Novation SL MkIII Midi Controller Product Review

Better Life Living For Real
3 min readJan 14, 2024

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Novation SL MkIII: A Powerful and Versatile MIDI Controller for Modern Music Makers

If you are in the market for a new MIDI controller the Novation SL MkIII may be the perfect choice for you! The SL MkIII is a high-end MIDI controller with a ton of functionality for composers, producers, and live performers is the SL MkIII. It has smooth integration with well-known DAWs, a rich control surface, and a semi-weighted keybed.

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE NOVATION SL MkIII

Build and Design

The SL MkIII feels incredibly sturdy and well-built. The chassis is made of metal, and the knobs, faders, and buttons all feel solid and responsive. The keybed feels great, with semi-weighted keys that are perfect for both melodic and percussive parts. The keys also have aftertouch, which can add expressiveness to your playing.

Control Surface

The SL MkIII’s control surface is one of its most impressive features. It’s packed with knobs, faders, buttons, and pads that can be used to control virtually any aspect of your DAW or hardware synthesizer. The eight faders are smooth and precise, and the 16 backlit pads are perfect for drumming and triggering samples. There are also eight endless encoders with OLED displays, which can be used to show parameter values and navigate through menus.

Connectivity

The SL MkIII has a variety of connectivity options, including USB, MIDI In/Out, and CV/Gate outputs. This makes it compatible with a wide range of equipment, from computers and DAWs to hardware synthesizers and modular gear.

Software Integration

The SL MkIII integrates seamlessly with popular DAWs such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Cubase. There are also templates available for other DAWs. This makes it easy to get up and running and start controlling your software with the hardware.

Overall Impression

The Novation SL MkIII is a powerful and versatile MIDI controller that’s perfect for producers, composers, and live performers. It’s well-built, has a great control surface, and integrates seamlessly with popular DAWs. If you’re looking for a high-end MIDI controller that can handle anything you throw at it, the SL MkIII is a great option.

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE NOVATION SL MkIII

Pros:

  • Solid and well-built construction
  • Semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch
  • Comprehensive control surface with knobs, faders, buttons, and pads
  • Endless encoders with OLED displays
  • Variety of connectivity options
  • Seamless integration with popular DAWs

Cons:

  • Relatively expensive
  • Can be overwhelming for beginners

Verdict:

The Novation SL MkIII is a top-of-the-line MIDI controller that’s perfect for experienced musicians who demand the best. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but it’s worth the investment if you’re serious about making music.

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE NOVATION SL MkIII

I hope this review helps you decide if the Novation SL MkIII is the right MIDI controller for you.

This review contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission after you click onto any of these links.

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