Alesis Microverb II (1988)
A 16-bit stereo digital reverb processor released in 1988 with 16 non-editable presets and solid metal construction.
Overview
The Alesis Microverb II is a compact, all-digital reverb processor released in 1988 as an affordable effects unit for home and live use. It has 16 internal stereo reverb programs and sits in a durable grey metal case one-third of a rack wide. It was meant for keyboardists, guitarists, and vocalists. The reverb is gritty and has plenty of character. People often call it bright and boxy at high mix levels, but surprisingly transparent when used subtly. There is no MIDI and no discrete power switch. Power comes from an external 9V AC adapter on a 3.5mm jack.
Specifications
| Production Year | 1988 |
| Bit Depth | 16-bit |
| Presets | 16 non-editable internal programs |
| Inputs/Outputs | 1/4" mono input, 1/4" stereo outputs |
| Power | 9V AC adapter, 3.5mm audio-style jack |
| Dimensions | 1.75" H × 8.5" W × 6" D |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs |
| Bandwidth | 15kHz |
| Dynamic Range | 90dB |
| Processor | Proprietary Alesis R.I.S.C. architecture |
Design
The Microverb II is built in solid metal, with side fins that let three units slot together for 19" rack mounting. Inside is a single DSP chip developed by Alesis, shared with the Midiverb. Controls are a 16-position rotary encoder and three smooth potentiometers. The tri-color LED is the input level indicator (green=good, yellow=high, red=distorting). The power circuit uses GL7805, GL7812, and LM7912CT voltage regulators, along with 1n4002 diodes. The external PSU holds only a transformer, and there is no internal power switch.
Context
Alesis positioned the Microverb II as its entry-level, budget-friendly reverb. It was a simplified version of the MIDIverb without MIDI control. It succeeded the original 1986 Microverb and came before the Microverb III (1991) and Microverb 4 (1996). The Nanoverb (1996) is considered its real successor. It was marketed to bedroom producers and live performers, and it became a popular way to add reverb to drums, vocals, and guitars in the late '80s and early '90s.
Market
Common problems are scratchy potentiometers, failing rotary encoders, and a dead original wall-wart power supply, which can be hard to replace. Capacitors, voltage regulators, and solder joints are also known failure points. Spare parts like encoders, pots, and power supplies are still available. Units are often found in storage, either well-worn or in mint condition with the original packaging.
Market Value
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ ALESIS MICROVERB II Nov 2026 │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ High $177 Latest $177 │ │ Median $115 Trend — │ │ Low $79 Volume ~2/mo │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ $200 ┤ │ │ │ │ │ │ .│ │ $136 ┤ . │ │ │. . . . │ │ │ . . . │ │ │ . . │ │ $50 ┤ │ │ ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ vol │█ █ █ █ ██ █ █ ██ █│ │ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ 2026-02 2026-05 2026-07│ └──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
eBay completed sales. Excludes accessories, parts, and non-working units. Hover points for details.
Similar items on eBay
Recently sold on eBay: $90–$140 (median $115, based on 11 completed sales, past 12 months)
No exact Alesis Microverb II listings are live right now — these searches show current Alesis and similar vintage synth gear on eBay:
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.