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Are you looking for the perfect keyboard controller for Ableton? The Novation SL Mk3 series is the answer you’ve been searching for, like a needle in a haystack.
It’s an intuitive and powerful controller that offers a myriad of assignable controls, production tools, a sensible workflow, and impressive connectivity.
Plus, with its array of features, you’ll be able to take your music production to the next level.
So, if you’re ready to up your game, then the Novation SL Mk3 series is the ideal choice for you.
Key Takeaways
- Novation SL Mk3 is the best keyboard controller for Ableton
- Better value for other DAWs can be found elsewhere
- Larger keyboard recommended for better value
- Impressive flexibility in controlling both DAW and external hardware
Assignable Controls
You have eight fully-assignable endless rotary knobs, eight assignable faders, and sixteen assignable buttons with two banks/pages. This impressive range of assignable controls allows for maximum parameter manipulation during performance, giving you the power to create new and unique sounds.
The Novation SL Mk3 series also features a grid of 16 performance pads, with 32 pads over two banks. These pads are also fully assignable, adding even more control possibilities to your setup.
In addition to the rotary knobs, faders, buttons, and grid, the Novation SL Mk3 series also has assignable aftertouch. This means that you can fine-tune parameters with precision, further enhancing your ability to shape your sound.
With this level of control and flexibility, the Novation SL Mk3 series truly allows for limitless creativity.
Production Tools
Building off the impressive assignable controls, the Novation SL Mk3 series also offers powerful production tools for creating and manipulating music.
The 16-pad grid allows for easy programming of new sequences and assignable aftertouch for parameter manipulation during performance.
Additionally, the SL Mk3 offers 16 scale types for exploring exotic scales and progressions, with the keyboard being able to be divided into a maximum of eight zones for live performances.
There’s also a powerful pattern-based sequencer with eight patterns per track, eight tracks per session, and 64 sessions.
To top it off, five RGB TFT LCD screens provide valuable visual feedback and basic transport controls for hands-on recording in DAWs.
Workflow
Frequently, the Novation SL Mk3 series offers a sensible workflow for quick and accurate work. It features five RGB TFT LCD screens for valuable visual feedback, allowing for easy keyboard customization and ensuring you never lose sight of your progress.
The dedicated Track, Page, and Scene buttons provide quick and easy navigation and the keybed RGB LEDs let you identify keyboard zones and scale modes. The basic transport controls let you record in your DAW without needing to reach for your mouse. This ensures a smooth workflow and lets you focus on creating music without any distractions.
The SL Mk3 controllers give you the power to control both your DAW and external hardware from one place, allowing you to make the most of its impressive flexibility.
Connectivity
With its MIDI In/Out X2/Thru, Analog Clock Out, and CV/Gate/Mod outputs, the Novation SL Mk3 series provides impressive flexibility in controlling both DAWs and external hardware. Connect any MIDI-capable hardware to the SL Mk3 controllers to control everything from one place.
Plus, the CV/Gate/Mod outputs allow for integration of external hardware, such as synthesizers and drum machines, with the controller. The SL Mk3 also features an impressive five RGB TFT LCD screens, providing valuable visual feedback and making it easier to record in any DAW.
Value
Moving on to value, the Novation SL Mk3 series is the best keyboard controller for Ableton, though better value can be found elsewhere for other DAWs.
Comparing pricing options, you’ll find that the SL Mk3 is a solid choice for Ableton, with larger keyboard sizes providing more bang for your buck.
If you’re looking for an alternative controller for Ableton Live, the Akai MPK2 series is a great option, offering powerful production tools with a workflow that makes recording in DAWs a breeze.
However, the SL Mk3 stands out in terms of assignable controls, connectivity, and performance pads, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a top-notch Ableton controller.
Overall Verdict
Overall, Novation’s SL Mk3 series is the best keyboard controller for Ableton. It offers an impressive range of assignable controls, powerful production tools, and a sensible workflow.
Pros include eight rotary knobs, faders, buttons, and pads that are all fully assignable. Plus, it has a pattern-based sequencer and 16 scale types.
Cons are that it may be a better value for other DAWs elsewhere, and the keyboard size may be too small for some.
When compared to other keyboard controllers, the SL Mk3 offers more features, better build quality, and a better value.
Features
Experience a wealth of features when you use the Novation SL Mk3 controller. It offers an array of assignable knobs, faders, buttons, and performance pads for creating and manipulating sounds.
Its impressive pattern-based sequencer and extensive aftertouch capabilities make it a great choice for performance.
The SL Mk3 also offers integration with Ableton Live, allowing you to take advantage of its powerful transport controls and keyboard zones.
Its five RGB TFT LCD screens provide valuable visual feedback while its extensive connectivity lets you control both DAW and external hardware.
The Novation SL Mk3 is a powerful controller with a wealth of features to help you create and perform.
Conclusion
The Novation SL Mk3 series is an incredibly powerful and intuitive controller that’s perfect for anyone looking to elevate their music production. With assignable controls, production tools, a sensible workflow, and impressive connectivity, the SL Mk3 is sure to give you great bang for your buck.
Plus, its five RGB TFT LCD screens, keybed RGB LEDs, and other features make it the ideal choice for taking your music production to the next level.
So, if you’re ready to ramp up your music production, the Novation SL Mk3 series is the perfect choice.
I’m thrilled to be able to share my passion for music with others through this audio blog, and I can’t wait to connect with fellow music lovers from all around the world. Let’s rock on!