Novation

Novation AMS-SL61-MK3 61-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller

4.4 (203 reviews)

Command Your Studio with the Novation 61SL MkIII Keyboard Controller The Novation 61SL MkIII is a powerful MIDI and CV-equipped keyboard controller designed to be the centerpiece of your studio. With an 8-track sequencer, advanced DAW integration, and comprehensive connectivity, it offers unparal...

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Overview

Command Your Studio with the Novation 61SL MkIII Keyboard Controller

The Novation 61SL MkIII is a powerful MIDI and CV-equipped keyboard controller designed to be the centerpiece of your studio. With an 8-track sequencer, advanced DAW integration, and comprehensive connectivity, it offers unparalleled control over your hardware and software.

Specifications:

  • Keyboard: 61-key, Synth-style Semi-weighted
  • Sequencer: 8-Track Polyphonic, Pattern-Based
  • Screens: Five Color LCD Screens
  • Connectivity: MIDI, USB, CV/Gate
  • DAW Integration: Ableton Live (Deep Integration), Logic, Reason, HUI Compatibility

Seamlessly integrate your MIDI hardware and CV/Gate synths, and enjoy precise control with the finest synth-style keybed.

Key Features

Absolute hardware control - Bring MIDI hardware and CV/Gate synths together by plugging them all into SL MkIII, taking total control directly from the internal eight-track polyphonic pattern-based sequencer

It's the feel: SL MkIII boasts our finest and most playable synth-style semi-weighted keybed, with a sprung action tuned to the needs of the experienced player

The perfect controller for Live - We worked with Ableton to create a stunning keyboard controller for their Live music-making software. The five color LCD screens give you full parameter feedback, enabling you to see everything you are controlling

Internal 8 track pattern based sequencer

Keys to the DAWs - Deep integrations with Logic and Reason – plus HUI compatibility with Cubase, Pro Tools, Studio One and Reaper – mean SL MkIII can open up any DAW

One routable clock for the whole system - Whether you're in the box or outside the box, the MIDI and analogue clock and transport controls keep everything running in time

Specifications

Key Count
61
Keybed Type
Synth-style Semi-Weighted
Sequencer
Internal 8-Track Polyphonic Pattern-Based
Hardware Control
MIDI, CV/Gate Synths
DAW Integration
Ableton Live, Logic, Reason, Cubase, Pro Tools, Studio One, Reaper (HUI)
Display
5 Color LCD Screens
Clock System
One Routable Clock (MIDI & Analogue)

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Provides absolute hardware control, integrating MIDI hardware and CV/Gate synths directly from the unit
  • Includes an internal eight-track polyphonic pattern-based sequencer for comprehensive music creation without a computer
  • Features a finely tuned synth-style semi-weighted keybed, offering a highly playable and responsive feel
  • Offers deep integration with Ableton Live, displaying full parameter feedback on five color LCD screens
  • Delivers wide DAW compatibility, including Logic, Reason, Cubase, Pro Tools, Studio One, and Reaper via HUI
  • Ensures system-wide synchronization with one routable clock for all MIDI and analogue devices

👎 Cons

  • The comprehensive features may present a learning curve for users new to advanced MIDI controllers or sequencers
  • The 61-key format might be less ideal for pianists accustomed to a full 88-key layout for grander performances
  • While offering deep integration, some users might prefer even tighter, custom-scripted control for specific DAWs not listed
  • Requires external MIDI or CV/Gate hardware to fully utilize its absolute hardware control capabilities
  • The reliance on five color LCD screens for feedback means visual checks are necessary rather than purely tactile control

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Novation SL MkIII boasts an internal eight-track polyphonic pattern-based sequencer, allowing for comprehensive music creation.
The SL MkIII is equipped with Novation's finest and most playable synth-style semi-weighted keybed, designed with a sprung action for experienced players.
Yes, it is designed as a perfect controller for Live, featuring deep integration and five color LCD screens for full parameter feedback.
Yes, the SL MkIII offers deep integrations with Logic and Reason, and provides HUI compatibility with Cubase, Pro Tools, Studio One, and Reaper.
It features one routable clock for the entire system, ensuring all MIDI and analogue clock and transport controls keep everything running in time.