play. However, the Prestige Artist, with its 256-note polyphony (compared to the FP-30X’s 256 notes as well), matches Roland on this front, ensuring clear, rich sound even in layered compositions or complex pieces.
In terms of keyboard feel, the FP-30X utilizes Roland’s PHA-4 Standard key action, which includes escapement and ivory feel keys. This gives it an edge in terms of authentic touch and response, particularly for advanced players accustomed to the heavier feel of an acoustic piano. The Prestige Artist, while offering a graded hammer action that’s realistic and comfortable, is slightly lighter in comparison, though it’s highly adaptable with three touch sensitivity settings.
The FP-30X shines in connectivity, offering both Bluetooth MIDI and audio, which the Prestige Artist lacks. However, the Prestige Artist counters this with more accessible layering and split functions, making it easier for users who need quick sound configurations. The Alesis Prestige Artist is the better option for players who seek high-quality sound with layering versatility and customizable touch, while the Roland FP-30X is ideal for those wanting advanced key action and wireless connectivity for a modern, streamlined setup.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Rich, Realistic Piano Sounds:
The sampled piano sounds on the Prestige Artist are well-developed and resonate with a clarity that’s rare for mid-range digital pianos. Alesis has put great effort into capturing the nuances of an acoustic grand, resulting in a realistic and satisfying tone. The different piano variations offer flexibility, making it easy to switch from a classical tone to a jazz or bright pop sound without missing a beat. - Versatile Sound Options Beyond Piano:
This piano includes over 16 built-in voices, covering not only acoustic piano sounds but also strings, organs, synths, and more. These sounds are carefully crafted and add considerable value to the instrument, opening doors for players who like to experiment with genres or create layered soundscapes. - Adjustable Touch Sensitivity:
Having three touch sensitivity settings makes this piano adaptable to various playing styles and skill levels. Beginners may benefit from the softer setting, while more advanced players can achieve greater dynamic control on the harder setting. This feature enhances the playability and versatility of the Prestige Artist, allowing it to cater to both casual and serious pianists. - Good Build Quality:
With its durable casing, sturdy key mechanism, and stable build, the Prestige Artist feels substantial and well-made. The attention to build quality ensures that the piano can handle regular use without any quick wear and tear, making it a good investment for those who want a reliable instrument for everyday practice. - MIDI and USB Connectivity for Production:
One of the Prestige Artist’s best attributes is its extensive connectivity options. The inclusion of USB MIDI output means that it can be seamlessly integrated into a digital audio workstation (DAW) setup, allowing players to use the piano as a MIDI controller for music production. It also supports standard MIDI output, which is compatible with a variety of external devices, adding value for musicians who work with multiple instruments or sound sources. - Intuitive Interface and User-Friendly Controls:
Alesis has designed the interface to be straightforward and accessible, even for less tech-savvy users. The OLED display and organized button layout make navigating the settings easy, allowing players to change sounds, adjust touch sensitivity, and toggle metronome settings without getting bogged down in complex menus.
Cons
- Speaker System Shows Limitations at High Volume:
While the 25W speakers are adequate for practice and small performances, they do exhibit minor distortion at high volumes, particularly in the mid-to-high frequency range. This may be an issue for those who plan to play at maximum volume frequently or perform in larger spaces. Fortunately, connecting to external speakers or using quality headphones improves the overall audio experience. - Basic Recording Function Without Onboard Memory:
The Prestige Artist includes a recording feature, which is convenient for practice and playback, but it lacks onboard memory for saving multiple recordings. This limitation means players need an external device to store recordings if they want to retain their compositions. It’s a minor downside but worth noting for musicians who rely heavily on recording functions. - Key Action May Feel Light for Advanced Players:
Although the weighted key action is generally good, professional pianists or those accustomed to the feel of an acoustic grand may find the Prestige Artist’s keys slightly on the lighter side. While it won’t be an issue for most players, advanced musicians might prefer a heavier touch that mimics an acoustic piano more closely. - No Bluetooth Connectivity:
In an increasingly wireless world, some players might miss the absence of Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth MIDI or audio options are convenient for connecting to apps, external speakers, or other devices without the need for physical cables. However, this is a minor omission that most players can work around with the available USB and AUX connections.
Final Thoughts
The Alesis Prestige Artist digital piano is a high-performing, well-rounded instrument that combines quality sound, solid design, and impressive versatility at an affordable price point. It’s a fantastic option for beginners, intermediate players, and even advanced musicians who need a reliable practice piano or a portable instrument for gigs. Alesis has put together a thoughtful mix of features, from the realistic sound engine and graded hammer-action keys to the robust connectivity options, making this piano adaptable to a range of musical needs.
Whether you’re playing solo, accompanying other instruments, or using it as a MIDI controller in a recording setup, the Prestige Artist is capable of delivering a satisfying experience across multiple scenarios. Its sound quality and the responsiveness of the keyboard allow for expressive playing, while the practical features like touch sensitivity adjustment and sound layering enhance its appeal. For the price, few digital pianos in this range offer such a comprehensive and enjoyable package.
While it does have a few limitations, such as the lighter key action and basic recording capabilities, these are minor in the grand scheme of things and shouldn’t detract from the overall value. The Prestige Artist is an exceptional instrument in its class, bringing a level of quality and flexibility that rivals many of its more expensive counterparts.