TEST: Alesis Transactive Wireless

 If there is one word that has truly achieved worldwide fame in recent years, it is the expression “flexibility”. There is nothing that is more feared these days than a deadlocked construct that cannot adapt to changing circumstances or demonstrate the greatest possible scope of compatibility. Now, what do these introductory words have to do with a review?

Everyone knows the situation where you want to quickly strengthen several components without much effort and, in order to present yourself, you would like to accompany yourself using MP3 from your favorite pad, pod or whatever player. The whole thing is then battery operated and so portable that even the trunk of a Smart car is enough to transport the sound system. Well, the child can be helped.

With the Transactive Wireless, Alesis is bringing a battery-operated speaker system onto the market, which is a helpful tool in terms of amplification for street musicians, small performers and PowerPoint/keynote presentations.


construction

The Alesis TransActive Wireless is a very small and easy-to-transport sound system made in China that works in both mains and battery operation. A rudimentary, three-channel mixer was integrated, which allows a microphone signal to be fed in via a combination socket, a line signal using a separate input and a stereo signal via a mini jack socket. All signals are managed with a master volume controller located on the far right. In addition, the system can play audio files from any device in the form of smartphones or tablet PCs via Bluetooth. The devices can also be charged via a USB port.

According to the manufacturer, the built-in lead-acid battery provides an operating time of approx. 50 hours, with a complete charge of the battery taking approx. 6 hours. There is a cold appliance plug on the side, over which the mains fuse has also been installed. You can also choose between 110 - 120 and 220 - 240 volts in the operating voltage. In addition, three green and one red LED provide information about the charging status of the battery.

The mono system consists of a 1 inch tweeter and an 8 inch woofer, has 25 watts of continuous power and can handle short peaks of 50 watts. Both speakers are protected by a black perforated plate. With dimensions of 290 mm x 380 mm x 440 mm and a weight of 12.9 kilograms, the product actually fits in any trunk and, if necessary, can also fit in the footwell of a small car. The Alesis TransActive Wireless does not have a protective cover; only 8 silver-anodized protective corners offer protection during transport. If you want to improve the system's radiation characteristics, there is also a 35 millimeter speaker flange for a speaker stand on the underside of the housing.

A transport trolley concept is integrated into the product and has a double telescopic rod. To lift the product, there are plastic carrying troughs on each side of the housing. To hold the Bluetooth devices, there is a passive plastic tray on the top of the case, which can handle pretty much any tablet. Even my iPad, which is embedded in the bulky Otterbox, found room in the depression without any problems.

If a device is paired with the Alesis TransActive Wireless System via Bluetooth, a blue LED lights up in the middle of the front panel, provided that you have previously entered the authorization code, as is usual with Bluetooth devices. You can silently disconnect the Bluetooth connection at any time using a tip switch below the LED.

When it comes to operating instructions, the manufacturer seems to only want to target inexperienced users, as the most important steps are roughly outlined on just 3 DIN A5 pages. Admittedly, the lack of sound control on all channels does not allow fine-tuning the sound anyway, but in my opinion a few more practical tips or at least a font larger than 3 millimeters letter height would be appropriate.



Practice

Anyone who looks at the design of the Alesis TransActive Wireless will quickly be clear about the area of application of this tiny device. 25 watts of transistor power rev up an acoustic guitar and also ensure better speech intelligibility in a pedestrian zone, but are not enough to adequately illuminate larger areas acoustically. In addition, there is no real boost to be heard in the deep bass range below 400 Hertz, but this was not to be expected due to the design. What has been solved very nicely, however, is the treble range, which fortunately does not have any excessive highs or angular S and Z sounds.

Electric guitar preamps can also be convincing with an appropriate amp/speaker simulation; in fact, nothing stands in the way of using the rocking solo entertainer accompanied by garage band. If you also own a flat screen or other monitor in addition to an Apple TV, you could even bring in the appropriate video feed via Airplay or iPad / iPhone and generate a real multimedia performance using the simplest means, probably if you have a bright concept.

You should always keep in mind that the missing tone control may have to be managed on the instrument or a preamp. In the case of an acoustic guitar, which today mostly has an active preamp with tone control, this should not be a problem. However, with a microphone, especially since there is no corresponding gain control, the sound is generated exclusively by the microphone type without further processing. It is therefore important to try out whether the individual combination suits your personal taste.

What's interesting is that, although both signals are present on one channel, you can simultaneously play back a signal via Bluetooth and via the Aux-In input. The respective volume must of course be adjusted to the signal sources in advance. A mono signal is generated internally from the stereo signal present without causing disruptive phase cancellations.



Conclusion

With the Alesis TransActive Wireless you are purchasing an extremely compact sound system, which, thanks to its coherent concept, represents the perfect solution for street musicians, solo entertainers and audio presentations. The very good connection to all common Bluetooth devices, including their management, and the extremely easy handling make it possible for even those who don't like technology to achieve good results straight away.

The small dimensions, the universal possible uses and the very long battery life enable the product to be used flexibly and with great practical suitability.

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Additional Informations:

Alesis, a leading manufacturer of audio devices such as synthesizers, signal processors, drum machines, amplifiers, recorders, mixers, and speakers, was founded in Hollywood, California in 1984 by Keith Barr¹². Hollywood, known worldwide for its association with the film industry, is a neighborhood located in the central region of Los Angeles, California.

## Hollywood: The Birthplace of Alesis

Hollywood is synonymous with the glamour and excitement of the American film industry. The neighborhood is home to several historic studios, and its name has come to be a shorthand reference for the industry and the people associated with it. Hollywood was incorporated as a municipality in 1903 and was consolidated with the city of Los Angeles in 1910. The area began attracting movie studios in the early 20th century, and it quickly became the center of American film production.

### Hollywood Walk of Fame

One of the most iconic attractions in Hollywood is the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which consists of more than 2,600 five-pointed terrazzo and brass stars embedded in the sidewalks along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street. The stars bear the names of a mix of musicians, actors, directors, producers, musical and theatrical groups, fictional characters, and others for their contributions to the entertainment industry.

### Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign, originally created as an advertisement for local real estate development, is now one of the world's most evocative symbols – a universal metaphor for ambition, success, glamour, and a beacon for dreamers everywhere. It's situated on Mount Lee, in the Hollywood Hills area of the Santa Monica Mountains.

### Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is a film studio and theme park packed with film sets and thrilling rides which are sure to delight the whole family. Visitors can take a guided tour of the studios and explore behind the scenes of some of Universal's most popular movie sets.

### TCL Chinese Theatre

The TCL Chinese Theatre, opened in 1927, is one of the most iconic movie theaters in the world and has hosted numerous premieres and events over the years. The theater's forecourt contains the handprints, footprints, and autographs of popular film personalities from the 1920s to the present day, making it a popular tourist attraction.

### Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is a modern amphitheater in the Hollywood Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles that is used primarily for music performances. It has a seating capacity of 17,500 and is known for its band shell, a distinctive set of concentric arches that graced the site from 1929 through 2003, before being replaced with a somewhat larger one beginning in the 2004 season.

### Griffith Observatory

Located in Los Angeles' Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of the city and the stars. The observatory hosts fascinating exhibitions and features a spectacular planetarium, and has been the setting for numerous films and TV shows.

In conclusion, Hollywood, the founding city of Alesis, is a place that embodies the charm of the past and the sophistication of the present. It's a city that thrives on the enchantment of the film industry and continues to offer a wealth of attractions for locals and tourists alike.

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Alesis, a renowned designer and marketer of consumer electronic products, faces competition from several companies in the industry. Here's a detailed look at some of these competitors and their products:

## iSTYLE

iSTYLE is a reseller of electronics¹. While not a direct manufacturer like Alesis, iSTYLE offers a wide range of electronic products, including audio devices. Their product line includes various brands, providing customers with a broad selection to choose from. This extensive range can pose a challenge to Alesis as customers have the opportunity to compare Alesis products with those of other brands in one place.

## AselsanNET

AselsanNET is a company that markets consumer electronics devices¹. Like Alesis, AselsanNET operates in the consumer electronics sector, but it's not clear whether they produce musical instruments or audio equipment similar to Alesis. However, any company marketing consumer electronics could potentially compete with Alesis by offering alternative products.

## Funai

Funai, also known as Funai Electric, is a retail company that sells and markets consumer electronic products¹. Funai's product range includes audio and video equipment, which could serve as alternatives to Alesis products. Funai's strength lies in its established presence in the consumer electronics market and its wide distribution network.

## Distribuidora Santiago

Distribuidora Santiago is a distributor of consumer electronic products. As a distributor, Distribuidora Santiago might offer products that compete with those of Alesis. The company's influence on the market depends on the brands and products it distributes.

In conclusion, while Alesis has carved out a niche for itself in the market of electronic musical instruments and audio equipment, it faces competition from various quarters. These competitors range from manufacturers of similar products to resellers and distributors offering a variety of consumer electronic products. Alesis, like any company, must continue to innovate and deliver high-quality products to maintain its competitive edge in this dynamic market.

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# Top Revenue Generators for Alesis

Alesis, a renowned company in the music industry, offers a wide range of products. Here are some of their best-selling products that have significantly contributed to their revenue:

## 1. Alesis Strike Pro Special Edition
The Alesis Strike Pro Special Edition is one of the most expensive kits offered by Alesis. It's a large setup with highly responsive mesh pads, making it perfect for any drummer to use as a practice option. This kit is also the number one Alesis product at Thomann, a major music retailer⁴.

![Alesis Strike Pro Special Edition]

## 2. Alesis DM10 MKII Pro
The Alesis DM10 MKII Pro is the second-best kit offered by Alesis. It's an intermediate kit packed with useful features for everyday practice. All the drum pads have mesh surfaces and are tunable, making noise complaints a non-issue.

![Alesis DM10 MKII Pro]

## 3. Alesis Nitro Mesh
The Alesis Nitro Mesh is a beginner kit that has more than 9,000 ratings on Amazon, making it probably the most popular electronic drum set in the world¹. It's also listed as the best beginner kit by Drum Helper².

![Alesis Nitro Mesh]

## 4. Alesis Turbo Mesh
The Alesis Turbo Mesh is another popular product from Alesis. It's listed as the best budget kit by Drum Helper. More than 5,000 pieces of this kit have been sold by Thomann⁴.

![Alesis Turbo Mesh]

## 5. Alesis SR-16
The Alesis SR-16 is an all-time best-selling drum machine. It's a classic piece of equipment that has been in production for many years, demonstrating its enduring popularity.

## 6. Alesis DM5
The Alesis DM5 is an all-time best-selling rack-mount drum sound module. It's a versatile piece of equipment that can be used in a variety of musical settings.

These products have not only generated significant revenue for Alesis but also helped establish the company as a leading brand in the music industry. Each product offers unique features and capabilities, catering to a wide range of musicians from beginners to professionals.