![]() Plus, after using the keyboard for a while with our favorite soft synths, we got used to the layout and didn't really have to consult the screen for the fader values because of the encoders. ![]() Because the knobs and faders are all touch sensitive, whatever fader you touch immediately brings up the information about it on the screen. We do slightly miss the dual displays from the previous incarnation of the SL-series, but it’s certainly not a deal breaker for us. It lies directly above the knobs on the left, and is set up in such a way that it can correspond to whatever is on each knob. The LCD display has two lines, and is long enough to be useful without taking up too much real estate on the keyboard. They get the job done, but aren’t up to the same quality as the rest of the controls. All the buttons are backlit, which makes it easy to see what's on or off.īelow the knobs on the left is a row of velocity-sensitive pads that are kind of MPC-like. The bottom eight are normal knobs that stop on the left and right, but they are smooth and solid. The top eight knobs are 360-degree rotaries, surrounded by red LEDs, which means that you'll always know the locations of those parameters. The knobs and faders are all touch sensitive, which is great for ease-of-use. Note that this controller is also available in versions with 25 keys and 61 keys based on your preference, and the ZeRO SL MkII features the controller sans keyboard. The keys feel sturdy, and seem like they will last years. They have the right amount of resistance, without being too heavy to play comfortably. We are very picky when it comes to keyboard feel, and this one is definitely a winner. On the rear of the hardware are enough inputs and outputs for most of today's studios: MIDI (one In/two Out, one Thru), sustain and expression pedal inputs, a USB port, and a power supply input (power supply not included, but the keyboard can be USB powered).įirst off, we love the feel of the Fatar-manufactured keyboard. Plus, multiple setups can be paged through so that even if you do run out of controls, more can always be added to a separate page. Sixteen knobs, eight faders, 32 buttons, eight pads, an X/Y control surface, and an LCD screen all mean that you won't fall short on controls anytime soon. Novation has become well known for the features of its hardware controllers, and this update on the classic SL series raises the bar even further. ![]() We'll break these down into two separate sections for you and tackle them individually. ![]() The 49SL MKII has two broad feature categories going for it: The keyboard hardware and the Automap software. Even if you decide not to go with an SL MKII controller, we encourage you to pick up something from Novation that takes advantage of this wonderful software. The Automap software rocks because it is easy to use and takes hardware control to a whole new level. The drum pads don't really convince us that they're great for punching out rhythms, plus, they're too close to the knobs above them. The knobs feel good, but we could use a little more distance between them. Everything was just a little too close together for our big fingers. We only have two concerns: spacing of the knobs, and the drum pads. Plus, because it uses rotary encoders instead of fixed knobs, you always know the value of parameters. Bright LEDs around the knobs let you know where the settings are at all times, and the LCD screen is clear and easy to read. We love the hardware for the most part – it's got everything you need to control your plug-ins, and everything is laid out well. Categoryģ.6 stars or better: Outstanding, WIHO AwardĢ stars or better: Suited to specific needs Great-feeling keyboard action, sturdy knobs, lots of buttons, and an X/Y touchpad make the hardware fantastic, and the Automap software really simplifies integration with your studio. ![]() The combination of a high-quality velocity-sensitive keyboard, Automap software, a large LCD screen, and touch-sensitive knobs and faders make the Novation SL MKII series keyboards probably the most useful controllers in the industry. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |